Alabama - Gulf Coast

How Does Stress Impact the Body and Impact Overall Wellness?Stress, both physical and emotional, can have a significant impact on the health and wellness of older adults. While stress is an inevitable part of life, understanding the consequences it can have can help us manage and reduce its effects.Our senior living team at Community Senior Life (CSL) is sharing how stress affects the body, as well as a few ways to reduce chronic stress.The Basics of StressStress is the bodys natural response to a perceived threat or challenge. The stress response triggers the release of hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare the body for a fight or flight response. While this response is beneficial in the short-term, chronic stress can lead to numerous health problems.How Does Stress Affect the Body and Mind?  Increased Risk of Heart DiseaseOne of the primary effects of stress on older adults is an increased risk of heart disease. This is because chronic stress can cause the body to release higher levels of cortisol, which can increase blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation, all of which can contribute to heart disease. In fact, studies have found that chronic stress can increase the risk of heart disease by up to 40%.  Weakened Immune SystemStress can also have a negative impact on the immune system. Our immune system naturally weakens as we age, making us more vulnerable to infections and illnesses. Chronic stress can further weaken the immune system, making it more difficult for seniors to fight off infections and recover from illnesses.  Heightened Depression and AnxietyDepression is a common condition among older adults and is often linked to chronic stress. Similarly, chronic stress can also increase the risk of anxiety, leading to symptoms such as restlessness, agitation, and panic attacks.  Sleep DisturbancesSleep disturbances are another common consequence of chronic stress in seniors. Chronic stress can cause insomnia, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night. Poor sleep can further contribute to other health problems, including fatigue and irritability.  Cognitive DeclineChronic stress has been linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of dementia. Prolonged exposure to cortisol can damage the hippocampus, a part of the brain responsible for memory and learning. As a result, chronic stress can lead to impaired cognitive function, including memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and decreased decision-making abilities.  Lowered Quality of LifeStress can have a negative impact on an individuals overall quality of life. Chronic stress can lead to feelings of exhaustion, irritability, and decreased interest in daily activities. It can also interfere with social interactions, making it more difficult for older adults to maintain relationships and participate in social activities.How to Manage and Reduce Stress  Regular ExerciseOne of the most effective ways to reduce stress is through physical activity. Regular exercise can help seniors reduce stress by releasing endorphins, the bodys natural feel-good chemicals. Releasing endorphins through exercise helps to balance out the stress hormones in your body, like cortisol and adrenaline. Additionally, exercise can also help improve sleep, boost energy levels, and improve overall cognitive function.  Additional Stress-Reducing PracticesMeditation and other relaxation techniques can also be effective in reducing stress in seniors. For example, deep breathing exercises, yoga, and/or mindfulness meditation can help older adults reduce stress and improve their overall sense of well-being.Individuals can also benefit from social support for managing stress. For example, maintaining strong relationships with friends and family members can provide a sense of community and belonging, which can help seniors manage stress and improve their overall quality of life.No one wants to live with chronic stress, but it is important to understand how it affects us so we can learn how to manage and reduce it. Our senior living communities throughout Alabama help residents minimize stress in their daily lives by providing a maintenance-free lifestyle that enables them to pursue hobbies and interests without worrying about daily chores.If you would like to learn more about our services and senior living communities, we invite you to explore our website or contact a member of the CSL team.  Find out more information about stress free living. Call Homestead Village in Fairhope 251-929-0250

The holiday season is upon us, and if youre like me, Im sure youre looking forward to in-person celebrations and gatherings. This is something to be especially thankful for after two years of social distancing.All this together time is great for re-connecting as well as getting up to speed with how your aging loved ones are faring. Its also an opportunity to take note of any concerning physical or cognitive declines. Of course, our older family members might not come right out and tell us about any decline in health as they fear they may lose their independence. Thats why I recommend engaging them in casual conversation that takes into consideration their feelings.  Here are five main areas to assess: Activities of daily living. Can they pass the peas at the dinner table? Im somewhat joking here, but if it appears that your loved one has lost a lot of strength or dexterity that makes a simple task difficult, there may be some physical decline. Other things to inquire about could be the last time they got their hair cut. Take note of their appearance: Are their clothes clean? Do they match? Are they bathing? If it appears that they have lost some weight, ask them what they have been eating lately. This can tell you if they are having trouble with food shopping or cooking. A noticeable loss of weight is a definite cause for concern, as it could indicate an underlying health condition.The home environment.  If you are visiting their home for the holidays, check to see if the home is more cluttered than usual. This could be a sign they are having trouble keeping up with housekeeping. You can also check the refrigerator and cabinets to get a sense of how well they are eating. Additionally, take a look at the expiration dates on the medicine bottles and appropriately discard any expired medicationsprescription as well as over the counter ones. Throw away any expired food items, too. Memory. A great way to assess memory is by engaging in a conversation about current events you know this family member would typically be following. It could be the weather, sports, entertainment or politics. If they dont elaborate on their responses to your questions, they may be protecting themselves from being found out that they are experiencing some memory loss. You can also ask what they did earlier in the day or a few days ago to see if they are having trouble putting together a sequence of events. Mobility. Take note of how they move about the house. Are they grabbing onto furniture to steady themselves? Do you notice any bruising which may indicate a recent fall? Go on a walk with them to see if they tire easily or seem unbalanced. In addition, look at their car for any dings or scratches.  Social engagements. Isolation is often a gateway to depression, which can negatively impact memory or activities of daily living. Ask about friends they are in touch with either in person or on the phone, as well as any regular activities or recent outings. Are there activities they have stopped doing? Are there things they wish they could do but dont have a companion or a ride?If you notice any concerning changes, its important to act now, before a crisis presents itself. Consult with your siblings and other family members to see if they have noticed similar behaviors. If so, the next step is to make an appointment with the loved ones primary care physician to rule out any emergent health conditions.The good news is that the growing desire to age in place means that more and more people are turning to in-home care for that extra assistance. Whether a loved one needs a companion to help them stay active, more personal care such as assistance showering, or full-time support for a chronic condition, SYNERGY Home Care can help. Dr. Macie P. Smith is a licensed gerontology social worker who is focused on helping families support their aging loved ones through long-term care. Specifically, Dr. Smith educates caregivers on how to care for seniors with dementia. She is an advocate for specialized care and assists others in finding a way to provide a better quality of life for individuals with Alzheimers or dementia. Dr. Smith has dedicated over 22 years of her life working in gerontology and assisting families in finding personalized solutions for dementia care. For more articles by Dr. Macie Smith, go to https://synergyhomecare.com/blog/.This article was submitted by SYNERGY Home Care of Daphne, Alabama.  You can reach them at 251-621-1900

