Biohackers trying to live long and healthy lives and defy ageing have been making headlines for the past few months. There is a couple in the news now aiming to live till at least 150 years of age.
The Independent reported about the couple who spend six figures a year to live “healthily until the age of 150” by following a rigid daily routine. Kayla Barnes-Lentz, a 33-year-old wellness CEO told the publication that she has been committed to living a healthy life.
She stated that her quest for longevity is so important that she asked her husband for detailed information about his health and biology even before she met him. Barnes-Lentz says she wanted to ensure that she would be a suitable partner for more than 100 years.
Talking about other biohackers with similar aims, Barnes-Lentz said that unlike them, she does not aim to live forever. She says she wants “to live as long as my husband does, not forever.”
Notably, Bryan Johnson is a popular biohacker who has been trying to beat death with his lifestyle, food habits and other methods.
Talking about her day, she said that getting some morning sunshine is integral to kickstarting their day, besides exercise. She said that her husband, Warren, and she prioritise their “morning workouts and getting sun as soon as it peaks up.”
“Other morning activities that we do together are PEMF or Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy. We have a clinical-grade device in our home that we use in the mornings together.”
They soak in some more sunshine during the afternoon and sometimes indulge in a “cold tub” day.
To help the lungs collect more oxygen, they use a hyperbaric chamber. “It only fits one person at a time so we alternate it,” she explained.
Their evening comprises “an early organic dinner together.”
“I cook our meals at home, and we typically eat around 5:30 pm. After dinner, we go for another walk. Then, we do a sauna session to start our wind-down routine. Red lights go on in our house at sunset,” she told The Independent.
They hit the bed by 9:00 pm daily.
The couple is also trying to have a baby and is already working to make the journey healthy. She said she has been “optimising” her body “in preparation for motherhood for years.”
“I have helped my husband optimise his biology pre-conception [too] because we know that the mother and father’s health impacts the health of the children,” she added.
Barnes-Lentz also plans to do “in-depth labs” during her pregnancy “to gather never-before-seen data on women during pregnancy.”
However, the couple doesn’t plan on imposing their lifestyle on their children.
“We will try and simplify their lives and focus on no screen time, playing outdoors, getting dirty, being in nature and the sun,” she said.
Anamica Singh
Anamica Singh started her career as a sports journalist and then moved on to writing on entertainment, news and lifestyle. She dabbles in copy editing, vid
Marty Grove, left, who recently retired from the Piqua Police Department as deputy chief, is pictured with his young son (at the time) Darrin Grove, attending one of the public events that teaches the public about police work and the work of the Sidney-Piqua Tactical Response Team (TRT) in Piqua.
Courtesy photo | City of Piqua
Now retired Piqua Police Deputy Chief Marty Grove spoke in his capacity as president of the Miami County Fraternal Order of Police at an annual Peace Officers Memorial Day ceremony at the Miami County Courthouse Plaza in Troy.
Courtesy photo | City of Piqua
By Sheryl Roadcap
[email protected]
PIQUA — After 33 of service with the Piqua Police Department (PPD), now former Deputy Chief of Police Marty Grove has traded in the daily fast-pace rush of police work for the more laid-back lifestyle of retirement.
“I am going to miss the people I worked with and the citizens I connected with on a daily and weekly basis for the past 35-36 years,” said Grove. “But I am not going to miss the 2 a.m. phone calls to get to a crime scene that no one should experience.”
His official last day on the job with the PPD was Sept. 6. Grove was sworn-in to serve the city of Piqua in August 1991, where he spent his entire career, but it was in 1988 when he first began his journey to become a police officer as an unarmed volunteer helping with city parade functions.
Although Grove will not miss the 2 a.m. phone calls, he does speak highly of police work and his time as an officer, especially patrol operations, which gets the heart pumping, he noted.
“It’s the patrol officers that hold our city together; I cannot stress that enough. I wasn’t a patrol officer for 15 years, being a deputy chief, but those are the guys who deserve all the credit,” Grove said. “Those are the officers that are on the front line. The ones that get the nuisance, abandoned vehicles; barking dog complaints. But then, it’s the excitement that you leave that and then it involves you driving with lights and sirens to a shooting or a robbery-type call. So, your blood pressure is 55 beats a minute, one minute, and double that, literally, the next minute.”
Grove admitted he always wanted to be a police officer since he was a child and thoroughly enjoyed his career serving the people of the city of Piqua. Moving through the ranks, he initially began as a patrol officer, and in this position worked as a patrol investigator, a field training officer and an officer in charge. It was during that time that became a member of the Sidney-Piqua Tactical Response Team (TRT). Grove also was a detective at one point, and then was promoted to a first shift supervisor in the patrol division again before eventually becoming deputy chief. He also served as president of the Miami County Fraternal Order of Police (FOP).
