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Aging

How Older Baby Boomers Want to Live

by Carol Marak
written by Carol Marak

We’ve all read that the aging boomers want to stay at home as long as possible, and that stills hold true. However, LeadingAge, a non-profit global organization whose mission is to be the trusted voice for aging adults, has found some interesting data about the segment and where they would like to be when and if a physical or cognitive disability should occur.

LeadingAge, through NORC, conducted a survey of older baby boomers to gather insights into how they think about their quality of life if they become physically disabled or cognitively impaired and need long-term services and supports. LTSS includes services that help a person get through a normal day, things like getting out of bed, bathing, eating, toileting, moving around, etc.

They surveyed older boomers to imagine they had a physical or cognitive impairment and needed help. Then we posed questions like: What would be important to them? Where would they want to live? Who would they be comfortable receiving help from?

Asked what would be important if they were in a position of needing help with daily activities, being safe was ranked the most important consideration, higher even than being around family or friends.

The study found that 40% said they would want to live somewhere other than their current home or apartment if they had a physical disability that required them to need help with daily activities. Most earlier studies and surveys report that the majority (76% or more) of adults say they want to stay in their own home. These earlier studies do not target older baby boomers and they do not ask for separate responses depending on whether the impairment is physical or cognitive.

Survey Responses

If help with basic daily living activities is needed, on a scale of 1-10 (10 is most important), how important is it to do the following:

  • Be safe – 9.5
  • Be around family – 8.9
  • Have access to the outdoors – 8.8
  • Be around friends – 8.7
  • Be physically active – 8.6
  • Live in your own home – 8.5
  • Get out on a daily basis – 7.9
  • Have meaningful social activities – 7.8
  • Live in your current community – 7.7
  • Practice my religion – 7.5
  • Make a difference – 6.9
  • Travel – 6.6
  • Work – 5.1

 

The findings touch lightly on the differences among the older boomers who responded based on income, sex, and age. In the coming months, LeadingAge will be reporting on the findings in more detail and further analyzing their implications for this important aspect of being ready for an aging America.

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Age-In-Place

Data Shows Susceptible Seniors Living Alone

by Carol Marak
written by Carol Marak

Nearly ninety percent of the senior citizens across the U.S. prefer to age in place and grow old at home. Professionals believe that’s the place where people can afford to live over other costly places like nursing homes. But even staying home raises concerns, like the ones that block healthy aging. The most significant are lack of transportation, affordable housing, and isolation.

When adults have little access to shopping and social activity, isolation becomes a high risk factor that plays havoc on their health. Here’s what few seniors from my Facebook group says about aging at home with little support and connection — the comments illustrate the challenges.

“Budget, transportation, and health are the main causes of my isolation. I had to give up driving because of severe glaucoma. Also, having a rare autoimmune disease makes me exhausted most of the time.”

“Loneliness and isolation are a real problem. Our culture is different than most Asian and Latin cultures where no older person has to worry about being alone.”

What’s troubling when studying the U.S. Census, is the high numbers of older residents living alone. Across America, close to 30 percent of the 65 and over, live at home without support, totaling over 11 million, and of these, 71% are female.

That’s a lot of older adults at risk for isolation, a factor of chronic illness. Research examining loneliness says the effects negatively relates to physical activity, mental, and motor function. Strong social connections are central to physical and mental well-being. But it’s a complex issue. When vulnerable older adults have setbacks, they become disconnected and isolated.

Resources

  • Contact the local Area Agency on Aging, you can find them using keyword terms, like “area agency on aging your city.” They offer services and resources of the Area Agency on Aging, Elder Abuse Prevention, Information and Assistance, Legal Services, and Long-term Care Ombudsman. If you want social connection, call your city Parks and Recreation department.
  • ADA (American Disabilities Act) Paratransit provides transportation for those who cannot use the fixed-route public transit system. Each state has it. If you qualify, they will give door to door service in a small bus.
  • Law schools offer free legal assistance to low-income seniors. Or contact you local Area on Aging Department, they can refer you to an elder law attorney.
  • BenefitsCheckUp.org: Quickly find benefit programs that could help you pay for medications, health care, food, and more. All from a reliable and trusted source.
  • Seniorcare.com/directory – has created over 8000 local senior guides that offer healthcare quality ratings, senior housing options and other resources for aging Americans.
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Importance of Seniors and Social Connections
Aging

Importance of Seniors and Social Connections

by Carol Marak
written by Carol Marak

A social friendship builds inclusion and connection.

