More than one in four Americans suffer from a chronic pain condition. Pain is not only physically debilitating, but also affects our emotional and mental health. The primary causes of chronic pain are injuries, inflammation, poor circulation and age-related degeneration.
The most common chronic pain afflictions occur in major joints and muscle groups. Left untreated, chronic pain can worsen over time, leading to immobility and loss of independence.ore than one in four Americans suffer from a chronic pain condition. Pain is not only physically debilitating, but also affects our emotional and mental health. The primary causes of chronic pain are injuries, inflammation, poor circulation and age-related degeneration.
Fortunately, there are natural ways to alleviate these types of conditions that do not carry the side effects or risks associated with medications and surgery. Skillfully performed acupuncture and Chinese medicine treatments can alleviate chronic pain and treat a wide variety of pain conditions.
From a Chinese medicine perspective, chronic pain is seen as the body’s inability to provide proper circulation of blood, oxygen and nutrients to these painful, affected areas. One of acupuncture’s most unique features is its ability to gently stimulate the body’s tiniest nerves and create a natural healing response in areas that are painful or not functioning well. Through a series of treatments, even some of the most chronic and painful conditions can be dramatically improved.
by James Carter, L.Ac. More than one in four Americans suffer from a chronic pain condition. Pain is not only physically debilitating, but also affects our emotional and mental health. The primary causes of chronic pain are injuries, inflammation, poor circulation and age-related degeneration. The most common chronic pain afflictions occur in major joints and…
Hospice Hawaii Lāna’i is celebrating the one-year anniversary of Hope House, a home-away-from-home for many patients and their families.
“We’re so excited to celebrate this milestone with our friends at Hospice Hawaii Lānai,” said Kenneth L. Zeri, president and CPO of Hospice Hawaii. “Since opening its doors in April 2016, Hope House has served as a care center for patients and their families, and we look forward to supporting our patients on Lāna’i for many years to come.”
The Hope House offers a peaceful and supportive environment for Hospice Hawaii patients and their loved ones. The renovated two-bedroom home features a charming design while maintaining its plantation-style look for a home-like feel. The space also boasts a handicap-accessible floor plan as well as administrative offices for the Hospice Hawaii Lāna’i staff.
Patients who experience symptoms that are difficult to manage at home are encouraged to visit the Hope House and receive one-on-one care by certified professionals. The Hope House also serves as a respite for caregivers, ensuring that both families as well as patients are supported.
Hospice Hawaii first fulfilled the critical need for hospice care on Lāna’i, serving its first patient in 2014. Since then, Hospice Hawaii has cared for 20 patients on the island.
Hospice Hawaii was established in 1979 to help patients live as fully as possible, to provide com-fort and relief from pain, and to aid in symptom management. An interdisciplinary team of professionals and trained volunteers strive to meet the physical, emotional, psycho social, and spiritual needs of patients and families in the comfort of their own homes, its Kailua Home, nursing homes and other facilities.
by Generations Magazine Staff Hospice Hawaii Lāna’i is celebrating the one-year anniversary of Hope House, a home-away-from-home for many patients and their families. “We’re so excited to celebrate this milestone with our friends at Hospice Hawaii Lānai,” said Kenneth L. Zeri, president and CPO of Hospice Hawaii. “Since opening its doors in April 2016, Hope House has…
The 11th Annual Aging in Place Workshop takes place on Saturday, August 19
8:30 am – 2:30 pm
Ala Moana Hotel *No Reservations Required
Click image to enlarge
The 11th Annual Aging in Place Workshop takes place on Saturday, August 19 8:30 am – 2:30 pm Ala Moana Hotel *No Reservations Required Click image to enlarge
by Katherine Kama‘ema‘e Smith cover & feature photography by Brian Suda
The traditions and language of the original Japanese immigrants to Hawai‘i in the late 1800s survived because they taught their children to venerate and value the culture of the homeland. In over six subsequent generations of American Japanese, no single organization has nurtured language and culture more than Mo‘ili‘ili Community Center on O‘ahu. In addition to supporting a thriving Japanese Language School for children, the center opens its doors five days a week to 300 to 500 senior members who come to participate in a wide array of arts, activities, educational programs and adult day care. This private nonprofit organization is the traditional bedrock of Mo‘ili‘ili families.
