7 early warning signs of dementia and care options

7 early warning signs of dementia and care options

Dementia is an umbrella term that encompasses a multitude of symptoms and health conditions. It can impact a patient’s memory and cognitive functioning. Statistics provided by the World Health Organization suggest that there are more than 55 million dementia patients worldwide. Symptoms can differ from one patient to another; however, some warning signs of dementia remain common irrespective of its cause. It is more commonly seen in patients above 60 years. Short-term memory changes Issues with one’s memory are the most common and noticeable signs of dementia. These subtle changes observed in patients are often associated with their short-term memory. These changes include forgetting their tasks and the placement of items. Problem finding the right words Problem with communication of thoughts or the inability to find the right words to express one’s thoughts is a common sign of dementia. This can lead to stopping in the middle of a sentence. Conversing with dementia patients, therefore, takes a longer time. Mood change The slightest of things can cause mood changes in dementia patients. Differences in their surroundings, disruption of routine, inability to find items, and more can make them anxious, upset, agitated, or give rise to other emotions. It is one of the early warning signs of dementia. Confusion Dementia patients are prone to confusion. Their poor memory causes them to forget landmarks, people, events of the day, and more. The loss of their belongings and the inability to recognize their surroundings are some of the many reasons that can give rise to confusion. Problem completing tasks Change in the person’s ability to carry or complete a task can also be a warning sign for dementia. These can involve day-to-day tasks that were once easily accomplished. New activities can be daunting for the patient. Difficulty accepting change A typical early sign observed in patients with dementia is their inability to accept change.
5 early signs of dementia one should not ignore

5 early signs of dementia one should not ignore

Dementia is incredibly common, with more than 10 million new cases registered every year globally. People with this mental health condition suffer from a gradual weakening of brain functionality. This results in a host of issues, such as difficulty memorizing things, struggle with simple movements, and an inability to communicate thoughts. Certain silent signs can help doctors diagnose this condition in its initial stages. Some of these early signs are: Frequent mood shifts Abrupt mood shifts are one of the early signs of dementia. A person with the condition may go from extremely irritated to happy in a matter of minutes. Identifying such mood shifts may be hard for the patient, but those around are likely to notice them. Misplacing things Forgetfulness is another early indicator. Individuals with dementia may misplace their belongings more frequently and in unusual areas. For instance, one may place a spoon inside their wallet, a set of house keys inside a sugar bowl, or an iron inside the refrigerator. Speech and language problems While speaking, it is common for everyone to sometimes struggle to find the right words. However, people with dementia often use incorrect words, or words with a different meaning and context, in any situation. For instance, someone with the condition may utter something like “My reclamation is complete” when they intend to say that they have finished a particular task. Confusion about time and place This is one of the most evident early signs. Dementia patients frequently inquire about the place they are in, even though they have been there several times before. Losing sense of the time of the day is also common. Repetition People with dementia may repeat specific sentences or phrases over and over again during a conversation. They may also repeat daily tasks, such as brushing their teeth, forgetting they have already done it.
6 common breathing mistakes to steer clear of

6 common breathing mistakes to steer clear of

Breathing is an essential function that occurs naturally and effortlessly. It is automatically monitored and regulated by the body and does not require constant intervention. However, many significant circulatory and metabolic functions depend on respiration. So, one must occasionally analyze how they breathe and look for irregularities. Experts have identified a few mistakes people make that affect their breathing and respiratory function. Individuals should avoid these breathing mistakes as far as possible. Breathing through the mouth It is common for people to inhale from their mouths without even realizing it. However, experts suggest breathing using the nasal passage. This passage has filters that clear out debris and allergens and humidify the air before it enters the lungs. Getting anxious about breathing Some people closely monitor every breath they take. Respiration is a process closely regulated by the body and requires no major intervention. Therefore, breathing should be monitored only when one experiences respiratory problems like shortness of breath or chest pain. Not using the diaphragm The best way to absorb oxygen is by using the diaphragm muscle located above the stomach. The American Lung Association recommends this technique as it creates negative pressure in the chest and enhances airflow. With training, it is possible to use the diaphragm for regular breathing. Not exhaling properly The body absorbs oxygen and also releases carbon dioxide. So, it is crucial to exhale just as properly to maintain balanced respiration. Balancing inhalation and exhalation is even more important while working out, jogging, running, or performing strenuous activities. Improper breathing can result in muscle spasms and cramps as the tissue expands and contracts. Breathing with a poor posture Poor posture affects the diaphragm and compresses the chest, affecting regular breathing function. One should never sit or stand for long periods in positions that limit the lungs’ range of motion.
4 common mistakes to avoid on a safari

4 common mistakes to avoid on a safari

For many of us, going on a safari is a dream. Making the ideal safari holiday a reality requires a lot of preparation, budgeting, and research on the part of the traveler. Some find it exciting because of the thrill safaris present, while others are invested in experiencing mother nature in its true form. However, it is important to consider the responsibility this excitement brings and try to avoid some common mistakes. Overpacking Safaris are one of those instances where less is considered more. Avoid overpacking at all costs. And while you are at it, make sure you are avoiding the types and colors of clothing that are unsafe for safaris. Not to mention overpacking can make the trip an uncomfortable experience. Therefore, pack just the essentials and avoid all that can be left behind. Ignoring safety protocols Safaris come with a set of safety protocols for a reason. You must always follow the guide’s instructions and avoid venturing into the wild on your own. Do not exit the vehicle without permission, and don’t try to go too close to the animals. Remember that you are on forest territory, and it is home to numerous wild animals. Not preparing the right way Safaris are day-long expeditions into the wild, often in scorching temperatures or pouring rain. Equip yourself with safety equipment and dress according to the weather to prepare yourself for the safari. Don’t forget your sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses on a hot summer day. And make sure you wear waterproof footwear and cover up with a rain jacket if it is pouring. It is important to be prepared for whatever weather you may encounter during the day. Being focused on snapping These days capturing a moment is touted as more important as opposed to living in the moment itself.
4 common skincare myths debunked

4 common skincare myths debunked

Skincare can be a complex routine for some people, especially those who are not very well-versed with their skin types and are constantly experimenting with products. If you are dealing with some skin issues like acne or pimples, speak to a dermatologist who can give proper advice. Also, do your research before going to the doctor and be aware of certain myths that can complicate your skincare journey. Here are a few common skincare myths: Avoid facial oils for oily skin This is a common myth among people, especially those who have oily skin. If you are someone with this skin type, know that oil massages can greatly benefit your skin, as they help in keeping the barrier function healthy and balanced. All you have to do is speak to your dermatologist and understand what type of oil is best for your skin and the issues you are dealing with. Skincare that burns is skincare that is effective In a lot of skincare products, there are some active ingredients present. These active ingredients can be responsible for the tingly sensation you feel after application. This means that there is a chemical reaction that is helping to take care of your skin issues. However, not every tingly sensation implies that skincare is working. Always be sure to check the ingredients in the products and make sure you are not allergic to any of them. Sometimes the skin burns because of a side effect and not an active ingredient. Wear sunscreen only on sunny days Wearing sunscreen for skin protection is no secret. But what most people do not know is that sunscreen needs to be applied not just on sunny days but even on cloudy days. In fact, sunscreen should be applied every day after moisturizing, regardless of whether you are stepping out of the house.
4 common travel mistakes to avoid

4 common travel mistakes to avoid

When it comes to traveling, a common cliché is that it involves the discovery of the unknown. This causes people to make certain travel mistakes, which are fairly basic. But with time, one learns to eliminate such errors. Essentially, one has to tick several boxes while traveling, especially if the trip is for multiple days. Keeping that in mind, here are some of the common travel mistakes that one should avoid. Overpacking One should only carry what they need during a journey. This is because carrying multiple large, heavy suitcases can be tiresome and dispiriting for long travels. Additionally, one will always have worries in the back of their head about their luggage throughout the journey. What’s more, packing multiple items also causes one’s hotel room to be messy, having too much dirty laundry to wash back home, and, ultimately, a sore back and a headache. Booking flights too close together One always takes a risk while booking connecting flights for a travel plan. If there are delays or cancellations on the first flight, then there is always the risk of the second one being affected. This is why, it is never advisable to book connecting flights too close together. One must always at least keep a two-hour contingency period between multiple flights. This helps to save a lot of time, and in case of unforeseen disruptions, loads of money as well. Not negotiating a taxi rate beforehand On foreign tours, taxi drivers and other service providers are likely to be dodgy when it comes to service rates. Taxi drivers especially may exploit their customers if the latter are not assertive and firm when it comes to service charges. A common trick the drivers employ is to not confirm rates and then overcharge when the trip concludes. To avoid this, one must negotiate and clarify in absolutely certain terms the amount of money they will be paying for taxi rides.
5 foods that help prevent under-eye circles

5 foods that help prevent under-eye circles

Dark circles under the eyes are quite common. It can be due to stress, allergies, dehydration, prolonged screen time, and hyperpigmentation. While there are no overnight fixes to get rid of dark circles, making certain lifestyle changes can help to manage the problem in the long term. One of these changes is adding certain foods to one’s meal plans. These foods are rich in essential vitamins and nutrients that promote healthy skin under the eyes and prevent dark circles. Tomatoes Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and are a great source of lycopene, which gives them their red color. Lycopene is known for its ability to protect blood vessels from damage, which helps with blood circulation. Additionally, tomatoes contain quercetin, an anti-inflammatory compound that makes them effective in managing dark circles. Cucumbers Cucumbers are often used as a home remedy to reduce eye puffiness. Sliced cucumbers are placed on the eyes to help the skin relax. However, cucumbers can also be eaten for their eye health benefits. They contain a high percentage of water, which helps to deal with the dark pigmentation under the eyes. Additionally, cucumbers have a high concentration of silica that effectively improves collagen production for healthier skin. Berries Blueberries, blackberries, black currants, and other dark berries contain high levels of anthocyanin, a type of antioxidant that gives these berries their blue, purple, and black colors. Additionally, anthocyanin helps to improve blood circulation around the eyes and boosts oxygen levels, preventing dark circles from developing under the eyes. Watermelon With a high percentage of water content and lycopene, watermelons offer the benefits of both tomatoes and cucumbers in preventing the formation of under-eye dark circles. Moreover, this fruit is high in fiber, which promotes a healthy gut and ultimately enhances skin health. Sesame seeds Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on salads, soups, dips, and stir-fries is an excellent way to add them to meals while trying to reduce dark circles.
4 mistakes to avoid when traveling by train

4 mistakes to avoid when traveling by train

Traveling by train is a privilege not everyone can have on a daily basis. Moreover, traversing long distances by train can be exciting and challenging. Despite its seemingly straightforward nature, people make some mistakes when traveling by train. First-time or infrequent travelers generally make these mistakes, which can reduce the overall experience of long-distance train journeys. Here are four common mistakes to avoid when traveling by train. Relying solely on train food A common mistake people tend to make in the pre-booking phase is assuming that food will be served onboard the train. That detail is usually specified in the itinerary and can be seen when one books a ticket online or offline. One should certainly know whether the train they are boarding for a long journey has food served onboard or not. Once in, another common mistake people make is relying solely on train food. Now, eating train food is convenient; however, it is still processed food to a certain degree, and its health-related credibility can be slightly questionable. Ideally, one should get food from home when on a train journey. Not reading the itinerary carefully The itinerary contains all the details of a given journey, such as the stations at which the train will stop, the ETA at the destination, and the seat information. Not reading all these details carefully and then not making necessary changes can be significant mistakes, especially if they come in as shocks during the journey itself. That can be corrected by avoiding the next mistake on the list. Not booking tickets in advance People often miss reading the tickets or itinerary carefully when in a hurry. That happens when travelers book their tickets and the holiday schedule at the last minute. When one books at such a late stage, the ticket prices are at their highest, the best seats are often taken, and travelers have little choice in anything they wish to include in their reservation.
Best tech deals to check out for Black Friday

Best tech deals to check out for Black Friday

Black Friday is approaching, and this year it will fall on the 25th of November. If you are browsing for the best 2022 Black Friday Tech Sales, you might have arrived too early. However, with this post on the top twenty best tech sales of last year, you should also be able to determine what will be available this year. So here are the tech products that were available at unbelievable prices last year. Laptops Various stores offered Black Friday tech Sales in the laptop section. While some brands offer discounts throughout the year, the best deals are available for laptops during Black Friday. Some brands with free shipping offer significant price cuts. A few of the best Black Friday sales for laptops last year were: The 13-inch Apple MacBook Air laptop was available for around $849 plus free shipping. The price of top-rated laptops started at around $119, and free shipping was offered. Up to 50 % off on top-rated laptops as well as free shipping. Laptops from HP started at around $179 plus free shipping. The HP 15.6-inch laptop with Microsoft 365 bundle plus Mouse and free shipping was available on the brand website for an unbelievable price. The Lenovo 11-inch Chromebook Flex 3 started at around $149 plus free shipping. The 14.1-inch Core Innovations laptop was offered for around $179 with free shipping. Smartwatches With smartwatches in trend due to their high utility, people have been searching for good Black Friday Sales and deals on them. So, let us showcase here some of the Black Friday last year’s deals in the smartwatch segment: The Apple Smart Watch Series 3 was available for around $169 and with no shipping costs. Up to 30 % off on smartwatches from Fitbit. This also included free shipping. Up to 48% off on branded smartwatches such as Garmin and free shipping at various retailers.
Cyber Monday 2023 – Hacks to Get the Best Deals

Cyber Monday 2023 – Hacks to Get the Best Deals

Cyber Monday concludes one of the best shopping weekend sale events that happens once a year. Since it’s the last day of a major shopping season, brands and retail outlets hustle to move as much inventory as possible. So, some offers and deals overlooked earlier can make a discounted comeback. So, here are a few smart shopping hacks and tips shoppers can make use of to save time and money. Keep adding products to the checkout page Products practically fly off the shelves as soon as the sale event goes live. When shopping online, one of the best ways to never miss out on a deal is to load up the shopping cart first. Since the payment will only get debited at the checkout, it doesn’t hurt to put the items in the cart and secure the deal before stock runs out. Compare prices with previous year’s offers Cyber Monday sales from the year before will definitely influence the prices and availability of products this year. So, looking at past year’s sales is essential to figuring out deals that will generate the same buzz this year. For example, all popular smart gadgets and consumer electronics sold by major brands and retailers will be in demand for the upcoming sale. So, keep an eye out for digital flyers and mailers introducing early bird offers on these products. Bookmark the popular sites Once the sale goes live, there will be limited time to browse and shop for favorites before stock runs out quickly. So, keeping the most visited retail websites for Cyber Monday deals bookmarked in advance is better. This way, much time and effort will be saved by simply using the bookmarks to get in the queue as the offers go live. Keep up to date Major brands and retail websites will post updates about upcoming Cyber Monday deals on their social media pages.
8 Black Friday Mistakes to Avoid This 2023 Holiday Season

8 Black Friday Mistakes to Avoid This 2023 Holiday Season

As the country approaches the most-awaited shopping season, the zest to purchase one’s favorite products and services has started rising. This excitement promises to reach a full crescendo by the time Black Friday arrives. Shopping may seem like the easiest of things to do, but people commonly make inevitable shopping mistakes that make their Black Friday less fun than it could be. As everyone builds up to the festive season, here are some Black Friday mistakes to avoid. Buying outdated tech products Retailers typically offer discounts on older models of smartphones, television sets, and other gadgets and appliances. Shoppers need to identify this and refrain from purchasing products with below-par performance and poor data security due to their datedness. Additionally, buyers need to check if any electronic that is available at super-cheap prices is worth the purchase. If, say, a smartphone is getting any upgrades within 2 or 3 months, it makes sense to wait for the newer model to emerge in the market before putting down one’s hard-earned money on it. Forgetting to check the return policies Certain retailers have more stringent Black Friday return policies in place than others. Such stores tend to mark down products that are out of date or undesirable. If shoppers end up buying such products, they may be unable to return them if they are unhappy with them. Therefore, before going on a shopping spree, it is advisable for shoppers to do their research and find which retailers offer the most flexibility in terms of product returns. Additionally, one should be mindful of whether retailers change their standard return policies during Black Friday. Spending more than one’s budget Everyone must determine how much they can spend during the holiday shopping season. After determining that, one can figure out the products they really wish to purchase.
Air filters – types and cost

Air filters – types and cost

When it comes to air quality, there cannot be any compromises. This is why it is important to figure out what type of air filter matches your needs perfectly. This can be done by understanding the various types of air filters and how much each costs. You can always cut down on costs by shopping online and using air filter coupons. But first, let’s take a look at the different types of air filters. HEPA filters High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are the most reliable and effective ones among the lot. They filter out 99.97 percent of dust, mold, and other particulate matter from the air. They are the best option for people dealing with respiratory disorders. However, you may need a professional to install the filter. HEPA filters cost anywhere from $10 to $75, depending on the size and quality of the product. UV filters As the name suggests, these filters use ultraviolet light to destroy any germs, viruses, or bacteria in the air. However, they are not quite effective in keeping out dust particles and allergens. Therefore, they are often used in combination with another filter. They cost anywhere between $60 to $225. They can be hazardous to the human body in the long run. Washable filters Washable filters are environment-friendly and can help you save a few bucks. This is because they last for a long time, are easy to maintain, and can be easily installed at home. They have to be washed once every few months and dried before being installed back into the machine. They cost anywhere from $30 to $60 or higher, but are a great investment as they are long-lasting and efficient. Spun glass filters Spun glass filters are commonly used for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. They are cost-effective and are great at filtering out dust and debris.