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When is it Time for Assisted Living?

When is it Time for Assisted Living

As medical developments allow for a lot of people to live a longer, more healthy life, there usually still comes a point when living by themselves is not an option. It is gloomy for a senior to think about leaving the family home, so they might not want to discuss it.

When is Assisted Living Necessary

Families never enjoy answering the question “when is assisted living necessary?”. Nevertheless, there are some indications to look out for that are going to help make the decision obvious.

  1. Chronic Health Problems

Chronic health conditions are going to continue to worsen as someone gets older. Additionally, they can also weaken the immune system to be more possible to fall ill more frequently and stay unwell longer.

  1. Turning Aggressive

It is an unfortunate truth that some individuals with dementia are going to turn more aggressive as the disease advances. This is not a demonstration of the way they are being cared for, but simply a crushing effect of the disease.

Attempting to care for someone that is physically or verbally abusive is more than a lot of people can take on. Individuals that suffer from aggression require a safe place to live with qualified professionals that understand how to handle these situations.

  1. Recent Falls

Another indicator that assisted living is necessary is the repeated happening of falls. Mobility problems are common among the elderly, and there are so many areas within the home in which they can trip.

If your loved one has recently fallen and there is a worry they might be unable to get themselves up or call out for help, it might be time to examine the benefits of assisted living in which they can be looked after.

  1. Not Remembering to Take Medicine

Everybody forgets to take their medicine occasionally; nevertheless, if your loved one does this frequently, it is going to soon become a serious issue.

Their medicine routine is vital to keep their health conditions in check. There are systems in place that try to help them remember, but this is definitely an indication it’s time for memory care.

  1. Unable to Manage Day-to-Day Life Activities

Oftentimes even simple tasks can be overpowering. When a family member has a problem with housekeeping, cooking, or other day-to-day activities it might be time for a change.

Yard work is a huge job that usually is the first thing they are unable to finish. Don’t let them bear the weight of too much day-to-day work. Find a place where they can sit and relax and enjoy their final years with those duties done for them.

  1. Isolation and Sadness

If your family member is displaying symptoms of depression and feeling lonely, it may be time to start discussing if it is time to move to assisted living. The facilities provide a wide range of activities and chances for social interaction.

  1. Poor Eating Habits

If someone cannot cook, their eating habits are going to likely decline also.

Good nutrition is vital in retaining good mental and physical health. Moving to a long-term care facility is going to provide them with consistent and nutritious meals prepared with their particular needs in mind.

  1. Poor Hygiene

For someone that feels bad, or has the beginning of dementia, one of the initial things to go is personal hygiene. They don’t wash themselves as frequently, and when they do it might not be as good as it needs to be.

  1. Caregiver Stress

Perhaps you’re doing all the work, and you simply can’t do it anymore. A lot of people that choose to care for their family members on their own do so with great love and intentions.

Regrettably, a lot are not truly prepared for the demanding challenges both emotionally and physically. There is nothing shameful in admitting that you have done all you could, but now it is merely time for a different course.

  1. Sundowning

Sundowner’s syndrome is an ailment in which an individual that has dementia becomes more flustered at the days end. They’ve exhausted all their mental energy for the day.

  1. Wandering Off

If your loved one lives by themselves and you worry about their mental perception, you are most likely afraid of them losing their way.

That is a legitimate fear, and it happens more often than not. Perhaps they believe they know where they are going but get lost. Or maybe, they just want to get out of their house.

However, should this become an issue, or you are concerned it could be, don’t wait for something disturbing to happen. Begin the discussion today.

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

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How Much Does Independent Living Cost Youngtown, AZ

How Much Does Independent Living Cost in Glendale, AZ?

The average cost of independent living in Glendale, AZ is $2,330 per month. Average prices ranged from $770 to $3,890 per month in Arizona for 2019 according to multiple sources. There are a lot of premier services, locations, and areas that will cost more.