Executive Director Nadine Nishioka told Generations Magazine about the 115-year history of the center. In the 1890s, children of plantation worker families in Mo‘ili‘ili attended Japanese language school in the private home of Kihachi Kashi-wabara. Mo‘ili‘ili was a large marshland area at the bottom of Manoa Valley, behind Ala Wai (then a river) and Waikiki Beach flats. Lands adjacent to the many ponds and Kapaakea Springs were cultivated with rice, lotus and various vegetables. Along the dirt trails of this farming community were small shops and businesses, and wood-framed houses. Beside the homesteads, small plumes of smoke rose from wood stoves used for ofuros and cookhouses. Customs, foods, religious beliefs and common interests knit the residents of Mo‘ili‘ili into a harmonious community.
The Center’s Heritage
In the late 1800’s, when the sugar barons of Hawai‘i wanted to expand their plantations, they recruited farm workers and engineers from Japan. The men came first and soon brought in their wives. Freedom and work opportunities in Hawai‘i offered hope to young Japanese from a homeland ravaged by decades of war with China. Chinese invaders outlawed the practice of Japanese cultural traditions and Japanese language, so schools and temples were important features of a new life in Hawai‘i. For Japanese immigrants, plantation camps promised a second chance for success. In Mo‘ili‘ili, the community drew together and in 1928, purchased the language house and land that became the community center.
During WWII, the Mo‘ili‘ili community founded a formal council association. At that time, mainland Issei and Nisei were being interned in war camps, but in Hawai‘i, the Nisei first joined the civilian volunteer brigade and later entered the U.S. Army. The council was a hub for the community to gather and support one another. After the war, in 1945, they were awarded an official charter, and 20 years later, in 1965, this private nonprofit organization was formally named “Mo‘ili‘ili Community Center.”
ADULT DAY CARE AND SENIOR ACTIVITY CLASSES AT MO’ILI’ILI COMMUNITY CENTER; COVER PHOTO OF BOARD MEMBERS, SENIOR AND CHILDREN ATTENDEES OF MO’ILI’ILI COMMUNITY CENTER; PHOTOS FOR GENERATION MAGAZINE
The Center Today
The business model for today’s center is simple and very successful. “Our members pay an annual membership fee that covers our overhead, salaries and operating expense,” said Nadine. “Next year, the fee will go up to $40 from $35 per person,” said Nadine. “Some seniors add a cash gift with their membership because they can afford it and they appreciate the benefits they are receiving here. For some seniors, the fee seems high but it all works out. We never turn away any seniors who may have difficulty paying the fee.” Professional planners say that successful community programs are designed and resourced at the grassroots level. Nadine agrees. She places the success of the center squarely on its members. “Our seniors know the programs they want and we just listen to them,” said Nadine. “They want mahjong, and they want it early in the day when they are alert and have a better chance of winning. They organize the games and find the prizes. Senior center staff members make sure the room is ready and oversee their plans. Mahjong starts at 7:30 am, and is so popular that our seniors are lined up and waiting in front of the door at 7 am.”
“Whenever MCC members have an idea for an activity or event, they make a plan and find the resources to put on the program,” said Nadine.
“We provide the space and scheduling and our members ensure the program or event’s success.”