When asked about standout moments throughout his career, he said that of course there were many positive times, and he was honored to receive Piqua’s Jan Mulder Citizenship Award, but unfortunately the negative, difficult events tend to standout most. Grove sadly recalled two house fires, in which three children between the two incidents died after he was unable to enter the burning structures.
Aside from the obvious changes in technology, Grove said one major change over the course of his career is the interest of the public to become a police officer. When Grove applied to become a police officer, he said he was one of no less than 100 others vying for the job, whereas now, it is difficult for police departments to find enough qualified candidates who want to do the job. The emergence of the use of body cameras has been another big change. Grove said it has improved the department and provides officers with an additional tool to do the job.
Looking toward the future, Grove said he is happy to finally have time to get to those projects around the house and do some traveling, but will miss the rush of his job.
“I will miss the excitement of calls coming in,” Grove said. “It has been a very rewarding career; it was a noble job.”
City of Piqua Safety Services Director/Chief of Police Rick Byron said, “On behalf of the entire department, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations on your retirement after an impressive 33 years of dedicated service. I hope you take pride in all that you have accomplished. Thank you for your unwavering service and the countless sacrifices you’ve made to the city of Piqua and the Piqua Police Department. Enjoy every moment of your well-deserved retirement!”
City of Piqua Human Resources Director Catherine Bogan said of Grove, “During Marty’s outstanding tenure with the city of Piqua, he not only served as a deputy chief of police, but also as a mentor and a friend to many in our community. We wish him joy in his well-deserved retirement.”
“Deputy Chief Marty Grove’s service to the Piqua community have been nothing short of exemplary,”said City Manager Paul Oberdorfer. “For over three decades, he has not only upheld the law with integrity and courage but has also been a pillar of strength and compassion for our city. His leadership and commitment have left an indelible mark on the Piqua Police Department and the community at large. As he steps into retirement, we celebrate his remarkable career and extend our deepest gratitude for his unwavering dedication.”
Grove resides in Piqua. He looks forward to having more time with family, including his mother, who lives near, and two sons Darrin and Kurt and their wives, who live in Columbus.
Marty Grove, left, who recently retired from the Piqua Police Department as deputy chief, is pictured with his young son (at the time) Darrin Grove, attending one of the public events that teaches the public about police work and the work of the Sidney-Piqua Tactical Response Team (TRT) in Piqua.
Courtesy photo | City of Piqua
Now retired Piqua Police Deputy Chief Marty Grove spoke in his capacity as president of the Miami County Fraternal Order of Police at an annual Peace Officers Memorial Day ceremony at the Miami County Courthouse Plaza in Troy.
Courtesy photo | City of Piqua
By Sheryl Roadcap
[email protected]
PIQUA — After 33 of service with the Piqua Police Department (PPD), now former Deputy Chief of Police Marty Grove has traded in the daily fast-pace rush of police work for the more laid-back lifestyle of retirement.
“I am going to miss the people I worked with and the citizens I connected with on a daily and weekly basis for the past 35-36 years,” said Grove. “But I am not going to miss the 2 a.m. phone calls to get to a crime scene that no one should experience.”
His official last day on the job with the PPD was Sept. 6. Grove was sworn-in to serve the city of Piqua in August 1991, where he spent his entire career, but it was in 1988 when he first began his journey to become a police officer as an unarmed volunteer helping with city parade functions.
Although Grove will not miss the 2 a.m. phone calls, he does speak highly of police work and his time as an officer, especially patrol operations, which gets the heart pumping, he noted.
“It’s the patrol officers that hold our city together; I cannot stress that enough. I wasn’t a patrol officer for 15 years, being a deputy chief, but those are the guys who deserve all the credit,” Grove said. “Those are the officers that are on the front line. The ones that get the nuisance, abandoned vehicles; barking dog complaints. But then, it’s the excitement that you leave that and then it involves you driving with lights and sirens to a shooting or a robbery-type call. So, your blood pressure is 55 beats a minute, one minute, and double that, literally, the next minute.”
Grove admitted he always wanted to be a police officer since he was a child and thoroughly enjoyed his career serving the people of the city of Piqua. Moving through the ranks, he initially began as a patrol officer, and in this position worked as a patrol investigator, a field training officer and an officer in charge. It was during that time that became a member of the Sidney-Piqua Tactical Response Team (TRT). Grove also was a detective at one point, and then was promoted to a first shift supervisor in the patrol division again before eventually becoming deputy chief. He also served as president of the Miami County Fraternal Order of Police (FOP).