• Low Cost: $770 per month
• Average Cost: $2,330 per month
• High Cost: $3,890 per month

Average Independent Living Cost in Glendale, AZ by Source

Seniorly.com states the average monthly cost for a independent living in Glendale, AZ is $3,080 per month, but prices range from $2,618-$3,542 per month.

According to SeniorHomes.com costs of independent living in Glendale, AZ range between $770 per month and $3,890 per month.

As reported by Caring.com the average cost of independent living in Glendale, AZ is $2,197 per month.

Chaparral Winds is an Independent Living Facility Near Glendale, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful independent living facility near Glendale, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an essential part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Independent Living Facility in Surprise offers common indoor space to support that need.

Address: 16617 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623)544-4777

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What is Anxiety?

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a natural human emotion in regard to feelings of concern, nervousness, or apprehension about something with an uncertain consequence. It is a general reaction to stress, and it can manifest itself in different ways, like physical symptoms or psychological symptoms.  Whereas mild anxiety can be a typical part of life, unrelenting or persistent anxiety can impact day-to-day activities and may require professional involvement.

Anxiety disorders, like generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder, are characterized by exaggerated and persistent worry or fear that can considerably interfere with a person’s quality of life. Treatment for anxiety disorders could include therapy, medication, changes in lifestyle, or a combination of these recommendations.

What Causes Anxiety?

Anxiety can be caused by several reasons, including genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and personal history. Some people may be more susceptible to developing anxiety disorders because of genetic factors, whereas others may have variations in neurotransmitters, like dopamine and serotonin, which can add to anxiety. Personality traits, like being highly sensitive or tending to worry a lot, can also make individuals more vulnerable to anxiety. Also, stressful or traumatic life occurrences, like a breakup, loss of work, or the passing away of a loved one, can set off or intensify anxiety symptoms.

Other factors, like chronic illness, addiction, or a history of abuse or abandonment, can also escalate the risk of developing anxiety disorders. It’s vital to note that anxiety is a complex and multifaceted ailment, and its causes can differ widely from individual to individual.

What Are the Signs of Anxiety?

General signs of anxiety include excessive uneasiness or dread, restlessness, irritability, inability to pay attention, muscle stiffness, and sleep disruptions. Physical symptoms, like rapid heartbeat, sweating, shaking, breathing difficulties, and gastrointestinal issues, may also be present. In more severe situations, individuals might undergo panic attacks, which are abrupt and intense episodes of fearfulness or discomfort that can include symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, and a sense of imminent doom.

It’s important to remember that experiencing infrequent anxiety is normal, but when these symptoms linger or interfere with day-to-day activities, it may be indicative of an anxiety disorder that requires professional assessment and treatment.

What Does Anxiety Feel Like?

Anxiety is typically described as a sense of uneasiness or concern that can range from mild to serious. Physically, it could manifest as a rapid heartbeat, shaking, sweating, or muscle stiffness. Mentally, it can cause overactive thoughts, challenges concentrating, and a sense of imminent doom or danger.

From an emotional standpoint, anxiety could lead to panic attacks, restlessness, crabbiness, or a sense of being uneasy. Some people may also experience physical symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pains, or gastrointestinal issues. It’s important to remember that anxiety can differ in severity and length, and it can impact different individuals in different ways. When you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety that are interfering with your day-to-day life, it is important to pursue professional help.

How To Calm Anxiety Attack

When suffering through an anxiety attack, it’s important to concentrate on soothing the mind, body, and spirit. Foremost, try to find a tranquil and safe space in which you can sit or lay down comfortably. Inhale slow, deep breaths in through your nose and exhale through your mouth, concentrating on the sensation of the air entering and leaving your body. You can also try cumulative muscle relaxation, in which you tense and then un-tense each muscle cluster in your body, beginning at your toes and progressing up to your head. Engaging in activities that divert your mind, like listening to comforting music, reading sacred writings or focusing on a particular object, can also be beneficial. In addition, partaking in mindfulness or spiritual disciplines like praying can help you keep your feet on the ground and present in the moment.

