Inter-generational bonding – A necessary action to bond the young and elderly

Inter-generational bonding is an umbrella term in itself. Yet let us first understand the emotional need which is fulfilled through such a bonding. It consists of the bonding of the aging and young generation on friendly, cordial and co-operative terms. Such a bonding is a medium to develop an equal understanding level between grandparents and grandchildren. The wide term, ‘Inter-generational bonding’ would include the acceptance of each other’s thought processes, changing habits, preferences, choices and behavior. It is increasingly important for both the generations to openly accept each other the way they are. For example, the elderly should openly accept the trends of younger generation; it includes receptiveness for and learning of the new technology and social networking too. If both are connected via the new forms of communication and networking like email, Whats App, Hike messenger, Facebook, then it would help the younger generation to relate with their elders. Also, elders can appreciate the transformed and trendy dressing styles and lifestyle of the youngsters. Similarly, the younger generation should also spend quality time with their grandparents; for instance, if grandchildren are staying away, then they can at least meet their grandparents on weekends or celebrate the seniors’ birthdays and anniversaries together. If all the three generations are staying together then parents and grandparents can spend time and take care of their elders every day; all the family members can have dinner together and talk for sometime every day. Such minute but important gestures would remarkably contribute to strengthen inter-generational bonding. It plays an important role to satisfy the emotional need of the aging population. It helps the grandparents to meet their grandchildren during their aging phase. And, the grandchildren too can experience the precious company of their grandparents.

According to HelpAge India, India’s elderly population is estimated to become 200 million till 2030. Also, at present 95 million Indians are above the age of 60. Moreover, today’s lifestyle is changing due to more of online interactions instead of actual, personal interactions. In addition to this, the academic and professional commitments too, have increased. It has thus led to the growth of an online culture. These are one of the factors which have resulted into lack of inter-generational interaction. So, the SAVE (Student Action for Value Education) program, a HelpAge India initiative plays an important role to bridge this gap between elders and youngsters. Through this program, activities, games and festival celebrations are organized to enable and strengthen inter-generational bond. Thus, SAVE ensures that the elderly population is relieved of isolation and neglect by participating in such interactive, refreshing activities.

Silver Innings is a Mumbai-based social enterprise (For profit) which was formed to provide need based services to India’s elderly population. Since 2008, Silver Innings along with A-1 Snehanjali, its sister concern have been conducting refreshing inter-generational programs. The purpose of these programs is to create harmony between both the generations. They conduct activities such as music and dance events, story-telling, summer camp, recreational games, SIFC Football club matches, 60 v/s 16 Cricket matches etc. These programs help create a unique bond between elders and youngsters. It creatively portrays the long term vision of Silver Innings – ‘Creating elder-friendly world where ageing becomes a positive and rewarding experience.’ Silver Innings is living with its aim of supporting and caring for the growing number of elderly in our country. Therefore, it is playing a vital role to bond the elder and young generation.

SKIP is a Canada-based organization which has been working for a decade to develop cordial, co-operative and unique relation between the senior and younger generation. SKIP (Seniors and Kids Intergenerational Programs) organizes intergenerational bonding programs. For example, it hosts interesting activities and games for elders and youngsters. These activities make the seniors feel satisfied since they can freely share their life stories with the youngsters. The youngsters too feel equally comfortable to interact with elders because of this unique medium of interaction. SKIP helps elders to engage themselves creatively and mentally in order to gradually reduce their loneliness. Consequently, these programs have helped the youngsters understand the importance of elders in a very better manner. (Click video to watch SKIP activities.) Thus, SKIP plays a remarkable role to facilitate interaction between elders and youngsters. Such an inter-generational bonding has been positively helping the elders to live life in a renewed way. (Click video to watch its founder speak)

A paper entitled, ‘Promoting intergenerational understanding between the young and old: the case of Singapore Leng Leng Thang, National University of Singapore’has been published on UN website (Please click UN to view the entire paper). It has described the efforts that were done on a national level to promote intergenerational bonding. The paper states that, ‘In Singapore, the setting up of the taskforce to promote grandparenting and intergenerational bonding in July 2002 by the Singapore Ministry of Community Development (now expanded as the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports) could be regarded as the starting point of state effort to promote intergenerational initiatives in Singapore.’ [Note: The Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports restructured on 1^st November, 2012 as Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF)]. The State has been promoting the celebration of Grandparent’s Day on every 4^th Sunday of November. The purpose of this day is to make the younger generation realize the importance of grandparent’s contribution to their life. Later, in 2005, a Gen3 Fund Inter-School Competition was arranged as part of the activities of the National Family Week. The Gen3 Fund played a very important role to fund the recreational, fun-filled activities conducted by Singapore Government.

Another paper entitled, ‘Ageing families in Singapore’ was published in February 2015 by Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), Singapore. It has stated that family support is very crucial and valuable for the aged members. Such support has been provided to the aged members – emotionally, physically and financially by their family members. The paper states that , ‘The Perception and Attitudes towards Ageing and Seniors (PATAS) survey in 2013 found that 96.5% of respondents aged between 50 and 74 years agreed that family support was key to successful ageing.’ It further explains that, ‘In the Housing and Development Board (HDB) Sample Household Survey (SHS) 2013, the majority of elderly residents expressed confidence that they were able to rely on their children for physical, emotional and financial support. They also reported that they were able to rely more on their unmarried children as most of them were living together, compared to their married children for physical support, while they were able to rely similarly on both married and unmarried children for emotional and financial support.’ Thus, a caring nature and sensitive behavior by the grown-up, responsible children towards their parents too forms an important part of intergenerational bonding.

Now let us understand the intergenerational bonding which can happen at workplace too in a comprehensive and creative manner. Employseniors.org (Ohio, U.S.A.) provides free employment services inclusive of guidance and support from a Volunteer Job Counselor, job referrals; it acts as a link between seniors aged 50 & above and the employers;  organizes Annual Senior Job Fair which hosts career, educational programs and networking with local employers; it also undertakes workshops and programs to broaden career options of senior citizens; it provides resources to elderly job seekers to attain employment for achieving financial stability for themselves and their family. 

