Latest news with #olderadults
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Health
- Yahoo
10 Yoga Poses To Relieve Your Constipation
Constipation happens to us all. In fact, 16% of Americans and one-third of older adults suffer from chronic constipation. Difficulty passing stool and the pain that comes with it are responsible for more than 700,000 hospitalizations per year. Its prevalence, however, doesn't make it any easier. What can help are the many remedies that promise relief, some of which are easy and free, including yoga. Yoga is primarily known for increasing flexibility and reducing stress, but it can also stimulate the digestive system, help alleviate discomfort, and promote regular bowel movements. The gentle twists, stretches and mindful breathing techniques can help stimulate the bowels, increase blood flow to the digestive tract and creating small muscle contractions that get things moving through the intestines. Yoga is an effective practice for managing chronic conditions, including back pain, arthritis and heart issues, by promoting circulation and helping to reduce inflammation. Stress and anxiety can have significant impacts on the digestive system, leading to occasional constipation and discomfort. Yoga can relax the body and mind while calming the nervous system. When the mind and body are in sync, the bowels can ramp up the digestive process. Incorporating yoga into your daily routine can be a gentle and sustainable way to relieve constipation and improve overall digestive health without equipment. By combining physical moves with breathing and relaxation techniques, yoga offers a drug-free approach to promoting regular bowel movements and enhancing your sense of well-being. This holistic practice not only targets the physical symptoms of constipation but also addresses the underlying stress and tension that can make digestive issues worse, making it a cost-effective way to stay healthy. Benefits of Yoga Yoga is not just about twisting yourself into a pretzel, although that is part of the fun. If you are just starting, it is an easy way to get moving while also improving your flexibility and balance. As you become more experienced, you will begin to understand your body more and start connecting your breath with your poses. As you advance, you can try harder poses that will increase your strength and keep your body healthy. Yoga's emphasis on relaxation and mindfulness helps calm the nervous system, reducing stress levels and promoting a more balanced internal environment. Regular yoga practice can also lead to better sleep and increased energy levels. Certain poses can massage your intestines and help things move along, and make your next trip to the bathroom an easier one. Below, find the list of exercises that will relieve your constipation. Best Yoga Poses for Constipation Knees to Chest Lying on your back, bend your knees and bring them in toward your chest as you exhale. Wrap your hands around your knees while keeping your back flat. Hold for 30 seconds, focusing on your breathing. Seated Spinal Twist Seated on the ground with your legs straight out in front of you, pull your navel in toward your spine. Then, bend your right knee and put the foot on the outside of the left thigh. Wrap your left arm around your right leg as you twist to the right. Reach your right arm up and then back. Place the fingertips on the ground behind you. Press down firmly with your left straight leg as you breathe in to sit up tall, and breathe out to twist further to your right. Look over your right shoulder and breathe. Then release and switch sides. Cat Cow Start on all fours with your hands below your shoulders and knees below your hips. Breathe in while lifting your head toward the ceiling. Arch your back as you breathe in, moving your stomach toward the ground. Then, exhale while pulling your chin to your chest and pulling your abs in so that you arch your back toward the ceiling. Continue alternating back and forth for about one minute. Child's Pose Kneel on the floor so that your shins and the tops of your feet are on the ground. Bend at your hips, moving your hands forward and your butt back. Inch your hands out in front of you until your stomach is resting on your thighs and your arms are stretched straight out in front of you, palms on the floor. Focus on your breathing, and take it slow. Cobra Lie face down on a yoga mat. Place both palms flat on the mat directly beneath your shoulders. Add a bend to your elbows, keeping them tucked into your sides. Inhale, then raise your chest off the mat as you exhale. Roll your shoulders back, keeping your neck neutral. Maintain the position for up to 30 seconds. Wide Leg Forward Fold Begin by sitting tall with your legs out in front of you. Slowly open up the legs as far as your body allows while keeping an upright spine. Try leaning forward with your back straight, stopping when the back starts to round. Hold this position for a few breaths. For the standing variation: stand with your feet a little wider than shoulder-width. Keeping a tall spine, clasp your hands behind your back. Make sure to maintain your balance as you gently lean forward as far as your flexibility allows while keeping your back straight. You can place your