If you have a trusted friend or relative close, you can also get in touch with them for support and encouragement. Don’t forget that anxiety attacks are short lived and are going to run its course, and it’s important to give priority to calming routines and pursue professional assistance when needed.

Anxiety in Older Adults

Older adults with anxiety issues typically go untreated for several reasons. Older adults usually do not notice or recognize their symptoms. And when they do, they may be apprehensive to talk about their emotions with their doctors. Some older adults may not pursue treatment because they have experienced symptoms of anxiety for a better part of their lives and believe their emotions are normal.

Both patients and doctors could miss a diagnosis of anxiety due to other medical ailments and use of prescription drugs, or specific situations that the patient is dealing with. instance example, the anxiety experienced by a recently widowed patient might be more than just grieving. Complex or chronic grief is usually accompanied by unyielding anxiety and grieving spouses might avoid reminders of the deceased.

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

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What is Depression?

what is depression?

Depression (major depressive disorder) is a frequent and alarming mental disorder that negatively impacts how you feel, act, think, and observe the world.

Almost 3 in 10 adults (30%) have been diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives and around 18% are presently encountering depression, as reported by a 2023 national survey. Women are more probably than men and younger adults are more probable than older adults to encounter this disorder. Whereas depression can happen any time and any age, on average it can initially appear throughout someone’s late teens to mid-twenties.

Symptoms of Depression

Symptoms can vary from mild to unrelenting and can appear in a different way by each individual. These symptoms can comprise of:

  • Feelings of sadness, irritability, emptiness and/or hopelessness.
  • Losing pleasure or interest in activities you’ve once enjoyed.
  • A considerable change in appetite (eating a lot less or more than typical) and/or weight (notable loss or gain unassociated to dieting).
  • Not sleeping enough or sleeping too much.
  • Reduced energy or increased weariness or exhaustion
  • Increase in meaningless physical activity (for instance inability to stay still, roaming, hand squeezing) or slowed speech or actions that are severe enough to be noticeable by others.
  • Feelings of worthlessness or overly guilt.
  • Difficulty concentrating or thinking, forgetfulness, and/or challenges making minor choices.
  • Thoughts of death, suicidal conception, or suicidal behaviors.

It is typical to experience instances of sadness or feeling “down in the dumps” or the blues as part of human life. Nevertheless, a diagnosis of depression requires that the preceding symptoms happen for most of the day, almost every day, for more than 2 weeks, along with an obvious change in daily functioning (for instance in work/school implementation, individual relationships, and activities). Thankfully, there are treatments for this type of disorder.

Risk Factors for This Disorder

Depression can impact anyone—even those who appear to have it all. Many factors can play a part in depression:

  • Biochemical: Variations in certain chemicals in the brain (like the neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine) could add to symptoms of depression.
  • Genetic: Depression can run in families. For instance, when one identical twin has depression, the other has a 70% chance of having the disorder sometime in their life.
  • Personality: Those with low self-esteem, that are easily overtaken by stress, or those that are typically negative might be more possible to experience depression.
  • Environmental: Continual subjection to violence, despair, abuse or deprivation can also create risks for developing depression.

What Are the Treatments for Depression?

This is one of the more treatable mental disorders. Between 70-90% of those with depression at the end of the day respond well to treatments.

For diagnosing depression, a healthcare professional is going to carry out a comprehensive diagnostic assessment that includes a thorough interview to go over your symptoms as well as your personal, medical and family histories.

Additionally, a physical exam should be performed to check for underlying medical conditions that may imitate depression — like hormonal and/or vitamin imbalances, neurological issues and alcohol and/or drug use. Imaging and lab tests may also be included in the assessment as part of the medical check-up. The assessing medical professional is going to take all these factors into consideration as they devise a diagnosis and suggest a personalized treatment plan.

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

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What is COPD?

What is COPD?Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD is a condition caused by impairment of the airways or other areas of the lung that obstructs airflow making it difficult to breathe.

Discover who is at risk for COPD, what symptoms to look out for, and how the disease impacts the lungs.

