Blog – Page 5 – sielbleu.ie

August 2, 2019

Brain Power: The Benefits of Exercise

The brain, also known as our coordinating centre of sensation, intellectual, and nervous activity, is what maintains our thinking, memory, and functioning capabilities. When we are younger, we have all of these intact, and never have to think twice about the operational capacities of our brains. Yet, as we grow older this looming issue becomes more prevalent, and we have to actively work harder to preserve these properties. What if there was a way to do this, where the benefits are two-fold? A main approach to keeping your brain healthy, and sharp into our older years is through the means of exercise!

When we are exercising we are gradually increasing our heart rate, and breathing, creating more oxygen into our bloodstream. From there, more oxygen goes to the brain leading to the production of neurons, where memory and thinking are controlled. This process increases your cognitive reserve which is the brain’s ability to improvise and find alternate ways to get the job done. It has been found that the greater the cognitive reserve, the better we are able to starve off symptoms of degenerative brain changes associated with dementia, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or a stroke. For this reason, many rehabilitation, or treatments surrounding these involve some form of exercise.

Another reason why being active helps your brain, is it leads to greater brain plasticity. This is the brain’s ability to change and adapt as a result of an experience. In other words, it allows the brain to modify, or rewire itself. Without this, the human brain would be unable to develop through adulthood, or recover from a brain injury. Also, working out increases serotonin (happy hormone), and norepinephrine (stress hormone), which boosts information processing, and mood. This is why we constantly here the saying, “You will never regret a workout,” because we will always feel better after exercising. Also, many of our participants who have had mood swings due to strokes, or chronic conditions, mention how the exercises have greatly improved their mood.

Gomes-Osman, and her colleagues looked at 98 studies that involved over 11,000 participants that were on average 73 years old, which tested the benefits of exercise on the brain. 59 percent of the participants were deemed clinically healthy, whereas the others had some form of a degenerative brain disease. They found that at least 52 hours of exercise over an average of 6 months can lead to better processing speed, which refers to the amount of time the brain needs to process information, or carry out a task. Also, the healthy individuals showed improvement in their executive function, which is the brain’s ability to plan ahead, set, and achieve goals, as well as come up with strategies. As far as exercise type (aerobic, yoga, or strength), they were equally beneficial for the senior’s thinking skills.

Overall, exercise is multifaceted, as it helps both the body, and the mind. Even though it is scary to face our own time clocks, and there are many things out of our control, exercise is the one thing we have the choice to do. The best gift we can give ourselves, and others is the gift of health, and working out is the easiest, and cost effective way to do so.

If you are interested in our programmes go to: https://www.sielbleu.ie/home/programmes/

Sources:

https://www.google.com/search?q=brain+definition&rlz=1C1CAFB_enUS660US664&oq=brain+defin&aqs=chrome.1.69i57j0l5.16884j1j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/what-is-cognitive-reserve

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/regular-exercise-changes-brain-improve-memory-thinking-skills-201404097110

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321981.php

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-fifth-vital-sign/201901/why-exercise-is-good-your-brain

https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-brain-plasticity-2794886

July 25, 2019April 14, 2021

Benefits of Group Exercise for Seniors

When we start working out we all have the best intentions. We start out excited and, motivated to reach our goals. The first couple of weeks we are crossing off the days on the calendar, feeling proud that we are getting in our exercises. After a few weeks, we are seeing progress and, the drive to keep going is still strong.

Now, some months have gone by and, the momentum has slowed down. We have missed workouts here and there, the exercise routine is getting boring, and the incentive to keep going is dwindling away. Many of us have found ourselves in this position before, and it is difficult to pull ourselves out of this rut. However, one way to gain ambition again is through group workouts! Anyone can benefit from this style of exercise, yet it has been shown that seniors especially find it advantageous.

The first, and most evident benefit from exercises classes is that it encourages seniors to get out of the house more. When we retire many of us find ourselves feeling lost because, our everyday routine now has changed forever. It is important during this time to search for things that make us feel productive again.