One of the paths to healthy aging includes connecting with peers and building friendships. It’s a known fact, and the effects of isolation are depression and loneliness. And their harm puts an individual at a higher risk for falls (especially the elderly,) chronic diseases, and even early death. Importance of Seniors and Social Connections
One of the paths to healthy aging includes connecting with peers and building friendships. It’s a known fact, and the effects of isolation are depression and loneliness. And their harm puts an individual at a higher risk for falls (especially the elderly,) chronic diseases, and even early death. Importance of Seniors and Social Connections
However, psychologists suggest that loneliness is not the same as being alone; nor does being with other people protect you from feelings of isolation. But psychologist, John Cacioppo, believes the emotion can inflict havoc on the body and brain. Another philosophy insists that loneliness is a failure of social networks. The lonely get sicker than the non-lonely because they don’t have others to take care of them; no social support exists for them.

Social isolation and loneliness are the two biggest risk factors for older adults living alone. Being tucked away in suburbia with minimal access to public transportation is the reason the elderly remain secluded. They can’t drive anywhere; they can’t walk anywhere, and they can’t get any place on their own. They have problems coping with being tucked away and managing their life gets harder when alone.

I hear if frequently when visiting the elder orphan Facebook group. Some members feel very lonely and have difficulty making social connections. The most painful stories to read are the ones that members have after a surgery upon discharge; they have no one to care for them at home. I can’t tell you how many times over the past few months that very issue revealed its thorny head for a member because there have been quite a few.

The graying of America and the suburban population is an echo of the demographic shifts in the country. The U.S. Census Bureau predicts that by 2030, the over-65 population will grow two and a half times, to more than 70 million people, and older adults will add up to 20 percent of the population, up from 12.6 percent. Take a look at the frequency that a boomer turns 65 by watching the real-time, digital counter.
The growing numbers of the elderly population in suburbia corresponds with a rising desire among many older adults who want to age at home instead of moving to an institution. As a result, older people live alone and remain stranded in ill-equipped communities to deliver the services they need.

Unfortunately, the elderly are stuck because they never planned for the later years when they bought two-story homes with expansive yards. The distance between them and the neighbors, an area that was once a treasured solitude, now keeps them disjointed from neighborly connections.

However, if we could convince local city leaders and entrepreneurs to shift a little attention away from the young to the old, then maybe the burden of living alone for the elderly could lighten. The numbers are in—they prove the market validity. In three major cities, Dallas, Portland, and Richmond, the percentage of the population 65 and over living alone ranks from 30 to 37. And since boomers turn 65 every 11 seconds or so, get prepared for more.

I don’t have solutions; however, I do know what it will take for people like me, aging alone, to do it safely and independently with the caring support of peers. We need better public transportation or living options that give us more access to the services we require.

However, psychologists suggest that loneliness is not the same as being alone; nor does being with other people protect you from feelings of isolation. But psychologist, John Cacioppo, believes the emotion can inflict havoc on the body and brain. Another philosophy insists that loneliness is a failure of social networks. The lonely get sicker than the non-lonely because they don’t have others to take care of them; no social support exists for them.

Social isolation and loneliness are the two biggest risk factors for older adults living alone. Being tucked away in suburbia with minimal access to public transportation is the reason the elderly remain secluded. They can’t drive anywhere; they can’t walk anywhere, and they can’t get any place on their own. They have problems coping with being tucked away and managing their life gets harder when alone.

I hear if frequently when visiting the elder orphan Facebook group. Some members feel very lonely and have difficulty making social connections. The most painful stories to read are the ones that members have after a surgery upon discharge; they have no one to care for them at home. I can’t tell you how many times over the past few months that very issue revealed its thorny head for a member because there have been quite a few.