Seniors.lovetoknow.com mentions some work from home jobs for senior citizens. They can creatively engage themselves in online jobs like selling products on ebay, paid blogging, working as consultant, conducting tuitions, cooking/catering, tailoring etc. Yet, there is an intense need to unite the younger and senior population at workplace. It would enhance a new kind of intergenerational bonding. Moreover, it would be an excellent way to create earning opportunity for elderly people. As a result, they would achieve dignity, financial stability and social belongingness. The increasing population of seniors and their rising isolation can also be dealt with in this way. The efforts of Government and business world would play a very significant role to employ the growing number of elderly in their companies along with young executives.

Thus, the inter-generational bonding would cater to our elderly population in terms of emotional and physical support as well as financial support. It would remarkably build and develop their self-reliance and self-respect.

Long live intergenerational bonding!!

By Sneha Tipnis

About Author: 

Sneha Tipnis is a freelance writer from India. She has been writing for online writers’ platforms like writersbureau.com, Triond, Authspot and Bookstove.  She writes content for websites, brochures, blogs and social media updates. She’s an English Literature Graduate and Masters in Educational Technology – Computer Applications (MET-CA). She has worked in the e learning industry for a year pertaining to Masters Degree. She’s a student of The Writers Bureau  (A renowned Writing College in UK), Manchester, London.

You can connect with Sneha on her blog: goldentipsmumbai.blogspot.in , Google+, LinkedIn and Facebook page Thoughts, Feelings and Expressions.

Book : ‘Geriatric Dentistry of India’ by 77yrs old Dr. P.G.Diwan M.D.S (Mumbai)

At 65th Indian Dental Association conference at Mumbai on 10th Feb 2012 , IDA President released the book 'Geriatric Dentistry In India' by Dr. P.G.Diwan .

The First of its kind book “Geriatric Dentistry of India” which is a compilation of articles published in different issues of Dental Journals, is written with the view of enlightening practicing dental surgeons about the new concepts of dental treatments offered to elders. They have been treating elders in their day-to-day practice, without receiving proper education of geriatric dentistry during their academic years.

Very soon the subject will be included in the syllabus of B.D.S. degree course conducted by the medical universities in India. The book, ’Geriatric Dentistry in India’, being the only book on this subject, written by Indian author, will be very useful book for the students of the dental colleges in India. It is beyond doubt that book will be in great demand.

The book ‘Geriatric Dentistry in India’ has 18 chapters spread over 216 pages out of which about 30 pages have color diagrams. The book ‘Geriatric Dentistry In India’ explains  geriatric approach in different branches of Dental Science. The subject is described in detail with the help of good number of diagrams and a few charts.

Price of Book : (INR) Rs. 450/-

To get the copy of this book contact:

DR P.G.Diwan M.D.S (Mumbai)  , 2,Palm Crest, Main Avenue, Santacruz, Mumbai 400054 Tel: 022 26461966 Mobile: 9820158386 . Email: pdgopinath@gmail.com . 

Care Giver Tips: Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s? – Don’t forget to care for yourself too!

“Alzheimer’s is not a sprint. It’s a marathon.” This was what the memory care center manager told us during our first care conference. It took a while for this to sink in fully. She was encouraging our family to find a balance between caring for our loved one who has Alzheimer’s and still maintaining a life for ourselves. A sprinter focuses on speed for a short distance but soon runs out of strength. Just as a marathon runner trains for endurance, an Alzheimer’s caregiver must approach this disease with the long run in mind.

When we first became responsible for an aunt with Alzheimer’s, our lives drastically changed. It often felt as if our lives were spinning out of control. There was little time for anything or anyone other than Aunt Betty. We finally realized that it would be impossible to continue at the same pace. If we failed to take care of ourselves, we might not be able to continue caring for her. Alzheimer’s can be a long, slow process. It is essential that Alzheimer’s caregivers take care of themselves, too.

An often-neglected area for us has been diet and exercise. Weight control has always been a losing battle in our family. Unfortunately, our first response to stress is to eat. The result has been not only weight gain, but increased cholesterol levels. A poor diet leaves you feeling tired and sluggish. Exercise is not an option when you feel so exhausted. That further complicates the health risks. A healthy diet and exercise will help a caregiver finish the marathon called Alzheimer’s disease.

Another area we’ve struggled with involves relaxation time. In order to adequately tend to Aunt Betty’s needs, we have to allow ourselves time away from the demands of Alzheimer’s care. Time away should not be accompanied with guilt. Ask other family members or friends to take your place as caregiver to allow you some time for yourself. Sometimes time away may be only a few minutes.

Mood swings and aggression are typical for the person suffering from Alzheimer’s. Trying to deal with these moods can be exhausting, too. In the beginning of our journey with my aunt’s illness, we tried to reason with her when she became irritable. Sometimes she said very hurtful things to us. Learning to walk away during those episodes was a huge step toward maintaining our sanity and well-being. It’s necessary to do that sometimes.

Remember that people with Alzheimer’s may have already lost the ability to reason. Attempting to reason with them may create more frustration for both of you. Your health may depend on walking away for a few minutes, too.

Find Alzheimer’s help in support groups whenever possible. The advantage of such a group is that you can learn from the experiences of others who are further along in the journey. You can learn what to expect and get advice on how to face the challenges ahead. We’ve learned so many things by trial and error. If we’d been involved in an Alzheimer’s support group, we might have found the road a little less bumpy.

Alzheimer’s support groups are usually available at churches, community centers, facilities specializing in memory care, and nursing homes. Check your local yellow pages for groups in your area. If you’re not comfortable in a group setting, you can contact counselor or NGO/ARDSI/Silver Inning Foundation could prove helpful.