Group exercise classes allow elderly people to have something to look forward to once or twice a week, as it is scheduled at the same time. Also, just like work, exercising gives us a purpose, because we are constantly working towards a goal of some kind and, fostering a sense of accomplishment. Particularly in exercise classes, it is designed to provide focused, gradual progression so that we can work toward higher goals in a safe, healthy, and effective way.

Additionally exercise classes provide social opportunities for seniors. More seniors are reporting feelings of depression, loneliness, and isolation. Yet, group exercise classes are a great way to help older adults to attain friendships, and interact with others their own age. By doing this, we are not only improving our bodies physically, but mentally. Having relationships with people is just as important to living a long life as exercise is.

On top of that, by making friendships within the exercise class we have a built in accountability system. This increases the chances of getting out, and participating so that we can experience the maximum benefits associated with being active. It has been demonstrated that those who exercise in a group setting are more likely to push themselves harder in their workouts than those who exercise on their own.

To display this point even further, a study was done in 2016 with 26 older adults ranging in ages 66 to 86, where they measured the benefits of group exercise. They found that, even though participants perceived they were aging physically, and cognitively, regular group exercise helped them to improve or maintain their functional health and enjoy their lives. Also, they felt socially connected and experienced a sense of security in the community through caring for others, and supporting each other.

All in all, group exercise classes provide a plethora of proven benefits. Whether it be for the accountability, friendships, physical aspect, or feeling a sense of accomplishment again. The majority of the services Siel Bleu provides are group classes, where people of all walks of life, and abilities come together for a hour to exercise. Even though everyone comes, and stays in the classes for different reasons, they all would agree they are better for it.

For more information on Siel Bleu classes: https://www.sielbleu.ie/home/programmes/

Sources:

https://bmcgeriatr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12877-017-0584-

https://www.senioradvice.com

www.sonashomehealth.com

July 18, 2019April 14, 2021

The Importance of Aerobic Training for Senior Fitness

We talk a lot about strength training exercises, and the advantages it presents for older adults. Yet, what about aerobic training? Aerobic exercise, also known as cardiovascular exercise (cardio), is a brisk exercise that promotes circulation of oxygen through the blood, and is associated with an increased rate of breathing. In other words, it is low to moderate intensity exercises that can be done consistently without stopping where you are able to still hold a conversation, whereas anaerobic exercise you cannot. Some examples include quick walking, biking, jogging, hiking, etc. As children, many people can remember doing these things with their friends, or family during their play time. Yet, as we get older we tend to stop doing aerobic exercise as it is no longer a priority and can be missing the vast benefits it holds.

Working aerobic exercise into a fitness routine for an older person has a big impact on the health of your lungs, heart, and overall bodily functions. During aerobic exercise, we breathe faster, and more deeply, increasing blood flow, and circulation throughout our body. This is important as it helps reduce unpleasant symptoms, such as pain, muscle cramps, numbness, digestive issues, and coldness in the hands, or feet.

Doing this type of workout regularly allows the entire pulmonary system to increase the amount of oxygen that the lungs can handle, toning the lungs, and the heart. By strengthening the heart, we are lowering our resting heart, and increasing our stamina. This means that our heart does not have to work as hard when doing day to day activities. On top of that, it aides in warding off viral illness by activating, and boosting our immune system, making us less susceptible to viruses like the flu. Not only does aerobic exercise help our physical well being, but it assists with our emotional state of mind. When participating in this type of exercise, we release something called endorphins, also known as happy hormones. When released, they promote an increased sense of happiness, as well as help with reducing pain.

Now with all this information, how do we put it into practice? The recommended amount of exercise for older adults is 150 minutes a week with a mix of cardio, and strength. An example of this is doing one strength training workout for 60 minutes, such as a Siel Bleu exercise class, and three aerobic training sessions such as a brisk walk for 35 minutes at a time. Remember, aerobic training is not a vigorous workout, and the intensity should be done at a rate where a conversation can be held. All in all, it does not matter what type of cardio is done, but that it is done consistently, and it is something that is enjoyable. So, walk, bike, swim, and reap the many benefits of aerobic training!