When asked about standout moments throughout his career, he said that of course there were many positive times, and he was honored to receive Piqua’s Jan Mulder Citizenship Award, but unfortunately the negative, difficult events tend to standout most. Grove sadly recalled two house fires, in which three children between the two incidents died after he was unable to enter the burning structures.
Aside from the obvious changes in technology, Grove said one major change over the course of his career is the interest of the public to become a police officer. When Grove applied to become a police officer, he said he was one of no less than 100 others vying for the job, whereas now, it is difficult for police departments to find enough qualified candidates who want to do the job. The emergence of the use of body cameras has been another big change. Grove said it has improved the department and provides officers with an additional tool to do the job.
Looking toward the future, Grove said he is happy to finally have time to get to those projects around the house and do some traveling, but will miss the rush of his job.
“I will miss the excitement of calls coming in,” Grove said. “It has been a very rewarding career; it was a noble job.”
City of Piqua Safety Services Director/Chief of Police Rick Byron said, “On behalf of the entire department, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations on your retirement after an impressive 33 years of dedicated service. I hope you take pride in all that you have accomplished. Thank you for your unwavering service and the countless sacrifices you’ve made to the city of Piqua and the Piqua Police Department. Enjoy every moment of your well-deserved retirement!”
City of Piqua Human Resources Director Catherine Bogan said of Grove, “During Marty’s outstanding tenure with the city of Piqua, he not only served as a deputy chief of police, but also as a mentor and a friend to many in our community. We wish him joy in his well-deserved retirement.”
“Deputy Chief Marty Grove’s service to the Piqua community have been nothing short of exemplary,”said City Manager Paul Oberdorfer. “For over three decades, he has not only upheld the law with integrity and courage but has also been a pillar of strength and compassion for our city. His leadership and commitment have left an indelible mark on the Piqua Police Department and the community at large. As he steps into retirement, we celebrate his remarkable career and extend our deepest gratitude for his unwavering dedication.”
Grove resides in Piqua. He looks forward to having more time with family, including his mother, who lives near, and two sons Darrin and Kurt and their wives, who live in Columbus.
World Vegetarian Day, observed annually on October 1, serves as an opportunity to promote the benefits of a vegetarian lifestyle and raise awareness about the positive impact of plant-based diets on health, the environment, and animal welfare. Founded by the North American Vegetarian Society (NAVS) in 1977 and endorsed by the International Vegetarian Union (IVU), this day is part of Vegetarian Awareness Month, encouraging people to explore the advantages of reducing or eliminating meat from their diets.
History and Origins of World Vegetarian Day
World Vegetarian Day was established by NAVS to bring attention to the ethical, environmental, and health-related reasons for adopting a vegetarian diet. Since its inception in 1977, the day has gained global recognition, inspiring individuals and communities to learn about vegetarianism and its far-reaching benefits. It also marks the beginning of Vegetarian Awareness Month, which culminates with World Vegan Day on November 1.
Significance of World Vegetarian Day
The significance of World Vegetarian Day lies in its advocacy for a healthier, more sustainable way of living. By adopting a plant-based diet, individuals can contribute to reducing the environmental impact caused by livestock farming, including deforestation, water usage, and greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, vegetarian diets are often associated with numerous health benefits, such as lower risks of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
Beyond health and environmental factors, World Vegetarian Day highlights the ethical aspect of vegetarianism. It encourages compassion towards animals, urging individuals to consider the moral implications of consuming animal products and to explore cruelty-free food choices.
Health Benefits of a Vegetarian Diet
Research consistently shows that a well-balanced vegetarian diet can offer various health benefits, including:
1. Heart Health: Plant-based diets are typically lower in saturated fats and cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease.
2. Weight Management: Vegetarian diets are often rich in fiber, helping with weight management and reducing the risk of obesity.
3. Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Studies have shown that vegetarians have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and certain types of cancer.
4. Improved Digestion: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports a healthy digestive system and reduces the risk of digestive disorders.
Environmental Impact of Vegetarianism
Adopting a vegetarian diet is one of the most effective ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Livestock farming is a major contributor to environmental degradation, responsible for large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. By reducing or eliminating meat consumption, individuals can significantly lower their contribution to climate change, water scarcity, and habitat destruction.
How to Celebrate World Vegetarian Day 2024
There are many ways to get involved in World Vegetarian Day and promote the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle:
1. Try a Vegetarian Diet: If you’re not already vegetarian, use this day as an opportunity to explore plant-based meals. Try new vegetarian recipes or visit a local vegetarian restaurant.
2. Host a Vegetarian Gathering: Organize a potluck or dinner party with friends and family, featuring a variety of delicious vegetarian dishes to showcase the diversity of plant-based cuisine.