Finally, make it a priority to have relationships with others who have no connection with Alzheimer’s. Everything in your life does not have to be about the disease. For your own mental, physical, and emotional health, develop friendships with people who can provide an escape.

Having traveled the road herself, Lisa W. Smith is an expert at helping Alzheimer’s caregivers cope with the emotional, financial, and legal stress of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s. She has created an electrifying report, “An Alzheimer’s Horror Story: Killing Her Slowly!” which highlights part of this journey.

Source: http://free-alzheimers-support.com/wordpress/2011/01/while-caring-for-alzheimers-dont-forget-to-care-for-yourself/

Diet dos and don'ts for senior citizens

As you age, your needs for nutrition increase. Your body is in a degenerative mode. Growth of cells and tissues is slow but repairing of tissues is at a higher rate.

You suffer from low immunity, poor digestion, weak bones and muscles and fatigue. Activity of the body reduces and you may be a victim of metabolic disorders like diabetes, osteoporosis, arthritis, high blood pressure or high cholesterol, etc. All this does not mean that you have to eat less. Eating right becomes more important than eating less.

Requirement of vitamins, proteins, minerals, fluids and carbohydrates changes in old age. And all these nutrients have to be packaged in easy-to-digest and easy-to-absorb, small frequent meals which are spread out and spaced well over the entire day.

Ageing is a process, which is associated with a lot of free radical release in the body. It is also called as oxidation of cells. Weak muscles, greying and falling of hair, reduced skin tone, susceptibility to colds and coughs and lack of energy are symptoms of oxidation. Vitamins like vitamin E, C, A and some minerals are essential in right quantities to reduce the ill-effects of free radicals in the body.

At times, food becomes very important during old age as that is the time when you can spend some time with the rest of the members of the family. Women especially should be very careful about their diet in old age. Due to menopause, the ability to absorb calcium reduces and they may get weakness in joints and susceptibility to fractures very easily. Food cooked should be soft and easy to chew, in case there have been teeth extractions or dentures are being used.

Tips to right eating in old age

- Add plenty of natural colour to your diet. Two to three meals of seasonal fruits will work as antioxidants and prevent constipation.

- Egg whites are a good source of protein important for repair of worn out cells and tissues. For vegetarians, paneer made from low-fat milk is good substitute.

- Use of mustard oil or olive oil is a good cooking medium as both prevent high cholesterol and improve good cholesterol in the blood.

- Six to seven small meals in a day aid digestion, absorption and prevent fatigue.

- Vegetables soups without cream and thickening agents are a healthy meal to be taken as a supper.

- Always leave your home with a small healthy snack in your bag, to avoid eating out.

- Avoid processed foods with artificial colours and preservatives.

- Potassium-rich foods like cumin seeds (zeera), sweet limes, fenugreek seeds (methi) and coconut water are good for muscular flexibility, prevent water retention and swellings. They also contribute to maintain blood pressure.

- For a high dose of nutrition, add curd to the dough for rotis to improve the biological value of the cereal, and to keep them soft.

- Oats porridge is an excellent breakfast for seniors.

- Drink about 15 glasses of water in a day to prevent dehydration. In old age, muscle density reduces and susceptibility to dehydration is always very high, especially in summer.

- Do not overcook the food to make it soft as by doing so one destroys vital nutrients. Instead, select foods which need less time to cook.

- Also, exercise regularly, stretch and do yoga to ensure absorption of nutrients well.



In case you suffer from any medical disorder, consult a professional nutrition consultant for your individual requirement.


By Sveta Bhassin, nutritionist and wellness consultant.


Source:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life/health-fitness/diet/Diet-dos-and-donts-for-senior-citizens-/articleshow/5483409.cms

Loss of Taste in the Elderly

Taste helps all of us recognize when food is good or bad. When an elderly person loses taste, it can cause a loss of appetite, weight loss, poor nutrition, weakened immunity, and even death.

Normal taste occurs when molecules released by chewing or the digestion of food stimulate special sensory cells in the mouth and throat. These taste cells, or gustatory cells, send messages through three specialized taste nerves to the brain, where specific tastes are identified. Damage to these nerves following head injury can lead to taste loss.

The taste cells are clustered within the taste buds of the tongue and roof of the mouth, and along the lining of the throat. Many of the small bumps that can be seen on the tip of the tongue contain taste buds. At birth, we have about 10,000 taste buds scattered on the back, side, and tip of the tongue.

After age 50, we may start to lose taste buds. We can experience five basic taste sensations: sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami, or savory. Umami was discovered by a Japanese scientist in the early part of the twentieth century. It is the taste of glutamate, a building block of protein found in chicken broth, meat stock, and some cheeses. Umami is the taste associated with MSG (monosodium glutamate) that is often added to foods as a flavor enhancer.

The five taste qualities combine with other oral sensations, such as texture, spiciness, temperature, and aroma to produce what is commonly referred to as flavor. It is flavor that lets us know whether we are eating an apple or a pear. Many people are surprised to learn that we recognize flavors largely through our sense of smell. Try holding your nose while eating chocolate. You will be able to distinguish between its sweetness and bitterness, but you can't identify the chocolate flavor. That's because the distinguishing characteristic of chocolate is largely identified by our sense of smell as aromas are released during chewing.

Food flavor is affected by a head cold or nasal congestion because the aroma of food does not reach the sensory cells that detect odors. A distorted sense of taste can be a serious risk factor for heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and other illnesses that require sticking to a specific diet. When taste is impaired, a person may change his or her eating habits. Some people may eat too little and lose weight, while others may eat too much and gain weight.

Many older people believe that there is nothing they can do about their weakened sense of taste. Depending on the cause of your problem, your doctor may be able to suggest ways to regain your sense of taste or to cope with the loss of taste. In many cases, the loss of taste turns out to be a loss of smell. If you think you have a problem with your sense of taste, see your doctor.