For more information on Siel Bleu programmes: https://www.sielbleu.ie/home/programmes/

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-that-increase-blood-flow

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/aerobic-exercise/art-20045541

https://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=10182

https://www.medicalguardian.com/medical-alert-blog/fitness/the-importance-of-aerobic-exercise-for-seniors

July 11, 2019April 14, 2021

Maintaining Independence Through Exercise

When we are younger, we are dependent on our family, teachers, and peers. During that period, we dream of the days of becoming independent, and being able to be on our own. After that day finally comes, we think we will never lose it and we can stay that way forever. Unfortunately, as we age it becomes more difficult to maintain our independence. A high percentage of people can end up in assisted living, nursing homes, or completely wheelchair bound. Yet, what if there was a way to stay independent longer? Through exercise, and staying active, it has been shown that older adults are capable of keeping their abilities for a prolonged period of time.

Independence can be defined as the ability to perform basic activities of daily living without help, such as walking, eating, bathing/showering, dressing, getting in and out of bed, and using the toilet. Walking without assistance is probably the one that most determines if a person can live independently. Older people who are physically more active and who exercise frequently are more likely to walk independently and do other activities of daily living on their own, compared to sedentary elders. The reason why walking is a determining factor is due to the risk of falling.

Falls are the third leading cause of chronic disability, and the number one injury among seniors. However, it has been shown that elderly adults who perform regular exercise have increased balance, stability, and strength. Also, in the event of a fall, those who are continuously active have been shown to have improved healing and function.

Health is defined as the state of being free from illness, or injury. According to the National Institute of Ageing, exercising as a senior may delay or even prevent diseases like diabetes, cancer, stroke, heart disease and osteoporosis, just to name a few. This means less hospital stays, fewer days of being bed ridden, and preserving your strength.

To demonstrate this further, they took a survey of close to 3,000 participants who were older than 60 years old. Through this, they found that those who participated in continuous physical activity were associated with lower levels of activities of daily living dependency (ACL). Likewise it was revealed that for elderly patients who already have some functional limitations, even a low level of physical activity is essential as is slows further decline in physical functioning.

Being independent is not only having the capability to perform basic actions, but having the ability to live your life to the fullest. It’s about playing with your grandchildren, going out for walks with friends, or taking a holiday without barriers or obstacles. Dr. Nick Cavill, a health promotion consultant, conveys, “As people get older, their bodies decline in function and physical activity helps to slow that decline,” he goes on to say, “If you want to stay pain-free, reduce your risk of mental illness, and be able to go out, and stay independent well into old age, you’re advised to keep moving.”

All things considered, exercise is the easiest, and most cost effective way to maintain independence into our older years. We cannot not let our lack of activity, lead to our loss of independence. Remember, we do not have control over our age but, we do have control over how we age.

For more information on the classes we provide, please check out: https://www.sielbleu.ie/home/programmes/

Sources:

https://www.gmjournal.co.uk/media/21715/oct2010p539.pdf

https://www.asccare.com/importance-exercise-seniors/

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/exercise-as-you-get-older/

https://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/sgr/olderad.htm

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/walking-exercise-helps-seniors-stay-mobile-independent-201405287173

July 4, 2019April 14, 2021

Exercise myths about older adults

Welcome to Siel Bleu’s myth buster addition! Many people have fears, and speculations when it comes to working out, especially into an older age. In this blog, we are going to go over the common myths that surround this topic, and the actual truths behind them.

Myth: Exercise isn’t safe for someone my age

Actually, not moving is much riskier and can speed up the ageing process. When you are inactive, you start to lose strength, stamina, and balance. This in turn leads to issues like falls, which is the third leading cause of chronic disability, and loss independence. Yet, it has been shown that regular exercise, prevents loss of bone mass and improves balance, actually reducing your risk of falling.

