Published on: 07 December 2018
Last Updated on: 10 August 2023
Ultimately, caring for the elderly can be very challenging. It can even be emotionally and physically exhausting. After all, the responsibilities of taking good care of a senior citizen may include help for anything like eating, dressing, and reminding them to take their medicine. With all these tasks, everything boils down to one thing – patience, patience, patience. If you’re new in caregiving and you’re planning to work in San Antonio nursing home, here are a few tips to consider when caring for the elderly.
Bathing and Personal Hygiene:
A large part of caregiving for the elderly usually includes assistance with daily activities such as bathing and getting dressed properly. With that said, you should be prepared to how much helping someone can be incredibly daunting. Below are some ways to help the elderly with grooming and dressing:
Set a bathing schedule that suits their needs. While people would like to have a daily shower, a senior citizen may only need a daily sponge bath or even a full bath twice to thrice a week.
Make sure you create a peaceful environment for bathing. You can use the music to keep them calm. Waterfalls sounds, birds, or classical music may help to soothe them.
Be sure you prepare their bathwater before you bring them into the bathroom. This will help minimize the agitation of the senior citizen.
Remove their clothes right away to prevent toileting accidents from happening.
Be ready with the towel and clothing when they come out of the shower or tub. After the bath, put on the towel immediately to keep them warm and protect their modesty.
Use assistive devices to make bathing and grooming safer. Look for shower chair or hair washing tray to help you carry out your caregiving tasks.
Ensure there are no safety issues in the bathroom. Keep the throw rugs away so they’ll not create a risk of falling. Also, check the water temperature before the elderly gets into the tub and make sure the grab bars are installed properly.
Prepare clothes in order and so dressing will no longer be difficult. If possible, try to encourage the elderly you’re caring to dress themselves
If you think brushing their teeth is quite tricky, use mouthwash as an excellent oral alternative.
Safety Hazards:
Safety is one of the primary concerns when caring for the elderly. For instance, falls are the most dangerous accidents that may happen. Keep these things in mind to ensure the safety of older adults:
Check whether the room has adequate lighting. Installing some nightlights can be a perfect idea.
Be mindful of the clutter that surrounds the area. Make sure you don’t let clutter pile up on the floor and in other familiar places.
Check all the electrical cords. Be sure they’re tacked to the baseboards and out of the elderly’s way.
Reduce the number of furniture that may interfere with the smooth movements of the elderly. Remove extra pieces if possible to protect them from accidents.
Be sure you have properly installed handrails and grab bars along the stairways and in the bathroom.
Physical Health:
Doing physical activities and exercise can be useful for an elderly individual. Thus, find ways to help them stay active as long as their condition permits them. However, be sure to ask the doctor first before doing any activity. Here’s how you can encourage an older adult to have an active lifestyle:
As a caregiver, you can take a walk together on a daily basis.
If their condition allows them to do so, let the elderly do some stuff like sweeping, gardening, and dusting.
Communication:
Being a caregiver means you have to communicate with an elderly individual from time to time. Moreover, when talking to them, make sure you do it directly, simply, and positively. Below are some communication tips that you may think about when dealing with older people:
Use eye contact and mention their name when you’re trying to speak to them.
Use simple questions when asking. Questions like, “Are you hungry?” or “Are you tired?”
If you want to make a conversation, don’t hesitate to hold their hand.
The Bottom Line:
Taking care of the elderly is no easy task and without patience, time, and little hard work, you may find caregiving a completely daunting process. Hopefully, you see this article helpful as you take on this caregiving role.
Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions worldwide, affecting millions of people. While traditional treatments like therapy and medications have been effective for many, some individuals continue to struggle with anxiety symptoms. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has emerged as a promising alternative for those seeking relief. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of TMS therapy for anxiety, debunk myths surrounding its effectiveness, and present the facts that can help you make an informed decision about this innovative treatment.
What Is TMS For Anxiety?
So, does TMS work for anxiety? Let's start by demystifying TMS. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS, isn't some sci-fi concept; it's a real-life, non-invasive procedure that taps into the power of magnetic fields to gently nudge specific parts of your brain. Originally designed to help with depression, TMS has been under the research spotlight, and guess what? It's showing some impressive potential in the realm of anxiety treatment. So, let's keep the curiosity flowing as we explore the myths and facts surrounding this innovative therapy.
