1. Positive Actions for Your Physical and Mental Health

    February 24, 2013

    Enjoy Longer Life

    There are all kinds of hacks out there, hacks to work well in the office, hacks to keep that computer running on maximum capacity, but what about hacks for the body and mind? The answers are out there to promote a longer, fuller life and your emotional and psychological well-being. You don’t need to be a physician or psychologist to understand these.  Most of these answers are common sense and it won’t take a lot of work, but positive lifestyle changes are key.

    Cut out inflammation!

    Inflammation is at the root of numerous health hazards that cause the human body to break down. Heart disease, extreme weight gain, and cancer result from a state of chronic inflammation. Unhealthy life styles that include too much insulin and too much stress mean bad news when it comes to longevity. Add a lack of relaxation, sleep, and activity for a nasty combination. People who lose the battle tend to forget to have fun. The motto should be, “Play hard, eat right, and rest up for another day.”

    Change is good!

    What can we do? Make a positive change for the better. Start eating right and getting exercise. The formula for a longer, healthier life hasn’t changed. Stop worrying, any psychologist will tell you that mental health is a foundation for your physical well-being  Get moving. It doesn’t have to be intense exercise, but physical activity should be a part of our daily regimen. A morning or evening walk is a simple fix. Not only does it promote physical health, it is positive for your emotional health results as well. People have to stress less and enjoy life more. You don’t need to go to psychologist for this, just learn to be in piece with reality. Cut out the smoking, get rid of the processed foods, and sleep well. Indulge in treats now and then, such as a glass of red wine or a piece of decadent, dark chocolate. The rest of the time, eat lean meats, fresh produce, and forget about the junk. Old habits may die hard, but a longer life is worth the effort. Learn the body hacks and live well!

    This health information was brought to you by BestHealthDegrees.com

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  2. Hospice Care- A Spiritual Journey

    February 15, 2013

    mental health for elderly

    Credit: Viewminder @Flickr.com

    by Daniel Gordon

    Hospice care is designed to provide a full range of support services for terminally ill patients and their families. By focusing on the whole person rather than the illness, caregivers provide a warm and loving environment during this difficult time. These dedicated individuals provide support for all aspects of patient care, including the following:

    • Physical aid that incorporates pain relief and treatment of symptoms
    • Emotional support for patients, family members, friends and loved ones
    • Spiritual guidance that can help the patient to come to terms with his or her situation and to bring comfort to the family

    Because these services are centered on supporting the mental and emotional wellbeing of the individual, patients can sometimes enjoy greater clarity in their interactions with those around them. This can help terminally ill individuals to make real connections with friends and loved ones during the last stages of their illness. This type of care can provide added dignity and control for patients to allow them to depart with a measure of grace and serenity without fear of intrusive hospital environments and painful treatments that offer little hope of success. While medical treatments are still provided to patients, these treatments typically exclude the following:

    • Extraordinary measures, including respirators and other life support systems
    • Major surgical procedures not related to pain relief
    • Chemotherapy and other painful medical procedures

    Instead, patients receive pain relief medications and treatments designed to help them remain more comfortable and alert. Patients and family members can have significant input in determining the most desirable course of treatment and can be certain their concerns and wishes will be honored in the hospice environment.

    Unlike traditional hospital treatment plans, this type of assistance can often be provided in a relaxed setting close to other family members. This added degree of familiarity and comfort can allow the patient to spend his or her remaining time with loved ones and friends and to avoid the pain and stress of invasive medical treatments. Care plans usually incorporate the following elements:

    • Pain relief and management for terminally ill patients
    • Symptom mitigation to help patients feel more comfortable
    • Activities designed to promote the patient’s mental and emotional health
    • Reduced stress and worry for patients and their families
    • Spiritual and religious counseling and support

    Jewish hospice care centers, for instance, may provide rabbinical services and incorporate Jewish beliefs and traditions into the care of the terminally ill individual. Family and friends can participate in these traditions to provide added support. For many patients, these services offer a chance to reflect on a life well lived and to share these last days with loved ones. These arrangements can provide a holistic, natural approach to managing end-of-life circumstances and providing spiritual comfort for families and friends.

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