In one particular study, they took 344 adults, 70 and older, who previously had three falls. The older adults took part in a simple resistance training programme over a 6 month period. The result? The study showed that participants were less likely to experience repeat falls. Also, as a secondary benefit they improved in areas of cognitive function. Doctor Teresa Liu-Ambrose, who conducted this study adds, “Older adults who experience falls are medically complex and at high risk for both morbidity and mortality, and we demonstrated that exercise is a practical and cost-effective intervention that can improve older peoples’ outcomes after a significant fall.” Remember, the more physically fit you are, the less likely you are to get injured.

Myth: It’s too expensive

In all reality, exercise saves you money! By staying active, it has been shown that you will have less medications, hospital visits, and are able to stay independent longer, reducing the need for long term care. You don’t have to spend money to exercise, simply getting out of the house and going for a walk is beneficial. Or try some simple movement exercises while watching the TV.

Also, due to Siel Bleu being a nonprofit, our exercise classes are affordable, allowing most people to participate. In addition to the classes, many of our participants exercise at home, which in turn saves money from having to get a gym membership. Checkout our newsletter here, where you can sign up and receive 3 free at home exercise programmes: http://bit.ly/newslettersbi

Myth: I have never exercised before, it’s too late to make a difference in my health

Many people think that symptoms, such as weakness, or loss of balance, are strictly caused by old age. While it is true that as you get older, our body’s functionality can decline, physical activity helps to slow any further decline.

Yet, there is good news! It has been shown that even if someone decided to exercise after being physically inactive, the benefits of longevity would still be significant. For example, in a study in the UK, it was found that even people in their nineties living in a nursing home boosted muscle strength after starting an exercise routine! Another thing to keep in mind is that beginners see that most amount of progress when starting out, compared to those who are experienced. This demonstrates at any point in life being active is advantageous for your health.

Myth: I’m not fit enough to attend an exercise class

Most people who start an exercise class, have either no exercise experience, or very little. When you attend a Siel Bleu exercise class, you will see that everyone comes from diverse walks of life, and have different abilities. Also, our trainers are highly educated, having to obtain at least a Bachelors in Exercise Science, and are trained by Siel Bleu standards. Due to this, trainers will find modifications for you if you are unable to do an exercise, and each class is done at your own pace. On top of that, you get the added benefit of exercising with a group which is motivating, holds you accountable, and allows you to build relationships with the other participants. Also, as many of our I Can champions pointed out last week, you have to start somewhere!

Sources:

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/exercise-and-fitness-as-you-age.htm

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325610.php?fbclid=IwAR0tf4jebUWCXVQWDHCBHuCiCfdVm1Pp5p9qBHO9LsXkYiRFjerHPvYTFgk

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/exercise-as-you-get-older/

https://www.bbc.com/news/health-47331544

https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/guide/exercise-and-aging-myths#1

https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/exercise-older-adults#2

http://aginginstride.enewsworks.com/en/10047/articles/2456/Top-10-Myths-About-Seniors-and-Exercise.htm

https://www.belmarrahealth.com/home-exercise-program-lowers-fall-risk-elderly/?fbclid=IwAR0qIJlMXb-aJ0JK1YFxtssBI23BWc6KflvREkdiFsK7x76YjNpMC-Y2XaA

June 24, 2019April 14, 2021

I Can Inspire! – The Salty Sea Dogs

Written by Erin Mrozek

Best mates, men of the sea, jokesters, and inspirational , are just a few words to describe our champions today, the Salty Sea Dogs. After retirement, many people feel lost without their colleagues, yet these men have found solace within each other’s company. Six days a week they meet for coffee to discuss their day to day lives, and as one of the member’s joke, “to sort out the world’s problems.” As they all enjoyed this routine, a period in time would change it forever.

One day, Flor O’Driscoll, was sailing on the coast when he suffered a stroke. Even though he survived this terrifying moment, his arms and legs were disabled. Through his stroke recovery group, he started participating in Siel Bleu classes. Through the exercise courses, acupuncture, and physiotherapy, Flor was restored of the majority of his abilities, and was able to continue to do his favorite past time, sailing. Motivated by his own progress, and enjoying the social aspect of it, Flor was determined to bring the class to the Salty Sea Dogs. Now, every Monday morning, instead of just sitting down for a coffee, and a chat, they take part in Siel Bleu exercise classes lead by Shane.