One of the most popular weekly sessions is Rhythm & Life held every morning. This award-winning Japanese exercise and stretching program is designed for elders and choreographed to Japanese music. Rhythm & Life invites both actively mobile seniors (standing) and less mobile seniors (seated) to better fitness and improved blood circulation. The packed room is filled with intently engaged and happy faces as the participants work out to the beats of various rhythms and tunes. Other active options include outcome-based exercise, Zumba, classic tai chi and a special tai chi class for seniors with im-paired balance who want to rehabilitate themselves. This one is important for preventing falls. “I think one beauty of our center is that seniors who have lost a spouse or no longer live in their old neighborhoods may come here and socialize while they participate in healthy activities for body, mind and soul,” said Nadine. “We offer physical exercise, mental stimulation and ways to learn and participate, but socializing combats isolation and loneliness. Members have the opportunity to spend happy times with people who share memories of earlier times and traditional values.”
This benefit was certainly obvious to Generations staffers, who saw members chatting before and after yoga class and senior Zumba.
A display of the impressive artwork and handicrafts produced by MCC members proudly hangs in the center. It demonstrates the wonderful skills seniors can learn here. Traditional kumihimo is the art of braiding cords and ribbons. In ancient times, the samurai braided decorative laces for their armor; today, ties on haori jackets or obi kimono sashes are often crafted with kumihimo. When combined with beading, kumihimo art produces intricate and elegant bracelets. and festive dancing to enka music. Each year, Japanese teachers bring different traditional arts and crafts.
Art classes abound, with origami, shodo calligraphy and festive dancing to enka music. Each year, Japanese teachers bring different traditional arts and crafts.
Japanese Language at the Center
Language is the foundation of culture, and today, children are still learning Japanese at Mo‘ili‘ili. The intensely interactive program includes plays and performances that delight the whole family. The original mission of passing on the Japanese language to the next generation was a budding flower of the old Mo‘ili‘ili community. Today, the branches of that flowering plant produce a bouquet of family-based activities, arts and expressions. A few of the directors on the center’s board actually attended Japanese language classes at MCC when they were in grade school!
Today, K-5 children attend Japanese after-school classes every weekday and practice speaking Japanese with their parents, who learned it in the same facility. The whole family is able to speak Japanese with the grandparents. While many MCC programs are geared to elders, the center itself is oriented to fulfill the needs of the entire family, interacting across age groups as they do at home.
The Teens in Action program gives young volunteers in seventh grade or higher an opportunity to work as aids in the many children’s programs at MCC: After-school A+, Early Morning Care, and programs for school intercession, holidays and summer break.
Senior Programs at the Center
Cultural and community outreach events of MCC are all organized, planned and resourced by staff and member volunteers. Everyone pulls together to make the center a vibrant place where members can be proud of all they accomplish. Their volunteer work results in fun, satisfaction and benefits the community.
“Our members love singing karaoke, and performing both ‘auana hula and Japanese dance; when they learn a dance well, they like to perform it at homes for the elderly,” said Nadine.
“They recently organized performances at various senior daycare centers and nursing homes. We provide the transportation, they make their own costumes, and delight in bringing beauty and enjoyment to the other elders.” Another community service for which MCC recently became a partner is a version of Meals on Wheels. Instead of delivering meals to seniors’ homes, MCC drivers go out and bring elderly to the MCC dining hall for a hot meal. Coming to the center gives them the opportunity for socialization and conversation in a safe, happy environment. The new program is working very well. Nadine regrets that MCC does not have more space and staff for their very popular Kupuna Support Program. This adult daycare program is for frail as well as not-so-frail seniors who can use the restroom with very little assistance. They participate in a number of fun, healthy activities geared to stimulate their minds, bodies and souls. Palolo Chinese Home Catering provides a healthy lunch, which is included in the Kupuna Support Program fee — $55 a day.
“We always have a waiting list,” said Nadine. “The need for good adult care is so great that families are willing to be ‘on call’ for an opening of just one or two days when one of our regular clients is sick or traveling.”
By the end of Generation Magazine’s tour of MCC, it was clear that we could fill two issues with program details and still not cover every offering at this wonderful community center—transportation and escort services, excursions, counseling, special events and more.
