The 1 day Healthacate® Positive Ageing Challenge

The 1 day Healthacate® Positive Ageing Challenge

Jun 13, 2023

Fit older adults

Hi there is week I started my daily Healthacate® Positive Ageing challenge. Its a very simple challenge. You don’t need a smart watch or a pedometer.

Aging is a part of life, but that doesn’t mean we can’t age gracefully and positively. In fact, with a little bit of effort and intention, we can actually reverse some of the negative impacts of aging and unlock our inner youth. The One Day Healthacate Positive Ageing Challenge is here to help you do just that! In just 24 hours, you can take a big step towards a happier, healthier you. So, are you ready to glow?

Ready, set, glow: The 1 Day Healthacate® Positive Ageing Challenge

The 1 Day Healthacate® Positive Ageing challenge is all about empowering you to take control of your health and wellbeing, no matter what your age. The challenge is designed to help you focus on  a healthy exercise habit that can help you feel younger, stronger, and more vibrant.

The great thing about the challenge is that it’s designed to be achievable, even if you have a busy schedule. You don’t need to spend hours at the gym or need a smart watch to participate. Instead, the challenge provides you with a simple, practical intervention to help you make positive changes that can have a big impact on your health.

Unlock your inner youth: 24 hours to a happier, healthier you

So, what can you expect from the 1 Day Healthacate® Positive Ageing challenge? Well, for starters, you’ll likely feel more energized, focused, and upbeat throughout the day.

In addition, you might notice some more subtle changes in your mood and outlook. The brisk walk can help you manage stress and difficult emotions which has a powerful impact on your overall health and wellbeing, and can help you approach the day with a more positive attitude.

Overall, the 1 Day Healthacate® Positive Ageing challenge is a fun, uplifting way to focus on your health and wellbeing. So, are you ready to take the challenge?

“The 1 day Healthacate® Positive Ageing challenge is to do a 30 minute brisk walk TODAY”

The challenge resets itself everyday and therefore there is very little pressure or guilt about not meeting a challenge. Life is hectic for many of us so lets make “Positive Ageing” easy!

The NICE guidance is: to do 150 minutes of moderately vigorous activity a week. Moderately vigorous means that you get hot and sweaty but can just finish your sentences.  This equates to aerobic cardiovascular exercise and helps reduce the risk of diabetes, heart attacks and strokes and helps reduce obesity.

Split up into small chunks makes it much more doable hence the 1 day Healthacate®  Positive Ageing challenge!

I have also produced a printable no frills “Positive Ageing Checklist” have a look and see how well you are future proofing your physical and mental health. It covers all areas from preventing disease, engaging in screening programmes to concerns about cognitive health.

 

 

Resistance band exercises for positive ageing

Additional to the 150 minutes of moderately vigorous activity a week, it is proposed you should also do exercise’s that strengthen the core muscles and body.

Luckily in Worcestershire the council are providing resistance bands for free with an accompanying video on how to use them. These can be used for people lacking mobility at home or office workers needing a work out at lunch time.

The great thing is resistance bands can be adjusted to suit the level of activity required!

Click here to learn more about Living Well in Worcestershire and resistance band training

Feedback and comments always welcomed! Join my community on Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter and Linkedin

Healthacate Facebook Group (private)

 

The 1 day Healthacate® Positive Ageing Challenge

NHS Exercise tips for a better future you be Fit & Fab whether you are 50 or 80!

Jun 7, 2023

Fitness is crucial at any age. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and exercising can get difficult as we age. That’s why the NHS gives fitness suggestions for all ages. These strategies will keep you active and healthy.

Fit and Fabulous Exercise Tips!

Select an activity you like

Swim, dance, or cycle. Choose an activity you enjoy to stick with it and make it a routine. Mixing up your routine and trying new things keeps it interesting.

Define achievable goals

Start by walking 30 minutes a day instead of running a marathon. After reaching that target, you can gradually increase training intensity and length. Setting realistic goals helps motivate and produce outcomes.

