Dr. Mauk’s Boomer Blog
Each week, Dr. Kristen Mauk shares thoughts relevant to Baby Boomers that are aimed to educate and amuse.
Dr. Kristen L. Mauk, PhD, DNP, RN, CRRN, GCNS-BC, GNP-BC, FAAN
5 Reasons Exercise is the Best Treatment for Hemiplegia
Hemiplegia is a form of brain injury that can result in paralysis on one side of the body. In neurological rehabilitation, exercise is considered the cornerstone of recovery from stroke. One of the most common forms caused by trauma to the head or neck can be addressed through rehabilitation exercises. You will improve your power and functioning by working your muscles and enhancing coordination with physical therapy exercises.
1. Exercise Releases Brain-Protecting Chemicals
Exercise triggers the release of the brain-protecting chemical called endorphins. Endorphins make you feel happy and pain-free while helping you deal with the stress of being hemiplegic. Exercise also has the power to boost your levels of serotonin and dopamine, two essential neurotransmitters needed to combat depression.
Exercise can also relieve anxiety, helping you to get a good night’s sleep and cope with negative emotions. Exercise also releases neurotrophins, which are the chemicals that promote the growth of new neurons and synapses in the brain. Neurotrophins are needed to combat cognitive decline and the risk of developing dementia.
2. Exercise Builds Muscle and Strength
Exercising even while in a wheelchair can help you improve your strength and build the endurance necessary to move around more on your own. However, you might feel that the things you can do have been severely limited, but you can still challenge your muscles and build strength.
You can increase your upper-body strength by pushing yourself to hold items for longer periods or by trying to keep a grip on things such as a pen or a cup for a longer period. Or you can increase your endurance by holding your legs in place for a few minutes or pushing yourself to work with your legs for longer.
Exercising can also help you improve your posture, which can help you to reduce pain and decrease your risk of developing future complications. Exercising can be challenging in a wheelchair and may require creativity, but it is certainly possible. There are several ways to incorporate exercising while in a wheelchair, such as leg lifts, arm exercises, or using a special treadmill-type device.
3. Exercise Will Help You Regain Mobility
If you have been diagnosed with hemiplegia, you will most likely start your rehab process in a wheelchair. Although you may feel like you have been permanently relegated to a wheelchair, exercise can help you regain functional mobility when the time comes to transition out of it.
If you have been in a wheelchair for some time, you may have noticed that your leg muscles may have atrophied (weakened). This lack of muscle strength and endurance can lead to the need for a wheelchair ramp or stair lift in the future, as well as compression stockings, shoe inserts, or knee-high compression socks for poor leg circulation. Exercise can help you build up your leg muscles, which can help you avoid these items and regain your mobility.
4. Exercise Makes You Stronger and Quicker When You Do Get Up and Move
When you first start exercising, you may feel like you are pushing yourself to the limit. However, as you keep exercising, you will see that your strength builds up and that you can do more each time. This will give you confidence that even though you may be in a wheelchair now, you can still do things and will be able to be independent and move around on your own when the time comes.
Exercising can also help you to develop your gross motor skills. We use these physical skills daily, such as walking, running, and playing sports. These are also the skills most often impacted when someone has hemiplegia.
If you have been in a wheelchair for some time, you may have noticed that your gross motor skills have deteriorated. Exercising can help you regain these skills so that when the time comes to get out of the wheelchair, you will be able to do so quickly and easily.
5. Exercise Improves Balance
As you exercise, your muscles become stronger, which can help to improve your balance if you have hemiplegia on one side. There are many exercises that you can do to help improve your credit. You can try standing on one leg while you are sitting in a chair or while you are lying down. You can also try exercises focusing on your balance, such as yoga, tai chi, or even walking.
When you have hemiplegia, getting the proper amount of exercise is important. This will help you to maintain flexibility and mobility in your body, reduce pain, and feel more confident about getting out of a wheelchair and living your life fully.
Online Educational Programs for Mental Health
Mental illness affects nearly one in five adults, and the stigma surrounding mental health makes it even harder for those who need help to get it. Fortunately, online education gives people access to knowledge no matter where they live or how much free time they have. These best online mental health programs are a great way to learn about mental illnesses, their symptoms, and how to recover if you or someone you know is dealing with a crisis.
These courses will help you develop a strong understanding of the importance of mental wellness while also providing valuable information on how to recognize the warning signs of an impending crisis and what to do if someone you know is showing early signs of depression or another type of mental illness, just like when you catch diabetes on the early stage is can be treated or your doctor can explain how type 2 diabetes can be reversed just because of early diagnosis.
What is a Mental Health Program?
A mental health program can be either a short course or a degree program. Some of the main topics that you might learn are signs of mental illness, how to help someone who is suffering, and how to seek help if you need it. Mental health programs can also be helpful to people who work in the mental health field and want to stay updated on the latest research.
Mental health programs are useful for many different people, but they aren’t the same as mental health therapy. Some online mental health programs do include a section on therapy, but the main focus is on the facts and information related to mental illness for example you want to lose weight and instead of going to a dietician you get an online weight loss diet chart. If you want to learn how to help yourself or someone else through therapy, you might want to look into online therapy programs instead.
