Grant Regional | aspire to live well | Fall 2018

ASK T HE E X P E R T S How can I stay well as I get older? Need a doctor? We’ll help you find the perfect match. Call 608-723-2131 . T H E F A M I L Y D O C T O R S A Y S : Watch your weight Your metabolism changes as you age, which means you burn fewer calories. As a result, your weight can creep up and raise your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. To avoid extra pounds, you’ll probably need fewer calories as you move beyond your 50s. And exercise regularly. T H E D I E T I T I A N S A Y S : Focus on healthy foods Focus on adding more color into your day by eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Other healthful choices include low-fat and nonfat dairy products, lean meats, skinless poultry and baked fish. Beans, nuts and legumes are also good choices. Limit white refined carbohydrates, and choose more whole-grain products. Go easy on processed foods. T H E E R P H Y S I C I A N S A Y S : Take medicines as prescribed Medicines meant to help you could hurt you instead if not used correctly. So read the label on all your medicines. If you don’t understand the directions, ask your doctor or a pharmacist to explain them to you. And never take a larger dose than prescribed because you think it might help you more. That could be dangerous. Neil Martin, MD GRHC Emergency Department Grant Regional Health Center High Point Family Medicine 608-723-2143 Tracy Ackerman, Registered Dietitian Grant Regional Health Center 608-723-2131 T H E O R T H O P E D I C S U R G E O N S A Y S : Avoid falls Your chance of a serious fall rises with age. Still, most falls don’t just happen, which means you can often prevent them. Stand up slowly—getting up quickly can make you feel wobbly. Keep floors clutter-free and your home well-lighted. And get enough shut-eye. If you’re sleepy, you’re more likely to stumble. Erin Huebschman, MD OB/Family Medicine Grant Regional Community Clinic 608-723-2131 Brad Binsfeld, DO Orthopedic Surgeon Grant Regional Community Clinic 608-723-2131 7 FALL 2018