Become a Center Member
If you are over 60 and live in Honolulu between Ward Avenue and Hawai‘i Kai, you are within the city area serviced by Mo‘ili‘ili Community Center. However, MCC also welcomes participants from all areas of O‘ahu. To learn more about the organization and its many programs, please visit www.moiliilicc.org.
This year, Mo‘ili‘ili Community Center is celebrating 115 years as a place of learning, health and enrichment. For many generations, the center has served families and created family ties throughout a broad community. MCC’s important work continues due to the generosity of many donors, grants and the Aloha United Way. If you wish to help them with a cash donation, remember that all donations to MCC support the programs, not the administration. Donations are tax deductible and every dollar helps the beneficiaries of the center.
MO‘ILI‘ILI COMMUNITY CENTER 2535 S King St., Honolulu HI 96826 Hours: M–F 8 am to 5 pm
808-955-1555 | Fax: 808-945-7033 | office@moiliilicc.org | www.moiliilicc.org
The traditions and language of the original Japanese immigrants to Hawai‘i in the late 1800s survived because they taught their children to venerate and value the culture of the homeland. In over six subsequent generations of American Japanese, no single organization has nurtured language and culture more than Mo‘ili‘ili Community Center on O‘ahu.
On a frosty winter’s morning, my fellow seminarian, Cal Chinen, picked me up in his old beige Volvo. We drove across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon, to Washougal, a small town at the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in Washington State. We were responding to a senior citizen’s request to do some yard-work. We drove deep into the snow-covered forest and finally arrived at her cabin.
Busily, we chopped branches and started a bon- fire to burn the brush. As we worked, we saw bunny rabbits hopping across the snow and a deer checking us out to see what we were doing. For a local boy who had never seen snow, it was surreal — a winter wonderland.
After three hours of labor, the woman of the house called us in for lunch. The warmth from the fireplace felt amazing after being in the freezing cold. As I enjoyed the soup and sandwich, I admired the cabin’s beautiful woodwork.
The woman told us about her husband, who, in his younger years, built this cabin for her. Now in their sunset years, they were enjoying life in the cozy cabin built with his own hands. On the beam above the kitchen counter, her husband had lovingly carved the words “Grow old with me. The best is yet to be!” Although it has been 39 years since I sat in that cabin, I still remember the woman’s glowing face as she spoke of her hus-band and spending their golden years together.
Yes, our later years can be a time of great blessing, but as we know all too well, it can be a time of loss. The loss of productivity, health, well-being, independence, and sadly, the loss of cherished loved ones. But all is not lost. Many have found comfort and peace of mind through spiritual nourishment. Developing supportive relationships in a spiritual fellowship can do wonders for the soul. A woman in her later years began attend-ing our church just a few months after losing her husband. Every Sunday, she tells me how blessed she feels being part of a loving church family. So, in your sunset years, consider developing the spiritual dimensions of your life. You will be glad you did. “The best is yet to be!”
STREAMS OF LIFE FELLOWSHIP
Manoa District Park
2721 Ka‘aipu Ave, Honolulu HI 96822
808-554-4513 | www.streamsoflife.org
Services: Sundays, 10 am
Alternative site: Manoa Elementary School Cafeteria 3155 Manoa Rd., Honolulu, HI 96822
On a frosty winter’s morning, my fellow seminarian, Cal Chinen, picked me up in his old beige Volvo. We drove across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon, to Washougal, a small town at the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in Washington State. We were responding to a senior citizen’s request to do some yardwork.
As the years roll by, it is not always easy to keep perspective on the people who mean the most to us. Sometimes we forget to show the appreciation they are due.
But it is important to remember to express our love and honor our senior citizens while they are still here.