3. Educate Others: Share information about the benefits of vegetarianism with your community, whether through social media, workshops, or discussions with friends and colleagues.
4. Support Vegetarian Causes: Consider donating to or volunteering with organizations that promote plant-based diets, animal welfare, or environmental sustainability.
5. Spread Awareness on Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter to share your vegetarian journey, recipes, or facts about the environmental and health benefits of plant-based eating.
World Vegetarian Day 2024 is an opportunity to celebrate the many benefits of adopting a plant-based lifestyle, from improved health and environmental sustainability to ethical considerations for animals. Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or just curious about trying a meat-free diet, October 1 is the perfect day to explore the positive impact of vegetarianism and make a difference in your life and the world around you.
People should check their sugar profile regularly.
If you are in the pre-diabetic stage, then the first thing to do is to put restrictions on your unhealthy diet.
Diabetes is one of the non-curable diseases in the world. People with this disease can live long and healthy lives if they manage their condition. Another way to prevent diabetes is to diagnose it at a pre-diabetic stage. This is such a stage which gives you a chance to recover, for which you can get more than a year. If you recover in this stage, then the chances of diabetes are reduced in the body. Renowned diabetologist Dr Paras Agarwal explains the meaning of the pre-diabetic stage and offers a few preventive measures which you can follow to recover from this stage. Dr Paras Agarwal asks the people to check their sugar profile. There are mainly three types of tests in the sugar profile. The first is fasting blood sugar. It denotes how much sugar is there in your blood on an empty stomach. If it is up to 100, then you are normal, but if it has reached 126, then it is in the pre-diabetic stage.
The second test is HB1AC. In this, the average blood sugar of three months is measured. If it is between 5.7 percent to 6.4 percent, then you are in the pre-diabetic stage. If the glucose tolerance is between 140 mg/dL to 199 mg/dL, then it is in the pre-diabetic stage.
Restrict Unhealthy Diet
If you are in the pre-diabetic stage, then the first thing to do is to put restrictions on your unhealthy diet. Do not consume processed food, junk food, fast food, pizza, burgers, packaged food etc. from now on. Avoid eating too many fried and sweet things at home as well. You must stay away from alcohol, cigarettes, tobacco, and drugs.
Go Natural
Include natural things in your diet such as whole grains, pure pulses, green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, seeds and dry fruits. Make chapati with fenugreek leaves, spinach or cook vegetables and eat them. Eat things made from gram flour or sattu.
Physical Exercise
Include and increase physical exercises in your daily schedule. Walking, running, bicycle riding, swimming, sports and other outdoor activities can help you in staying active and healthy. If you are in the office, then climb stairs for half an hour a day, even if you climb for only 5 minutes at a time. Every day, in some way or the other, take out half an hour for physical exercise
Stress Management
Yoga and meditation are the best medicines to control stress. Even if there is no stress, yoga and meditation will be beneficial for you. Sleep early at night and wake up early. Do not sleep with stress, if your sleep breaks in between, then this is also not a good sign, so have a peaceful sleep. About 7 to 8 hours of sleep is necessary for a fit body.
Lifestyle Desk
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As our parents age, maintaining their optimal health and well-being becomes increasingly complex, necessitating a holistic approach. This involves integrating physical, psychological and social factors to enhance overall quality of life and functional capacity.
Are your elderly parents struggling? Try these 7 holistic lifestyle strategies for their health and happiness (Image by Freepik)
With India’s fast-ageing population, the health and happiness of seniors are becoming increasingly important and by 2026, more than 180 million will cross the age of 60 years, of which a considerable number will fight mental health issues like anxiety disorder or depression or even loss of cognitive ability. The 2023 India Ageing Report by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) refers to an approximate increase of 279% in the population aged 80-plus years between 2022 and 2050, with high dependence upon elderly women.
In view of these statistics, following are the ways parents can effectively manage age-related challenges and we can promote a more fulfilling and independent life for seniors –
1. Physical Activity and Exercise
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Aanchal Choudhary, Consultant – Internal Medicine at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital in Noida Extension, shared, “Evidence supports that regular physical activity is essential for maintaining cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility in seniors. Engaging in a structured exercise program that includes aerobic, resistance and flexibility training has been shown to mitigate the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and osteoporosis.”
Elderly people exercising at a park in the morning (Photo by REUTERS)
Bringing her expertise to the same, Sama Beg, Chief Product Officer at Emoha revealed, “Regular exercise can keep both the body and mind fit. In the case of the elderly, it reduces stress, lightens their mood, and enhances brain function with low-impact exercises like brisk walking, swimming or some gentle Yoga. A caregiver can encourage elders to make physical activities part of their everyday routine by attending exercise classes, working on hobbies, or just going out in nature.”
