Experts are raising concerns about specific changes in walking patterns that may signal the early onset of dementia. Walking requires significant cognitive effort, and researchers have identified certain walking-related symptoms as potential warning signs of the condition, according to a report by Irish Star. As dementia progresses, individuals may struggle with their sense of direction, making it difficult to accurately interpret their surroundings. This altered perception can lead them to misjudge objects and spaces, sometimes causing them to change direction unexpectedly to avoid obstacles they only think are present. Gill Livingston, a professor at University College London, explains that early-stage Alzheimer’s can impact spatial awareness, leading to misinterpretations of visual information. Cognitive decline also affects walking speed and step size, often resulting in reduced confidence and balance. Dr. Kadam Nagpal, a senior consultant neurologist at Salubritas Medcentre, highlights four key walking signs that could indicate dementia.The first sign is a noticeable slowing of walking speed. This is more common in advanced stages of dementia, where symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease begin to emerge. As these symptoms progress, individuals may exhibit significantly reduced mobility.Another key sign is a decrease in arm swing while walking. This often accompanies postural instability, where patients struggle to maintain an upright posture, further affecting their balance and coordination. These subtle changes in movement can serve as early indicators of underlying neurological decline. Disclaimer:This image is taken from Freepik.

Bollywood star Akshay Kumar recently shared an old video of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his X account, where the PM is seen advocating for health measures to prevent obesity. Known for his dedication to fitness and well-being, Akshay Kumar expressed full support for the Prime Minister’s message and encouraged his fans to lead a healthy lifestyle. In the video, Prime Minister Modi addresses the growing issue of obesity in India, especially among the youth, linking it to various health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. He expressed his satisfaction with the launch of the Fit India Movement on 29th August 2019, which aims to inspire people to prioritize fitness and incorporate physical activity into their daily lives. PM Modi emphasized two crucial aspects: exercise and diet. He recommended regular physical activity, such as walking or working out, and advocated for a balanced diet that is rich in nutrition. The PM advised reducing the consumption of unhealthy fats and processed foods, as well as cutting down on oil consumption by 10% in households. He concluded by highlighting that a healthy body contributes to a healthy mind, leading to overall well-being. Disclaimer:This image is taken from Twitter/@akshaykumar.

As the Chinese New Year approaches, many people are busy preparing for the festivities—cleaning their homes, shopping for new clothes, and planning menus for their family feasts. However, not everyone will celebrate in the usual way. For 54-year-old Sharon Yap, this Lunar New Year will be far from traditional. Instead of enjoying the lively atmosphere of a family gathering, complete with the scent of bak kwa or the warmth of a hot pot meal, she’ll spend the holiday in a hospital room. Sharon has been admitted to Yishun Community Hospital for the past three months, and her recovery progress suggests she won’t be discharged in time to celebrate as she has in previous years. A Health Crisis Unfolds: What began as a simple fever one night last year quickly spiraled into a major health ordeal for Sharon. Initially dismissing it as nothing serious, she visited a polyclinic the next morning, where a doctor urged her to seek immediate hospital care. Expecting a short stay for what she thought was a mild fever, Sharon was stunned to learn she had gallbladder disease and required surgery. "Why did this happen to me? My life used to be so full of joy and excitement," she reflected. A Different Kind of New Year: Before her illness, Sharon’s Lunar New Year celebrations were filled with family traditions. As a divorcee living apart from her children, she would often join her older brother’s family for the festivities. From indulging in festive treats to late-night card games, it was a routine she enjoyed every year. However, Sharon admits to feeling a sense of detachment from familial bonds, which stemmed from her parents' health struggles during her childhood. "I never really had a strong connection with them," she shared. What Sharon misses most this year isn’t the celebrations—it’s her beloved dog, Baobei. The nine-year-old dog, who has been her constant companion in her two-room flat, was like family to her. "I don’t really miss the New Year activities. I just miss my dog. My dog is enough," she said, her voice filled with longing. Since her hospitalization, Baobei has been cared for by a friend, and the separation has been particularly difficult for Sharon. The hospital staff had planned a visit to reunite her with Baobei, but her worsening health has postponed those plans for now. Support and Care: Sharon’s care team at Yishun Community Hospital has taken a holistic approach to her recovery. Staff members like assistant nurse clinician Penny Chen, senior physiotherapist Halim Zul Fahmi, and medical social worker Kathryn Tan have built close relationships with her. They believe that small, meaningful gestures—like a visit from Baobei—can motivate patients to adhere to their treatment plans and recover faster. During festive periods like Chinese New Year, the hospital sees an increase in family visits. Patients who are well enough may be allowed home leave to spend time with loved ones or meet them in designated areas on the hospital premises. The wards at the hospital have also been decorated for the occasion, with lanterns, plum blossoms, and signs of good fortune adorning the spaces. On New Year’s Eve, patients will be served a festive meal featuring healthier versions of traditional dishes like Prosperity Braised Cabbage and Orange Mousse. Looking Ahead: Despite her circumstances, Sharon is hopeful for the future. Her children have promised to take her traveling once she recovers. "I’m looking forward to traveling overseas. I’ll go wherever they take me," she said with a smile. For now, she’s focusing on getting better, supported by the care of hospital staff and the hope of reuniting with her furry best friend, Baobei. Disclaimer: This image is taken from AsiaOne/Amierul Rashid