hands on the floor in front of your feet or keep them clasped behind your back. Breathe and sink deeper into the pose. Triangle Pose Stand with your feet hip-width apart with your arms at your sides. Take a step forward so that your feet are a few feet apart, with your front right heel in line with the arch of your back left foot. Point your right foot forward and keep your left foot perpendicular to it. Then, lower the right arm down to touch the right shin. Lift the left arm toward the sky and engage the right side of the waist. Hold this position for 10 seconds, remembering to breathe slowly and consistently, before switching sides. Malasana Squat in a wide stance with your knees pointed outward. Bring your hands together at your chest and use your elbows to push your knees out wider. Hold this stretch for about 30 seconds. Downward Dog Begin in plank position with your body in a straight line. Keep your arms straight with your palms pressing down on the mat. With your knees slightly bent, tuck in your belly and think about pulling your chest toward your thighs while lifting your butt toward the sky. Once you are lifted into the final position, straighten your legs gently. Keep your head between your upper arms and relax your shoulders. Stretch your heels to the ground. If this isn't possible, focus on lengthening your spine rather than forcing the feet to be flat on the ground. Thread the Needle Start in tabletop position with hands directly below your shoulders and knees below your hips. Lift your right hand off the ground. Following your right arm with your gaze, thread it behind and through your left arm until your shoulder is resting on the mat. Gently rest your head on the ground, looking toward your hand. Hold for 3 breaths and then switch sides. This article was originally published on
CTV News
2 days ago
- Climate
- CTV News
Heat and humidity warning continues
Environment Canada is warning of a scorching start to the work week. A multi-day heat event continues for much of southwestern Ontario, including Waterloo Region, Guelph, Brantford, Six Nations of the Grand River, Woodstock, Ingersoll and Tavistock. Monday will be the hottest, with daytime temperatures reaching 30 to 33 degrees Celsius. With the humidex, it could feel closer to 38 or 42. Overnight temperatures, meanwhile, are only expected to drop to 19 or 21 degrees Celsius. Environment Canada said the steamy conditions will continue into Tuesday, while Wednesday will bring an end to the heat event. Signs of heat illness Heat illness is a serious concern when the mercury rises, especially in older adults, infants, young children, pregnant people, those with physical or mental illnesses, people with mobility issues, those who work outside and the homeless community. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include: Headache Nausea or vomiting Dizziness or fainting Extreme thirst Dark urine and decreased urination Intense fatigue Confusion or lack of coordination Skin rash Muscle cramps Heavy sweating Rapid breathing and heartbeat Heat stroke, meanwhile, is considered a medical emergency. Those symptoms include: High body temperature Very hot, red skin Confusion or change in consciousness Dizziness or fainting If someone is experiencing heat stroke, experts advise moving them to a cool place, giving them water and placing ice packs on their body. Call 911 immediately. Beating the heat The key to avoiding heat illness is to plan ahead. Here are a few things to keep in mind: Know the weather forecast before going outside Modify your plans according to the weather Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, even before you feel thirsty Avoid drinks that are high in sugar, caffeine or alcohol Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric Seek shade Avoid sun exposure if you can Take breaks as needed Avoid using your oven Take a cool shower or bath Take a break by spending a few hours in a cool place Close blinds and shades, Turn on air conditioning or use a fan Cooling centres The best way to get relief from the heat and humidity is to seek out a designated cooling centre. The Region of Waterloo has locations listed on their website. They include libraries, community centres, museums and regional offices, as well as public swimming pools and splash pads. Guelph also has a list air-conditioned libraries and facilities open to the public, including the locations of splash pads and swimming pools in the community. A list of cooling centres, pools and splashpads in Brantford can be found here. Protecting your pets Leaving pets inside a hot vehicle, even for a few minutes, could be dangerous. Dogs can experience heatstroke, which could lead to organ failure and, ultimately, death. Signs of an overheated pet include: Excessive panting Drooling Vomiting Collapsing Lethargy Tongue can appear red or hang out of their mouth If your pet is suffering from the heat, it's a good idea to gradually cool them down. Experts suggest using a cool blanket or towel that is wet. Avoid using ice. Owners should keep pets at home when the temperature climbs but if they need to go outside, keep them off the pavement as much as possible, only go for a short walk, or take them out in the morning or evening when it's cooler.