Causes and Prevention of Taste Loss in Elderly Parents :

Problems with taste are caused by anything that interrupts the transfer of taste sensations to the brain, or by conditions that affect the way the brain interprets the sensation of taste. The most common causes of taste disorders are:

• Medications
• Infections
• Head injuries
• Dental problems. Radiation therapy for head and neck cancers
• Mouth dryness
• Heavy smoking
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Bell's palsy, and Sjogren's syndrome.
• Taking medications. Some antibiotics and blood pressure pills can cause a bad taste in the mouth or a loss of taste. Talk to your doctor about it.
• Gum disease. Dentures and inflammation or infections in the mouth caused by taking serveral medications. This causes dry mouth, which can make swallowing and digestion difficult and increase dental problems.

One type of taste disorder is characterized by a persistent bad taste in the mouth, such as a bitter or salty taste. This is called dysgeusia and it occurs in older people, usually because of medications or oral health problems.

The medicines that most frequently cause dysgeusias are drugs to lower cholesterol, antibiotics, blood pressure pills, medications to lower anxiety, and antidepressants. Smokers often report an improved sense of taste after quitting. Sometimes exposure to certain chemicals, such as insecticides and solvents, can impair taste.

Avoid contact with these substances, and if your aging parent does come in contact with them and experience a problem, see your doctor. You can help prevent problems with taste caused by respiratory infections by washing your mom or dad's hands frequently, especially during the winter months. If your eldery parent's taste disorder is made worse by allergies, avoid allergens, such as ragweed, grasses, and pet dander. Also, have your elderly mother or father get a flu shot every year to prevent influenza and other serious respiratory conditions that can result from the flu.

Read about Symtoms and Diagnosis of Taste Loss http://www.agingcare.com/Featured-Stories/135240/Symtoms-and-Diagnosis-of-Taste-Loss.htm


Source: http://www.agingcare.com/Featured-Stories/135240/Loss-of-Taste-in-the-Elderly.htm

The 2010 IANA (International Academy on Nutrition and Aging) Albuquerque, New Mexico (USA)

The 2010 IANA (International Academy on Nutrition and Aging) will be hosted in Albuquerque on July 26-27, 2010 at the Hyatt Regency Tamaya, Santa Ana Pueblo, New Mexico, USA (http://www.healthandage.com/html/min/iananda)

The meeting will focus on Nutrition and Age Related Diseases including Sarcopenia, Cognitive decline, Frailty, Alzheimer, Long-term Care, Vascular Diseases, Cancer... Preventive trials and multidomain Intervention approaches with physical exercise, nutrition, cognitive exercise are also solicited.

Deadline for submitted symposium (abstract must be limited to 500 words) is December 6, 2009

Deadline for oral communications and poster is February 15, 2010 (abstract must be limited to 300 words)

For more information contact:
University of New Mexico
Office of Continuing Education
MSCO9 5370 - University of New-Mexico
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001
Tel (505) 272-3942
Fax (505) 272-8604
Email: KBreckenridge@salud.unm.edu

‘Women and Retirement Planning’ seminar in Mumbai

Women for Good Governance cordially invites you to attend a very informative seminar on ‘Women and Retirement Planning’ On Friday 2nd October 2009 from 10 am to 5.40 pm at All India Local Self Government, Juhu Lane, Andheri (W), Mumbai.


This seminar is organized with the objective of raising awareness on the topic and to find ways to deal with it. Today women are enjoying better life span but the stress and disease is taking its toll on the quality of the lives esp. for women. Very few fortunate women enjoy their life on retiring from work or when responsibilities towards children are fulfilled. Seminar will emphasize on Hobby/Skill development/ Finance Matters / Property / Insurance / WILL / Health problems related to age and its management.

While Mrs. Seema Redkar, BMC officer on special duty will be Chief Guest. Main speakers are Dr. Rajiv Anand, Mrs Gulistan Carpenter, Dr. Rekha Bhatkhande, Dr. Mahendra Mehta & Mr. S S Pai.

Special Registration charges fro Senior Citizens Rs. 150/- (includes lunch, teas and relevant material )

For affirmation & registration, please call:

Dr. Shashi Sharma: 9819140555
shashisohan@hotmail.com ; ramita@gmail.com

Brain Health Lifestyle

Brain Health

The single greatest system ever designed in the history of the universe is your brain. Your brain is responsible for your every thought, emotion and behavior. Unfortunately we humans do not know much about our brains, and it is time to change that.

Five Domains of the ‘Brain Health Lifestyle’

Socialization

* Do not isolate or segregate as you get older.
* Join groups and social organizations in your community.
* Maintain and build your friendship and family network.
* Be forgiving.
* Develop hobbies.
* Do not retire.


Physical Activity

* Walk between 7,000 and 12,000 steps daily. Walk several times a week. Buy yourself a pedometer to remind yourself to walk and to keep track of your daily steps.
* Dance.
* Do gardening.
* Knit.
* Do aerobic exercise.
* Use both sides of your body more often: become ambidextrous.


Mental Stimulation

* Learn a second language.
* Read and write (use your nondominant hand) on a daily basis; the more complex, the better.
* Learn sign language.
* Play board games.
* Travel.
* Play a musical instrument.
* Listen to classical music.
* Problem solve.


Spirituality

* Pray on a daily basis.
* Regularly attend a formal place of worship.
* Learn to meditate.
* Learn relaxation procedures with deep breathing and muscle relaxation.
* Slow down.
* Do not be afraid to say no.


Nutrition

* Eat 80 percent of what you intend to eat at each meal.
* Eat with utensils so you eat less.
* Eat healthier foods.
* Increase your intake of Omega 3 fatty acids, walnuts and unsalted nuts.
* Increase your intake of antioxidants.
* Eat colored fruits (grapes, apples, cantaloupe and berries) and vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends five servings of fruit and vegetables a day.
* Decrease your intake of processed foods and red meats.
* Eat one sit down meal a day with others.