2. Nutrition and Diet
Dr Aanchal Choudhary recommended, “Adequate nutrition is fundamental for maintaining health and preventing age-related decline. A diet characterised by high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is associated with reduced incidence of chronic diseases and improved cognitive health. Key nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D and antioxidants, are particularly beneficial for mitigating the effects of aging on the brain and immune system.”
The diet of elderly people should be nutrient-dense (Pixabay)
Sama Beg said, “One of the keystones to living a holistic lifestyle is a good diet. Our nutritional needs change as we age, and our diets need to be full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Additionally, muscle mass must be maintained, and this can be achieved in seniors only through a combination of proper diet and exercise. Moreover, they should drink a lot of water to keep themselves hydrated as this is key to maintaining their energy and general health.”
3. Mental Health and Cognitive Engagement
Highlighting that cognitive decline is a prevalent concern in the elderly but engaging in intellectually stimulating activities can slow this process, Dr Aanchal Choudhary advised that activities such as problem-solving tasks, learning new skills and social interactions are linked to enhanced cognitive function.
Sama Beg pointed out, “One of the biggest challenges seniors face is social isolation which does have impacts on the mental and physical health of an aging person. Such loneliness is caused by retirement, mobility issues, and the loss of a loved one in the later years of life. Social connections are essential for older adults. Caregivers play a vital role in providing companionship, engaging in conversations and facilitating social interactions. Keeping them engaged in community activities, support groups or even just staying in touch with their families and friends can help boost their mood and create a sense of belonging.”
4. Sleep Hygiene
Dr Aanchal Choudhary asserted, “Quality sleep is crucial for physical and mental health. Seniors often experience alterations in sleep patterns, which can impact overall health. Through practices such as maintaining a cool, dark and quiet bedroom—can improve sleep quality and mitigate issues such as insomnia or fragmented sleep.”
5. Preventive Health Care
“Regular medical evaluations and preventive screenings are critical for early detection and management of health conditions. Routine screenings for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cancer, along with up-to-date vaccinations, are essential for preventing and managing chronic diseases,” said Dr Aanchal Choudhary.
6. Cognitive Stimulation and Care
Given that the risk of cognitive decline, including dementia, increases in old age, Sama Beg said, “Structured routines, wherein activities are scheduled to provide cognitive stimulation, can be very helpful for older individuals. Activities like doing crossword puzzles, reading or attending some educational classes/workshops can exercise cognitive functioning and enhance a feeling of accomplishment. The caregivers need to be aware of the progress of the dementia stages, offer proper support and enable the elderly to negotiate these challenges with dignity and purpose.”
7. Regular Medical Check-ups and Professional Support
Sama Beg concluded, “Timely medical check-ups and diagnostic tests can help identify potential health issues before they get worse. From dental care to vision, and hearing check-ups, or monitoring chronic conditions like hypertension or diabetes, staying on top of health concerns is vital. If seniors experience persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or cognitive decline, seeking professional support is crucial. Early intervention and appropriate treatment can make a significant difference in keeping their conditions under control.”
Ageing can indeed result in a stage of joy and fulfilment when approached with a holistic lifestyle strategy. Caregivers play a pivotal role in supporting seniors on this journey, ensuring they age gracefully and with dignity.
As our parents age, maintaining their optimal health and well-being becomes increasingly complex, necessitating a holistic approach. This involves integrating physical, psychological and social factors to enhance overall quality of life and functional capacity.
Are your elderly parents struggling? Try these 7 holistic lifestyle strategies for their health and happiness (Image by Freepik)
With India’s fast-ageing population, the health and happiness of seniors are becoming increasingly important and by 2026, more than 180 million will cross the age of 60 years, of which a considerable number will fight mental health issues like anxiety disorder or depression or even loss of cognitive ability. The 2023 India Ageing Report by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) refers to an approximate increase of 279% in the population aged 80-plus years between 2022 and 2050, with high dependence upon elderly women.
In view of these statistics, following are the ways parents can effectively manage age-related challenges and we can promote a more fulfilling and independent life for seniors –
1. Physical Activity and Exercise
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Aanchal Choudhary, Consultant – Internal Medicine at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital in Noida Extension, shared, “Evidence supports that regular physical activity is essential for maintaining cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility in seniors. Engaging in a structured exercise program that includes aerobic, resistance and flexibility training has been shown to mitigate the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and osteoporosis.”