Forbes
2 days ago
- Health
- Forbes
Beyond The Bedroom: The Truth About Sexual Health, Intimacy, And Aging
conceptual abstract image of the female reproductive system. Female uterus with vagina and ovaries Sex and older adults remain taboo subjects in many societies—often ignored or stigmatized. But growing evidence shows that sexual health is a critical component of well-being, even in later life. A new study published in the Menopause journal this month reinforces this point: for many older women, sexual pleasure and orgasm remain important, and menopause does not always bring negative changes to sexuality, including the ability to orgasm during masturbation. These findings are vital for the lives of older women, whose healthcare needs—and costs—typically increase with age due to longer life expectancy. In the U.S., women live an average of 81 years, about five years longer than men. Challenging Ageist Myths About Intimacy And Sexual Health Intimacy and sexual health are essential components of healthy aging, despite persistent ageist stereotypes. The notion that older adults—especially women—cannot or should not enjoy a satisfying sex life is both misleading and harmful. Research increasingly shows that positive sexual relationships contribute significantly to overall health and quality of life. In contrast, poor sexual health, including dysfunction, can negatively affect both mental well-being and life satisfaction. One key factor is libido, which may decline with age, though it's not a universal experience. Medical conditions, hormonal changes, medications, lifestyle factors, and relationship dynamics all play a role. For example, it's common for women to experience a dip in libido after childbirth due to exhaustion, hormonal shifts, emotional stress, and body image concerns. I had heard about libido changes after childbirth, but I didn't realize how drastically it would shift. The hormonal changes and sleep deprivation really took a toll, said Ava Parker, 36 (name changed). 'And because I chose to breastfeed for a while, the experience lasted longer than I expected.' Parker represents the many women who come to realize that major life changes can impact their libido. Ultimately, libido fluctuations—whether postpartum or in later life—should not be ignored. Consulting a healthcare provider can help individuals better understand their sexual health and explore appropriate treatments. Rethinking Intimacy And Sexual Health In Midlife And Beyond As health strongly influences older adults' sexual activity, it's important to examine how intimacy evolves with age. The Menopause study looked at masturbation habits, orgasm experiences, and sex toy use among a nationally representative sample of 1,500 U.S. women aged 40 to 65 (median age: 52.5 years). Of the participants, 55.8% were postmenopausal, 22.7% perimenopausal, and 21.5% premenopausal. Key findings include: These data were part of a broader study on masturbation and menopausal symptoms in midlife and older women. The study aimed to explore whether women's reasons for masturbation differ by age and menopausal status, and whether these differences offer new insights into sexuality, menopause, and sexual satisfaction. One key finding suggested that perimenopausal and postmenopausal women with lower sexual desire may masturbate less frequently. Ultimately, to generate more robust findings, future prospective studies should follow women through the various stages of menopause and include participants from diverse countries and cultural backgrounds. Looking Ahead: Sexual Health, Aging, And Menopause In addition to shedding light on the menopause transition, this study highlights the need for open conversations and holistic approaches to sexual wellness. 'The two trends we're seeing are the integration of sexual and intimate wellness into broader definitions of health, and the normalization of supporting women at every age,' said Laura Beres, vice president and head of wellness at Ulta Beauty, during the Bare It All event on women's wellness. This October, leading researchers and experts will gather for another major event focused on sexual wellness. The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University will host its 2025 Sex and Aging Symposium, spotlighting the evolving landscape of sexuality in older adulthood. The symposium will cover topics including sex over 60, menopause and sex drive, racial disparities in menopause care, and sexual health across the lifespan. It will also address the needs of LGBTQ communities, vulvovaginal health, and the psychology of sex. These discussions are essential in reshaping public understanding of aging and sexuality, and in promoting the well-being of older adults through inclusive and evidence-based narratives. Sexual Health And A Lifelong Desire For Connection Older Adults Kissing in Garden. As people age, their need for connection remains strong. Many older adults still desire and engage in fulfilling sexual relationships. While some may face physical or health-related challenges, others continue—or even rediscover—intimacy and pleasure. Providers play a crucial role in this conversation. 'This survey shows that self-pleasure can be an effective, accessible tool for relieving menopausal symptoms—one that should be integrated into existing care strategies,' said Dr. Cynthia Graham, senior scientist at the Kinsey Institute and co-leader of the Menopause study. Still, there's a need for a broader conversation about how chronic health conditions—such as pain—and reduced sexual desire linked to emotional or physical health issues can impact sexual well-being. Healthcare professionals recognize that sexual dysfunction is not only detrimental to relationships and mental health but can also signal underlying physical conditions like heart disease. Preventive health screenings are essential for older adults to help reduce sexual health issues. Moreover, older women can enhance the quality of their sexual experiences by proactively managing their health conditions. It's also important to note that aging does not shield anyone from the risks of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), older adults remain at risk for STIs such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and genital herpes. Reports also highlight a rise in HIV/AIDS cases among older adults—a trend that warrants greater attention from both researchers and society. Practicing safe sex and making informed choices are essential to protecting personal health and preventing the spread of infections. Conclusion: Shifting The Narrative On Sexual Health Everyone, regardless of age, has a fundamental need for love, intimacy, and emotional connection. Prioritizing the sexual health of older adults—and dismantling the myths that surround it—is long overdue. It's time we embrace the full spectrum of aging and sexuality, recognizing that a satisfying sex life can and should be part of healthy aging.
CBC
2 days ago
- Climate
- CBC
Humidity to make it feel 40 C and higher, heat warning issued for Waterloo region, Guelph and area
Social Sharing People in Waterloo region, Guelph and Wellington County should expect hot and humid temperatures to start the week. Environment Canada has issued a heat warning that is expected to extend into Tuesday evening. Daytime temperatures will be between 30 C and 33 C, but humidity will make it feel more like 38 C to 42 C. Nighttime lows will bring little release, the warning notes, with lows of between 19 C and 21 C. The hottest conditions are expected on Monday. "Daytime high temperatures are expected to lower on Wednesday, bringing an end to the heat event," the warning says. As of Monday morning, there is also rain in the forecast for Wednesday, which it's expected to be a high of 26 C. The heat warning also reminds people to take extra precautions when it's hot. "Take action to protect yourself and others. Extreme heat can affect everyone's health. Determine if you or others around you are at greater risk of heat illness. Check on older adults, those living alone and other at-risk people in-person or on the phone multiple times a day," the warning says. "Turn on air conditioning, use a fan, or move to a cooler area of your living space. If your living space is hot, move to a cool public space such as a cooling centre, community centre, library or shaded park." Where to cool down Cooling spaces are available in Waterloo region and includes city hall locations, township offices, library branches as well as shopping malls. Also listed as cooling centres are: Cambridge: City hall, all Cambridge Public Library locations, WG Johnson Centre, Region of Waterloo Public Health and Social Services building at 150 Main St. Kitchener: Activia Sportsplex, Breithaupt Centre, Bridgeport Community Centre, Centreville Chicopee Community Centre, Chandler Mowat Community Centre, Country Hills Community Centre, Doon Pioneer Park Community Centre, Country Hills Library at 1500 Block Line Rd. and Community Healthcaring K-W at 44 Francis St. S. Waterloo: RIM Park, Albert McCormick Community Centre, Moses Springer Community Centre, Waterloo Memorial Recreation Centre, Region of Waterloo's Public Health and Social Services at 99 Regina St. S., and Waterloo Public Library branches. North Dumfries: Ayr branch of the Region of Waterloo Public Library, North Dumfries Community Complex. Wellesley: Linwood, St. Clements and Wellesley branches of the Region of Waterloo Public Library. Wilmot: Baden, New Dundee and New Hamburg branches of the Region of Waterloo Public Library and the Wilmot Recreation Complex. Woolwich: Bloomingdale, Breslau, Elmira, and St. Jacobs branches of the Region of Waterloo Public Library, the Breslau Community Centre and the Woolwich Memorial Centre in Elmira. These spaces are open as cooling centres during regular business hours. People who are exposed to extreme heat may feel: Dizziness or fainting. Nausea or vomiting. Headache. Rapid breathing and heartbeat. Extreme thirst. Decreased urination. Region of Waterloo Public Health recommends people drink plenty of liquids, especially water, and go in the shade to get out of the sun. If someone is experiencing heat stroke, that's a medical emergency and 911 should be called. The person should be moved to a cool place, fan them and apply cold water to large areas of skin or clothing. Don't leave people or pets in vehicles Temperatures inside a vehicle can quickly become hotter than the temperature outside and cracking a window does not help, police say in reminding people not to leave anyone in a vehicle. "If you see an animal in a hot car in distress and are concerned the animal's life is in danger, call 911 immediately, as this is an emergency. Do not attempt to enter a vehicle in these situations," the Waterloo Regional Police Service has said during previous heat waves this summer.
Washington Post
3 days ago
- Health
- Washington Post
Picking up the pace on your walk helps, even for older adults
Any amount of walking is good for your health but picking up the pace has significant benefits — and it's never too late for someone to train to walk faster. In an analysis published in PLOS One earlier this month, researchers found that frail older adults who deliberately walked faster saw a meaningful improvement in the distance they could travel when instructed to walk for six minutes straight. (Frailty is an age-related syndrome that affects 5 to 17 percent of older adults and is characterized by fatigue, a loss of strength and unexplained weight loss.)
