Breast cancer awareness is crucial, especially for older adults. Understanding how to prevent it and detect it early can lead to more positive treatments and outcomes.
According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, 20% of older women above 75 years are diagnosed with breast cancer. The risk of getting this diagnosis increases with age and can be fatal for women above 80 years.
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, is a safe area for seniors to live since it has a low crime rate and access to a variety of outdoor activities. Older individuals can enjoy birding, walking trails, and practice photography in the region.
Let's discuss how assisted living and memory care communities in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, support breast cancer awareness through conversation and education.
The exact cause of breast cancer is not known. Healthcare experts suggest that this type of cancer begins when there's a change in the DNA of cells located in the breast tissue.
Usually, a cell's DNA gives it instructions to multiply and grow at a specific rate. It also informs the cells when to die. However, when a person has cancer, the DNA changes and thus gives different instructions.
The cancer cells end up multiplying faster while healthy cells die. This leads to the accumulation of too many cells. Cells containing cancer might come together to form a tumor, which grows and destroys healthy tissue.
Over time, the cancer cells can spread to different parts of the body, leading to metastatic cancer. DNA changes responsible for breast cancer occur in the cells lining the milk ducts. This kind of cancer is referred to as invasive ductal carcinoma.
Additionally, breast cancer can begin in the milk glands, also known as lobules. This type of cancer is known as invasive lobular carcinoma.
October is celebrated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. During this time, people receive education on aging and women's wellness. Furthermore, the importance of early detection is promoted and supported for those affected.
Memory care in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, understands the importance of breast cancer awareness and provides tips on how seniors should stay proactive with their health. Among the ways to spread breast cancer info for seniors in the Palm Beach Gardens assisted living community include the following:
Lifestyle changes play an essential role in controlling the risk of breast cancer, especially in older adults. Living a healthy lifestyle also reduces the likelihood of cancer developing and enhances your overall well-being. Some of the healthy lifestyle choices encouraged at Discovery Assisted Living Palm Beach Gardens include the following:
Senior living communities in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, also create a conducive environment where seniors feel safe and empowered to uphold their well-being and health.
The senior living community in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, offers wellness talks on senior health education. During these talks, residents learn about breast cancer treatment options, screening guidelines, symptoms, and risk factors.
Moreover, seniors receive up-to-date resources and information. It helps them make wise decisions regarding their health and take the necessary steps towards early detection and prevention.
Maintaining optimal health and a sharp mind involves engaging in social activities with peers that keep you active and improve your cognitive abilities. Discovery Village Palm Beach Gardens has a Celebrations activities and events program that fosters a sense of support and community among residents.
Seniors engage in social activities such as religious services, arts and crafts classes, and book clubs. With a wide array of activities to choose from daily, these older adults can talk openly about concerns related to breast cancer and offer mutual encouragement.
Breast cancer prevention begins by choosing a healthy way of living. Although you can't completely prevent breast cancer, there are ways you can lower your risk of getting the disease. Some of these ways include the following:
Seniors must know the symptoms of breast cancer for early detection. Some of the warning signs that you need to watch out for include the following:
If you notice any of the above symptoms, visit a healthcare professional for immediate diagnosis and treatment.
A self-exam for breast cancer awareness involves checking your breasts using your hands and eyes to check for any changes in the feel and look. The first step is to put your hands on your hips and use a mirror to check your breasts. Proceed to raise your arms and check your breasts for any bulging or dimpling of the skin.
During the exam, apply different levels of pressure to feel the closest tissue to the ribs.
Breast cancer is a delicate issue that should be discussed with thoroughness and sensitivity. Encouraging healthy living and providing breast cancer awareness can reduce the risk of seniors getting the disease.
Discovery Village at Palm Beach Gardens Senior Living Community promotes senior health education by hosting regular wellness talks about breast cancer. Our caregivers encourage seniors to take care of all apartment maintenance tasks so that residents can focus on living healthily.
Contact us today to learn how to navigate your health journey with dignity and confidence.