With their playful personalities, and quick wit, many people would not know that the majority of these men are in their seventies. The men who are young at heart, have seen how age can eventually start to affect physical, and mental abilities. They especially noticed this when they first started with the exercise classes, expressing, “Makes you a bit aware that none of us are getting any younger.” At times they may leave the class feeling wrecked, but the Salty Sea Dogs know the significance of maintaining their fitness to continue to do what they love, as Flor conveys, “Its important to be able to continue your hobbies, and have a purpose in life when you retire.”

These men are similar in many ways, yet they all come from different walks of life, and range in age dramatically. What may seem like a challenge to other exercise programmes, is a specialty of Siel Bleu. The comprehensive classes are tailored to each group’s needs. Sailing, a past time that many of the members have been doing since they were adolescents, requires balance, coordination, strength, and a sharp mind. These are all components that are worked on each class. Yet, the class is not monotonous in the least. The trainer always keeps it interesting, such as a friendly competition where the loser has to do the dreaded exercise known as the bicycle. This is why when they are asked why the keep coming back, they say, “its good craic!” Life is too short to not enjoy it, and these men demonstrate that someone can get fit, and also have fun.

Exercise is not just about getting in better shape, but it is also a preemptive measure. Falls are a huge issue for the growing aging population, as it leaves people injured, and many times takes away people’s independence. One of the main methods for preventing this is through an exercise regime. This is what allows men like Liam at 89, the oldest member, to be able to sail his own boat. Likewise, Flor, who at one point lost the ability to use his left side of his body, to sail independently. As we grow older, we tend to focus on things we can no longer do. Yet, at Siel Bleu we focus on what you can do. Shane, explains our view perfectly as he notes, “..its just about empowering people, like Flor who had a stroke, that you too can enjoy the benefits of exercise… so no matter what may be a personal barrier of challenges, you can always participate in physical activity.”

The Salty Sea Dogs are featured in our I Can…So Can You Ad – watch below

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To bring Siel Bleu to your social club call 01 209 6889 or email info@sielbleu.ie For more information visit Siel Bleu Community Programmes

June 24, 2019April 14, 2021

I Can…So Can You! – Jennifer Sweeney

I Can Do Anything I want

Written by Erin Mrozek

Meet Jennifer Sweeney, a friend, daughter, mother (to her dog Muffin), cancer survivor, and one of the strongest people you will ever meet. She was one of our I Can champions last year, and her story was so inspiring that people contacted Siel Bleu to find out how they can get as fit as her. After making a lasting impact on the Siel Bleu staff, and those who were touched by her story, we decided to make her our poster child for this year’s I Can campaign.

In 2014, Jennifer was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer, where she went through radiation and chemotherapy, and the beaming light that is Jennifer started to fade. The treatments completely, “flattened her out,” leaving her to feel exhausted, and downtrodden, unable to be the active person she once was. Fast forward to 2016, a friend of hers, who lives on the opposite side of Dublin, had been going to a Siel Bleu community class in Bray, and rejoiced about her experience. Jennifer, searching for a way to feel like herself again, contacted us. Due to her extreme fatigue, she was unable to drive to the classes, but thankfully we have the option of one to one programmes. This is the story of how Jennifer got her spark back.

Immediately, Jennifer and her personal trainer at the time, Paul, had great rapport. She describes her first sessions with him as, “great, because he caught on to my abilities right away, and very gently he would push, but not too much.” This is not unlike many of the experiences of other participants, as our trainers are not only highly educated, but empathetic, and personable. When she started, she was only able to do exercises at the kitchen table, sitting down, and standing up. The same person after 6 months was able to do 150 squats, which is a considerable amount, even for the avid gym goer! Every year she goes to Turkey for holiday, and during the interview she jokes that everyone there calls her Jennifer Lopez, because the famous singer and actress is known for her backside.

