Vim & Vigor - Summer 2011 - Parrish Medical Center - (Page 13)

Relationships FRIENDSHIPS, MARRIAGES and family relationships affect your well-being, for better and worse. “We know from statistics that people who are in committed relationships take better care of themselves and live more active lives,” Gerbstadt says. “Marriage can be very stressful,” says Johnson, who has been married for 61 years. “But we avoid arguments as much as we can and respect each other and our judgments and feelings. We’re best friends.” Connecting with family members and socializing with friends is not only good for your health, but it also makes life more enjoyable. Sheubrooks says her family comes ﬁrst. “I am fortunate to have responsible, independent children and grandchildren whom I love to surround myself with. We go on vacations and trips together all the time. It’s what I’m all about,” she says. Vaughn says her family keeps her active. “It’s important to make exercise a priority with your family from a very young age. I used to take my kids to the playground, and my husband always played football outside,” she says. And now that her daughters are older, they train for races and walk together. ADVICE TO TAKE: Spend time with friends and family who love and encourage you. And remember that bad relationships can age a person and cause additional stress. “If you are in a stressful or unhealthy relationship, seek counseling for help in resolving these issues,” Gerbstadt says. Follow the Rules SCREENING Pap test AGE AND FREQUENCY After age 30, women who have three years of normal results can get screened every two or three years. Yearly screenings starting at age 40, or sooner if you have a family history of breast cancer. Beginning at age 50, schedule your screening every 10 years. Monitor your moles monthly; starting at age 20, request a mole exam each year as part of a yearly physical. Although we may not always follow the advice of parents or friends, the American Cancer Society has guidelines regarding preventive screenings that should be taken seriously. Regular cancer screenings can detect abnormalities early and increase survival rates. Use this chart as a guideline to schedule your screenings. Mammogram Colonoscopy Skin cancer screening Vim & Vigor · SUMM ER 2011 13

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Vim & Vigor - Summer 2011 - Parrish Medical Center

Vim & Vigor - Summer 2011 - Parrish Medical Center
Contents
Tasty Tips
Opening Thoughts
Community Calendar
What’s New?
Navigating the Healthcare Waters
Girl Talk
Say What?
Action Plan
Like This? Try That!
On the Cover
A Day in the Life of Your Heart
Unexpected Heroes
Get in Gear
A Real Lifesaver
Extras, Extras
Community Health
Thriving With Diabetes
Foundation Focus
Ask the Expert

Vim & Vigor - Summer 2011 - Parrish Medical Center