COPD can cause coughing that creates large amounts mucus. It can also cause breathing issues, shortness of breath, tightness of the chest, and other symptoms. Since COPD is a progressive disease, its symptoms usually develop gradually but get worse over time and can restrict your ability to do normal activities. Serious COPD may top you from doing even simple activities like walking, taking care of yourself or even cooking.

In the US, the term COPD is in reference to two primary conditions.

Emphysema

Emphysema emerges when there is impairment to the walls among the air sacs in the lungs. Typically, these sacs are flexible or stretchy. While breathing in, each air sac fills with air, similar to a small balloon. While breathing out, they empty, and the air gets dispelled. In emphysema, it is more difficult for your lungs to push air out of your body.

Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic (long-term) bronchitis is caused by repetitive or persistent inflammation and irritation in the lining of the airways. A lot of thick mucus is produced in the airways, making it difficult to breathe.

A lot of people that have COPD have a mixture of both conditions in various scopes, and how serious each ailment is differs by individual.

In the US, COPD impacts almost sixteen million adults, and a lot more are unaware they have it. More than fifty percent of those tested positive are women. COPD is a primary cause of disability, and it is the sixth major cause of death in the US as reported by the CDC.

The positive news is that COPD can usually be prevented, primarily by not smoking. In the US and other higher-income countries, cigarette smoking is a main cause of COPD in which most people that have COPD smoke or smoked in the past. In the developing world, nevertheless, air pollution plays a much bigger role, and fifty percent of all cases across the world are not associated with tobacco. An uncommon genetic condition known as alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency could also be a cause of COPD.

Even though there is no cure, treatments, and changes in lifestyle like quitting smoking could help you feeling better, staying more active, and slow the advancement of the disease. You might also need pulmonary rehab, oxygen therapies, or medicines to treat hindrances.

Symptoms of COPD

The more common symptoms of COPD are having trouble breathing, persistent cough (occasionally with phlegm) and feeling exhausted.

COPD symptoms can worsen quickly. These are known as flare-ups. These typically last for a couple of days and usually require additional medicine.

Those with COPD additionally have a higher risk for other health problems. These comprise of:

  • lung infections, such as pneumonia or flu
  • lung cancer
  • heart issues
  • weakened muscles and fragile bones
  • anxiety and depression.

Typical symptoms of COPD develop from middle age onwards. As COPD advances, people find it more challenging for carrying out their normal day-to-day activities, usually due to shortness of breath. There may be a significant financial burden because of limitation of workplace and home productivity, and expense of medical treatments.

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

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What is Arthritis?

What is Arthritis

“Arthritis” simply means joint inflammation. Joints are areas in which two bones meet, like your fingers or elbows.

There are a lot of various types of arthritis with various causes and treatments. In many types, other organs, like your lungs, heart, or blood vessels, can also be impacted.

Typical symptoms of arthritis include inflammation, redness, pain, and heat throughout your joints.

When you have arthritis, it is vital for your healthcare provider to determine the type of arthritis you have in order for you to get the appropriate treatment(s). Luckily, present treatments allow most people that have arthritis to lead productive and active lifestyles.

Types of Arthritis

There are various types of arthritis. Typical ones include the below:

  • Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that can cause inflammation in the joints and ligaments of your spine.
  • Gout is a type of arthritis that happens as flares, usually in your big toe or lower limbs.
  • Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most general type of chronic arthritis that impacts children.
  • Osteoarthritis is the most general type of arthritis and is more common in older people.
  • Psoriatic can happen in those who have psoriasis (scaly white and red skin blotches). It impacts the joints, skin, and areas in which your tissues connect to bone.
  • Reactive is caused by a virus in your body. Symptoms usually clear up by themselves within a couple of weeks or months.
  • Rheumatoid is an autoimmune type of arthritis in which your immune system attacks your healthy joint tissues.

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

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What is Diabetes?

Having diabetes, your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or is unable to use it as well as it needs to.