Sean, her current trainer, remarks how far she has come, even from that moment. When he first met her she only wanted to do exercises she was familiar with, and at the beginning was not too fond with change. Overtime, her sessions progressed, and he added more exercises to her repertoire. He conveys, “Seeing her step out of her comfort zone has been the best/biggest achievement of our time together.”

Her trainer is not the only one who has noticed a difference in her. Finn, Jennifer’s best friend of 20 years, exclaims, “She’s fitter and stronger than I am!” At first, Finn was skeptical about the programme, fearing that a personal trainer might push Jennifer too hard, and end up injuring herself. Yet, as time went on, she saw how the programme has impacted her both physically, and mentally. From helping her get through gloomy winter days in Ireland, to being able to carry her dog, Muffin, up and down the stairs. Jennifer proves that strength does not come from age, or physical attributes, rather it comes from never surrendering to the obstacles that are placed in front of you. For anyone considering Siel Bleu for themselves, or a loved one, let me leave you this, “It’s not about miraculous achievement, it’s the fact that you are doing something… you feel better and if you feel better, you’ll perform better.” — Jennifer

Jennifer is featured in our I Can 2019 ad

To read more in depth on Jennifer’s story checkout her feature in the Irish Examiner: http://bit.ly/ICanExaminer

You can also watch Jennifer’s video from last year’s campaign here.

To try a Siel Bleu One to One Programme call 01 209 6889 or email info@sielbleu.ie For more information on One to One Programmes

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June 24, 2019April 14, 2021

I Can Live My Life To The Full Again! – Austin Hynes

I Can Live My Life To The Full Again!

Written by Erin Mrozek

Meet our next I Can Champion Austin Hynes, a minor league GAA coach for Foxrock, who turned devastation into perseverance. In 2014,during a routine medical exam for hemochromatosis, the doctor observed Austin walking and asked, “Has anyone told you that you have Parkinson’s?” Shortly after, the shocking revelation was confirmed and he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. This new information left his family distraught to the point where his wife was overcome with emotion, and cried for two days straight. When confronted with adversity many people hide, or run from the problem they are facing, but Austin decided to deal with it head on.

He joined a support group run by Parkinson’s Ireland in Harold’s Cross, where not long after he discovered Siel Bleu. The support group coordinators, Eugene and Sinead, brought Siel Bleu classes to the Harold’s Cross shortly after attending the I Can launch last year and it was the third Dublin based class to be established. Austin found the class so valuable, that he wanted others to reap the same benefits. While already being in talks with people of the same diagnosis in his community, he decided to start a support group with Siel Bleu exercise in Loughlinstown. What started out as a class of 5-6 people, has grown to 20!

Even before becoming an I Can champion for being an outstanding member of his community, and his dedication to the cause, he was inspiring others like his friend Sean. Similarly, Sean was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and felt distressed about the news. One day he walked into a pub, where he shared with the bartender that he recently found out that he had Parkinson’s. Instead of the normal disheartened look, the bartender relayed that his father, Austin, also had Parkinson’s, and was doing great. Through this chance encounter the dynamic duo was born, and Sean started attending exercise classes alongside Austin.

The exercise class is a comprehensive workout that is of high quality, as Austin remarks how, “you work every aspect of your body!” By doing this, it not only makes you stronger, but it allows you to continue to do the things you love. Group coordinator Eugene commented, “People don’t realize that it was exercise plus fun, its social and they can laugh with each other.” “Even people with limited mobility are able to participate in the class,” said Sinead.

For Austin, it gives him the strength to stand, and coach young 20 year olds, while Sean can continue to garden. Yet, what keeps them coming back to the class is the social aspect of the group, and the sense of community. Sometimes when tragedy strikes in our lives we feel isolated, or misunderstood. Yet, Siel Bleu makes you feel like you belong again, as Austin comments, “You do not feel alone in the classes.” Even though no one’s story is the same, you all have the same goal in mind, to maintain the life you have.