Elderly people exercising at a park in the morning (Photo by REUTERS)
Bringing her expertise to the same, Sama Beg, Chief Product Officer at Emoha revealed, “Regular exercise can keep both the body and mind fit. In the case of the elderly, it reduces stress, lightens their mood, and enhances brain function with low-impact exercises like brisk walking, swimming or some gentle Yoga. A caregiver can encourage elders to make physical activities part of their everyday routine by attending exercise classes, working on hobbies, or just going out in nature.”
2. Nutrition and Diet
Dr Aanchal Choudhary recommended, “Adequate nutrition is fundamental for maintaining health and preventing age-related decline. A diet characterised by high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is associated with reduced incidence of chronic diseases and improved cognitive health. Key nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D and antioxidants, are particularly beneficial for mitigating the effects of aging on the brain and immune system.”
The diet of elderly people should be nutrient-dense (Pixabay)
Sama Beg said, “One of the keystones to living a holistic lifestyle is a good diet. Our nutritional needs change as we age, and our diets need to be full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Additionally, muscle mass must be maintained, and this can be achieved in seniors only through a combination of proper diet and exercise. Moreover, they should drink a lot of water to keep themselves hydrated as this is key to maintaining their energy and general health.”
3. Mental Health and Cognitive Engagement
Highlighting that cognitive decline is a prevalent concern in the elderly but engaging in intellectually stimulating activities can slow this process, Dr Aanchal Choudhary advised that activities such as problem-solving tasks, learning new skills and social interactions are linked to enhanced cognitive function.
Sama Beg pointed out, “One of the biggest challenges seniors face is social isolation which does have impacts on the mental and physical health of an aging person. Such loneliness is caused by retirement, mobility issues, and the loss of a loved one in the later years of life. Social connections are essential for older adults. Caregivers play a vital role in providing companionship, engaging in conversations and facilitating social interactions. Keeping them engaged in community activities, support groups or even just staying in touch with their families and friends can help boost their mood and create a sense of belonging.”
4. Sleep Hygiene
Dr Aanchal Choudhary asserted, “Quality sleep is crucial for physical and mental health. Seniors often experience alterations in sleep patterns, which can impact overall health. Through practices such as maintaining a cool, dark and quiet bedroom—can improve sleep quality and mitigate issues such as insomnia or fragmented sleep.”
5. Preventive Health Care
“Regular medical evaluations and preventive screenings are critical for early detection and management of health conditions. Routine screenings for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cancer, along with up-to-date vaccinations, are essential for preventing and managing chronic diseases,” said Dr Aanchal Choudhary.
6. Cognitive Stimulation and Care
Given that the risk of cognitive decline, including dementia, increases in old age, Sama Beg said, “Structured routines, wherein activities are scheduled to provide cognitive stimulation, can be very helpful for older individuals. Activities like doing crossword puzzles, reading or attending some educational classes/workshops can exercise cognitive functioning and enhance a feeling of accomplishment. The caregivers need to be aware of the progress of the dementia stages, offer proper support and enable the elderly to negotiate these challenges with dignity and purpose.”
7. Regular Medical Check-ups and Professional Support
Sama Beg concluded, “Timely medical check-ups and diagnostic tests can help identify potential health issues before they get worse. From dental care to vision, and hearing check-ups, or monitoring chronic conditions like hypertension or diabetes, staying on top of health concerns is vital. If seniors experience persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or cognitive decline, seeking professional support is crucial. Early intervention and appropriate treatment can make a significant difference in keeping their conditions under control.”
Ageing can indeed result in a stage of joy and fulfilment when approached with a holistic lifestyle strategy. Caregivers play a pivotal role in supporting seniors on this journey, ensuring they age gracefully and with dignity.
It was supposed to be a regular day at work for a group of Singapore Airlines (SIA) cabin crew.
However, they received a pleasant surprise when a passenger boarded their flight, seemingly fully dressed to work alongside them.
See, Instagram user Travel.saya had donned the iconic Singapore Airlines sarong kebaya for her flight from Jakarta’s Sukarno Hatta International Airport to Singapore’s Changi Airport.
She documented and posted multiple videos of the experience on her Instagram page on Sept 18, capturing the reactions of the SIA cabin crew on board.
And judging by the smiles from the crew, they were more than happy to see her wearing their uniform.
Two crew members couldn’t help but break into a chuckle as they warmly greeted her and welcomed her on board the plane.
And as she walked down the cabin aisle towards her seat, Travel.saya had a second interaction with another “colleague” of hers.
This time, it was with a true blue Singapore Girl.
Clearly amused, the flight attendant made a comment on their matching outfits before she happily directed Travel.saya to her seat.
One can’t help but wonder,too, if other travellers had to do a double take when they saw her taking her seat among other passengers on the flight.
In a separate Instagram post, Travel.saya could be seen having a blast as she posed for photos with some other cabin crew members.