Myth Vs. Fact: TMS And Anxiety
Myth #1: TMS Is Only Effective For Depression
One common misconception about TMS is that it's exclusively effective for treating depression. While it was initially developed and approved for depression, research and clinical experience have demonstrated its potential benefits for anxiety disorders as well. TMS works by modulating neural activity in the brain, making it a versatile tool for various mental health conditions, including anxiety.
Fact: TMS Can Be Effective for Anxiety
Several studies and clinical trials have shown that TMS can significantly reduce symptoms in various anxiety disorders, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD). The key lies in targeting the right brain regions associated with anxiety, and TMS therapy can precisely accomplish this task.
Myth #2: TMS Is Painful And Unsafe
Another myth is that TMS is a painful or unsafe procedure. In reality, TMS is considered a well-tolerated and safe treatment option. During a TMS session, patients typically experience a tapping or clicking sensation on their scalp, but this discomfort is generally mild. TMS is non-invasive, meaning it doesn't require surgery or anaesthesia, and it doesn't induce seizures.
Fact: TMS Is Safe and Generally Painless
TMS for anxiety is performed in an outpatient setting, and most patients can resume their daily activities immediately after a session. It has a minimal risk of side effects, with the most common being mild scalp discomfort or headache, which usually subsides quickly. TMS therapy sessions are closely monitored by trained professionals to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Myth #3: TMS Is A Quick Fix
Some individuals may expect TMS to provide instant relief from anxiety symptoms. While TMS can be highly effective, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and results may vary from person to person. It is essential to have realistic expectations and commit to a recommended TMS anxiety treatment plan.
Fact: TMS Requires a Treatment Plan
TMS for anxiety typically involves a series of sessions over several weeks. The exact number of sessions and their frequency may vary based on individual needs and the severity of the anxiety disorder. Patience and consistency are essential for achieving the best results with TMS.
Myth #4: TMS Is Expensive And Not Covered By Insurance
Cost can be a significant concern for those considering TMS. However, many insurance plans now cover TMS therapy for various mental health conditions, including anxiety. It's crucial to check with your insurance provider to determine coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Fact: TMS May Be Covered by Insurance
Due to the increasing recognition of TMS as an effective treatment for mental health conditions, insurance coverage has expanded. Some patients may find that their insurance covers a substantial portion of TMS therapy for anxiety costs, making it more accessible.
Myth #5: TMS Is A Last Resort
Another misconception is that TMS should only be considered when all other treatment options have failed. While TMS is sometimes recommended after other treatments have been ineffective, it can also be a viable choice as a first-line treatment for anxiety disorders, especially when individuals prefer non-medication options or have concerns about potential side effects.
Fact: TMS Can Be Considered at Any Stage
The decision to pursue TMS for anxiety should be based on an individual's unique circumstances and preferences. It is not limited to being a last resort and can be discussed with a mental health professional at any stage of treatment planning.
Myth #6: TMS Results Are Temporary
Concerns about the temporary nature of TMS benefits can deter some from exploring this therapy. While individual responses may vary, many individuals experience long-lasting relief from anxiety symptoms after completing a full course of TMS treatment for anxiety.
Fact: TMS Can Provide Lasting Benefits
Research has shown that the positive effects of TMS on anxiety can persist for months to years after treatment. Some individuals may require maintenance sessions, but TMS has the potential to offer enduring relief from anxiety symptoms.
Summing Up
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) isn't just about tackling depression; it's got a promising role in helping folks wrestling with anxiety disorders too. By shedding light on the myths surrounding TMS and getting the facts straight about its safety, effectiveness, and potential insurance coverage, we're here to arm you with the knowledge you need to make smart choices about your mental health.
Now, let's be real – TMS isn't a magic wand that makes all your anxiety vanish in an instant. It's more like a steady hand guiding you toward relief. It's gentle, non-invasive, and generally well-tolerated. For many, it's a ray of hope, offering a path to managing anxiety that doesn't involve medications or complex procedures.
