Healthy Habits Can Help You Stay Well

Staying healthy takes a little preventive work from you. Here are a few tips to get you started.

Woman smiling

1. MAKE TIME FOR MAMMOGRAMS

They can detect breast cancer early, when it's most treatable. Screening mammograms are recommended every one to two years for women ages 40 or older.

2. WATCH YOUR WEIGHT

Obesity increases your risk for not only heart disease, but also cancer, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, stroke and many other health problems. If you're overweight, ask your doctor to help you develop a weight-loss plan.

3. PREVENT PAD

If you're over 50, watch for aching or cramping in your thighs, calves and feet. These are signs of peripheral artery disease (PAD). With PAD, narrowed blood vessels don't allow muscles to get enough oxygen. Prevent PAD through weight loss, regular exercise and by quitting smoking.

Free PAD Screenings
Risk factors for peripheral artery disease (PAD) include having diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol, being over age 50, smoking and having a family history of PAD. To schedule a free PAD screening, please call the Leg Circulation Center at Desert Springs Hospital at 702-369-7979.

4. TRAIN YOUR BRAIN

A study of women and men in their 30s, 40s and 50s indicates that some leisure activities help you maintain mental abilities, like memory and problem solving, over time. Try playing cards or board games, visiting museums or live theater or dancing.

5. WASH YOUR HANDS

It can protect against germs and infections. Using warm water and soap, rub your hands together and scrub all areas of your hands for 15 to 20 seconds. Try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.

SPECIAL EVENT: SAVE THE DATE

A Healthy Brain

November 19, 11:30 AM to 1 PM
Valley Hospital, 2020 Goldring, Suite 205
Lunch included
To register, please call 702-388-4888.
For more events, click here, or visit www.IchooseValleyHealthSystem.com and click on Senior Advantage.