The graying of America and the suburban population is an echo of the demographic shifts in the country. The U.S. Census Bureau predicts that by 2030, the over-65 population will grow two and a half times, to more than 70 million people, and older adults will add up to 20 percent of the population, up from 12.6 percent. Take a look at the frequency that a boomer turns 65 by watching the real-time, digital counter.
The growing numbers of the elderly population in suburbia corresponds with a rising desire among many older adults who want to age at home instead of moving to an institution. As a result, older people live alone and remain stranded in ill-equipped communities to deliver the services they need.

Unfortunately, the elderly are stuck because they never planned for the later years when they bought two-story homes with expansive yards. The distance between them and the neighbors, an area that was once a treasured solitude, now keeps them disjointed from neighborly connections.

However, if we could convince local city leaders and entrepreneurs to shift a little attention away from the young to the old, then maybe the burden of living alone for the elderly could lighten. The numbers are in—they prove the market validity. In three major cities, Dallas, Portland, and Richmond, the percentage of the population 65 and over living alone ranks from 30 to 37. And since boomers turn 65 every 11 seconds or so, get prepared for more.

I don’t have solutions; however, I do know what it will take for people like me, aging alone, to do it safely and independently with the caring support of peers. We need better public transportation or living options that give us more access to the services we require.

Importance of Seniors and Social Connections

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Age-In-Place

Safety Changes To Help Aging Parents Remain Independent

by Kathy Macaraeg
written by Kathy Macaraeg

When you to visit an aging loved one or parent, keep an eye out for safety issues. Here are some safety updates you can make to their home.

Bathroom Upgrade: My parents recently remodeled their bathroom. They put in a higher toilet, which is easier for them to use and installed a shower stall. They aren’t at a point where they really need these safety upgrades, but they plan to stay in their home as long as possible and opted to make the changes now, versus later. If your aging parent can’t afford a complete renovation, you can still install grab bars next to the toilet and in the shower (some cities have free installation programs so ask your senior center). You can also put down a tub mat to prevent slipping in the tub and make sure that they have a non-stick rug for when they get out of the shower. Consider adding a shower bench or seat to prevent falls. For more bathroom safety items go to Senior.com.

Furniture Upgrades: Upgrading furniture isn’t just about home décor. If your aging parent has had their furniture for a long time, they may need to switch out a few pieces to make it easier to get up. We purchased a tall reclining lift chair for my dad last Christmas because he was struggling to get out of the lower arm chair. I had a former client who had very low furniture so she only sat at her dining room table because she had such a difficult time getting up from her couch. Keep an eye out for signs that your aging parent is struggling to get in or out of their favorite chair. These items from Stander are outstanding help.

Entryway Upgrades: I had a client who had a screen door that wouldn’t open well, then a giant plant that she had to walk around to get to a light that was about 20 steps into her home. For so many reasons, that isn’t safe. She had always had her home that way, so it never occurred to her or anyone else to make her entryway safer. The next time you visit your aging parent, make sure that there is proper lighting at the front door, as well as once they get inside. There also shouldn’t be anything blocking or narrowing their home entrance. These are important changes both for fall safety and home security. Having a dark home entrance makes it really easy for someone to hide and overtake a home owner.

Home Security: Since we’re on home security, some home security areas to address with your aging parent include outside lighting, locking all doors that lead into the home (including garage!) and ensuring their extra house key is well-hidden. These are all safety issues I saw with my clients. Some older adults are energy/cost conscious so they don’t like to leave an outside light on. The problem arises when they come home later than planned or as the time changes and it gets dark later. I also had many clients (and my own dad!) leave at least one door unlocked so that they couldn’t get locked out. Not safe! And finally, I had a client who had her spare key in an envelope labeled “spare key” under her back door mat. Way too easy to find. They should either give a spare key to a trusted neighbor or find one of those hollow rocks to hide the key (but put it far away from their front door!).

General Home Safety: Be sure to do a fall proof walk through your aging parents home, as well as a fire safety check. In addition, look for things like super high (or low) storage. For example, my extra blankets are on a very high shelf. To get them down, I need to get a small step ladder and then pull the blanket bag from the top shelf. It isn’t easy at 41, imagine trying to do that at 85! If there are some things that just need to be stored up high or out of the way, be cognizant of when your parent will need them so you can get it for them. Be sure to keep frequently used items in an easy to access location, even if it isn’t a typical storage space. For example, we keep our crock pot in the linen closet since we don’t use it frequently. That leaves more cabinet space for things I use frequently so that I don’t have to store them in the high shelves that I can’t reach.

If you’re struggling to think of what safety issues your aging parent may have, think of the things you do in a week and try to imagine doing them when you are older or ill. For a wide variety of fall prevention products to help you safely age in your own home, go to Senior.com.

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Happy senior couple in kitchen
Age-In-Place

Aging in place: Renovating with independence in mind

by Guest Blogger
written by Guest Blogger

Most Americans settle in a home, envisioning a permanent life refuge. Achieving this vision of aging in place, though, means preparing the home now to anticipate future needs. Doing so successfully can allow older adults to remain independent, autonomous and in charge of their home security as they age.

As many as 94% of today’s older adults (defined as ages 65+) wish to stay in their own homes as long as possible. This group, as of 2010, accounted for 13% of the population (40 million people), and that number is projected to increase to 20% of the population by 2030.

Studies show there are numerous benefits to home-based aging, such as increased life satisfaction, quality of life and self-esteem. Maintaining familiar surroundings and connections is also a benefit, allowing older adults to remain close to friends and neighbors, keep the same doctors and visit favorite coffee shops and grocery stores.

The time is now to start planning for down-the-road needs, like modifying your home to accommodate future accessibility needs, home security and even live-in care. It is important to understand the appropriate renovations that may be required and to equip the home with modifications that are right for you and any caretakers providing attention as you age in place.

What you should know about designing a home while aging in place

Studies confirm there are benefits to keeping older adults in their homes longer, such as maintaining more independence and connection to friends and family, as well as avoiding the high costs of institutional care. Luckily, there are many options, services and helpful solutions available to help us stay independent as we age at home.

Basic home renovations

Improve lighting

Improving the lighting in the home is an inexpensive solution that can provide an increased sense of safety and security for older adults — safeguarding against stumbling and falling, as well as break-ins. Consider adding lighting strips to stairways and other dark areas inside the home, as well as installing exterior lights that can be programmed to turn on and off, creating a pattern to deter break-ins. Nightlights are also a recommended addition — great for hallways, bathrooms and on or near steps.

Add easy-use fixtures and safety considerations

These simple home modifications are easy to implement and can have a significant impact on improving security and comfort in the home as we age:

  • Install oversized light switches ($6 to $28)
  • Replace faucet knobs with levers ($22 to $400)
  • Use automated garage door openers ($128 to $250)
  • Purchase larger digital display options for remote controls, phones, and screens ($7 to $545)
  • Add grab bars or rails around the home to prevent falls and improve mobility ($14 to $100)
  • Consider chair and toilet lifts ($18 – $100)
  • Use cord covers to prevent tripping and falling ($10 to $50)
  • Shop Senior.com for all your Fall Prevention Items for every room ($10-$900)

Update your flooring

Falls are prevalent as we age in what should be our safest environment: our home. And flooring is often the biggest culprit. Loose rugs, slip-inducing mats, and curly edges on carpets are among the most common dangers. Many preventive measures are easy, DIY and often relatively inexpensive. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Secure rugs throughout the home: Use double-faced, anti-slip rug tape to secure the edges of all area rugs firmly to the floor. Or consider using an underneath rug pad, with options adhering to vinyl, hardwood and other flooring. In the bathroom, use bathmats with a good, surface-gripping backing.
  2. Install anti-slip flooring throughout the home: Ensuring the type of flooring installed in the home (and especially in the bathroom) isn’t slippery is an important consideration for older adults. Some anti-slip flooring options include vinyl, ceramic tiles, and even bamboo.
  3. Contrast for visibility while moving throughout the home: Consider varying the colors and textures of the flooring used throughout the home to provide better visual guidance, especially in transitional areas in the home, such as a sunken living room.

Advanced home renovations

Sophisticated upgrades to help current and future home healthcare needs not only add protection, they often heighten future selling prices. Keep in mind for some of these more advanced home modification tips, outsourcing to a professional may be necessary.

Assistive renovations

Widen your doorways: Even just carrying packages can make doorways impassable, so imagine providing adequate space for assistive devices like wheelchairs. To meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility standards, doorways should be at least 36 inches wide.

