< Previous70 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY CARING All too often do we look at the elderly and forget that we will count ourselves among their number one day. A little work now can save yourself a lot later. A s we age, our bodies change, and we may find that what once worked for us, doesn’t anymore. Given that our actions (or lack thereof!) more greatly impact our health the older we get, taking care of oneself becomes ever more important. As with anything, prevention is better than cure, no matter how healthy you are when you start. Keeping up a healthy lifestyle is more important than ever, but seeing the warning signs that you need to alter your routine is also vital. Based on this, we shall explore some preventative steps that can be easily implemented to improve your lifestyle now, and in the future. As you may expect, one of the most critical aspects of taking care of oneself is staying physically active. Regular exercise has numerous benefits, including maintaining muscle strength and balance, reducing muscle degeneration, thus helping to reduce the risk of falls. Consistent cardiovascular workouts can help to reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. The risk of these illnesses significantly increases with age, so maintaining some consistent exercise is actually more important as we age. If the treadmill seems too taxing, swimming and long, gentle walks provide excellent alternatives. Weightlifting is the best way to retain muscle mass, even at low weights (a good starting gauge is the weight of a heavy shopping bag). Yoga works wonders for flexibility, helping to retain movement. It also encourages maintaining good posture and balance, helping to keep you steady on your feet. It is always important to take the advice of your GP before starting an exercise Taking care of ourselves as we age 72 Á Taking care of ourselves as we age LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 71 Winter Storage Only £75 include a Service for only £25 extra Scooters kept securely and charged weekly Service & Repairs We have an up to date fully equipped Service Centre to help with any breakdowns or repairs 207 Roman Bank, Skegness, Lincolnshire Tel: 01754 768006 Hire Wheelchair Wheelchair £5.00 per day £25.00 per week £25 refundable Deposit Scooter Scooter £15.00 per day £75.00 per week £50 refundable Deposit LEAKE'S MASONRY Ltd Eve Street, Louth, Lincs LN11 0JJ Phone: 01507 604 828 leakesmasonry.co.uk • leakesmasonry@aol.com A Third Century of Stonemasonry Craftsmanship From Leake's Masonry A professional family-run business having been established in Louth for over 100 years. We were very proud to have been entrusted with the repairs and renovation to the damaged Louth War Memorial. Ruckland Court Care Home Our home has been newly refurbished with a charming bistro, welcoming pub, new lounge dining rooms and more. Plus Community coff ee mornings every Wednesday 10am - 12pm Call us today Contact Home Manager Adam Atkin on 01522 530217 www.countrycourtcare.com Ruckland Avenue, Lincoln, LN1 3TP or email rucklandcourt@countrycourtcare.com 72 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY CARING regime, as they can advise appropriate workouts for your physical ability. Another crucial aspect of self-care for seniors is nutrition. As we age, our bodies require fewer calories, but still need the same essential nutrients to maintain good health. This means that we should keep an eye on our portion sizes to avoid overeating and obesity related illnesses. An easy way to achieve this is by slowing down eating to pinpoint when you feel satisfied. You can then use how much you have eaten to adjust portion sizes moving forward. Everyone should aim to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. It’s also essential to stay hydrated by drinking enough water and other fluids. Older adults are also at higher risk for malnutrition, so it’s important to monitor their food intake and seek medical help if you are experiencing weight loss, decreased appetite, or other signs of malnutrition. Sleep is another essential aspect of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Sleep is critical for our physical and mental health, and seniors should aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night. However, many older adults struggle with sleep problems, such as insomnia or sleep apnea. To improve sleep, try creating a relaxing bedtime routine, avoiding caffeine for 6 hours prior to bedtime, and keeping your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet. Given that sleep problems are an age-related concern, speak to your GP if you start experiencing them. Staying socially connected is also vitally important. Social isolation can have devastating effects on mental and physical health, including increased risk of depression, cognitive decline, and chronic conditions such as heart disease. Seniors should aim to maintain relationships with