For example, one Sunday, a celebration honoring 98-yearold auntie Jane Chang drew an adoring crowd. Her favorite color is pink, so we all wore it. Her favorite foods are nishime, mochi and undagi, so that’s what we ate (among other things). Her favorite songs were sung and we shared testimonies about how she has touched our lives. We presented gifts to her — she was treated like a queen. Auntie Jane was touched, as well as her family and friends who joined in the special celebration.
Auntie Jane Chang, above, seated with her family and friends at Sunday worship at the Ma¯noa District Park.It is good to honor seniors on their special day, and treat them with tender loving care — and don’t forget to be kind to yourself!
If you asked a senior citizen how he or she feels about themselves, how would they respond?
A typical senior, myself included, since I’m 63, would probably say, “Oh, I’m just an old fossil!” During a recent Sunday message, I took this to the test by giving each senior in our fellowship a small mirror. I asked each one to look at themselves for one minute. Then I asked, “What did you see?” They answered, wrinkles, white hair, sags, bags, receding hairlines. We all noticed our aging — even the younger ones. Then I asked, “Is that how Papa God sees you?” I went on to explain that God sees us as a unique, precious, beautiful and amazing gift! He sees us as His masterpieces!
As seniors, we often see our diminishing strength; our frailty. God wants us to see our beauty. So the next time you look into the mirror, don’t focus on your wrinkles, sags and bags.
Declare your truth. “I am beautiful. I am amazing. I am God’s masterpiece.” That’s the truth! Believe it and live it!
STREAMS OF LIFE FELLOWSHIP
Ma¯noa District Park
2721 Ka‘aipu Ave, Honolulu HI 96822 808-554-4513 | www.streamsoflife.org
Services: Sundays, 10 am
Alternative site: Ma¯noa Elementary School Cafeteria
3155 Manoa Rd, Honolulu, HI 96822
As the years roll by, it is not always easy to keep perspective on the people who mean the most to us. Sometimes we forget to show the appreciation they are due. But it is important to remember to express our love and honor our senior citizens while they are still here. For example, one…
National bestseller Disrupt Aging: A Bold New Path to Living Your Best Life at Every Age by AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins is a book for anyone who wants to live a life of possibility, connection and growth.
We’ve all read it and heard it: “50 is the new 30” and “60 is the new 40.” But Jenkins disagrees. She believes 50 is the new 50, and she, for one, likes how it looks.
In what MIT Age Lab Director Joseph F. Coughlin has called “A brilliant and compelling new look at the future of aging,” the author shows us how to embrace opportunities and change the way we look at growing older. She encourages us to re-think the negative stories we tell ourselves and each other about aging and to instead view our later years as a period of continued growth and something to look forward to — not as a time of decline or something to fear.
Disrupt Aging chronicles the journeys of Jo Ann and other fearless individuals working to change what it means to age in America. In her highly focused but down-to-earth personal style, she focuses on three core areas — health, wealth and self — and offers readers a new vision and practical advice that can empower them to choose how they live as they age.
Our ability to live longer, healthier lives is one of our greatest achievements — it’s time we treat it as such. Disrupt Aging shows readers how.
Find out more about the book and where it can be purchased through a browser search or a book title search at www.aarp.org.
National bestseller Disrupt Aging: A Bold New Path to Living Your Best Life at Every Age by AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins is a book for anyone who wants to live a life of possibility, connection and growth. We’ve all read it and heard it: “50 is the new 30” and “60 is the new…
You hear it all the time: To stay healthy, we need to stay active. Yet as we get older, it can be difficult to find the energy and motivation to get out and exercise.
Makua Ali‘i, O‘ahu’s premier senior softball league, provides mature athletes an opportunity to stay active and social. The “slow-pitch” softball league is the perfect activity for those who miss the camaraderie and competition of their little league days.
The league is comprised of 18 teams and is open to players aged 60 and over. Each week, games are held at the Patsy T. Mink Central Oahu Regional Park (CORP) in Waipio. Game results published most Thursdays in the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. There is also a league exclusively for those 70 and over that plays on Friday mornings at Ala Wai Community Park. Even for those who are no longer able to participate in team sports, attending and watching the games is a great motivator to get out of the house and meet those who share interests and passions. After the game is the perfect time to talk story!
