A report by the Alzheimer’s Association reveals that an estimated 16,500 seniors in South Dakota are living with Alzheimer's, with the highest rates found in Hand and McPherson counties at 13.5%. The U.S. faces a growing Alzheimer's crisis, with 6.7 million Americans currently affected and projections suggesting a potential doubling of cases by 2060 without medical breakthroughs. The FDA-approved drug lecanemab offers hope by slowing disease progression, but its high cost raises concerns about accessibility. The data aims to assist in developing localized care and budgeting for the increasing financial burden of Alzheimer's, which could reach nearly $1 trillion by 2050.
At 91 years old, Edna Giordano from British Columbia has become a social media sensation for her dedication to fitness and an active lifestyle. Despite starting her fitness journey in her 60s, she now goes to the gym nearly every day, focusing on walking, stretching, and weight lifting. Her independence and daily activities, such as gardening, have inspired many, including her daughter Dalyce Radke, a personal trainer with a significant Instagram following. Giordano's story highlights the importance of consistent, basic exercises and an active lifestyle for aging well, proving that age is just a number.
The article emphasizes the importance of strength training for individuals in their 70s, showcasing celebrities like Pierce Brosnan and Bruce Springsteen as examples of seniors maintaining high levels of fitness. It suggests that while muscle mass and strength naturally decline with age, engaging in regular strength exercises can combat this effect and improve overall health and vitality. The article likely provides recommended exercises for seniors to stay active and maintain their physical performance.
As people age, standing up from sitting or lying down can become more challenging due to muscle mass loss and decreased balance, coordination, flexibility, and aerobic capacity. To combat this, Consumer Reports suggests opting for firm seats, raising chair height, positioning oneself correctly before standing, using assistive devices if necessary, and consulting a doctor if problems persist. Additionally, four exercises are recommended to strengthen muscles involved in standing: standing up without using chair armrests, pausing midway while standing, lowering oneself slowly to a seat, and practicing standing from lower and softer surfaces. These exercises, performed regularly, can help improve the ability to stand.
