Category Archives: Aging

February 6 Is National Wear Red Day

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Today is National Wear Red Day, a day to raise awareness of heart disease as the leading cause of death in the United States. Protect your heart and feed your mind with free audiobooks from the Talking Book Program.

From the library:

EIGHT STEPS TO A HEALTHY HEART: THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO HEART DISEASE PREVENTION AND RECOVERY FROM HEART ATTACK AND BYPASS SURGERY (DB 35218)

END OF HEART DISEASE: THE EAT TO LIVE PLAN TO PREVENT AND REVERSE HEART DISEASE (DB 86314)

THRIVING WITH HEART DISEASE: A UNIQUE PROGRAM FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY; LIVE HAPPIER, HEALTHIER, LONGER (DB 56642)

In His Own Words: Dick Van Dyke

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On Saturday December 13, Dick Van Dyke turned 100! Known for his work on both screen and stage, his big break was the role of Albert F. Peterson in the original Broadway production of Bye Bye Birdie. Later, he went on to play many memorable characters on both television and film including Bert, the chimney sweep in Mary Poppins, and Rob Petrie on the Dick Van Dyke Show. For more information, visit his official website.

Here are the books he’s written that are in the TBP collection:

MY LUCKY LIFE IN AND OUT OF SHOW BUSINESS: A MEMOIR (DB 74349, BRG 02937, LB 06804)
KEEP MOVING: AND OTHER TIPS AND TRUTHS ABOUT AGING (DB 83701, LB 08985)

Online Wellness Programs for People with Disabilities

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Here are some programs for people with disabilities that promote health and wellness:

Fit With Us is a six-month exercise telehealth study that promotes health and functionality for people with disabilities. Participants must be at least 18 years old with a permanent physical disability, have access to the Internet, and be able to use a computer or smartphone. For more information, click here: https://fitwithus.org/about-the-study/.

My Health My Life My Way is a six-month telehealth study for people with disabilities who also have a chronic condition. Participants must be at least 18 years old with a permanent physical disability and a chronic disease such as arthritis, Type 2 diabetes, or a heart or lung condition. Participants must also have access to the Internet and be able to use a computer or smartphone. For more information, contact: Eric Evans: 205-236-8452: evansej@uab.edu Learn more about the study here: https://myhealthmylifemyway.org/about-the-study/.

In addition, NCHPAD (National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability) offers the following online health and wellness programs for adults with physical disabilities:

Mentor (Mindfulness, Exercise, Nutrition to Optimize Resilience): MENTOR is an eight-week program that focuses on physical, mental, and emotional health.

Growth (Growing Resilience Out of Wellness and Thoughtful Habits): GROWTH is a six-week program that focuses on mental health and well-being.

SOS Everybody (State of Slim): SOS is a 16-week program that focuses on sustainable weight loss.

Coffee Club: Coffee Club meets twice a month to promote social connections and discuss health and wellness.

Learn more about these programs here: https://www.nchpadconnect.org/programs.

September is Fall Prevention Month

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Falls can have a devastating effect on an older person’s health and well-being.
Falls can lead to serious injuries, disability, loss of independence, and even death.

But fall prevention can reduce the risk.

Here are just a few aspects of a fall prevention check list:

  • Minimize clutter
  • Remove tripping hazards like throw rugs
  • Maintain adequate lighting
  • Wear proper footwear
  • Manage chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes
  • Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about current medications, including possible drug interactions and side effects
  • Exercise when able, including balance exercises, stretching, and strength training
  • Add movement to your at-home routine
  • Consider adaptive aids such as shower chairs, canes, and walkers
  • Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and avoid / limit alcohol
  • Get regular vision and hearing screenings

Your local area may offer exercise and nutrition classes. If not, YouTube is a great resource.

For more information on fall prevention, click on these links: