There are numerous factors to consider when planning for retirement. Preferred living arrangements, employment opportunities, and income are some of many examples. Although finances are often the driving force in determining retirement age, health is also a major element to consider. According to the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), older people’s ability to work can be influenced by health status. The HRS goes on to share, “More than half of men and one-third of women who left the labor force before the Social Security early-retirement age of 62 said that health limited their capacity to work.” When mapping out your plan consider lifestyle factors influencing health and future retirement.

Eustress is a healthy form of stress increasing mental focus and productivity. On the other hand, prolonged stress can result in distress or burnout. Being faced with numerous responsibilities beyond one’s capability is one of the many factors leading to continuous stress.

The body reacts to stressors through an automatic response known as fight-or-flight reaction. The fight-or-flight response is a protective mechanism to stress or anticipated danger. If stress becomes chronic or prolonged it can cause health risks.  According to the Mayo Clinic long-term stress exposes the body to extended release of cortisol and other stress hormones, contributing to anxiety, depression, sleep problems, digestive disturbances, weight gain, heart disease and others. The good new is there are ways to decrease stress and promote healthy living!

Clients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) unresponsive to Disease-Modifying Medications (DMARDs) and other commonly prescribed drugs may benefit from biologic response modifiers or biologics. Biologic agents are drug therapies for clients with moderate to severe Arthritis. Unlike traditional RA medications, biologics target specific areas in the immune system decreasing inflammatory response and joint pain. Biologics can be administered alone or in combination with other pharmaceuticals. WebMD comments on biologic therapy stating, “Biologics are genetically-engineered proteins derived from human genes. They are designed to inhibit specific components of the immune system that play pivotal roles in fueling inflammation, which is a central feature of rheumatoid arthritis.” Biologics have been a breakthrough in managing RA for clients who have seen little if any improvement with traditional drug therapies.

April is National Autism Awareness Month. Join us as we support individuals and families with Autism! Health promotion and early interventions help identify Autism during childhood, yet for others diagnoses is established later in life. Adults as well as children fall within the Autism Spectrum. WebMD shares how intelligence and ability to communicate are important factors influencing level of independence for adults with Autism. Connecting with community programs and support groups promotes socialization, opportunities, and provides valuable resources.

You’ve likely heard the importance of eating whole-wheat foods and limiting intake of refined grains. Yet do many understanding the benefits in fiber-packed foods for colon health? Fiber is naturally found in whole wheat, oats, fruits, vegetables, beans, and nuts. Since fiber is not absorbed in the small intestine it promotes bulky stools aiding the passing of bowel movements. According to the Mayo Clinic a high-fiber diet helps lower the risk of hemorrhoids and diverticular disease and also decreases likelihood of constipation.