But here's the golden rule: always lean on the expertise of a qualified mental health professional when considering TMS therapy for anxiety. They're the compass guiding you through your unique mental health journey, helping you figure out if TMS is the right fit for your needs
Read Also:
10 healthy Habits to improve your health
How To Take Care Of Your Mental Health
Living Healthily | Six Crucial Lifestyle Tips for College Freshmen
Many people tend to think of depression as a temporary phase where someone is sad, and this makes many think that you need to get out of that emotional state. However, the illness is much more than that, as it is the result of changes in the chemistry of the brain.
Like all other conditions that can develop in your body, there are risk factors that raise the chances of you getting the illness, although it is possible you can develop it without the risk factors being present. However, it should be kept in mind that your risk of developing the illness is higher when there are more risk factors, so you need to ask your doctor about reducing these factors.
The risk can be related to a combination of various circumstances such as environmental, psychological, and genetic ones. The NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health) estimates that almost 16 million Americans have experienced a major episode of depression.
Different Reasons Of Sleep Dis-orders & Depression Are As Follows:-
In this article, you will get the complete information of the depression and sleep disorder reasons that can bother you later on.
Risk factors:
Biochemical risks:
The beginning of depression occurs when certain neurotransmitters in the brain are off balance. Neurotransmitters are certain chemicals that the brain produces, and they assist the brain to communicate with other organs in your body. They also assist the brain to carry out certain physiological functions such as breathing.
When these neurotransmitters are at low levels, the person is more vulnerable to depression, particularly certain neurotransmitters – dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.
Genetic factors:
When you have someone in your family who is suffering from the illness, there is a higher chance you will develop it as well. However, it can also develop when there is no family history of the illness, and this is why it is termed as a combination of life events and genetic reasons.
Sleep disorders:
There is a reason why your body needs sleep, as it is able to reduce the buildup of cortisol in the body, a stress hormone that is good for short periods but causes stress to the body when it stays for long periods.
Because of this, it is not surprising to find that people who struggle with sleep disorders will also tend to develop depression, especially those who suffer from insomnia – leading to bouts of low moods.
Suffering from chronic illnesses:
Because these conditions will cause you stress and pain, they can also take a heavy toll on your mental health. These include chronic pain, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, heart diseases, stroke, thyroid disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.
Social risks:
Abuse:
When a person goes through any form of abuse, whether as a child, teen or adult, they have a major risk of developing the condition, and also developing other mental illnesses as well. This abuse can range from emotional, physical, verbal or sexual abuse.
Gender factors:
Men are generally less at risk of developing depression compared to women, but this might be because there are more women who are open to seeking treatment for their symptoms compared to men. Some people also believe that the illness is due to changes in hormone levels throughout the person’s life.
In fact, women are vulnerable to developing the illness when they are pregnant and also after childbirth (postpartum depression), in addition to developing it during menopause.
The lack of a strong support system:
When a person spends a lot of time in isolation, and they have very few support systems or friends, it can be a common source of depression. It is important to note that this is not the same as introversion, and is more described as a feeling of loneliness or extreme changes in a person relating to their moods and emotions.
The occurrence of major events:
This is among the most common reasons for developing depression, mainly relating to stressful or sad events. These include losing a job, divorce or breaking off a relationship, retirement from a job, moving to a new place, and death of a close loved one. If a major event has occurred in your life and you have experienced sadness for more than two months without getting better, then it is best to see your doctor so that you can go through tests for depression.
Substance abuse risk factors:
Abuse of drugs and alcohol:
For many people who are struggling with substance abuse, it is mainly tied to mental health disorders, including depression. This is also known as dual diagnosis, and there are various rehab facilities that can help a person struggling with it, such as Colorado substance abuse treatment centers.
It is also important to note that drug abuse leads to significant changes in the brain, which in turn increase your risk of developing depression. Many people who have developed depression symptoms also tend to self-medicate as well, which increases their symptoms and overall risk.
The use of certain medication:
There are some medicines that raise the risk of developing depressive symptoms as a side effect, and they include blood pressure medication, steroids, prescription painkillers, sleeping pills, and sedatives.
Other factors:
Psychological reasons:
There are some psychological factors that will increase the risk of developing depressive symptoms. For instance, if you have low self-esteem, this makes you view your world through a pessimistic outlook, and raises your risk of depression. It will also leave you with an overwhelming feeling of stress and sadness.
