Stigma is defined as “a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.” You could also say stigma is a negative stereotype or attitude. Many people feel that way about those with a mental health condition. Unfortunately, for all of us this attitude or “judgement” about something or someone is quite common. This belief usually comes from lack of information. What Are Some Common Mental Health Disorders? The most common mental health disorders include: Major depression Obsessive compulsive disorder Generalized anxiety disorder Bipolar disorder Schizophrenia Dementia due to substance abuse, inhalants, drugs, and alcohol abuse is also considered a mental health disorder. It’s safe to say many of us know someone with at least one of these mental health problems. So why is there so much stigma still attached to them and their condition? The most damaging result of this stigma is that those who suffer from…

Seniors can develop balance problems, causing them to feel dizzy and unsteady on their feet. Everyone needs good balance to get around, to maintain independence and to perform daily activities. Mobility is an essential requirement to live an independent life, and it is especially so for seniors. According to the Center For Disease Control and Prevention, one-third of adults 65 and older fall each year, making it the leading cause of injury related deaths. Fall related injuries like hip fractures can seriously affect the daily life of seniors. If you are involved in elder care in Toronto, be aware of the causes of balance problems in seniors. Certain medications, low blood pressure, smoking, diabetes and poor vision can all contribute to balance issues. Losing strength in the muscles, hips and legs can also create balance problems. If you have noticed a senior having difficulty getting up from a chair or…

The ability to enjoy deep, restorative sleep usually diminishes with age. Frequent bathroom trips and periods of wakefulness, combined with the anxiety of moving into a care facility, can increase the risk of insomnia, as well as conditions associated with poor sleep patterns such as memory loss and heart disease. Improving sleep for seniors can help to extend life and health span. Considering that most sleep problems are associated with stress, poor sleep environment, lack of exercise and social involvement, and medications, making a few adjustments to your lifestyle and sleep environment can allow you to enjoy better quality sleep. Below are some changes to consider. Install low-wattage bulbs in your bedroom, and avoid the TV, computer, backlit devices (tablets and smartphones) and other sources of bright artificial light at least one hour before going to bed. This will help to boost your melatonin levels—the hormone responsible for making you…

The use of private health care services continues to increase as individuals and their families realize the many benefits they provide. These services help you address a wide range of issues related to illness, medication, emotional support, and end of life care. Private health care services take much of the stress of caring for a loved one off of family members and friends. More importantly, they provide the essential care and comfort that patients need when overcoming a variety of health issues. The following are 3 advantages of private health care. Personalized Care The care provided at hospitals is often constrained due to limitations related to staffing, budgets, and other resources. As a result, patients often receive generalized care that can overlook the unique needs of each patient. Private health care services allow you to obtain the personalized care you or your loved one needs for long-term well-being. A private…

While surgery can be taxing on both the individual who is undergoing the surgery as well as on their caregivers, it is possible to increase the rate at which you heal after surgery. Here are some tips to speed up your post-surgery recovery. Follow Your Doctor’s Post-Op Instructions (And Don’t Skip Follow-Up Appointments) It is all too common for people not to follow the doctor’s post-op instructions or to do so but ignore parts that they deem unnecessary. To ensure the best recovery possible, it is important to follow all of the doctor’s post-op instructions. This is important even if you or the one you are caring for feels well physically. Not doing so could result in additional issues, from infections to excessive bleeding. Lastly, don’t skip follow-up appointments as your doctor will be able to see things that you will not be able to. Eat An Extra Healthy Diet…