AdaptFocusMy name is DeQuel Robinson, Im a native of Mobile, AL and I currently work as a Program Supervisor for Mobile Parks & Recreation, a Track & Field Coach/Personal Trainer, and Doctoral student. Im also a former Pro Wheelchair Basketball Athlete. Ive lived with an Ambulatory (Physical) Disability since the Fall of 2008. Prior to that date, I was a star athlete in Football & Track & Field.  Sports has always been my passion and love since the age of 5. Who would have thought that the two sports I love so dearly would be taken away from me at the young age of 21.In the Fall of 2008, October 18th, my life changed forever when I was shot 7 times and left for dead. God truly had His hands on me because He covered me while being on the ground an hour in a half and gave me the strength to dial 911. The multiple gun shots left me partially paralyzed from the waist down. That didnt stop me from developing a focus mindset and thriving ahead, tapping into my purpose. After being confined to a wheelchair, I was able to create a path for myself through sports and fitness. I became involved in wheelchair activities and earned a wheelchair basketball scholarship to The University of Alabama. During my tenure at the University of Alabama, I earned my Bachelors and Masters degrees and became a 2-Time Intercollegiate National Champion. Upon completing my masters degree, I furthered my career in wheelchair basketball by accepting an offer to play professionally in France. After completing my time overseas, I moved back to the great city of Mobile, Alabama to fulfill my purpose by helping others like myself and by creating my Nonprofit Organization, AdaptFocus. AdaptFocus is a Nonprofit Organization whose mission is:Help and empower those with Ambulatory (Physical) Disabilities through Athletics, Fitness and Recreational Programs within the community, while also providing mentorship to those faced with sudden physical challenges. Creating a pathway for those with physical disabilities, who are looking to further their goals & dreams through sports and activities. Removing barriers so that everyone has an equal opportunity to enjoy any and all activities to live a more active independent lifestyle. AdaptFocus is dedicated to helping and serving the community in a way that truly makes a difference on our grand vision, Adapting Forward Without Limitations.Contact DeQuel Robinson for more information about the non-profit, AdaptFocus at adaptfocus21@gmail.com or AdaptFocus.org.

Four Benefits of Home Care for Seniors Living With Dementia And AlzheimersAt Touching Hearts Senior Care, we understand the unique challenges that seniors living with dementia and Alzheimers face. Our home care services are tailored to provide the best possible support for these individuals and their families. Read on to explore four key benefits of home care for seniors living with dementia and Alzheimers, showcasing why our services make a positive impact on their lives.1. Familiar EnvironmentFor individuals with dementia and Alzheimers, familiarity and consistency are essential. Our home care services ensure that seniors can remain in the comfort of their own homes, surrounded by their cherished memories and possessions. This familiarity can help reduce stress and anxiety, improving overall quality of life.2. Personalized CareOur highly trained caregivers are skilled at providing customized care for each clients specific needs. Our caregivers were the first to become Certified Dementia Caregivers in the state of Alabama. We take the time to understand the unique challenges faced by seniors with dementia and Alzheimers, enabling us to create care plans that address their cognitive, emotional, and physical requirements effectively.3. Enhanced SafetySafety is a top concern for seniors with dementia and Alzheimers. Our home care services prioritize safety by ensuring their living environment is adapted to their needs and providing supervision to prevent accidents and wandering. Our caregivers are always ready to assist with daily activities, ensuring our clients are always safe and secure.4. Family SupportCaring for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimers can be emotionally challenging. Our home care services support the individual and offer relief for family caregivers. We help families navigate the complexities of dementia care while providing them with the necessary resources and emotional support to cope with the situation.At Touching Hearts Senior Care, we are committed to providing exceptional care for seniors living with dementia and Alzheimers. Our dedicated caregivers offer compassionate support in the comfort of home, ensuring that seniors and their families enjoy peace of mind. If you or a loved one could benefit from our services, please contact us today 251-225-4031 to learn more about our affordable home care in Mobile, Alabama.