Exercise daily

Take the stairs instead of the lift, walk to work or work out at lunch. By making exercise a daily habit, you’re more likely to stick with it.

NHS Fitness Guide: Age is Just a Number

Exercise is never too late. Regular exercise can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and enhance general health in older persons, according to studies.

Physical activity guidelines for 65+ adults

Exercise daily, it can help prevent heart disease and stroke.

If you haven’t exercised recently or have medical issues, consult a doctor first. Check your fitness level and exercise intensity.

Over 65 year olds should aim to:

  • Do daily physical activity, even light activity,
  • Do activities that improve strength, balance, and flexibility on at least 2 days a week
  • Do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity
  • If you are already active, or a combination of both reduce time spent sitting or lying down and break up long periods of inactivity with some activity

If you’ve fallen or are afraid of falling, strength, balance, and flexibility exercises will make you stronger and more confident.

Light activity?

  • Preparing a cup of tea
  • Strolling about your home slowly
  • Cleaning and dusting vacuuming
  • Making the bed
  • Standing up

Moderate-intensity exercise?

  • Moderate-intensity exercise raises heart rate, breathing, and body temperature. Talking but not singing indicates moderate intensity.

Moderate activities include:

  • Health walking
  • Water aerobics
  • Fitness biking
  • Tennis
  • Mowing the lawn

Vigorous activity?

Vigorous action causes rapid breathing. At this stage, you can only pronounce a few words without halting for air.

75 minutes of vigorous activity had equivalent health advantages to 150 minutes of moderate activity.

Vigorous activity includes:

  • Aerobics
  • Swimming
  • Cycling fast or uphill
  • Singles tennis
  • Football
  • Trekking uphill
  • Martial arts

Muscle-building exercises?

Strength workouts should be done till you need a short rest before continuing them to boost your health.

Home or gym workouts can strengthen muscles.

Muscle-building exercises include:

  • Lifting shopping bags
  • Yoga
  • Tai chi
  • Weightlifting
  • Using resistance bands doing push-ups and sit-ups
  • Heavy gardening like digging and shovelling

You can undertake aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities on the same or different days.

Muscle-strengthening workouts aren’t aerobic, so you’ll need to do them in addition to your 150 minutes.

Strength exercise helps seniors retain muscle mass and prevent falls. The NHS advises strength training twice a week.

Finally, listen to your body and make any exercise changes. Our bodies may be able to take less intensity as we age. Be aware of pain and alter your regimen.

Fitness is crucial to preventing increased dependence in older age!

Fitness and health are crucial at any age. Stay active and healthy by following NHS exercise advice. Find a fun pastime, set realistic goals, exercise regularly, and listen to your body. These ideas will help you look great at any age!

Resources

Exercise Guidance for Older Adults (>65)

https://homevisithealthcare.co.uk/healthacate-positive-ageing-challenge/

 

Ozempic for Obesity: Check you’re eligible for the NHS approved obesity medication

HR should prioritise employee well-being for those who care for ageing parents

HR should prioritise employee well-being for those who care for ageing parents

Jun 6, 2023

Around 64% of employees identify as formal or informal caretakers for their ageing parents. Sixty-four percent of these carers said that caring responsibilities had a detrimental influence on their mental health and, as a result, their work performance.

The United Kingdom is undergoing a demographic change, with more individuals living longer lives. One in every seven persons will be above the age of 75 by 2040. As individuals get older, they become more reliant on others, which poses new issues.
HR should prioritise assisting workers who care for their ageing parents. Many of these caretakers are between the ages of 40 and 60, are in their prime working years, and have significant skills. If we do not help these caretakers, we risk losing productivity and competent people.

To learn more about this issue, see my guest blog article for HR Hero “How to Support Employees Caring for Elderly Parents – Is This the Key to Staff Retention?” by clicking the link below.

How to support staff who are caring for elderly parents (thehrhero.co.uk)

UK NHS Prescription Charge Exemptions: Who Qualifies?

UK NHS Prescription Charge Exemptions: Who Qualifies?

