BioLite

As a lightweight camper and hiker, I always enjoy finding new multi-use gear (I sound like Alton Brown!). For over a year now I have been advocating the original, smaller BioLite wood stove which also generates electricity and now the company has generated a Kickstarter campaign for the same type of fuel efficient stove. This one is meant for groups but still maintains the same efficiency, making it ideal in crisis and underserved areas of the world where wood is scarce, such as in Haiti.

In fact, my first endeavor in this area is as co-creator of the Mangold Mamba in the aftermath of the earthquakes in that country. While wood is scarce there, alcohol is not. This is a great example of how the SCANCAPS concept works: good health, a safe environment, clean water, and nutritious food are all required everywhere we live. If you can, click on the Kickstarter link and make a difference in someone's quality of life.
Thanks!

Dementia II

In the first part of this series I talked about how dementia is not only a decline in memory but also a decrease of other higher cognitive functions such as reasoning and judgment. While I was big on detection, especially subtle clues, I lacked in prevention. Always a proponent of eating correctly, exercising, and supplementation, I have found more specific guidelines published by The Amen Clinics here:
http://www.amenclinics.com/blog/12-ways-dodge-dementia/

Note the standard recommendations for fish or krill oil and Vitamin D which all of us should be taking. Take a look at some of my previous posts for more detailed information, too.

Does following Dr. Amen's advice help someone already with dementia? Perhaps early on but a well-regulated regimen of supplements, physical and mental exercise, and medications is the best approach. While I hope family members can get involved in their parents' care, early intervention is critical to minimize damage and prolong a quality life. Getting mom or dad to admit she or he has a problem is also a challenge. My best advice: do not enable. Do not tell your parent that everything is fine. Do not allow  your siblings to enable either. Easier said than done. Trust me.

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