There is also the case of perfectionism increasing your risk, as you do not see things going the way you want them. It also makes you very sensitive to errors, rejection, and losses, which increases your risk of developing the condition. In addition, if you are suffering from another mental illness, such as chronic anxiety disorder, as well as avoidant and borderline personality disorders, your risk of getting depression is significantly higher.
Low socioeconomic status:
You may not think much about it, but it is a major risk factor for the development of the disease. It may be due to cultural reasons, social status, stressful environments, and so on.
Final thoughts:
If you know someone struggling with the illness or you are struggling with it, it is very important to seek medical help. The illness is not well understood, as it is a complex medical condition. The good news is that is easy to treat and manage.
Read Also:
Five Benefits Of Meditation That Will Change Your Life
5 Things You Should Do To Reduce Stress
How long does pre workout last? - Once you consume pre-workout, its effects last for 3 to 6 hours in your body. Basically, the job of a pre-workout is to improve your physical and mental performance during exercise. If you want to consume pre-workout, you have to consume it as energy shots or as a powder that you mix with water.
In this article, you will learn about how long a pre-workout lasts. Apart from that, you will also learn about the key factors that influence a pre-workout’s duration. Moreover, this article will also explain how to maximize the duration of pre-workouts. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article.
How Long Does Pre-Workout Last?
Generally, a pre-workout has a noticeable effect for 1 to 2 hours when you are working out. However, the ingredients remain in your body for around 4 to 6 hours. In fact, the ingredients of a pre-workout supplement remain in your system. Basically, it depends on the amount of caffeine it contains.
Here are a few points you must consider about pre-workout duration:
Peak Effect: For a pre-workout, after you consume it, you will feel the most intense effects within the first 30-60 minutes.
Caffeine Half-Life: Caffeine is the primary contributor to the duration of a pre-workout. In fact, the duration of caffeine is around 5-6 hours. Hence, it takes longer for the body to eliminate half of what you consume that has caffeine in it.
Individual Variations: The amount of time up to which a pre-workout lasts also depends on your individual bodily factors. For example, how good your metabolism is or how sensitive your body is to caffeine matters a lot.
Key Factors That Influence the Duration of Pre-Workout
Depending on the amount of pre-workout you consume, you will experience a rise in physical and mental energy for 30 minutes to 2.5 hours. Moreover, the pre-workout stays in your body for a much longer time due to caffeine content.
The following are some of the major factors that influence the amount of time a pre-workout will last:
1. Dosage
The pre-workout dosage affects the amount of time up to which you will experience its benefits. In fact, the more pre-workout you consume, the longer it will have an effect on you.
Moreover, if you take higher doses, your energy levels will remain high between these periods. Also, there shall be lower feelings of exertion. Generally, this is the effect of individual ingredients.
However, always remember to take a dosage that your nutritionist recommends.
2. Ingredients in Pre-Workout
The common ingredients of pre-workouts include caffeine, beta-alanine, creatine, etc. Basically, these ingredients determine the amount of time the pre-workout affects you. In fact, each ingredient offers you something different. Hence, a pre-workout with more than one thing will affect you in different ways.
a. Caffeine
Caffeine is present in multiple beverages, energy drinks, and tea. Generally, you will experience the effects of caffeine for 2.5 to 4.5 hours. However, depending on your personality and your body type, this will vary a bit.
b. Nitrates
Most pre-workout supplements contain nitrates and amino acids. This helps in producing nitrate oxide, which helps to produce a higher amount of oxygen than the body needs during exercise. However, once you consume it, nitrate will remain for 1-3 hours.
c. Beta-alanine
This is a type of amino acid that comes with multiple benefits. However, you must consume it before you start exercising. Such a pre-workout will offer you higher aerobic and anaerobic endurance.
Apart from that, you will benefit from higher muscle mass, better capacity to exercise, and a reduction in lactic acid buildup.
3. Personal Tolerance
If you use pre-workout consistently or for a long period of time, your body will start tolerating it and its effects. Hence, most experts recommend that you use pre-workout in a cycle. For example, you take a pre-workout for six weeks and then take a break of six weeks from using this supplement.
Hence, after you retake a pre-workout later, it will have an effect on your body. This is a useful way to make the most of pre-workouts.