Diabetes is a chronic (long-term) health condition that impacts how your body converts food into energy.

Your body breaks up a lot of the food you eat into sugars (glucose) and disperses it into your bloodstream. As your blood sugar rises, it alerts your pancreas to disperse insulin. Insulin works as a trigger to allow the blood glucose into your body’s cells to utilize as energy.

When there is insufficient insulin or cells quit reacting to insulin, a lot of blood sugar stays in your bloodstream. After a while, that can cause significant health issues, like heart disease, kidney disease, and loss of vision.

There is not a cure for diabetes, yet, however losing weight, eating nutritious food, and staying active really helps. Other things you can do that help:

  • Take medicine as prescribed.
  • Acquire diabetes self-care support and education.
  • Schedule and keep healthcare appointments.

Types of Diabetes

There are 3 major types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes (diabetes when pregnant).

Type 1 Diabetes

T1D is believed to be caused by an autoimmune response (the body attacking itself erroneously). This response stops your body from making insulin. Around five to ten percent of the individuals that have diabetes have type 1. T1D can be diagnosed at any age, and symptoms usually develop fast. If you have T1D, you’ll need to take insulin every day to keep living. Presently, no one knows how to impede this type of diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes

Having T2D, your body doesn’t utilize insulin accordingly and is unable to keep blood sugar at healthy levels. Around ninety to ninety-five percent of the individuals with diabetes have type 2. It emerges over many years and is typically diagnosed in adults (but more frequent in children, teens, and younger adults). You might overlook any symptoms, so it’s vital to have your blood sugar tested should you be at risk. Type 2 diabetes can be hampered or hindered with healthy lifestyle changes, like:

  • Watching your weight.
  • Eating healthy meals.
  • Staying active.

Gestational Diabetes

This type of diabetes appears in pregnant women that have never experienced diabetes. When you have this type of diabetes, your baby might be at greater risk for health issues. Gestational diabetes typically goes away following your baby being born. Nevertheless, it increases your chance for type 2 diabetes as you get older. Your baby is more likely to be obese as a child or teen and develop type 2 diabetes as they get older.

Prediabetes

In the US, around ninety-eight million adults—more than one in three—have pre-diabetes. More than eight in ten are unaware they have it. With pre-diabetes, blood sugar levels are greater than normal, but not great enough for type 2 diabetes determination. Pre-diabetes heightens your risk for type 2 diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. However, there’s wonderful news. If you have pre-diabetes, a CDC-recognized lifestyle change program can help you take healthy steps to reverse it.

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

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Types of Dementia

Types of Dementia

When a lot of people hear the term “dementia,” one of the first things that pops into their heads is “Alzheimer’s.” In typical terminology, the two words are usually used correspondingly, and when a person’s loved one or relative shows indications of memory loss, it’s not unusual for them to say, “I pray it isn’t Alzheimer’s.”

Nevertheless, Alzheimer’s is only one cause of dementia, which is the general term for decrease in memory, reasoning and thinking skills that considerably affects daily life. Should a loved one be experiencing memory issues, Alzheimer’s might be a probable diagnosis, but there are 4 other general kinds of dementia that needs to also be thought of: Lewy body, frontotemporal, vascular, and varied.

Each variation of dementia has various qualities, and for healthcare professionals, having knowledge of the difference can help in supervising a loved one’s symptoms and getting the proper resources. Below is a breakdown of the five most common variations:

  1. Alzheimer’s

This type of disease is the most typical kind of dementia, and as reported by the Alzheimer’s Association, it accounts for 60-80% of dementia instances. It is a gradual brain disease that causes damaged connections between nerve cells and tissue shrinking in areas of the brain necessary for memory functionality.

Initial signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s differ by individual, but can include challenges finding words, confusion with time and places, problems with judging distances and difficulties in planning and decision-making.

  1. Dementia with Lewy bodies

Also referred to as dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), this type of dementia accounts for 5-10% of dementia cases, as reported by the Alzheimer’s Association. It is characterized by the presence of Lewy bodies—miniscule deposits of protein—in the nerve cells in the brain. They are linked to the decrease of connections between these nerve cells, in addition to low levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.