May 31, 2023

The UK National Health Service (NHS) is a publicly-funded health care system that provides free medical treatment to residents of the United Kingdom. While many services are offered free of charge, prescriptions are subject to a fee. Fortunately, the NHS offers exemptions to certain individuals who may not be able to afford the cost. In this article, we will explore the different exemptions available and who is eligible to benefit from them.

Understanding UK NHS Prescription Charge Exemptions

Prescription charges in the UK are currently set at £9.15 per item. However, certain groups of people are entitled to free prescriptions. These exemptions were put in place to ensure that those who cannot afford to pay for their medication are not denied access to essential treatment.

There are various types of exemptions available, including medical exemptions, maternity exemptions, and exemptions for low-income individuals. Each type of exemption has its own eligibility criteria, which we will discuss in further detail below.

Eligibility Criteria for Exemption from Prescription Charges in the UK

Medical exemptions are available to individuals who have specific medical conditions or disabilities that require regular treatment. To qualify for this exemption, you must have a valid Medical Exemption Certificate (MEC), which can be obtained from your doctor. Some of the medical conditions that qualify for exemption include diabetes, epilepsy, and hypothyroidism.

Maternity exemptions are available to pregnant women and new mothers. This exemption lasts for 12 months after the birth of a child and covers all prescription charges during this period. To qualify, you must have a valid Maternity Exemption Certificate (MAT), which can be obtained from your doctor or midwife.

Exemptions for low-income individuals are also available. Those who receive certain benefits, such as Income Support or Universal Credit, are entitled to free prescriptions. You may also be eligible if you have a low income and do not receive benefits. To apply for this exemption, you will need to complete a form that can be obtained from your doctor or pharmacist.

The UK NHS Prescription Charge Exemptions are a vital tool in ensuring that everyone has access to essential medical treatment, regardless of their financial situation. If you think you may be eligible for an exemption, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for further information and guidance. They will be able to advise you on the relevant forms to complete and help you through the application process.

Breaking barriers: Telemedicine brings healthcare home! Diabetes, Heart Failure, Respiratory Conditions

Breaking barriers: Telemedicine brings healthcare home! Diabetes, Heart Failure, Respiratory Conditions

May 26, 2023

Breaking barriers: Telemedicine brings healthcare home!

Telemedicine has the potential to be very beneficial in my field of elderly care within the community hospitals of Worcestershire by bringing healthcare to the patient. I frequently meet patients who are unable to keep hospital appointments, this might be harmful because monitoring and diagnostics are only available in a clinic or hospital setting.

Medical experts may now treat patients from the convenience of their homes thanks to technological advancements. With the use of electronic communication technologies like video conferencing and texting, doctors may diagnose and treat patients remotely in the rapidly expanding area of telemedicine.

Patients who live with chronic disease also benefit hugely from telemedicine, it reduces inconvenient hospital appointments yet enables them to still feel supported and in touch with their healthcare provider. This ability to engage in remotely has benefits for medication compliance and can improve outcomes in chronic conditions.

Remote Monitoring

Four criteria should be met for true remote monitoring.

  1. That is the Data is collected remotely
  2. The date is transmitted to a different location
  3. The data is evaluated by the healthcare providers
  4. Insights gained and interventions communicated back to the patients

 

Examples of true remote monitoring would be:

  • A patient with high blood pressure sending data to their physician and receiving a medication change in response to the analysis.
  • A diabetic patient sending data regarding their blood glucose to a endocrinologist and receiving medication changes, insulin adjustment as a result
  • A patient living with Parkinson’s disease, wearing a sensor that detects worsening bradykinesia (slowing up) and the data being transmitted to a neurologist.

 

Remote Monitoring in Diabetes

  • Telehealth allows for continuous monitoring, providing clinicians with a 24-hour profile and a better understanding of the patient’s state.
  • Digital health technologies can assist patients in losing weight, lowering blood pressure, and engaging in other good behaviours that can help them avoid diabetes.
  • Patients may even connect with support groups from the comfort of their own homes, exchanging exercise and dietary tips to better their overall health.
  • The same self-use blood glucose metres that patients use at home are increasingly employed in hospitals to decrease patient contacts with clinicians. Not only does this reduce COVID-19 exposure, but it also assists providers in rationing their personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • The built-in wireless data transmission capabilities improve provider insights and assist them in better managing their patients’ illnesses, lowering their risk of becoming dangerously sick with Covid-19.

