Health Tips

for seasoned citizens....

Covid and Travel
My wife and I got tested for Covid: Our Experience

We needed to prove that we were Covid free to take a vacation to Maine this summer; and we had to complete this 72 hours prior to departure. We went to a clinic nearby that had 24 hour results. Medicare paid for my tests but not for expediting the results-$100 fee. My wife is too young for Medicare and the lady giving the test let it be known: "do you have any symptoms...headache, lack appetite, fever etc" She repeated this several times...until we "caught on"...if you have any symptoms then the test is at no charge vs $300. So happens my wife had a stomach ache (could it be from my cooking from nite before?) and that resulted in her test being at no charge (still $100 to expedite results).

By the way the test was painless, which contradicted several other friends findings. Apparently this clinic didn't do the method of sticking the q tip deep into the nasal passages (pain)...they said this method was just as effective.

We fly to Maine (beat the Houston heat) for a 5 day bicycle ride going from town to town staying at B&B's/hotels in various cities. The cycling company moved our luggage between cities while we pedaled along the hilly coastline. Our experience showed only one hotel even asked us to show our Covid papers.

Going forward seems nobody really knows the dynamics for the Fall/Winter season. I've read that the Sars is mutating into other viruses but they are less harmful, but still contagious. Other reports say do not take the flu shot along with the Sars shot (whenever it comes out). I know we all long to see the "norm" return as soon as possible; and others suggest this is the new "norm." Time will tell.

May all of you be safe and at peace during these days.

Low-impact exercises

Low-impact exercises fall into four categories: endurance, strength, flexibility and balance. Incorporating all four types of exercise into your routine helps reduce the risk of injury and keeps you from getting bored. Instead of doing just one exercise all the time, mix it up! For a well-rounded exercise routine, try combining endurance exercises, like walking or swimming, with exercises that focus on the other categories. You can build strength through light weight training or pilates, for example. Pilates is also a great way to improve flexibility and balance.ll renew your life and sustain you in your old age.

Swimming

When you're swimming, it's easy to forget about staying hydrated, but working out in water doesn't mean you can get away with drinking less. Make sure you drink plenty of water before and after swimming laps.

If you don't have access to a neighborhood pool, you can look into joining the local gym or YMCA. New to swimming? You might look into hiring a trainer or swimming coach to get you started with common strokes and some stretches to help you cool down after your workout.

Walking

While you're walking, you want to focus on your posture, keeping your back straight and shoulders rolled back. If you're new to walking, start with a short distance and increase your walks by a few minutes each time until you're able to walk for 30- to 60-minute stretches.