DO YOU HAVE A LOVED ONE WITH DEMENTIA? THE BENEFITS OF OPEN-SKILL SPORTS WANT TO IMPROVE BRAIN HEALTH? GRAB A SWORD!
We were working with a client recently whose parent has early- onset dementia. Families who go through this have to navigate an emotional gauntlet. As they helplessly watch their loved one slowly struggle with symptoms they can't control, the last thing on their mind is how this affects managing the financial assets. But as inconsequential as it may sound, it couldn’t be a more critical time to solidify all the aspects of an estate plan and manage their finances. If your loved one is struggling with dementia, here are three reasons you need to have that conversation now . IT’S ACCURATE If your loved one is still in the early stages of dementia, then odds are they still have plenty of moments where lucid thoughts are prominent. Having an explicit conversation during this period is crucial to making sure all the wishes of the originator are carried As dementia progresses, the symptoms can become aggressive and potentially violent. The complex nature of mood swings or paranoia can create a hostile environment to discuss estate planning. Often caretakers will receive the brunt of the projection, which can have dangerous implications depending on the stage of dementia. The earlier you can catch the disorder, the easier it will be for all parties to set up a clear line of succession. IT’S ETHICAL In many cases, family members or close relatives will strongly object if you attempt to set up an estate plan in the later stages of dementia. It also provides a platform for vigorous objection in court if the family alleges criminal misconduct. Generating an estate plan late in the progression of the disease creates an ethical line that is very tough to toe. Spending time setting up an estate plan may be the last thing you want to do with your loved one’s remaining coherent moments, but it could be the most important thing you can do for them. Always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation. NOW IS THE TIME TO SET UP THEIR ESTATE PLAN out accurately. IT’S EASIER
Did you know fencing is making a comeback? No longer just for heartsick gentlemen of the Regency era, fencing is increasingly being taught in public schools, displayed in the pages of popular indie comics, and practiced among seniors. Plenty of baby boomers are picking up swords, or “sabers” — and it’s not because they’re preparing to fight dragons. Exercise is important no matter your age, but some activities are more beneficial than others. Research published in the journal Psychology of Sport and Exercise (PSE) suggests activities defined as “open-skill sports,” like fencing, can do more to improve brain health The difference between an open-skill sport and a closed-skill sport lies in the dynamic nature of the activity. Going for a jog is great for your heart health, but your body is doing the same thing during the entire workout. This makes it a closed-skill sport. The same goes for swimming; you might have different strokes to choose from when you jump in the pool, but your brain is focused on repeating the action while doing your laps. Open-skill sports require players to respond to unpredictable circumstances in unpredictable ways. Fencing is a great open-skill sport because, while you have to learn the right way to hold the saber and move your body, you also have to think on your feet and react quickly to your opponent's attacks. Researchers from the Foro Italico University of Rome believe that it’s the required adaptability that makes open-skill sports so good for your brain. You challenge your body with complex motor movements and your mind with fast decisions. In the study from PSE, the researchers reported that “the open-skill athletes used less brainpower to do the than “closed-skill sports.” OPEN OR CLOSED?
same thing than the closed-skill exercisers did.” WHAT’S THE BEST OPEN-SKILL SPORT?
If fencing isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other great open-skill sports, including tennis, badminton, basketball, and racquetball. What are you waiting for? Swing by your local rec center and find out what open-skill sport will be your new favorite pastime!
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