Health Tip: Taking a Mental Status Test
Mental status tests are given to determine the state of a person's mental health. The test, for example, can help gauge the mental progression of a physical illness such as Alzheimer's disease.
Here's what may comprise a mental status test, courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine:
* An examination of physical appearance, including dress and grooming.
* Orientation and awareness -- knowing one's own name, address, and phone, as well as the current date and season.
* Length of attention span, and short-term and long-term memory.
* Tests to determine abilities including problem solving and judgment.
* Ability to identify objects and recall words.
Health Tip: Keeping the Caregiver Healthy
Caregiving is one of the toughest jobs around. It is both emotionally and physically draining.
The American Heart Association offers these suggestions for those who assist others to help them feel energized, refreshed and happy:
* Make exercise a regular part of your life, even if it's just a quick walk a few times a day.
* Eat healthy meals and snacks -- whole grains, lean meats, fruits and vegetables -- anything that's good for your heart can help ward off depression.
* Every day, take a few minutes to do something that makes you happy or allows you to relax -- listening to music, reading, taking a hot bath, or anything you enjoy.
* Laugh as much as you can.
* Take some time for yourself to get away each week, even if only for an hour or so.
* Look for signs of depression, and treat them promptly.
* Stay organized and on top of projects to keep from feeling overwhelmed.
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