Francis Lum, an 80-year-old member of Waipio Makules, has been playing with the league since 1997 — 20 years and counting! Even after kneereplacement surgery, he’s still going strong and coming out each week.
Francis Lum (left) and Danny Fujimoto (right) before their Monday game.
“I play Monday, Wednesday, Friday, then I come out practice Tuesday,” said Francis, “so that’s four days a week.”
It’s an exciting sport comprised of amazing people and a refreshing sense of community. Hearing everyone laughing, shouting encouragement and cracking jokes would make anyone passing by want
to join in the fun!
New players join the teams each season. When asked how experienced the newcomers usually are, Francis said, “It’s always different. Some people like myself — I came in and I didn’t have any experience.” For these players, it’s all about being with friends and having a good time. Of course, everyone gets older each year, so it’s good to see new faces. Francis’ advice to any one of the newbies planning on joining is “make sure you stretch good before you play. That’s the main thing.”
Sports aren’t only for the young guys. Knowledge and experience are just as important as raw strength and speed, and many of these players have more than just a few years of softball under their belts. The true test of their abilities comes during the state tournament held every year, when participating teams from O‘ahu and the outer islands compete for the championship in one of eight divisions.
Makua Ali‘i is the perfect opportunity for seniors to get much-needed fresh air and exercise in a social setting, while engaging in some fun and friendly competition.
Contact the Makua Ali‘i league to find out more about how you can join and play ball!
You hear it all the time: To stay healthy, we need to stay active. Yet as we get older, it can be difficult to find the energy and motivation to get out and exercise. Makua Ali‘i, O‘ahu’s premier senior softball league, provides mature athletes an opportunity to stay active and social. The “slow-pitch” softball league…
According Harvard Medical School, the need for dentures in later life used to be a foregone conclusion. But today, three-quarters of the over-65 population retain at least some of their teeth. Although older people still suffer higher rates of gum disease, dental decay and tooth loss, they can still do a lot to keep their mouth looking and feeling younger than its years.
Q: What are some areas of concern regarding seniors’ dental care?
The main concerns for seniors as they age are maintaining their remaining teeth and minimizing further damage and loss. Receding gums can also be a big concern.
In addition, insurance coverage may be minimal or nonexistent once a senior retires.
Q: What are my options for a missing tooth?
There are generally three options available when a person loses one or more teeth.
1. Recommended is an implant — a standalone option that doesn’t require the presence of any of the other teeth for support. Though keep in mind:
– implanting requires a surgical phase
– multiple implants may need to support a bridge or denture
– they can’t be used in every case
– implants are generally more expensive
2. A fixed/cemented bridge, which is basically two crowns(minimum) that act as anchors to support the missing tooth.
Generally, teeth are needed on both sides of the space created by the missing teeth. In rare cases, the problem can be resolved with a fixed bridge with one anchor — but only if there is just one tooth missing, and the supporting teeth(anchors) must be in good health with adequate bone support, otherwise, the bridge could fail in the future, which could necessitate the need for dentures.
3. Dentures, of which there are generally two types: A partial denture will replace some missing teeth, supported by remaining teeth. A complete or full denture is used when the teeth on one arch or both arches are missing.
Both the partial and full dentures are removable prostheses or both can be implant-supported.
They are the least costly of all the options unless they involve implants.
What can seniors do to retain healthy teeth?
Visit your dentist regularly — every six months as a minimum.
Some insurance companies will allow for more than two teeth cleanings a year if you have diabetes (you would need to check with your respective insurance company on this).
If you are having trouble holding the floss or toothbrush because of arthritis or diminished manual dexterity, use dental floss holders or floss picks. I recommend Cocofloss, which is especially good for those who have spaces between their teeth that constantly trap food.
In addition, seniors can use an electric toothbrush with a large handle, which makes it easier to grip.
A water flosser, such as a Waterpik, is also a great device that seniors can use if the task becomes too difficult.
Mouth washes can be helpful as long as there is no alcohol in them, but they shouldn’t be used as an alternative to flossing and brushing.
Remember, seniors’, teeth and gums need extra care and attention if they want them to stay healthy in their later years.
LANCE TERAMOTO, DDS, INC.
4747 Kilauea Ave., Ste. 101, Honolulu HI 96816 808-725-2135 | www.smilesofaloha.com/
According Harvard Medical School, the need for dentures in later life used to be a foregone conclusion. But today, three-quarters of the over-65 population retain at least some of their teeth. Although older people still suffer higher rates of gum disease, dental decay and tooth loss, they can still do a lot to keep their…
Diabetes affects people in different ways, but those with type 2 diabetes frequently suffer from heart disease, high blood pressure and nervous system damage, including impaired sensation or pain in the hands and feet. Physical activity and keeping a healthy weight can help to manage the disease and prevent diabetic problems. Although walking may be the most convenient mode of exercise, those with weight issues, peripheral neuropathy or severe weakness or pain may find weight-bearing activities difficult. However, water provides a low-impact, safe environment ideal for type 2 diabetics.
The virtual weightlessness of being in water reduces stress on joints, bones and muscles. Water resistance provides the strength training needed to decrease blood sugar levels. Aquatic exercise burns calories more efficiently. A 30-minute walk on land burns 135 calories compared to 264 calories walking in water.
Benefits also include less soreness, increased circulation and improved balance and flexibility.
Don’t let diabetes drag you down. A safety-conscious aquatic-based therapy program can help keep you afloat by increasing energy, and improving physical and psychological well-being.
MOON PHYSICAL THERAPY, LLC
320 Ward Ave., Ste. 107, Honolulu HI 96814
Aquatic, Land-based and Manual Therapy and
Cardiopulmonary Rehab Programs 808-597-1005 | www.moonpt.com
Like me on Facebook: Moon Physical Therapy, LLC
Diabetes affects people in different ways, but those with type 2 diabetes frequently suffer from heart disease, high blood pressure and nervous system damage, including impaired sensation or pain in the hands and feet. Physical activity and keeping a healthy weight can help to manage the disease and prevent diabetic problems. Although walking may be…
Our kidneys make up an important system in our bodies. They are responsible for many vital functions, such as removing wastes from our blood, controlling blood pressure and keeping our bones strong, for example. Such an important organ system deserves our best care and effort so we can keep it functioning well for our entire lives. Unfortunately, however, over 31 million people — nearly 10 percent of the population of the United States — are estimated to suffer from kidney disease and the number is increasing. Risk factors include being over 60 years old and having diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease. The current treatments for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and kidney failure consist of medications to control symptoms, dialysis, and in some cases, surgery or transplantation. While these procedures can save and prolong lives, they are invasive and can cause severe side effects.
There are other options. One of the most helpful, effective and perhaps most unknown in America today is acupuncture and Chinese medicine. This 5,000-year-old medical science from ancient China has a long historical record of treatment of many different organ system diseases and a vast array of problems in the body. Within this system of healthcare, acupuncture treatment can be very effective in improving circulation and blood flow into areas of the body where there may be blockages or restrictions caused by kidney disease.
Chinese medicine uses thousands of herbs that can be specially combined to strengthen and assist the kidneys. It can also promote and support our vital organs and functions in the body by increasing oxygen and nutrient content in the blood to support the body’s intrinsic self-regulation and healing mechanisms. When used in combination with correct nutrition and conventional care, these methods can often significantly improve the functioning of the kidneys. From a Chinese medicine perspective, many cases of kidney disease and failures are treatable.