For those who are nervous about starting a new workout class or routine, Austin’s main advice is to adopt a positive approach as, “your attitude towards the class makes a difference.” Everyone at some point started at the beginning feeling nervous, and scared of the unknown. Yet, as many of the participants can tell you, progress is impossible without change. And, in the words of Sean, “The worst thing you can do is sit there, and do nothing… Keep going, and keep fighting it!”

Parkinson’s information:

Parkinson’s disease is classified as a movement disorder that affects your motor system, and overtime can affect your non-motor systems. So, how do you help slow down the effects of a movement disorder? By adding in movement through various types of exercise! In general, exercise is healthy, and helps with a variety of things such as range of motion, heart health, sleep, stamina, walking speed, and cognitive function. Yet, for those living with Parkinson’s disease, exercise is more than healthy, it is a vital component to maintaining balance, mobility, along with other physical aspects. Also, it has been shown to slow the mental aspects of the disease down, such as fatigue, mood, sleep, and mental health problems. The Parkinson’s Outcomes Project shows that people with PD who start exercising earlier and a minimum of 2.5 hours a week, experience a reduced decline in quality of life compared to those who start later. It has even been demonstrated that exercise can be just as important as your medication to help take control, and manage your symptoms. Melissa Mattioda, a UW Health neurologic physical therapist, notes that, “The benefits of exercise can aid individuals with Parkinson’s in their performance of daily activities over the duration of the condition,” she also goes onto to add, “Variety and intensity of exercise are key, but there are few kinds of exercise that are especially important.” The types of exercises that are helpful for those who are suffering from this disease are, aerobic/cardio, strength training, balance, and range of motion stretching exercises. These are all included in the comprehensive plans that Siel Bleu provides!

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There are currently four Parkinson’s exercise groups up and running in the Dublin area and more coming in other regions shortly. For more information about Siel Bleu Parkinson’s Programme

June 24, 2019April 14, 2021

I Can Witness Improvements! – Marymount Care Centre

I Can Witness Improvements In Our Residents

Written by Erin Mrozek

Today in our I Can champion series, we would like to introduce Marymount Care Centre, a family run nursing home in Lucan. Conor McNulty, the General Manager of the establishment, along with other staff members, are changing the narrative of nursing homes one resident at a time. In 2013, Marymount started utilising Siel Bleu exercise classes in their establishment, with Martina leading the exercise classes twice a week. 6 years later, with 91 residents, and 10-12 participants in each session, Siel Bleu’s impact is still going strong to this day.

Their progressive outlook on being active has proven to be extremely successful for the residents they serve. At Marymount, their approach is focusing on abilities over disabilities. At any stage in life, we want to enjoy our time on earth, and a big part of that is maintaining our independence. Yet, for many of the people who come into the nursing home they have exhausted their abilities, and become wheel chair bound. This can happen from someone falling, and losing their confidence, or from lost muscle mass due to physical inactivity. Most people would accept this condition of a resident, and move on. However, Marymount believes in another way, one that helps residents regain the majority of their abilities, such as walking again. This is through utilising a holistic methodology that involves physiotherapy and exercise programmes like Siel Bleu.

Through the multiple success stories, and over 32 years of experience, the nursing home has developed a multidisciplinary approach. This allows for residents to have a whole range of things they can tap into. Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, which means to have a high quality life you cannot focus on just one aspect of wellness. Marymount has proven this concept with their residents time after time. Since residents have access to Siel Bleu exercise classes, physiotherapy, and care staff that will get them up, and moving in the morning, it has been shown that their residents are stronger, happier, and overall healthier.

In addition to their holistic methodology, they believe that the opinions of the residents, and their families matter when it comes to how they run the facility, and the programmes they put on. This is why after 6 years, Siel Bleu is still servicing Marymount, as Conor conveys, “Siel Bleu is non-negotiable…the want is driven by the residents.” Not only is there a significant difference in their physical abilities, but also there is observable change in their mood. Conor vocalises, “They are coming back from the room with a pep in their step after (a Siel Bleu) class, and rarely people complain about going” Likewise, the families of the residents have taken notice. When they come to visit, if their family member is in a Siel Bleu exercise class they will wait for them to be done because, they know how important it is.

