Welcome to the Briar Blog

Providing relevant news and articles to active seniors at
Briarwood and throughout the Central Mass community.

 

Seeing Clearly

Posted in Health & Wellness on April 21st, 2011

Last week we examined a major reason for blindness in the world, glaucoma. This week we look at the leading cause: cataracts.

Glaucoma Info

Posted in Health & Wellness on April 13th, 2011

Glaucoma is a debilitating eye disease that can lead to blindness if not properly treated.  What happens?  The optic nerve becomes damaged and diminishes vision. Interestingly, most people know the name of this terrible condition but not nearly as many are familiar with the particulars.  Fortunately, glaucoma can usually be controlled if caught in time.  Still, [...]

Our Morning Boost: Coffee

Posted in Health & Wellness, Uncategorized on March 23rd, 2011

Okay, maybe we are reluctant to admit this, but seniors, as well as other segments of the population, have a love affair with coffee. Before our feet even touch the floor in the morning, some of us think about the pathway to the coffee maker.  Because coffee is such an integral part of some peoples’ [...]

Spring Renewal

Posted in Health & Wellness on March 15th, 2011

Spring is officially within our reach, and accompanying this much-anticipated period are new expectations. Why do we have these?  Because a season synonymous with renewal makes us think about ways we can renew our own lives. But how can we spring clean ourselves?  Here are some thoughts. Attack postponed activities.  Maybe you have considered making [...]

The Whole Truth

Posted in Health & Wellness on March 9th, 2011

We hear so much today about grains.  In addition to being low in fat, they are a wonderful source of complex carbohydrates.  But what differentiates whole grains from refined grains?  Let’s examine that question. Grains that have not been milled are whole grains; whole grains are filled with fiber, antioxidants, and a number of essential [...]

Senior Health:Factors That Weaken Bones

Posted in Health & Wellness on March 2nd, 2011

Certain people are in danger of bone loss through no fault of their own.  For example, they may have predetermined traits that put them at risk such as family history, small build, gender (e.g. female), race (Caucasian), and age (post-menopausal women).  Concurrently, smoking, inadequate calcium or vitamin D intake, and too much alcohol could add to [...]

Oral Health and Seniors: Part II

Posted in Health & Wellness on February 22nd, 2011

Last week we examined a few conditions that arise in the oral cavity; this week we will touch upon ways to help circumvent problems from happening in the first place. And if they already occurred?  Well, some damage may be difficult to undo, but other types can be stopped or even reversed.  Here are some suggestions. Clean [...]

Cleaner Water

Posted in Health & Wellness on January 26th, 2011

Most of us know that over 70% of the human body is comprised of water. We also know that water is extremely important for a multitude of reasons.  What some of us do not know, nevertheless, is that the water we drink may not be as healthy as we once thought.  And, when quality is [...]

Dry Brushing and Its Benefits

Posted in Health & Wellness on January 18th, 2011

Dry brushing is invigorating yet relaxing. How is it performed? A gentle body brush is moved in repeated motions on the skin. Why on earth would someone want to do this? Well, for one thing, it feels wonderful: sort of like a light-pressure massage. Secondly, it’s stimulating: the body feels re-energized. Nonetheless, there are more impressive reasons to make body brushing a part of your daily routine. Here are a few.

Losing Holiday Pounds

Posted in Health & Wellness, Holidays on January 10th, 2011

Now that the holidays are gone, some individuals wonder how to shed the weight they’ve gained.  There’s typically little reason to be overly stressed because most people resume normal patterns, and the situation corrects itself over time.  Still, there are some beneficial steps we can all take to be healthier and expedite the loss of a pound [...]