Source: http://alzprevention.org/prevention-and-dementia.php

Why We Age - - Theories and Effects of Aging

Overview

The study of aging - gerontology - is a relatively new science that has made incredible progress over the last 30 years. In the past, scientists looked for a single theory that explained aging. There are two main groups of aging theories. The first group states that aging is natural and programmed into the body, while the second group of aging theories say that aging is a result of damage which is accumulated over time. In the end, aging is a complex interaction of genetics, chemistry, physiology and behavior.

Theories of Aging

By understanding and describing how we age, researchers have developed several different theories of aging. The two categories are: programmed theories and error theories.

• Programmed Theories assert that the human body is designed to age and there is a certain biological timeline that our bodies follow.
• Programmed Longevity: Aging is caused by certain genes switching on and off over time.
• Endocrine Theory: Changes in hormones control aging.
• Immunological Theory: The immune system is programmed to decline over time, leaving people more susceptible to diseases.
• Error Theories assert that aging is caused by environmental damage to our body's systems, which accumulates over time.
• Wear and Tear: Cells and tissues simply wear out.
• Rates of Living: The faster an organism uses oxygen, the shorter it lives.
• Cross-Linking: Cross-linked proteins accumulate and slow down body processes.
• Free Radicals: Free radicals cause damage to cells that eventually impairs function.
• Somatic DNA Damage: Genetic mutations cause cells to malfunction.

Genetics and Aging

Studies have demonstrated that genetics can play a major role in aging. When researchers adjust the genes in certain mice, yeast cells and other organisms, they can almost double the lifespan of these creatures. The meaning of these experiments for people is not known, but researchers think that genetics account for up to 35 percent of the variation in aging among people. Some key concepts in genetics and aging include:

• Longevity Genes: There are specific genes which help a person live longer.
• Cell Senescence: The process by which cells deteriorate over time.
• Telomeres: Structures on the end of DNA that eventually are depleted, resulting in cells ceasing to replicate.
• Stem Cells: These cells can become any type of cell in the body and hold promise to repair damage caused by aging.

Biochemistry

No matter what genes you have inherited, your body is continually undergoing complex biochemical reactions. Some of these reactions cause damage and, ultimately, aging in the body. Studying these complex reactions is helping researchers understand how the body changes as it ages. Important concepts in the biochemistry of aging include:

• Free Radicals: Unstable oxygen molecules which can damage cells.
• Protein Cross-Linking: Excess sugars in the blood stream can cause protein molecules to literally stick together.
• DNA Repair: For an unknown reasons, the systems in the body to repair DNA seem to become less effective in older people.
• Heat Shock Proteins: These proteins help cells survive stress and are present in fewer numbers in older people.
• Hormones: The body's hormones change as we age, causing many shifts in organ systems and other functions.

Body Systems

As we age, our body's organs and other systems make changes. These changes alter our susceptibility to various diseases. Researchers are just beginning to understand the processes that cause changes over time in our body systems. Understanding these processes is important because many of the effects of aging are first noticed in our body systems. Here is a brief overview of how some body systems age:

• Heart Aging: The heart muscle thickens with age as a response to the thickening of the arteries. This thicker heart has a lower maximum pumping rate.
• Immune System Aging: T cells take longer to replenish in older people and their ability to function declines.
• Arteries and Aging: Arteries usually to stiffen with age, making it more difficult for the heart to pump blood through them.
• Lung Aging: The maximum capacity of the lungs may decrease as much as 40 percent between ages 20 and 70.
• Brain Aging: As the brain ages, some of the connections between neurons seem to be reduced or less efficient. This is not yet well understood.
• Kidney Aging: The kidneys become less efficient at cleaning waste from the body.
• Bladder Aging: The total capacity of the bladder declines and tissues may atrophy, causing incontinence.
• Body Fat and Aging: Body fat increases until middle age and then weight typically begins to decrease. The body fat also moves deeper in the body as we age.
• Muscle Aging: Muscle tone declines about 22 percent by age 70, though exercise can slow this decline.
• Bone Aging: Starting at age 35, our bones begin to lose density. Walking, running and resistance training can slow this process.
• Sight and Aging: Starting in the 40s, difficulty seeing close detail may begin.
• Hearing and Aging: As people age, the ability to hear high frequencies declines.

Behavioral Factors

The good news is that many of these causes of aging can be modified through your behaviors:

• By eating foods loaded with antioxidants, you can minimize damage caused by free radicals.
• By exercising, you can limit bone and muscle loss.
• By keeping your cholesterol low, you can slow the hardening of your arteries and protect your heart.
• By practicing mental fitness, you can keep your brain sharp.

Lifestyle factors have also been shown to extend life. Rats and mice on a calorie restricted diet (30 percent fewer daily calories) live up to 40 percent longer. Positive thinking has also been shown to extend life in people by up to 7.5 years.

By Mark Stibich, Ph.D., About.com

Source:http://longevity.about.com/od/longevity101/a/why_we_age.htm?p=1

Fun Activities For Improving Senior Health

Something as simple as moderate exercise and physical activity can vastly improve senior health. Some people think exercising is a punishment. Possibly you think that because you’ve retired, you have the right to relax all day, correct? But resting isn’t an excuse for laziness; we can workout and have fun concurrently! We need to see that exercise is not always a chore. There are many pastimes that are pleasant as well as advantageous to our wellness and happiness.

But remember there’s nothing to dread. Just because you are a senior citizen doesn’t mean that you’re going to get hurt. As a matter of fact, research has found that it is more damaging to a senior’s health NOT to workout. Scientists are learning more and more that remaining physically engaged can delay - and even avert - ailments and diseases that people have perpetually accepted as “simply part of old age.”