Our kidneys make up an important system in our bodies. They are responsible for many vital functions, such as removing wastes from our blood, controlling blood pressure and keeping our bones strong, for example. Such an important organ system deserves our best care and effort so we can keep it functioning well for our entire…
L–R: UHA Director Howard Lee (WWAD O‘ahu sponsor), Vic Harris, Dr. Theresa Wee, Lori Wallace and Dr. Craig Kadooka.Walking is low-impact and has the lowest dropout rate of any physical activity. In fact, walking as little as 30 minutes a day can have tremendous health benefits, such lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels, improved mood, reduced coronary heart disease and much more.
Founded in February 2016, the Walk with a Doc (WWAD) on O’ahu program includes many ku¯ puna, along with family and friends of all ages. This collaborative effort between Dr. Theresa Wee and the UHA Health Insurance Company is a great example of how individuals and groups can work together to promote health in the community. This walk is free and open to all ages and fitness levels.
The walk begins with a health tip by Dr. Wee or another qualified health professional, then a five-minute warmup. Each individual in the group walks at his or her own pace for 50 minutes, followed by a cooldown with fruit refreshments donated by Stay Fit Physical Therapy. Perhaps the greatest benefit of all is the support and motivation contributed by each participant. They share stories of successes, struggles, and create an instant bond and camaraderie.
Walking is truly the miracle drug, especially for our ku¯ puna. Come out any Saturday at 8am at Central Oahu Regional Park (meet near the tennis courts) for exercise, fun and fellowship.
Walking is low-impact and has the lowest dropout rate of any physical activity. In fact, walking as little as 30 minutes a day can have tremendous health benefits, such lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels, improved mood, reduced coronary heart disease and much more. Founded in February 2016, the Walk with a Doc (WWAD)…
Fortunately, there are natural ways to alleviate these types of conditions that do not carry the side effects or risks associated with medications and surgery. Skillfully performed acupuncture and Chinese medicine treatments can alleviate chronic pain and treat a wide variety of pain conditions.
As the years roll by, it is not always easy to keep perspective on the people who mean the most to us. Sometimes we forget to show the appreciation they are due.
As seniors, we often see our diminishing strength; our frailty. God wants us to see our beauty. So the next time you look into the mirror, don’t focus on your wrinkles, sags and bags.
National bestseller Disrupt Aging: A Bold New Path to Living Your Best Life at Every Age by AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins is a book for anyone who wants to live a life of possibility, connection and growth.
According Harvard Medical School, the need for dentures in later life used to be a foregone conclusion. But today, three-quarters of the over-65 population retain at least some of their teeth. Although older people still suffer higher rates of gum disease, dental decay and tooth loss, they can still do a lot to keep their mouth looking and feeling younger than its years.
3. Dentures, of which there are generally two types: A partial denture will replace some missing teeth, supported by remaining teeth. A complete or full denture is used when the teeth on one arch or both arches are missing.
What can seniors do to retain healthy teeth?
A water flosser, such as a Waterpik, is also a great device that seniors can use if the task becomes too difficult.
The virtual weightlessness of being in water reduces stress on joints, bones and muscles. Water resistance provides the strength training needed to decrease blood sugar levels. Aquatic exercise burns calories more efficiently. A 30-minute walk on land burns 135 calories compared to 264 calories walking in water.
Our kidneys make up an important system in our bodies. They are responsible for many vital functions, such as removing wastes from our blood, controlling blood pressure and keeping our bones strong, for example. Such an important organ system deserves our best care and effort so we can keep it functioning well for our entire lives. Unfortunately, however, over 31 million people — nearly 10 percent of the population of the United States — are estimated to suffer from kidney disease and the number is increasing. Risk factors include being over 60 years old and having diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease. The current treatments for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and kidney failure consist of medications to control symptoms, dialysis, and in some cases, surgery or transplantation. While these procedures can save and prolong lives, they are invasive and can cause severe side effects.