And while credit goes to her for looking the part, to trained eyes, the fit of the kebaya and footwear were definitely non-standard.
In the comments sections of her videos, netizens praised Travel.saya for sharing such wholesome content.
“It’s nice, it’s cute and it suits you,” remarked one Instagram user of her outfit.
Others described her video as “cuteness overload” and that the SIA uniform “looks so good” on her.
Not all, however, saw the situation in a positive light.
Some expressed uneasiness at having a passenger don the cabin crew uniform on board a flight.
One netizen wrote in Japanese: “It’s not a bad thing but it will certainly be confusing when responding to an emergency.”
A fellow Instagram user also felt that doing so was disrespectful to the crew members.
“They’ve earned their uniform by their effort, you really shouldn’t do this.
“Moreover, this might also [be] confusing to other passengers. Don’t do it again,”they admonished.
Travel.saya responded to these concerns in her Instagram post last Saturday (Sept 28), after appearing to have spoken to SIA personnel at a tourism event which she attended in Tokyo.
“Singapore Airlines assured me that there is absolutely no problem boarding the plane dressed as one of their cabin crew,” the caption wrote.
Iconic uniform
Unveiled in 1968, the sarong kebaya uniform continues to be seen as a hallmark of Singapore Airlines.
In fact, according to government agency site Roots, it has since become central to its branding, especially after the emergence of the Singapore Girl in the early 1970s.
The unmistakable batik print design has persisted over the decades and is seen in four colours — blue, red, brown, brown and green — which denotes the rank of the flight stewardess.
Dr Ray O’Connor takes a look at the latest clinical papers on general lifestyle health, including diet and sleep health
There have been several recent papers studying various aspects of lifestyle that are worth looking at. A recent review on various diets1 concluded that although many diets have been developed with the initial aim of controlling body weight, dietary composition also has important health effects that are independent of the effects on adiposity.
Dr Ray O’Connor
An overall inspection of the literature suggests that plant-based diets with a moderate lipid content, characterized by the consumption of vegetables, fruits, whole-grain cereals, legumes or pulses, nuts, and unsaturated fats, with low-to-moderate amounts of poultry and seafood and low quantities of red meat and sugar, may offer substantial health benefits.
The Mediterranean diet may be an option, at least for some population groups. Educating health professionals about diets and the potential effects of these diets on diseases is imperative. Advice on healthy eating should be incorporated into clinical practice and taught in medical curricula, and health care professionals should propose variations of plant-based diets by considering individual preferences, cost, affordability and cultural issues.
Prospective associations between total and groups of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) remained to be characterised. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis2 was to assess the association of total and group-specific UPF intakes with CVD, coronary heart disease (CHD), and stroke in three large prospective cohorts of US adults.
UPF intake was assessed through food frequency questionnaires in the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS; n = 75,735), Nurses’ Health Study II (NHSII; n = 90,813), and Health Professionals Follow-Up Study (HPFS; n = 40,409). The conclusion was that total UPF intake was adversely associated with CVD and CHD risk in US adults, corroborated by prospective studies from multiple countries, also suggesting a small excess stroke risk.
Poor sleep health is associated with increased all-cause mortality and incidence of many chronic conditions. Here, using objectively measured, longitudinal sleep data from commercial wearable devices – linked to electronic health record data from the ‘All of Us’ Research Program – the authors show that sleep patterns, including sleep stages, duration and regularity, are associated with chronic disease incidence.3
Of the 6,785 participants included in this study, 71 per cent were female, 84 per cent self-identified as white and 71 per cent had a college degree; the median age was 50.2 years and the median sleep monitoring period was 4.5 years. The findings were that rapid eye movement sleep and deep sleep were inversely associated with the odds of incident atrial fibrillation and that increased sleep irregularity was associated with increased odds of incident obesity, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.
Moreover, J-shaped associations were observed between average daily sleep duration and hypertension, major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. These findings show that sleep stages, duration and regularity are all important factors associated with chronic disease development.
Current US physical activity (PA) guidelines prescribe moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) time of at least 150 minutes per week for health. An analogous step-based recommendation has not been issued due to insufficient evidence.
The objective of this cohort study4 was to examine the associations of MVPA time and step counts with all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The study analysed data from an ongoing follow-up study of surviving participants of the Women’s Health Study. A total of 14,399 women (mean age, 71.8 years) were included.
The median MVPA time and step counts were 62 minutes per week and 5183 steps per day, respectively. The authors concluded that suggest that among females 62 years or older, MVPA time and step counts were qualitatively similar in their associations with all-cause mortality and CVD. Thus, step count–based goals should be considered for future guidelines along with time-based goals, allowing for the accommodation of personal preferences.