Walking

People underestimate the numerous advantages of walking. If you take a short walk around your neighborhood or through your local park, you can vastly enhance your health. Many elders delight in “mall walking.” This pastime ensures that you do not need to worry about the dangers of weather conditions: you can always sustain your exercise when it is raining or sunny outside. In fact, call for a few friends if you go; many most seniors learn that walking is more gratifying if they turn it into a friendly event. Many older people love hiking out of doors; this is great cardiovascular exercise, and you can function at whichever pace you find most sufficient.


Swimming

Most older people are passionate about swimming. It is common for people to find it to be comfortable and enjoyable. It will use every one of your muscles, and it is light on the joints. If you endure the pain of arthritis, swimming is idyllic for you. Remember that you don’t need to swim laps, either; a lot of people prefer water-based aerobics.


Tai Chi and Yoga

Of the many forms of martial arts, Tai Chi is one of the earliest. It concentrates on movement, balance, and coordination. Speed is not a requirement, so many seniors find it to be ideal. If you find Tai Chi to be accommodating, you might want to try yoga. Although it demands a bit more stamina, yoga can immensely enhance the power and flexibility of your muscles. Also, a lot of yoga exercises are specifically designed for the alleviation of back trouble, which bothers a lot of of the elderly.


Sports

A lot of people underestimate the advantages of engaging in sports. Take part in a biweekly round of golf with some buddies, or sign up for a neighborhood bowling league. It isn’t a requirement to risk injury to preserve your well-being; you can just try out some of these casual and pleasurable hobbies to increase your life.

By Nicholas Hurd

Source: http://eldercareabcblog.com/fun-activities-for-improving-senior-health/

Research Reveals the Recipe for Staying Sharp in Old Age

A recipe for staying sharp in old age has been uncovered by scientists who studied more than 2,000 men and women through their 70s and 80s. The four key factors involved in preventing mental decline were found to be exercise, education, social activity and not smoking.

Researchers carried out a series of memory and mental tests on 2,500 men and women aged 70-79 over an eight-year period. Just over half the participants showed a normal rate of age-related decline while 16 per cent suffered a major reduction.

However, 30 per cent of the study volunteers remained unchanged and some even showed an improvement in performance over the years.

The researchers then examined what lifestyle factors stood out among those people who remained quick-witted in old age.

Study leader Dr Alexandra Fiocco, from the University of California at San Francisco, said: “To this day, the majority of past research has focused on factors that put people at greater risk to lose their cognitive skills over time, but much less is known about what factors help people maintain their skills.”

The research, published in the journal Neurology, revealed a unique profile that distinguished people who avoided mental decline with the passing years. Those who exercised moderately or vigorously at least once a week were 30 per cent more likely to “stay sharp” than people who did not.

Those with a good education were nearly three times more likely to maintain their mental faculties than those less educated. High levels of literacy were associated with a five-fold better chance of side-stepping age-related mental decline. Non-smokers were nearly twice as likely to remain mentally fit than smokers. And people who were socially active were 24 per cent more likely to avoid mental deterioration in later life.



Source:
http://www.globalaging.org/health/world/2009/stayingsharp.htm

Eat to Cheat Your Age

We're living for longer than ever before, but who wants to look their age? Fortunately, science is proving that the food we eat can put the brakes on the aging process, both on the inside and the outside.

Investing in a healthy diet now can help reduce the likelihood of suffering from ailments such as failing eyesight, arthritis and heart disease, as well as fatigue and lackluster skin.

Many of the visible effects of aging, such as wrinkles, and also those that we can't see, such as deterioration of the heart and eyes, are caused by free radicals -- highly reactive molecules that damage cell walls and the genetic material within cells.

Free radicals are hard to avoid, as they're produced naturally in the course of everyday life: Factors such as smoking, pollution, and overexposure to sunlight can accelerate their production.

But eating lots of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables can be a powerful defence against them.

Vitamin C-rich citrus fruit can also help to boost the immune system, promote healthy skin, and reduce the risk of eye disease.

Growing old gracefully is an art that anyone can master -- with a little help from the right foods.

Banana
Bananas are high in potassium, which keeps high blood pressure in check and reduces the risk of heart disease. In conjunction with sodium, they help maintain the fluid and electrolyte balance in body cells, thus maintaining healthy nerve and muscle function.

They also contain tryptophan, which the body converts to serotonin to aid peaceful sleep.

Pineapple
Pineapple is main benefits come from bromelain, an effective anti-inflammatory, making it exceptionally good for joint problems. Rich in vitamin C, pineapple supports the immune system and defends against free radicals, which can cause premature aging. An excellent source of manganese, important for antioxidant defences and energy production.

Strawberries
Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is essential for the manufacture of collagen -- a protein that helps to maintain the structure of the skin.

Vitamin C also plays an important role in healing wounds and can ward off gingivitis, the gum disease that affects three out of four adults. They also contain ellagic acid, a phytochemical with powerful anticarcinogenic properties.

Rhubarb
Full of fiber, rhubarb acts as a natural laxative, keeping the digestive system in good working order and helping to lower cholesterol and prevent heart disease. Rhubarb is also high in calcium, which is good for bones, and potassium to keep blood pressure in check and protect the heart. It is also extremely high in water, which helps to keep the body well-hydrated.

Avocado
Loaded with vitamins C and E, avocados are excellent for keeping skin soft, supple and healthy, and for maintaining glossy hair. High in omega-3 fatty acids, they help prevent wrinkles, enhance brain power and treat arthritic pain. They contain the antioxidant lutein, which has been shown to protect against eye problems and cardiovascular disease.

Beetroot
Containing the powerful antioxidant betacyanin, which gives beetroot its deep red hue, this vegetable purifies the blood and has anti-carcinogenic properties.

Research shows it boosts the body's natural defences in the liver, regenerating immune cells. Also contains silica, vital for healthy skin, hair, fingernails, ligaments, tendons and bones.

Cucumber
Used topically, cucumber helps to maintain a youthful appearance, thanks to its hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties. When ingested, the high water and balanced mineral content makes it one of the best diuretics. Cucumbers are a rich source of silica, a mineral needed for healthy skin, bone and connective tissue.