Since Lewy bodies are also present in Parkinson’s Disease, those with DLB might experience likewise symptoms, like shaking and other challenges moving, as reported by the Family Caregiver Alliance. Those that have Parkinson’s are also at a higher risk of developing DLB as their disease advances.

Other typical signs of DLB include sleep issues, hallucinations and difficultly keeping attention.

  1. Frontotemporal

This is a kind of dementia that has an impact on the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, which are essential to maintaining skills associated to memory, speech, decision making, problem-solving and behavioral and emotional control, according to Verywell Health. This type of dementia was once believed to be the uncommon type of dementia; however, the Alzheimer’s Association now calculates that it makes up to 10-15 % of dementia cases.

Since the frontal lobe plays a vital role in controlling emotion and self-control and leads us to behave in inoffensive ways, early indications of FTD include behavioral changes, loss of emotional management and compulsive habits. Damage to the temporal lobe could cause language challenges, so shifts in vocal patterns are also typical to FTD.

  1. Vascular

Vascular dementia is the second most common kind of dementia, comprising of 20-40% of dementia cases, as reported by Verywell Health. This type of dementia stems from decreased blood supply to the brain because of blood vessels that are unhealthy, obstructed, leaking or otherwise impaired. Without the required blood supply, brain cells die, leading to reduced reasoning, memory, and thinking skills.

Common initial signs of this kind dementia include challenges concentrating, reduced speed of thinking, issues following steps and challenges with organizing and making decisions.

  1. Mixed

Mixed dementia takes place when an individual has more than one kind of dementia. The most general kind of this type of dementia is Alzheimer’s/vascular, followed by Alzheimer’s/Lewy body. As reported by the Alzheimer’s Association, 1 in 10 of individuals diagnosed with dementia has grounds of more than one kind of dementia present. Nevertheless, the precise number of mixed dementia cases is unknown since it is not usually detected or determined until an autopsy is carried out. Studies indicate that it may in fact be quite typical, but research on the subject is not yet finished.

The above five causes of dementia are the most typical, but there are many other diseases and ailments that can cause dementia. These comprise of:

  • Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease: An uncommon and rapidly advancing brain disorder.
  • Huntington’s Disease: A genetic ailment that breaks down nerve cells.
  • Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: A brain ailment caused by fluid increase.
  • Posterior Cortical Atrophy: An uncommon ailment considered to be a variant of Alzheimer’s that causes deterioration in vision.
  • Parkinson’s Disease Dementia: An outcome of brain changes caused by Parkinson’s Disease leading to the progression of dementia.
  • Korsakoff Syndrome: A chronic memory ailment because of a lack of Vitamin B1.

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

Muscular Dystrophy
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What Is Muscular Dystrophy (MD)?

Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a grouping of more than thirty genetic diseases. They are the cause of muscle weakness. After a while, this weakness worsens and can cause difficulty walking and doing day-to-day undertakings. Some kinds of MD can also impact other organs.

What are the kinds of muscular dystrophy (MD)?

There are many various kinds of MD. Some of the more common kinds include:

  • Duchenne MD, which is the most common childhood kind. It is severe and impacts boys more often than girls. The symptoms typically begin between three and six years of age.
  • Facioscapulohumeral MD, which often starts in the teenage years. In the beginning, it impacts the muscles of a face, shoulders, and upper arms.
  • Becker MD, which is like Duchenne but is less severe and worsens more slowly. It often begins in the teen years.
  • Congenital MD, which are present at birth or prior to 2 years of age. They can be severe or mild.

Each of the kinds of MD can be varied in a lot of ways, like:

  • Who is more seemingly to get them
  • What muscles they impact
  • What the symptoms are
  • When they emerge, like in babyhood, childhood, middle age, or later
  • How severe the symptoms are
  • If they run in families
  • How fast they get worse
  • If they impact other organs

Even within the same kind of MD, individuals can have dissimilar symptoms.