family and friends, join community groups, or volunteer. Social media platforms like Zoom calls or WhatsApp chats can also be an excellent way to stay connected with loved ones. Chronic conditions are also a common concern for seniors and managing them is an important part of self-care. Chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and arthritis are more common in older adults, and they require ongoing management to prevent complications. Seniors should work closely with their healthcare provider to manage these conditions, including taking medications as prescribed, monitoring symptoms, and making lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. Preventive care is also an essential aspect of self-care for older people. Regular health screenings and immunizations can help prevent or detect diseases early, when they are most treatable. Seniors should talk to their healthcare provider about recommended screenings and immunizations, such as © stock.adobe.com/fizkesLINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 73 CARING mammograms, colonoscopies, flu shots, and pneumonia vaccines. Those over the age of 65, or with pre-existing health conditions are entitled to a greater array of vaccines and health check-ups on the NHS. Reducing stress is also an important aspect of self-care when elderly. Stress can have negative effects on physical and mental health, including increased risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease and depression. Engage in stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. You can also try to manage stress by avoiding stressful situations or people and keeping to a routine. Finally, people should avoid tobacco and limit alcohol consumption. Tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable death and can increase the risk of many chronic conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and lung disease. Quitting smoking is worthwhile at any age, as our lungs are able to repair themselves to varying degrees. This will have a great effect on quality of life, no matter when you stop. Ultimately, self-care advice remains broadly the same as we age, just with some minor adjustments. It becomes more important to listen to your body, adjust your lifestyle to how you are feeling at that time, and seek help when something does not feel right. It is often a case of stepping up certain behaviours (such as more regular health check-ups, eating a healthier diet, and getting better quality sleep) and then stepping down others (implementing low impact workouts, reducing unhealthy substances, and reducing the amount of stress in your life). Yet, it should be stressed that you should not wind down entirely. Life is to be lived to the fullest at any age, so you should continue to allow yourself the things you enjoy. Taking care of ourselves doesn’t have to be a complete lifestyle overhaul. © stock.adobe.com/Ihor Here at Ringrose Law we know how important it is to have your personal affairs in order We deal every day with clients who need to make a Will or update a Will. Making a Will is one of the most important things you can do in your lifetime. A valid Will helps protect you and your family. Make a Will With 1 in 3 people in the UK not having a valid Will, it is important that you make sure you have a valid and up to date Will. Making a Will is the only way to ensure that what you want to happen after your death actually does happen. It makes the process of dealing with your money and possessions (your estate) easier for your friends and family. If you don’t make a Will your estate may not automatically go to the people you want to benefit, and unnecessary tax may have to be paid. Unmarried Couples It is a common misconception that unmarried “common law” partners have the same rights as married couples. The reality is that the intestacy rules make no provision for unmarried partners, irrespective of how long they have been together. Some people believe this is out of step with modern society, it can have devastating consequences for a family. We can help Our experienced team has over 50 years of experience between them helping clients with their Wills & Probate matters. Our team prides itself in providing honest, straight forward advice to ensure our client needs are met. Every situation is different. To speak to one of our advisors contact us in Boston, Grantham, Lincoln, Newark and Sleaford or email wecanhelp@ringroselaw.co.uk Nerina Farmer, Head of Wills & Probate AT Ringrose LawAs we approach the midway point of the year, we look at what may be coming in the near future. Dacia Duster 74 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY COUNTY MOTORING Your next LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 75 COUNTY MOTORING Dacia Duster Dacia has reinvented Duster’s design. It still has the striking looks that propelled the previous generations to the top – especially its solid, sturdy SUV character – but pushes them further with Dacia’s new, distinctive design. The All-New Dacia Duster opens the next chapter in the story of a model that has grown into a standard-setter in the market. It is an all-round icon, encapsulating everything the Dacia brand stands for: ‘Robust and Outdoor’, ‘Essential but Cool’, and ‘Eco- Smart’. All-New Duster is the first production model to use Starkle®, a new material invented by Dacia’s engineers. It contains up to 20% reused polypropylene and is entirely paint-free, meaning the carbon footprint from its production process is smaller. The side underbody shields, wheel-arch guards, hallmarks, triangles on the front bumper, and rear shield tail are made of Starkle®. And making the front and rear skid plates with a dyed-in-the-mass material also limits the amount of paint used in the process. 76 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY COUNTY MOTORING Mazda CX-80 Arriving in the UK later this year, the all-new Mazda CX-80 is the new flagship of the Mazda line-up in Europe, sitting above the CX-60 in Mazda’s award- winning SUV range. Featuring three-row seating it’s the most spacious SUV ever offered by Mazda in Europe and with its high-quality cabin, technically advanced drivetrains and elegant design is created to challenge established premium brands in the European market. Powered by the same engines as the Mazda CX-60, there is a choice of plug-in hybrid - which combines a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a 129kW electric motor and a 17.8 kWh high-capacity battery – or Mazda’s advanced in-line six-cylinder 254ps 3.3-litre e-Skyactiv D diesel engine. Across both powertrain options, the Mazda CX-80 is exclusively matched to all-wheel drive. 78 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY COUNTY MOTORING MG Cyberster MG Motor UK has announced that its highly anticipated EV roadster, the Cyberster, is now available to order with the first UK deliveries planned for August this year. The Cyberster’s electrifying performance is combined with a luxurious and technologically advanced cabin which catapults the grand touring experience into the electric era, creating an environment hitherto reserved for ultra- expensive GTs replete with 6-way electrically adjustable heated seats with memory function and electric lumbar support. A distinctive heated steering wheel featuring 4- way adjustability as well as twin paddles to assist with kinetic regeneration, completes the perfect juxtaposition of elegance and outright sportiness of the cabin space. MG’s interior designers have designed a cabin to match the striking exterior. In addition to the highly distinctive and multi-functional steering wheel there are metal sports pedals, with the leather-style seats available in grey with white accents or black with red. There are five exterior colour choices, from the classic New English White to the vibrant Inca Yellow, accentuated by the contrasting black lower trim. Including roof fabric and exterior paint colours, there are 32 combinations to choose from. Tel: 01472 812130 www.lincsvwa.com Unit 3, Woodside Park, Station Road, Tetney, Grimsby. DN36 5HX Find An Experienced Motor Mechanic In Tetney, Near Grimsby n Servicing n MOTs n Repairs n Brakes & Tyres n Engine diagnostics n Car Batteries n Exhausts n ECU Remapping n Air Conditioning Testing/repairs/Re Gas VW, AUDI, SEAT & SKODA SPECIALISTLINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 79 COUNTY MOTORING Hyundai SANTA FE The all-new fifth generation SANTA FE features a radical new design, with a distinctive, boxy silhouette and customer-centric, spacious interior, suited to a range of outdoor and urban activities. Fully foldable second- and third-row seats provide class-leading interior space, while the variety of high-tech, practical features add to its signature nature-meets-city appeal. Complementing its ‘Open for More’ design concept, all-new SANTA FE boasts a myriad of safety features and the next level of Hyundai Smart Sense Advanced Driver Assistance Systems available, which offers a wide range of safety systems that ensure both safety and convenience on the road. The fifth generation SANTA FE will also feature Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates for various vehicle systems, first introduced into the Hyundai line- up in 2023 with IONIQ 6. This technology ensures that the vehicle is running the most recent updates to various vehicle control units for electric devices, driving assist functions and more, providing a safer, more convenient driving experience, without the need to visit a Hyundai service centre, in addition to satellite navigation and media system updates. For All Your Motoring Needs 197 Alexandra Road, Grimsby, North East Lincs, DN31 1SE T: 01472 240 800 Em: johnsmithautos@live.co.uk www.jsmithautorepairs.co.uk • Servicing • Repairs • MOTs • Diesels • Catalysts • Specialist Engine Tuning Family run business for over 20 yearsNext >