Most of all, Siel Bleu is for everyone, and anyone. Their most vulnerable residents are the ones who cannot speak for themselves, and have issues like Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Marymount’s staff has noticed that no matter the circumstances of the person, they are able to go to the classes, participate, and follow along with those who are next to them. Conor adds, “Siel Bleu is for anyone… It’s not just for those who are cognitively sharp,.. you work with what you have and maximise that potential.”

Establishments like Marymount Care Centre show that exercising is not just for the younger generation, but is vital for those who are older. It gives them the strength to go in a car with their children to go out to lunch, or just move about the house freely. Stories of an increase in abilities, mobility, and independence at Marymount, are a large part from Siel Bleu classes in conjunction with other activities. For those who are sceptical, take it from Conor when he expresses, “Anyone who is not doing physical exercise in nursing homes is missing a trick… we cannot give up on people because they are in their eighties and nineties, we are living longer than ever… age is not a determining factor, we do not give up!”

To bring Siel Bleu to your nursing home call 01 209 6889 or email info@sielbleu.ie For more information about Siel Bleu’s Nursing Home & Day Care Programmes

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June 24, 2019April 14, 2021

I Can Still Walk For Miles! – Noel McLoughlin

I Can Do Anything I want

Written by Erin Mrozek

Today we are catching up with one of our I Can champions from last year, Noel McLoughlin, who has motivated others through his joyful spirit and optimistic attitude. You may remember from last year, this astounding man whose slogan was “I Can walk 9km!” He opened up about his journey from having a devastating stroke to how Siel Bleu changed his life. This is Noel’s one year recap.

After having multiple strokes, Noel joined the Stroke Survivor’s support group in Tallaght which is run in partnership with the Irish Heart Foundation. They used to have doctors, dieticians, and nurses come in and do talks with them. One day one of the nurses who ran the group looked around and realised that all they were doing was sitting around. Noel recollects the nurse expressing, “We have to do better than this.” In 2017, Siel Bleu started to bring exercise classes to the support group. What initially began as 4 people has grown to around 30 people participating in the class on a weekly basis. These people that used to be strangers are now his dear friends, as they go bowling, walk through gardens, and view museums. Noel’s first week was difficult as he had not been exercising for a long time but, by the second week he was already getting the hang of it. Now, if he is sitting down and watching the television, he will do some of the chair exercises, such as lifting his legs up and down.

Even a year later Noel is still improving, and progressing. Many people know of the physical effects of a stroke, such as losing movement in your arms, or having problems with your speech. However, Noel suffered silent effects, ones that affect his mental health. Before he started being active he would have emotional outbursts multiple times a week, where he could cry for 15 minutes at a time. Now through the Siel Bleu exercise classes he is able to control his mood swings better, to where he may have one every other month. By building up his stamina through the classes he found his love for walking. This has also been a tremendous help for his mental health, as Noel conveys, “I come back a different man after taking a walk.” He has now built up to walking 10 km, and can easily go for two hours without stopping! Furthermore, he is able to keep up with his grandchildren even after they are hyped up on sugar from giving them a chocolate biscuit, or two.

Outside of the class, Noel is a role model for his community to get out and be active. Every time he goes out for a walk he invites his neighbours to join him. For instance, he inspired a man who had lost the ability to use his arms due to a stroke, and thought would never be active again, to start walking. Noel discloses, “I love talking to people, and telling them to get out of the house… don’t sit down all day, go for a small walk, and it gets better, and better as you go along.” For those who cannot make it to an exercise class, he has brought a piece of Siel Bleu to the neighbourhood by showing them small exercises to do on their own. Wherever Noel is, he is constantly encouraging and uplifting those around him. If you ever meet this brilliant man, you might just be lucky enough to be asked to go for a walk with him.

You see Noel’s video from last year’s I Can Campaign here

If you would like more information about Siel Bleu’s Stroke Survivor Classes

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