What is the cause of muscular dystrophy (MD)?

Muscular dystrophy is genetic, implying that it is caused by changes in one or more genes. These changes are also known as gene variants or deviation. The gene changes in MD impact proteins that reinforce and safeguard muscles.

There are various gene changes that are the cause of each kind of MD. And sometimes people that have the same kind of MD can have various gene changes.

MD could run in families, or you could be the first in your family to get it.

Diagnosing muscular dystrophy

To discover if you or your child has muscular dystrophy, your doctor may use:

  • A medical and family history
  • A physical examination
  • Blood and urine tests, comprising of genetic tests and tests for specific enzymes that might be released by impaired muscles
  • Muscle biopsies
  • Nerve conduction and Electromyography studies to discover if muscles are responding the correct way to nerve signals
  • Heart testing, like an electrocardiogram (EKG), due to some kinds of MD causing heart issues
  • Exercise tests for assessing muscle strength and breathing and discover any increased rates of specific chemicals after exercise
  • Image testing like an MRI to assess muscle quality and bulk and assess fatty replacement of muscle tissues

What are the treatments for MD?

Muscular dystrophy has no cure. Treatment can assist with the symptoms and prevent hindrances. It typically includes a mixture of therapies, like:

  • Physical therapy to aid in keeping muscles strong and flexible
  • Occupational therapy to re-learn lost motor skills and learn ways to work around impaired muscles
  • Respiratory care, like breathing exercises, ventilators, and oxygen therapies
  • Speech therapy to aid with speech and swallowing issues
  • Assistive devices, like wheelchairs, splints and braces, scooters and walkers
  • Medicines to aid in delaying damage to muscles or decrease the symptoms of MD
  • Surgery for treating some of the conditions related to MD, like heart issues, scoliosis, and cataracts

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

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What Is Lupus?

What is Lupus?

Lupus is a chronic disease that causes pain and inflammation in any area of the body. It is an autoimmune disease, meaning that your immune system — the body’s system that typically fights off infections — attacks healthier tissue instead.

This disease most generally impacts your:

  • Skin
  • Joints
  • Internal organs, such as your kidneys and heart

Since this disease impacts many areas of the body, it can be the cause of a lot of various symptoms.

What is inflammation?

Inflammation typically occurs when your immune system is fighting off an infection or trauma. Should lupus make your immune system attack healthier tissue, it could cause inflammation in many different body parts. Symptoms could include pain and swelling.

What are the types of lupus?

When people discuss this disease, they’re typically speaking about systemic lupus. But there are 4 types of this disease:

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most general type of this disease
  • Cutaneous lupus, a type of disease that is confined to the skin
  • Neonatal lupus, a rare form that impacts babies of women that have this disease
  • Drug-induced lupus, a lupus-like disease initiated by specific prescription drugs

Who is at risk for developing lupus?

Anybody can develop lupus. But specific people are at a higher risk for developing this disease, including:

  • Women age fifteen – forty-four
  • Specific ethnic or racial groups — including those that are African American, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, Pacific Islander, or Native American
  • Those that have a relative with lupus or additional autoimmune disease

What causes lupus?

Nobody knows what the cause of this disease is— but it and other autoimmune diseases are hereditary. Professionals also believe it might develop in a response to specific hormones (such as estrogen) or environmental causes. An environmental cause is something externally from the body that can trigger symptoms of lupus — or worsen them.

This disease cannot be spread—you cannot “catch” lupus or give it to somebody else.

What are the initial symptoms of lupus?

There is no one initial indication or symptom of this disease. The first indications and symptoms of lupus are generally the same as the symptoms of this disease, including:

  • Fatigue
  • Joint Pain
  • Skin Rashes
  • Hair Loss
  • Mouth Sores
  • Brain Fog
  • Kidney Issues
  • Depression & Anxiety
  • Muscle Pain & Weakness
  • Heart Issues
  • Weight Changes

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