Mental Health Counseling Certificate Course
This mental health counseling course from Walden University is designed for people who want to become a licensed mental health counselor. It takes about two years to complete on a part-time basis and includes both online and campus-based learning. The coursework starts out with an introduction to the field before diving into psychology concepts, theories, and research.
Students will also study ethics and cultural considerations, as well as their own personal issues and the ways in which these affect their work. The course culminates in a supervised field experience where students will apply their skills in a real-world setting. This course is accredited by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification. Walden also has a variety of other online counseling programs that are not designed to lead to licensure.
Mental Health First Aid Certification Course
This online mental health first aid course from Mental Health First Aid USA teaches people how to recognize when someone may be suffering from a mental health condition and how to help them get the proper treatment. The course covers signs and symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses, as well as substance use disorders.
It also discusses how to create a safe environment for people who are experiencing a mental health crisis. This is a good course for anyone who wants to understand more about mental health but does not want to become a therapist. The certificate for this course is recognized by employers, schools, and other organizations, so it’s a great credential to add to your resume.
Depression and Anxiety Online Course
This course from Anna Marie University focuses on treating depression and anxiety. It’s a good option for people who are interested in the mental health field but don’t want to become a licensed mental health professional. This course is also a great option for people who want to understand their own struggles with mental health better.
This course is designed to help students understand their own triggers, as well as how to manage their symptoms and create a healthy lifestyle. It has interactive exercises and other activities that make it more engaging than many online courses. The course is self-paced, so you can work through it at your own speed.
It also comes with a money-back guarantee, so you can try it without risk. This depression and anxiety online course is also accredited by the International Board of Clinical Specialists.
Bipolar Disorder Counseling Course
This online bipolar disorder counseling course from GRACE University teaches students how to help people with bipolar disorder. This course also teaches students about their own triggers, so they can better manage their own bipolar disorder. The course features video lectures, a library of course materials, and a forum where students can discuss the course content with others.
It’s a good option for people who are interested in the mental health field but don’t want to become a licensed mental health professional. This online bipolar disorder counseling course is also accredited by the International Board of Clinical Specialists.
Conclusion
Mental health is a crucial component of overall health. Unfortunately, many people do not recognize the importance of mental health until they or someone they know is in crisis. Online mental health programs are a great way to learn more about mental health and the signs and symptoms of mental illness. These programs also provide essential information about how to help someone who is experiencing a mental health crisis.
Guest Blog: How to Move Forward After Losing Your Job to COVID-19
You can find this article and many other useful resources on the Senior Care Central website.
While the country has recovered just over half of all the 22 million jobs lost during the initial coronavirus outbreak, millions of people are still struggling to find work in the wake of permanent business closures. If this scenario hits home and you continue searching for your next full-time position, you must find ways to make ends meet.
Advance Your Education
If you’re feeling limited by your job options, expand your skill set by going back to school. Earning a degree will open the door to more career opportunities and higher pay, and can be a great investment in your future. For example, if you want to pursue a career in the tech industry, give yourself a head start with a degree in IT management. A couple of other possibilities include nursing or business. Earning your degree from an online school like WGU is ideal if you’re also working a part-time job!
Protect Your Financial Health
When money is tight, it’s important to reevaluate your spending. Ensure you have what you need to pay the bills and keep a roof overhead, even if it means cutting out nonessential luxuries like cable and takeout. If debt is a problem, stop using credit cards and go cash-only for now. You could also consolidate your debt onto a low-interest line of credit or a new credit card with a promotional rate.
Get a Part-Time Job
Need money right now? Get a part-time job! A temporary job may not be able to match the income of your previous position, but it will help you make ends meet while you continue your search. According to Fast Company, there are plenty of industries that require part-time workers right now, including grocery stores and delivery services.
Try Freelancing
Another way to earn money during the pandemic is to look for remote opportunities online. Selling your skills through freelance work is an excellent way to do this! You can freelance in nearly any industry, including accounting, writing, marketing, project management, and data entry.
The pandemic is tough for everyone, but for those who are still out of work, things may be looking especially bleak. Keep moving forward, whether it means going back to school, landing a part-time job, or starting a freelance career.
My not-bucket List
Some people, when they get to be my age, make a bucket list – that is, those activities they would like to do before they die. Well, I decided to make a list of the things I don’t ever care to do and am happy that I haven’t done…so here is my short not-bucket list:
Go sky diving. While this might be one many people’s bucket list, I have no desire to go skydiving. I just can’t imagine that the euphoria at having survived jumping out of plane and relying on a parachute for my life would ever override the sheer terror of the falling feeling. In fact, I would probably have a heart attack and die of fright on the way down.
Own a snake. I hate snakes and would never call one a pet. I would always be worried that it would escape and I would find it in my shoes one day all dried up, or worse yet, that it would curl up in the shower or hide in my closet. A big snake might eat my little dog or cat. Snakes seem like tricky creatures that would give me nightmares. Nope, no snakes for me.