References:
Yannakoulia M et al. Nutrition in Medicine: Diets. N Engl J Med 2024;390:2098-106. doi: 10.1056/NEJMra2211889
Mendoza K et al. Ultra-processed foods and cardiovascular disease: analysis of three large US prospective cohorts and a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. The Lancet Regional Health – Americas 2024;37: 100859 Published Online 2 September 2024. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lana.2024.100859
Zheng N et al. Sleep patterns and risk of chronic disease as measured by long-term monitoring with commercial wearable devices in the All of Us Research Program. Nature Medicine 2024. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-024-03155-8
Hamaya R et al. Time- vs Step-Based Physical Activity Metrics for Health. JAMA Intern Med.doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2024.0892 Published online May 20, 2024.
Dr Ray O’Connor takes a look at the latest clinical papers on general lifestyle health, including diet and sleep health
There have been several recent papers studying various aspects of lifestyle that are worth looking at. A recent review on various diets1 concluded that although many diets have been developed with the initial aim of controlling body weight, dietary composition also has important health effects that are independent of the effects on adiposity.
Dr Ray O’Connor
An overall inspection of the literature suggests that plant-based diets with a moderate lipid content, characterized by the consumption of vegetables, fruits, whole-grain cereals, legumes or pulses, nuts, and unsaturated fats, with low-to-moderate amounts of poultry and seafood and low quantities of red meat and sugar, may offer substantial health benefits.
The Mediterranean diet may be an option, at least for some population groups. Educating health professionals about diets and the potential effects of these diets on diseases is imperative. Advice on healthy eating should be incorporated into clinical practice and taught in medical curricula, and health care professionals should propose variations of plant-based diets by considering individual preferences, cost, affordability and cultural issues.
Prospective associations between total and groups of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) remained to be characterised. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis2 was to assess the association of total and group-specific UPF intakes with CVD, coronary heart disease (CHD), and stroke in three large prospective cohorts of US adults.
UPF intake was assessed through food frequency questionnaires in the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS; n = 75,735), Nurses’ Health Study II (NHSII; n = 90,813), and Health Professionals Follow-Up Study (HPFS; n = 40,409). The conclusion was that total UPF intake was adversely associated with CVD and CHD risk in US adults, corroborated by prospective studies from multiple countries, also suggesting a small excess stroke risk.
Poor sleep health is associated with increased all-cause mortality and incidence of many chronic conditions. Here, using objectively measured, longitudinal sleep data from commercial wearable devices – linked to electronic health record data from the ‘All of Us’ Research Program – the authors show that sleep patterns, including sleep stages, duration and regularity, are associated with chronic disease incidence.3
Of the 6,785 participants included in this study, 71 per cent were female, 84 per cent self-identified as white and 71 per cent had a college degree; the median age was 50.2 years and the median sleep monitoring period was 4.5 years. The findings were that rapid eye movement sleep and deep sleep were inversely associated with the odds of incident atrial fibrillation and that increased sleep irregularity was associated with increased odds of incident obesity, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.
Moreover, J-shaped associations were observed between average daily sleep duration and hypertension, major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. These findings show that sleep stages, duration and regularity are all important factors associated with chronic disease development.
Current US physical activity (PA) guidelines prescribe moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) time of at least 150 minutes per week for health. An analogous step-based recommendation has not been issued due to insufficient evidence.
The objective of this cohort study4 was to examine the associations of MVPA time and step counts with all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The study analysed data from an ongoing follow-up study of surviving participants of the Women’s Health Study. A total of 14,399 women (mean age, 71.8 years) were included.
The median MVPA time and step counts were 62 minutes per week and 5183 steps per day, respectively. The authors concluded that suggest that among females 62 years or older, MVPA time and step counts were qualitatively similar in their associations with all-cause mortality and CVD. Thus, step count–based goals should be considered for future guidelines along with time-based goals, allowing for the accommodation of personal preferences.
References:
Yannakoulia M et al. Nutrition in Medicine: Diets. N Engl J Med 2024;390:2098-106. doi: 10.1056/NEJMra2211889
Mendoza K et al. Ultra-processed foods and cardiovascular disease: analysis of three large US prospective cohorts and a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. The Lancet Regional Health – Americas 2024;37: 100859 Published Online 2 September 2024. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lana.2024.100859
Zheng N et al. Sleep patterns and risk of chronic disease as measured by long-term monitoring with commercial wearable devices in the All of Us Research Program. Nature Medicine 2024. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-024-03155-8
Hamaya R et al. Time- vs Step-Based Physical Activity Metrics for Health. JAMA Intern Med.doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2024.0892 Published online May 20, 2024.