4. Workout Intensity and Duration
The workout length and effort level influence how long the pre-workout lasts. For instance, your body might use up individual ingredients faster when you are in a high-intensity workout.
However, if you resort to lower-intensity training, you will not fully utilize your pre-workout to the fullest. Hence, you will not experience all the benefits it offers. Actually, pre-workout is useful for high-intensity exercises. Apart from that, some studies suggest that if you consume pre-workout before cardio, it will be beneficial for you.
How Long Do Specific Ingredients Last?
Generally, it depends on the individual when it comes to the duration of specific ingredients like beta-alanine and caffeine can vary a bit. However, in most cases, you can notice the effect of caffeine within 30 minutes to an hour. Also, the effect of caffeine can last for 2-3 hours. This is because caffeine has a half-life of 3-5 hours.
On the other hand, the half-life of beta-alanine is about 25 minutes. Hence, you will experience the effects of beta-alanine for a shorter period of time.
1. Caffeine
Caffeine is the primary stimulant in most pre-workouts. Generally, you will notice its effect for 1-2 hours. Moreover, its half-life can be extended by 3-5 hours. Also, its effect depends on your metabolism and workout intensity.
2. Beta-Alanine
Beta-alanine causes a tingling sensation in your body since your body absorbs it faster. Here, the effect of beta-alanine peaks within 30 minutes. Also, it will last for about 2-3 hours.
3. Creatine
Creatine is actually a muscle-building ingredient. In fact, you need to consistently use it for a few weeks if you want to fully saturate it to muscle stores. Also, its effects last much longer than immediate pre-workouts.
4. Nitric Oxide Boosters
Nitric oxide ingredient in pre-workouts has an effect on blood flow and pump duration. This actually helps you with better endurance levels. Nitric oxide provides more oxygen in your body when your body needs it. In fact, once you consume it, it will peak after 1-3 hours.
How to Maximize the Duration of Pre-Workout?
If you want to maximize the duration of your pre-workout, consider taking it around 30 minutes before you start working out. This way, you give your body enough time to absorb all the ingredients inside your pre-workout. Also, you must avoid taking it too early since the effects might diminish before you start your workout.
However, make sure you stick to a dose that is recommended for your case. Apart from that, it is important to hydrate your body. Drink plenty of water during and after the workout. This will maximize the absorption of supplements. Moreover, make sure to choose a pre-workout that has a long-lasting effect (for example, creatine).
On the other hand, try to be mindful of caffeine. Too much caffeine is not good for anyone. Additionally, if you are sensitive to it, adjust your dosage accordingly. However, if you want more energy to sustain in your body, consider consuming a pre-workout with creatine in it.
Potential Side Effects and How They Relate to Duration
The following are some of the potential side effects of pre-workouts:
headaches
stomach upset
nausea
anxiety
jitters
dehydration
an increase in heart rate
sleep disturbances
Generally, these side effects vary in terms of intensity depending on the time and duration of use. If you use pre-workouts for the short term, you can see only mild side effects like mild stomach upset, jitters, a little increase in heart rate, etc. These problems go away once the effect of the pre-workout is gone.
On the other hand, if you use pre-workout consistently, there is a greater risk of severe side effects. For instance, you might face caffeine dependence, dehydration, higher blood pressure, heart issues, sleep disruption, etc.
Apart from that, it also depends on the sensitivity of the individual to the ingredients. Moreover, make sure not to take pre-workouts close to your sleep time as it can impact your sleep quality.
What Happens After Pre-Workout Effects Wear Off?
Here are a few things that might happen after your pre-workout wears off:
You will feel a drop in your energy levels. This may result in a reduction in performance.
Slight irritability and agitation are common.
Moreover, your individual caffeine sensitivity also determines your loss of energy and performance.
Summing Up
How long does pre workout last? - Now you know the answer to this question. Generally, the effect of pre-workout lasts for 30 minutes to 1 hour. However, it still stays in your body for 3-5 hours. However, these numbers might vary depending on your individual physicality, sensitivity, and metabolism.
Do you have more information to provide regarding the timing and duration of pre-workouts? Please share them in the comments section below.
Read Also:
Morayfield Fitness Unleashed: A Journey Into A Unique Fitness Experience
4 Tips For Getting Starting With Your Fitness Journey Today
