Caregiving Archive

Healthy aging and longevity

Reduce the health risks from "forever chemicals"

Published October 1, 2021

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of thousands of manmade chemicals that are widely used in products such as nonstick pans, stain repellants for furniture and carpets, cosmetics, and industrial products. These compounds are dangerous to human health and may lead to immune system problems and increased risk of certain cancers. Avoiding exposure by filtering water and choosing PFAS-free products can help to reduce those risks.

Healthy aging and longevity

Do statins increase the risk of dementia?

Published October 1, 2021

A study published June 29, 2021, by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC) found no link between statin use and a higher incidence of dementia in adults ages 65 and older, but other studies have described possible cognitive changes related to statin use. Experts say that the benefits of taking a statin for people who have risk factors for cardiovascular disease generally far outweigh the risks. Statin use can reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke by 25% to 30%.

Healthy aging and longevity

Do BMI numbers add up?

Published October 1, 2021

For decades, researchers have used body mass index (BMI) to estimate a person’s body fat mass and predict possible health risks. While BMI is helpful, it can’t accurately measure the type of fat people accumulate, especially among older adults. Monitoring one’s waist size with a simple measuring tape may be a better option.

Healthy aging and longevity

Looking past blood pressure numbers

Published October 1, 2021

For decades, blood pressure treatment was dictated by a person’s numbers, with a blood pressure less than 140/90 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) considered normal. But evidence has proved this to be an inadequate goal. Research now suggests an individualized approach to managing blood pressure that considers other heart health risks, lifestyle habits, and family history may be a better way to ward off heart attacks and strokes.

Heart Health

When someone you love has heart disease

Published October 1, 2021

People can support family members and friends with heart disease by encouraging them to do cardiac rehabilitation, a 12-week program that teaches the fundamentals of a heart-healthy lifestyle and features supervised exercise training. They can also ask about the person’s health goals and ways to help, rather than becoming frustrated if the person appears to be making poor choices. Finally, acknowledging and sharing emotions, such as fear and worry, may improve communication.

Heart Health

Yoga: A gateway to healthier habits?

Published October 1, 2021

Yoga addresses multiple factors that underlie heart disease, including both physical and psychological issues. Yoga can improve strength and fitness, foster better sleep, and encourage slow, deep breathing, which helps lower blood pressure and heart rate. The relaxation aspect of yoga trains the nervous system to be less reactive during times of stress. By cultivating greater mind-body awareness, yoga can help people become more in tune with their bodies and how their daily habits affect how they feel.

Healthy aging and longevity

Can whole grains help whittle your waist?

Published October 1, 2021

It appears that people who eat at least three servings of whole grains per day gain fewer inches around their waist than people who eat less than half a serving per day, according to a study published online July 13, 2021, by The Journal of Nutrition.

Mind & Mood

Can medication help us combat Alzheimer’s disease?

Published October 1, 2021

Aducanumab is a newly approved drug for Alzheimer’s disease with the potential to reduce amyloid-beta plaque buildup in the brain. There are other medications being studied to see if they can reduce amyloid-beta, such as a monoclonal antibody that targets amyloid-beta before it forms plaques, and a monoclonal antibody that takes aim at plaque that has already formed. Other experimental approaches try to prevent tau tangles in brain cells, reduce brain inflammation, or reduce the amount of amyloid-beta that is produced.

Healthy aging and longevity

Can I skip vaccination if I had COVID?

Published October 1, 2021

Evidence suggests that people who've had COVID-19 may have some natural protection against the virus, but will have a much stronger immune response if they also get the vaccine.

Women's Health

Yes, you can have better sex in midlife and in the years beyond

Updated September 30, 2021

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Caregiving Archive

Articles

Reduce the health risks from "forever chemicals"

Do statins increase the risk of dementia?

Do BMI numbers add up?

Looking past blood pressure numbers

When someone you love has heart disease

Yoga: A gateway to healthier habits?

Can whole grains help whittle your waist?

Can medication help us combat Alzheimer’s disease?

Can I skip vaccination if I had COVID?

Yes, you can have better sex in midlife and in the years beyond

Free Healthbeat Signup