In the age of the internet, health advice is everywhere. While some of it is backed by science, a significant amount is rooted in misconceptions and myths. Believing these myths can not only lead to unnecessary stress but also negatively impact your well-being. Let’s set the record straight by debunking some of the most common health myths. Myth 1: You Should Drink Eight Glasses of Water a Day This myth likely stems from a misinterpretation of a recommendation from the 1940s, which stated that adults need about 2.5 liters of water daily. However, the original guideline also mentioned that much of this water comes from food and other beverages. In reality, your hydration needs vary depending on your activity level, climate, and diet. The best indicator? Trust your thirst. Myth 2: Carbs Are Bad for You Carbohydrates have gained a bad reputation, especially with the popularity of low-carb diets like keto. However, not all carbs are created equal. While refined carbs (like white bread and sugary snacks) can lead to health issues, complex carbs (found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) are essential for energy and overall health. Cutting out all carbs can deprive your body of crucial nutrients. Myth 3: Eating Fat Makes You Fat For decades, dietary fat was demonized as the primary cause of weight gain and heart disease. Today, research shows that healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil, are vital for brain function, hormone regulation, and heart health. It’s excessive calorie consumptio not fat alone that leads to weight gain. Myth 4: Vaccines Can Cause Autism This myth originated from a now-discredited study published in 1998, which falsely linked the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine to autism. Numerous large-scale studies since then have found no connection between vaccines and autism. Vaccines are safe, rigorously tested, and critical for preventing life-threatening diseases. Myth 5: You Need to Detox Your Body with Cleanses Detox teas, juice cleanses, and other detox products promise to rid your body of toxins, but they’re largely unnecessary. Your liver and kidneys are incredibly efficient at eliminating waste and toxins from your body. Instead of spending money on cleanses, focus on maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise. Myth 6: You Can Catch a Cold from Cold Weather Many people believe that being exposed to cold weather can make you sick. However, colds are caused by viruses, not the temperature. The reason colds are more common in winter is that people spend more time indoors in close proximity to others, increasing the likelihood of virus transmission. Myth 7: Natural Means Safe The term “natural” is often equated with safety, but this isn’t always the case. Many natural substances can be harmful or even deadly—think of poisonous plants like belladonna. Similarly, natural supplements are not always rigorously tested, and some can interact dangerously with medications or have side effects. Myth 8: Spot-Reducing Fat Is Possible Many fitness enthusiasts believe that doing exercises targeting specific areas, like crunches for belly fat, will reduce fat in those areas. Unfortunately, spot-reducing fat isn’t possible. Fat loss occurs throughout the body based on genetics and overall calorie expenditure, not from targeting specific muscle groups. Myth 9: Microwaving Food Destroys Nutrients Microwaves often get a bad reputation, but they’re actually one of the best cooking methods for preserving nutrients. Since microwaving cooks food quickly and with minimal water, it helps retain more vitamins and minerals compared to boiling or frying. Myth 10: Breakfast Is the Most Important Meal of the Day While breakfast can be important for some, especially children and those with specific health conditions, it isn’t universally critical. Intermittent fasting and other eating patterns have shown that skipping breakfast can be perfectly healthy for many people. Listen to your body and eat when you’re hungry. Final Thoughts Misinformation can be as harmful as poor health habits. By debunking these myths, we can make more informed decisions about our health. Always consult credible sources and healthcare professionals when in doubt. Remember, staying informed is the first step to staying healthy.

Today, senators are set to vote on confirming Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Known for his vaccine skepticism and his 'Make America Healthy Again' slogan, RFK Jr. has gained support from a wide range of people, including wellness advocates, 'crunchy moms,' and traditional Republicans. US health reporter Jessica Glenza speaks with Ian Sample about his performance in last week’s confirmation hearings and what his role in Trump’s cabinet could look like if he’s approved." Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.

We asked for your top health questions for 2025, and you didn’t disappoint. In this special listener Q&A episode, Madeleine Finlay joins Ian Sample to share what she’s discovered about science-backed ways to reduce sugar, the real story behind the seed oil controversy, and why some people rarely get sick while others catch every bug going around. Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.

A recent accident in Tampines that claimed two lives has sparked concerns about Singapore's driving habits. Persistent issues like speeding, running red lights, and drink driving remain significant challenges. Bernard Tay, Chairman of the Singapore Road Safety Council, and Julian Kho, General Manager at Sgcarmart, share their insights with Steven Chia and Crispina Robert on the changes needed to improve road safety. Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

Some instances of parent-child estrangement arise from a difficult or traumatic upbringing. However, for some parents, it comes as a painful surprise, as they believed they did their best. Gaby Hinsliff explores stories from both sides of these family divides. Disclaimer: This podcats is taken from The Guardian.