Silica also plays a major role in preventing cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.

Tomato
Rich in lycopene, which neutralizes free radicals before they can cause damage, therefore staving off everything from wrinkles to heart attacks.

Studies indicate that lycopene could have twice the anti-carcinogenic punch of beta-carotene. They also contain a little iron, which is well absorbed by the body when accompanied by vitamin C and prevents anaemia and fatigue.

Watercress
Watercress is rich in vitamin C, thus aiding the regeneration of skin cells, keeping the liver healthy and defences strong. It also contains phenethyl isothiocyanate, a chemical that helps the liver to detoxify and is said to neutralise carcinogenic cells.

A useful source of iodine -- essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid, and vitamin B6 to prevent memory loss.

Radish
Radishes are rich in sulphur, essential for youthful, healthy skin, hair and nails, and also have anticarcinogenic properties.

Assisting the body in ridding itself of toxins, radishes help to treat gall bladder and liver problems, which might cause premature aging.

Mushrooms
Mushrooms contain more protein than most vegetables, as well as vitamin E and selenium, which help maintain healthy skin and hair and protect against heart disease. They also boost immunity and have anti-carcinogenic properties.

Shiitake mushrooms specifically boost immunity, the reishi variety combats high blood pressure and asthma, and maitake treats blood pressure and liver disease.

Asparagus
A fantastic source of folic acid, said to prevent damage to the arteries that supply blood to the heart and the brain. Folic acid has also demonstrated anticarcinogenic properties. Asparagus contains asparagine, which, along with its high potassium and low sodium content, makes it an excellent diuretic and cleanser.

Carrots
Beta-carotine, which the body converts into vitamin A, is especially important for eye health. It's also of great benefit to the skin, and the immune and digestive systems. Carrots are also loaded with fiber and water, which cleanse the liver, boost detoxification, and plump out the skin to stave off wrinkles.

Brazil Nuts
Brazil nuts are about 70 percent fat. Half of this is oleic acid, the building block for the omega-9 fatty acids that are excellent for the skin and have anti-inflammatory properties.

The rest is made up of omega-6 and omega-3 essential fatty acids, which promote healthy skin, glossy hair and a good memory.

Peanuts
Peanuts provide the most protein of all nuts, and they are high in monounsaturated fats, which reduce cholesterol levels and protect against clogged arteries and heart disease. They are also high in vitamin E, which maintains wrinkle-free skin and glossy hair.

Because of their low glycemic index score, the nuts help to prevent adult-onset diabetes.

Source: http://www.thirdage.com/heart-health/eat-to-cheat-your-age

20 Easy Ways to Boost Your Memory

Worried about fading brain power? If you're older than 27, you have good reason. That's the age when cognitive skills start to decline, according to new University of Virginia research. But while some changes in thinking and memory are inevitable as we age, the good news is that lifestyle seems to be able to blunt those effects -- and keep many minds working sharply well into old age.

That's reassuring, given headlines from the Alzheimer's Association's new annual report showing that every 70 seconds, someone in the U.S. develops Alzheimer's (the most common form of dementia).

Debilitating memory loss doesn't happen to everyone, though. Learn what you can do to preserve yours.

1. Take the stairs: Exercise benefits your head as much as the rest of your body, a growing number of studies indicate. Overall cardiorespiratory fitness also lowers the risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular problems -- all known risk factors for Alzheimer's disease. Theories on why that's so range from improved blood flow to the brain to less brain shrinkage.
Experts recommend making regular aerobic workouts part of your routine. Failing that, it appears that even small efforts add up. So avoid elevators. Park at the far end of the parking lot. Start by walking around your block in the evenings, and add a few minutes more each day.

2. Change your wallpaper: When doing routine things, the brain runs on autopilot. Novelty, on the other hand, literally fires up the brain as new data creates and works new neural pathways.
So shake up what you see and do every day: If your computer screen background is "invisible" to you, run a program that mixes it up every day or every hour. Take a different route home from work. Brush your teeth with your nondominant hand. Buy, borrow, or download a book that makes you think about new ideas.

3. Steal some zzz's by daylight: It's while you're sleeping that your brain sorts, consolidates, and stores memories accumulated during the day -- that's why eight hours at night is so valuable. But a mere six-minute nap is as valuable as a full night's sleep to short-term recall, according to German research. And a 90-minute nap has been shown to speed up the process that helps the brain consolidate long-term memories.

4. Take a mental "photograph": Memories aren't just stored in one spot in the brain; bits of data are processed and stored in different areas. To help make the memory of an incident last, take a "snapshot" of it while you're in the moment, using all your senses. Look around and think about what you see. Notice colors and textures. What do you smell? If you're eating or drinking (or kissing), what's the taste?
This "mental camera" trick can help you hang onto a happy memory longer. But it can also help you remember where you parked your car.

5. Eat less: After only 12 weeks, healthy volunteers (average age 60) who reduced their daily calories by 30 percent scored 20 percent better on memory tests, University of Munster (Germany) researchers reported in January. The possible reason: decreased levels of insulin, created when the body processes food, and of the inflammation-associated molecule C-reactive protein. Both factors are linked to improved memory function.
The people in the study were cautioned not to consume fewer than 1,200 calories a day. If cutting back on your diet by nearly a third seems too daunting, focus on eating less fat, meat, and dairy products. Earlier this year, Columbia University Medical Center researchers reported that in a long-term study of more than 1,300 participants, those with the highest adherence to a Mediterranean diet -- rich in vegetables, legumes, fish, and monounsaturated oils (like olive oil) but low in fat, beef, and dairy -- had the lowest risk of developing mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease.

