Can Small Changes Make a Big Impact after 50? Lessons from GetSetUp’s Health Week

s we wrap up an empowering Health Week at GetSetUp, the positive feedback from our Learners across various expert-led classes designed to nurture the mind, enhance mental wellness, and boost physical vitality has shown how impactful these sessions have been. Our goal is to empower active agers with health and wellness education and activities to help them maintain and improve their quality of life, ensure independence for longer, and mitigate the risks of chronic diseases and mental health challenges.

During Health Week, we not only learned about new health practices but also worked on integrating these changes into our daily lives for long-term benefits. Our community members shared their success stories about incorporating these small yet impactful routines into their daily routines, such as morning meditation to clear the mind and simple stretching exercises to reduce physical strain. The active participation of the community demonstrated how shared learning and a supportive environment can promote growth and well-being. Now, let's take a quick look at the highlights of our Health Week sessions.

🧠 Nurturing Cognitive Health: Supporting Loved Ones with Memory Challenges

With a focus on nurturing cognitive health and supporting individuals facing memory challenges, Prasita Nair, Head of Clinical Operations from Epoch Elder Care, led this class and offered a deeper understanding of dementia's symptoms, diagnosis, and stages. It also highlights the collaboration between organizations like GetSetUp and Epoch Elder Care to help address and reduce isolation and loneliness among seniors with Dementia.  

Key session takeaways included:

• The importance of physical and mental activities, a healthy diet, and effective nonverbal communication were discussed as preventive strategies.
• Learners learned effective communication strategies and practical tips for daily care, enhancing their ability to support loved ones.
• Addressed the difficulties caregivers face with progressive dementia, providing strategies for coping and support to enhance the quality of life for those with memory challenges.

Top questions from Learners during class included: Can meditation prevent dementia? What's the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's? And, can insomnia contribute to dementia? Watch the full session to explore these inquiries and more

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🧘 Cultivating Mental Wellness: Essential Practices for a Balanced Life

Dr. Syeda,  an experienced Psychiatrist with over 18 years of practice, led this discussion on the spectrum of mental health, from everyday wellness to managing mental illness. 

Key session takeaways included:

• Embrace self-compassion and acknowledge your own mental health needs. This process involves fostering a non-judgmental understanding of oneself and others, essential for nurturing mental well-being.
• A mental health first aid is essential for recognizing and addressing mental distress promptly and effectively. These skills equip individuals with the tools to offer immediate, basic support until appropriate professional help is received or the crisis is resolved. The training includes learning to listen without judgment, offer reassurance, and provide information on where to get further help.
• We all must practice active listening and empathy in mental health support. This approach is pivotal in creating a safe space for individuals to express themselves and feel understood, which can be therapeutic.

Top questions from Learners during class included: What's the difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist? What are tips for mental first aid? How do you identify how someone is feeling? Watch the full session to explore these inquiries and more

❤️ Vitality Beyond 50: Strengthening Your Heart and Immune System

Dr. S. Wadhwa, a seasoned consultant physician and cardiologist who has served at prestigious institutions since 1994, provided expert guidance on maintaining heart health and boosting the immune system. 

Key session takeaways included:

• We must start taking proactive health measures early on in life to prevent cardiovascular diseases and other age-related health issues.
• Practices like yoga and meditation underscored the importance of a holistic approach to health. Incorporating these practices into daily life can bring significant benefits, such as improved flexibility, better posture, enhanced concentration, and a greater sense of peace. 
• We learned about the different symptoms of heart problems and explored practical dietary and lifestyle changes that can enhance overall well-being. This helps individuals identify potential heart health issues early and implement strategies to improve heart and immune system functioning.

Top questions from Learners during class included: Why do attacks occur early in the morning? What are the symptoms of a heart attack in women? Is there a non-invasive method to detect blockage? Watch the full session to explore these inquiries and more

🥗 Nourishing Your Body: Timeless Principles for Healthy Aging

Dr. Gokani, a distinguished Consultant Physician and Diabetologist with an illustrious career spanning over 36 years shared timeless wisdom on nourishing not just the body but also the mind and soul through healthy aging principles. 

‍Key session takeaways included:

• Practical advice on diet, such as the benefits of minimal cooking and the importance of hydration, provided simple yet effective strategies for maintaining health.
• To maintain our well-being, we must also nourish our body, mind, and soul through positive philosophy, prayer, and self-care practices. 
• The body's ability to regenerate certain cells, like intestinal cells, highlights the importance of choosing foods wisely and put attention to what you eat.

Top questions from Learners during class included: How much sunshine exposure is recommended and when? Is it necessary to drink water while sitting down? What's the best milk option? Watch the full session to explore these inquiries and more

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🦴 Thriving with Musculoskeletal Health: Managing Common Conditions with Confidence

Dr. Nene, a notable spine surgeon currently practicing as a Spine Surgeon in the ‘WeAreSpine’ Group attached to various corporate hospitals in Bombay, joined us and shared his expertise on musculoskeletal health and discussed ways of managing age-related degeneration. 

Key session takeaways included:

• Muscle building, balance exercises, and proper nutrition help prevent issues like osteoporosis and sarcopenia, maintaining musculoskeletal health as we age.
• The three-point program to reverse muscle loss equates to maintaining muscle health to operating a factory: it requires proper function (regular exercise), raw materials (nutritious diet), and demand (consistent physical activity). 
• Calcium intake is essential for preventing calcification in soft tissues and maintaining bone health, supported by vitamin D and protein supplements. 

Top questions from Learners during class included: What is the proper test for osteoporosis? Is pelvic tilt the same as pulling the stomach inside? How important is Vitamin B12? Watch the full session to explore these inquiries and more

At GetSetUp, we remain committed to providing enriching experiences that not only inform but also inspire action. We believe in empowering individuals to take control of their health, fostering independence, and enhancing their ability to enjoy life to the fullest. If your organization is passionate about making a positive impact in the areas of health and wellness, we invite you to join us as a partner for our future Health Weeks. Reach out to us at ashwini@getsetup.io to explore how we can work together.