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WE ENGAGED LEADERS ACROSS THE COUNTRY ABOUT THE CHANGING HEALTH OF MILLENNIALS.In the course of the last several years, Millennials have shown that they are very different from previous generations in a number of ways. Defined as the generation born from 1981 to 1996, they are the largest, most educated, and most connected generation the world has ever seen. However, recent data also show the beginnings of troubling generational health patterns that could hamper the future prosperity of Millennials, and in turn the prosperity of the U.S. If the current pace of decline in millennial health continues unabated, the long-term consequences to the U.S. economy could be severe. Millennials now make up the largest share of the U.S. population and labor force, placing them at the heart of U.S. economic growth as consumers, workers, and business owners. How their health plays out in the years ahead will determine not only the overall health of the country, but also its potential economic trajectory. By using Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Index data to analyze these questions, we are able to take a much broader and forward-looking view of these impacts relative to previous studies. In our examination of millennial health patterns we have found several interesting and concerning findings, particularly regarding future impacts on healthcare costs and economic activity.
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HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS!With the holidays fast approaching, many of us are preparing for our parents and grandparents to visit for the holidays.It’s important for seniors and their families to have a plan for how they can safely navigate their new surroundings while enjoying the comfort of family.Here are a few things to consider…Reducing the risk of a fall in the home can be an important step for seniors that live in their own home. We often think about features in a home that can cause a large fall, like stairs, but even a small fall when trying to stand up or sit down can be extremely dangerous. Comfort Keepers can help with a fall prevention plan to improve safety in the home and reduce the risk of a fall.Reviewing the Situation: It can be difficult to identify all the obstacles around the home that can cause a fall. For instance, a floor which changes levels, even by only a single step or an uneven surface, can cause a fall. Even area rugs can pose a risk. For every client, we complete a comprehensive home assessment that includes a check for features in the home that could cause a fall. By working with Comfort Keepers, it's possible to take precautions and build a fall risk care plan that will reduce risk at home.Fall Risks and Injuries: Properly understanding fall risk comes down to looking at life from the perspective of a senior. Seniors are more likely to suffer injury from a fall due to age-related physical conditions.Broken bones are more likely for seniors, and those injuries may take a long time to heal or require surgery. A senior with limited mobility may have reduced strength and not be able to brace for the fall, resulting in further injury. This is one of the reasons that a home assessment is valuable for senior clients, and why we incorporate information about the features of a home into our care plans.Bathroom Safety for Seniors: The bathroom is one of the most important rooms in the house to evaluate fall risk. Fall risks and senior bathroom safety to consider:· With humidity or water on the floor, the room may be slippery.· Stepping in and out of a tub can be challenging.· As an alternative to the bathtub, a shower safety seat and shower bar are critical.· Sitting and standing up from the toilet without a handrail may be difficult.· Curling irons, shaving razors, and other electronic devices near the sink or water may pose risk for injury.Whether it is fall risk reduction or any of our other valuable at-home care services, we will be happy to serve you. Contact Comfort Keepers with questions to get started.YOUR LOCAL COMFORT KEEPERS:903 E Clinton St Suite 102Howell MI 48843517-258-1748
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Did you know?It’s estimated that 2.6 million adults in Michigan have pre-diabetes.
What is Pre-diabetes?
Pre-diabetes is when blood sugar or glucose levels are higher than normal. Those with pre-diabetes are at an increased risk of stroke, heart disease and if left untreated, development of type 2 diabetes.
Preventing Type 2 Diabetes in Our Community
At St. Joe's Livingston, we are proud to support an evidence-based program that has been shown to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. The National Diabetes Prevention Program helps those at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes to adopt and maintain a healthy lifestyle. The program consists of 16 one hour weekly classes followed by monthly maintenance sessions to provide ongoing support for long term changes. Program participants are provided guidance on healthy eating, getting active, changing behaviors, problem solving and support to make small, realistic changes for life. Classes are held either virtually or in a classroom setting and are led by a trained Lifestyle Coach.
Interested in Learning More?
To see if you are eligible for the program, visit stjoeshealth.org/find-a-service-or-specialty/diabetes/diabetes-prevention