6. Try a "brain-training" game -- or join a "brain gym": The science is promising, if not conclusive, as to whether so-called brain-fitness software can actually improve memory. A study in the April 2009 Journal of the American Geriatric Society shows that people over 65 who used a computerized cognitive training program for an hour a day, over a period of eight weeks, improved memory and attention more than a control group.

7. Spend some time online: Neuroscientist Gary Small, director of the UCLA Memory & Aging Center and author of "iBrain," says searching the Web is a bit like using a brain-training course. His researchers used MRI to measure brain activity in Web users ages 55 to 76; the net-savvy users showed twice as much brain activity, especially regarding decision making.

8. Stop and sip a cuppa: Green and black teas have a protective effect on memory, possibly by influencing enzymes in the brain. The caffeine sparks concentration, too. And people who drink moderate amounts of coffee at midlife -- as many as three to five cups -- have lower odds of developing dementia in late life, Finnish and French researchers say.
Another benefit: Taking a coffee or tea break in your day (or three times a day) is a good opportunity for destressing.

9. See a doctor if you feel depressed: Maybe it's "just a mood." But untreated depression is common and can impair memory. Talk therapy and/or antidepressant medication can resolve the problem. Two red flags worth mentioning to a physician: a loss of interest in things that once gave you pleasure and a persistent sense of hopelessness.
People at higher risk for depression include caregivers of older people and those who have a family history of depression.

10. Take the "multi" out of your tasking: Especially when they're trying to learn something new, people remember less well later if they were multitasking while learning, UCLA researchers have shown. If, for example, you're studying while listening to the radio, your memory recall may be dependent on the music to help you later retrieve the information during the test -- except, of course, that you can't usually replicate the same circumstances (like music during a test).
Try to learn something new -- reading a contract or directions, copying a skill -- when you can give it your full concentration. Cut out distractions like the TV in the background or pausing every few seconds when you hear the "ding" of your e-mail or text-message inbox.For information and advice for caring for an elderly relative.

11. Keep your blood sugar under control: If you're diabetes-free, work to maintain a normal weight and follow a balanced diet to reduce your odds of developing the disease. If you're a type 2 diabetic already, follow medical advice for managing blood sugar levels.
New research shows that brain functioning subtly slows as diabetics' blood sugar rises and the blood vessels that supply the brain are damaged. This process begins well before memory problems become obvious, or even before there's a diabetes diagnosis.

12. Waggle your eyes back and forth: To help you remember something important, scan your eyes from side to side for 30 seconds. This little exercise helps unite the two hemispheres of the brain, say researchers at Manchester Metropolitan University in England. When the two hemispheres communicate well, you're better able to retrieve certain types of memories.

13. Eat your green vegetables: There's no such thing as an "anti-Alzheimer's diet." But people who are deficient in folate and vitamin B12 have an increased risk of developing dementia. (The research is iffy, in comparison, on the benefits of taking so-called memory enhancers: vitamin C supplements, ginkgo biloba, and vitamin E.)
Great vegetable sources of folate include romaine lettuce, spinach, asparagus, turnip greens, mustard greens, parsley, collards, broccoli, cauliflower, and beets. For you vegetable haters, the nutrient is also abundant in lentils, calf's liver, pinto beans, and black beans.

14. Don't ignore sleep apnea: People with sleep apnea -- a condition involving blocked airways that causes people to briefly stop breathing during sleep -- show declines in brain tissue that stores memory, researchers at UCLA reported last year.
More than 12 million Americans have obstructive sleep apnea. If your doctor has suggested you have the condition, be vigilant about trying treatment, which can include wearing oral appliances and "masks," losing weight, and surgery.

15. Learn something new that's a real departure for you: If you're a sudoku fan, you might think a good way to stretch your mind would be to take up a different Japanese numbers game, like kenken or kakuro. But an even better strategy for a nimble brain is to pursue a new kind of activity using skills far different from those you're accustomed to using.
If you ordinarily like numbers, try learning a language. If you're an ace gardener, try painting flowers instead.

16. Quit smoking: The relationship between smoking and Alzheimer's disease is hazy. But smokers do develop the disease six to seven years earlier than nonsmokers.
In case you were looking for another good reason to quit.

17. Eat some chocolate! Every year some study extols the virtue of dark chocolate, and the effects of this wonder-food (or, at least, wonderful food) on memory have not gone ignored by researchers. In 2007, a Journal of Neuroscience study reported on the memory-boosting effects in rats of a plant compound called epicatechin, possibly because it fueled blood vessel growth.
In addition to cocoa, epicatechin is found in blueberries, grapes, and tea.

18. Put everything in its place: While novelty is like growth hormone to the brain, your memory needs a certain amount of familiarity to keep your life functioning smoothly. Place your keys and glasses in the same place all the time. Write notes to yourself as reminders (the very act of writing will help your recall). If you want to remember your umbrella tomorrow morning, place it right at the door, so you won't miss it.

19. Don't retire: Good news for those who can no longer afford to quit: Provided you like your work, you're helping your brain by sticking with it as long as you can. A satisfying work life offers social stimulation and decision-making opportunities -- and exercises problem-solving skills.
Next best: Volunteering, such as at a school or museum, where your training involves learning new material and the task involves interacting with others.

20. Throw a party: Being around other people lowers one's risk of developing dementia. The catch: They should be people you enjoy who make you feel engaged and stimulated. People who are physically isolated (not around people) or emotionally isolated (around people but feeling lonely nevertheless) are at higher risk for depression.

Just go easy on the alcohol at those parties. Studies on its effect on memory are mixed. Long-term, excessive drinking is clearly linked with dementia. Binge drinking also impairs short-term memory. On the other hand, for people who drink moderately (one drink a day), alcohol may have a protective effect. One study found that in people with mild cognitive impairment (mild memory loss that doesn't necessarily advance to dementia), those who drink less than one drink a day progressed to dementia at a rate 85 percent slower than teetotalers who didn't drink at all.

Source: http://www.thirdage.com/brain-fitness/20-easy-ways-to-boost-your-memory