 

Great video explaining the fantastic Libre system in type 1 diabetic patient

Podcast on Remote Monitoring in Heart Failure Patients

Great podcast about remote monitoring in Heart Failure patients

 

Remote Monitoring in Cystic Fibrosis Clinics

Many of the principles discussed in this short video are applicable to many chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart failure, asthma, rheumatoid conditions.

Say Goodbye to Waiting Rooms

The above examples, which are just a few of many, illustrate  the major benefits of telemedicine. Patients can log onto a telemedicine platform and connect with a healthcare professional at their convenience if they are living busy lives or if they have mobility issues from the comfort of their own home.

This not only saves patients time and money, but it also reduces the risk of exposure to contagious diseases. For patients with chronic conditions, telemedicine can be especially beneficial as it allows them to receive regular check-ups and medical advice without having to leave their homes.

The Future of Healthcare is Here

Telemedicine is not just convenient, it is also the future of healthcare. With an aging population and a growing demand for medical services, telemedicine offers a solution to the shortage of healthcare professionals and resources.

In addition to providing medical care, telemedicine also has the potential to improve health outcomes by encouraging patients to take a more proactive role in their own health. With access to medical information and resources, patients can make more informed decisions about their health and receive timely medical advice.

As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative solutions. Telemedicine is improving access to medical services and changing the way we approach healthcare. With the potential to improve health outcomes and save time and money, it’s no wonder that telemedicine is quickly becoming the future of healthcare. 

 

Age Joyfully: Your Guide to Positive Longevity

Age Joyfully: Your Guide to Positive Longevity

May 24, 2023

Aging is a natural process that everyone experiences at some point in their life. While some may dread getting older, it’s important to embrace it and live joyfully. Positive longevity is all about living a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life no matter your age. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and tricks for achieving positive longevity and living your best life.

Embrace Aging and Live Joyfully

The first step to positive longevity is to embrace aging and all the changes that come with it. Instead of focusing on what you can’t do, focus on what you can do and all the new experiences that come with age. It’s important to maintain a positive attitude and mindset. Surround yourself with positive people, try new things, and never stop learning.

Stay Active- Use it of Lose it!

Another key to living joyfully as you age is to stay active. Exercise is important for maintaining physical health, but it also has mental health benefits. Exercise releases endorphins, which can improve your mood and reduce stress. Find an activity that you enjoy, whether it’s going for a walk or trying a new sport. Staying active can also help you maintain your independence and mobility as you age.

Helpful resources for staying active- Worcestershire:

What are resistance bands? | Worcestershire County Council

Positive Longevity: Tips and Tricks

There are many things you can do to promote positive longevity. One of the most important is to prioritize your health. This means eating a healthy diet, staying active, getting enough sleep, and managing stress. Regular check-ups with your doctor and preventative screenings can also help you stay healthy.

Insomnia and Older Adults | Sleep Foundation

Another important factor in positive longevity is socialization. Staying connected with friends and family can help you maintain a sense of purpose and belonging. Volunteer work or joining a club or group can also provide opportunities to connect with others and give back to your community.

Loneliness services:

AGE UK loneliness telephone service:

Using our friendship telephone service | Age UK

Finally, it’s important to continue learning and challenging yourself mentally. This can help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia. Reading, taking classes, or even learning a new language or skill can provide mental stimulation and keep your mind sharp.

AGE UK Brain exercises

Brain exercises: How to keep your brain active | Age UK

Positive longevity is all about living your best life, no matter your age. By embracing aging, staying active, prioritizing your health, socializing, and continuing to learn, you can promote positive longevity and live joyfully. So, go out there and enjoy every moment of your life – it’s never too late to start!

 

NHS Exercise tips for a better future you be Fit & Fab whether you are 50 or 80!