Smoke a cigarette. No, I have never smoked a cigarette. In fact, when I was about 8 years old and my Dad was once smoking a cigar, which he did only occasionally (being more of a pipe man himself), I wanted to be like him and try a smoke. Dad said okay, and told me to take a big deep breath to inhale that delicious cigar smoke. As you might imagine, the fitful coughing after that one drag, combined with his laughter, cured me of ever wanting to smoke anything – thus Dad’s lesson. He did, however, teach me great technique in stuffing his pipe, though not smoking one!
Go bungee jumping. Even if we set aside all the health hazards of having your hips and knees nearly yanked out of their sockets, your pelvis twisted and jolted, or the risks of having a stroke from all the blood rushing to your brain as you hang upside down, this is not appealing at all to me. Those with hiatal hernias or GERD should not put this on their bucket list. Similar to my feelings about sky diving, I just would not trust that the bungee cord would be strong enough or short enough to make it worth the thrill. Even with a go-pro camera to record the event, I’m sure that my screaming would overshadow any future comedic home movies that would come from it.
Get drunk. I can’t see the attraction of getting drunk and not remembering what you did the night before. I guess that it makes for funny big screen movies, but vomiting all over the carpet and having to clean it up the next day when sober just doesn’t make it onto my list of anything remotely resembling fun. Besides, if I ever got inebriated, I would probably be found dancing on a table in a nightclub, make the evening news, and embarrass my kids to death.
Get a kidney stone. I have already had one kidney stone and they are definitely not fun. I don’t care to have another, so I drink plenty of water throughout the day. It is true what they say, that the pain can be excruciating and intractable. Kidneys stones should be on the “avoid at all costs” list of everyone.
So, what’s on your not bucket list?
Guest Blog: Holiday Gifts for Showing Caregivers They Are Appreciated
Sometimes the holidays bring with them conundrums, and figuring out good gifts is usually one of them. Finding a present that expresses how much you value the caregiver in your life can be particularly challenging. We’ve pulled together a list of ideas that go the extra mile for that special someone who always serves above and beyond for you or your loved one.
Rest and relaxation
It’s no secret that caregivers bear a heavy burden. Selecting a gift that provides relaxation and comfort can bring meaningful restoration to those in the role of caregiver. Consider an aromatherapy diffuser with essential oils in soothing scents, such as lavender, sandalwood, or vanilla. Along those same lines, you could assemble a gift basket for an indulgent bath. Choose oils, lotions, and bath salts in a favorite scent, and add a luxurious towel and some herbal teas.
If you really want to wow your caregiver, consider splurging on a new mattress. Some of the bed-in-a-box options are particularly outstanding, and it can be delivered straight to the recipient’s door. Look for a top-rated mattress that can fit any sleep style. For example, the Leesa is one great option. It’s a highly-rated foam mattress that’s optimal for all sleeping styles and is perfectly poised between soft and firm.
Connection and caring
Sometimes a break is the best gift you can give someone who is in the role of caregiving. Consider a gift certificate to a local restaurant or movie theater, and include a handwritten note on pretty paper or a card saying you will cover care during the meal.
If your time is tight or the duties are too complex, offer to perform a task for the caregiver instead. Pick up groceries, take her car for an oil change, then get it washed and waxed, or do some yard work or housekeeping. If the caregiver can’t break away, consider reaching out with an offer to bring a meal over. You can prepare lunch and sit down together, which is a chance for companionship and conversation – a gift often beyond immeasurable value.
For an ongoing gift, a meal delivery service can be a boon to caregivers, making nutritious food easy and convenient, or consider a coffee club subscription. If you’re good friends, considering having a movie night together. Popcorn, a dvd, and a few hours of friendship can provide much needed respite, and choosing a comedy offers the bonus of allowing you both to laugh off stress.
Happiness and hobbies
Certain kinds of activities tend to fall by the wayside for caregivers. With that in mind, consider ways to help your caregiver pursue a hobby interest. You can assemble a gift tote of supplies, such as for crafting, baking, or woodworking. Add a note explaining that once a week you’ll cover care, or you could hire an aide to cover that time periodically.
If your special caregiver loves events, tickets to a tour, concert or play can be ideal. Another idea is to purchase participation in a class your caregiver would enjoy, such as in culinary arts, yoga, or music lessons.
For booklovers, a new e-reader could be just the ticket, along with a gift card to download some books. Journaling is a popular stress-reliever for caregivers, allowing them to sort through emotions and process events of the day. Consider purchasing a handmade journal and selecting an especially beautiful pen to go with it.
For caregivers who are primarily housebound, a bird feeder which mounts to the window or could hang from a nearby tree can provide hours of peaceful entertainment and stress relief. Add a pair of binoculars, seed, and a bird identification guide to make your gift complete.
Caregiving is a challenging burden, and those who take on the responsibility are worthy of special gifts. Consider options which show how much you appreciate their self-less, loving assistance. The holidays are the perfect season for demonstrating how grateful you are to the caregiver in your life.