Add a stairlift: Unless you’re enjoying single-story living (or unless you have a downstairs bedroom and bath), many people need to navigate stairs in the home. In these cases, stairlifts are a great tool.

Keeping the home secure

Home security systems are an essential tool for being alerted to dangers you may not sense, like fire, carbon monoxide and break-ins. And these tools become even more critical for older adults. According to the National Fire Protection Association, people ages 65+ are twice as likely to be injured or killed by house fires, compared to the rest of the population.

For outside the home, consider installing security cameras, which can allow loved ones to monitor fall-prone areas around the home.

Assistive technology

There is a lot of assistive technology available today, including devices, software programs and equipment that’s specifically designed to help people work around their challenges — from arthritis-friendly light switches and easier-to-grip drawer pulls, to computer voice recognition programs, entryway ramps and more. Here are a few assistive devices for you to consider when updating your home for current or future assistive needs:

  • Clap-detection lights: Turning on lights with the clap of your hands makes turning lights on/off much easier. Plus, set the device in its “away” mode, and your lights will turn on with the detection of any sound, which can deter break-ins.
  • Smart entryway: Assistive tools like key finders, keyless doors and doorbell cameras make entering the home and monitoring activity at the front door easier. Learning who is at the front door from the safety of your couch reduces the need for unnecessary movement around the home, which can also prevent accidents and falls.
  • Home hub automation: Smart home options are now available to provide a one-stop solution for controlling your digital life at home, from programmable temperature controls and sophisticated home security systems to playing music and helping you keep track of appointments. For example, Amazon’s Alexa allows users to easily keep track of daily activities, call their doctor and even order food. And home hub security systems can offer older adults a greater sense of control over the safety of their home and valuables, all from the leisure of their couch.

Why designing with in-home care in mind is a good idea

Considering the high costs of long term care options in the U.S., it’s not surprising people are turning to alternative solutions. Although costs vary by state, let’s take a look at the average monthly costs of some of the more common long-term care options available:

  • A private nursing home room: $8,364 per month
  • A semi-private nursing home room: $7,362 per month
  • Assisted living facility: $3,862 per month
  • Adult day health care: $1,562 per month

To avoid these costs, and if in-home care is your goal, it’s important to start making plans now — so you’re not managing last-minute renovations and home modifications to accommodate the needs of caretakers at the same time your health takes a turn.

Some of the in-home care services you may need to consider planning for include health care aides, registered nurses, physical therapists, social workers and other specialists that make home visits. Your in-home caregiver might also be a companion or a loved one. Regardless of who is providing the care, it’s important to ensure your home is ready, so you can more easily adapt should the need arise.

Renovating your home for the future

When renovating your home, it’s important to keep future health challenges in mind, and the possibility of needing in-home care. Understanding your needs — and the needs of others potentially sharing your space — will create a more harmonious and comfortable environment while aging in place.

Creating a bedroom on the main floor of the home is ideal — allowing for easier accessibility throughout the home. In addition to reducing the use of stairs, main floors also provide faster exits to safety in case of emergencies — like injuries, break-ins or fires.

To accommodate live-in care, or for having loved ones stay, a separate bedroom is an essential consideration. Make sure the room has easy access to a bathroom, and even consider installing a small kitchen.

You’ll also want to equip your home for caregiver accessibility, including:

  • Installing smart locks, so people who take care of you always have access to the home.
  • Ensuring caregivers have access to WiFi, so they’re connected in the event of an emergency, or to purchase necessary items online.
  • Providing caregivers access to security systems, so they can help monitor the home in an emergency.
  • Adding more electrical outlets in the home, in case there is medical equipment to set up in the future.
  • Creating wider doorways and entryways for wheelchairs, as well as ramps for wheelchair accessibility.

Financial assistance for home modifications

Paying for Senior Care outlines four sources of assistance available for those needing to make home modifications to accommodate the needs of older adults and of those with disabilities, including financial loans, grants, labor and equipment loans:

Four types of assistance for home modifications

  1. Low-interest loans: Some organizations, mainly governmental, offer low-interest loans for home modifications or guarantee loans so banks are less restrictive with their lending requirements. Since these are loans, they do need to be paid back.
  2. Home improvement grants: These (usually one-time) grants are available for a specific home modification purpose, and do not need to be repaid.
  3. Free labor: Another form of assistance is free labor to make home improvements. This is commonly offered by non-profit organizations or charities. Materials are not covered. The building of a wheelchair ramp is a common example.
  4. Equipment loans: Some organizations make free, long-term loans of home modification materials. As an example, a portable wheelchair ramp that does not need to be returned until the borrower moves from their home or no longer requires the use of it.

Options for financial planning

There are also several programs and other assistance programs available for qualified individuals to take advantage of to help with home modifications for the purpose of keeping older adults at home longer. Some of the most notable options are:

  1. Medicare Advantage: Beginning in 2019, Medicare Advantage (MA) plans now include benefits for home modifications, such as assisting with the addition of grab bars, stairlifts, and wheelchair ramps in the home
  2. Medicaid HCBS Waivers and Home Modifications: Most states have Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, which help qualified individuals stay at home and receive in-home care and assistance with home modifications. Each state offers different programs with different eligibility requirements and benefits.
  3. Veterans Programs for Home Modifications: The Veterans Administration (VA) offers grants, including Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grants, Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) Grants and Home Improvement and Structural Alteration (HISA) Grants, to help veterans remain in their homes longer.
  4. Non-Medicaid Government Assistance for Home Modification: The Department of Housing and Urban Development offers HUD Home Improvement Loans, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture offers Rural Repair and Rehabilitation Grants. Additionally, quite a few states offer various assistance programs that are referred to as “nursing home diversion programs,” and some of these programs offer home modification as a benefit. Review this list of state assistance programs that offer home modification benefits to see if there’s a program available for you.
  5. Non-Profit and Foundation Assistance for Home Modifications: Many non-profits and organizations (such as Rebuilding Together) offer financial aid and volunteer labor to help older adults remain in their homes. Another option is finding local, volunteer community resources and projects that may help assist with home modifications.

Set your sights on home sweet home…forever

People are living longer and the percentage of older adults in the U.S. is on the rise. This means there is an increased demand for long-term care solutions. The good news is remaining independent and autonomous in the home you know and love as you age is possible. With the right planning and assistance, older adults can easily make modifications to the home — such as updating the lighting in the home, taking advantage of assistive technologies and even renovating the home to accommodate live-in care. Make these changes now and create a comfortable and safe space that you can continue to call home…forever.

Submitted by Freshome.com

By Wendy Meyeroff, a plain language expert in B2B and B2C health/tech communications, has helped clients across the U.S. for 20+ years with journalism and marketing materials. Wendy has a specialty: writing for and about boomers, and mentoring outreach to ages 50+.

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Caregiving

How to choose a home care provider

by Kylie Johnson
written by Kylie Johnson

1. Write down all the care services needed

Start by making a complete list of all the tasks you or your loved one needs help with. Once you have this list, you can decide whether you need one provider or a few with different specialties.

2. Screen over the phone first

Next, call the companies that advertise the services you need and confirm that their employees can do everything needed. Use the list of questions from Eldercare.gov to ensure your loved one will receive quality care.

3. Interview in the resident’s home

If a provider meets your standards after talking to them on the phone, have an in-home interview with the people who will work with your loved one. Make sure you and the care recipient feel comfortable and confident.

4. Call the provider’s references

Anyone who will be working in your loved one’s home should be willing to give you a list of references, including current clients. Call these people to learn more about the provider and ensure they’re someone you want to hire.

5. Run a background check

Run a background check on each individual who will be helping your loved one in their home.

Article from ConsumerAffairs.com

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Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical
Health Tips

Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical

by Carol Marak
written by Carol Marak

This week at the Aging Well Conference in Arlington, I was invited to speak on the critical topic, The Decisions A Health Care Proxy May Make On Your Behalf. I’ve written several times about legal documents and selecting an executor and agent. While researching for the presentation, I came across valuable information on the American Bar Association website and want to share with readers. Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical

The decisions a healthcare proxy will make on your behalf

  • Choices about medical care, including medical tests, medicine, or surgery
  • The right to request or decline life-support treatments such as medical devices to aid breathing, medical devices to provide food and water, CPR, blood transfusions, dialysis, and antibiotics
  • Choices about pain management, including authorization or refusal of medication or procedures
  • Admission to an assisted living facility, hospital, hospice, or nursing home
  • Choices about where to seek medical treatment, including the right to move you to another facility, hospital, or state
  • The right to see and approve release of your medical records
  • The option to take legal action on your behalf in order to advocate for your health care rights and wishes
  • The right to apply for Medicare, Medicaid, or other programs or insurance benefits on your behalf

Good advance planning for health care decisions is, in reality, a continuing conversation–about values, priorities, the meaning of one’s life, and quality of life. When making a health care advance directive like a durable power of attorney for health care, be aware that just having a written advance directive by itself does not ensure that your wishes will be understood and respected. Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical
There are several key points in choosing an ideal healthcare proxy and it begins with talking about your wishes and finding out if the person will follow them. These questions will help you assess and choose the best healthcare proxy.

  • Will this person speak for you in case you cannot?
  • Act on your wishes and separate their own feelings from yours?
  • Live close by or could travel to be with you?
  • Knows you well and understands what you want?
  • Is someone you trust with your life?
  • Will talk with you about sensitive issues?
  • Will be available long-term?
  • Able to handle conflicting opinions between family, friends and medical team?
  • Can be a strong advocate in the face of an unresponsive doctor or institution?

This guide will help you do a better job of discovering, clarifying, and communicating what is important to you in the face of serious illness. Remember once you know exactly how you want to be treated if you should become incapacitated, write it down and let you healthcare proxy, family and friends know.

Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical

Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical Why Choosing the Ideal Healthcare Proxy is Critical

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Mid section of disabled senior woman walking with walker in garden on a sunny day
Aging

10 Enjoyable Activities for Seniors with Limited Mobility

by Guest Blogger
written by Guest Blogger

The majority of seniors lose mobility due to conditions like serious joint pain, stroke, or injuries from falls. At the point when this occurs, leisure activities and exercises that they used to appreciate may become troublesome. Loss of mobility for seniors doesn’t always equate to the completion of fun occasions. There are several great ways to have fun without having to move around. In this article, we have compiled ten enjoyable activities for seniors with limited mobility. You’ll probably discover something that suits you after reading this article. Let’s get started!

1. Read

Reading is one of the best activities for seniors. It a great way to spend time while keeping the mind engaged. It can reduce stress, improve memory, delay cognitive decline and improve the quality of sleep. Whether you like reading magazines, non-fictional books, e-books, or listening to audiobooks, immersing yourself in a story or learning about an interesting topic is a great way to spend your time. You can also consider organizing a book club among your acquaintances to socialize while reading.

2. Explore other hobbies

Hobbies are good for seniors with limited mobility. Hobbies that don’t require lots of movement include baking, cooking, crotchet, indoor gardening, knitting, playing a musical instrument, birdwatching, and becoming an essay writer to name a few. Limited mobility will allow you to learn something new and try out things you’ve never done before. Learning is one of the best ways to keep your mind active and avoid boredom.

3. Exercise

Even if you cannot move much, there are several exercises that you can do to keep your body moving. Whether it’s standing, or sitting, you can still enjoy the health benefits linked to exercising. Yoga routines and chair exercises can boost your health and wellbeing.

4. Sharpen your creativity

Getting in touch with your creative side is another great way for seniors with limited mobility to spend their time. Coloring, drawing, sculpture, and painting are some of the best ways to be creative. Fun projects include organizing photo albums, creating scrapbooks, and making a family recipe book. Being creative promotes your health. Research studies have found that creative activities play an integral role in people suffering from chronic illnesses, negative emotions, and stress.

5. Spend time outside

Getting out from time to time during the day will help you relax and boost your mood. Even if your mobility is limited, you can consider sitting next to a window or porch on your veranda to get some fresh air while viewing the beautiful scenery.

6. Invite people

Asking friends and family members with pets and children to stop by for a visit is one of the best ways to keep yourself engaged. Most people lighten up in the presence of a young child. Playing with pets is another great way to reduce stress and bring cheer.

7. Brain games

Another great way to spend your time is by playing exciting brain games. You can play by yourself, with a friend or a family member. Try out a crossword, brain teaser, or Sudoku. Spending a few hours every day on such games will help you keep your brain sharp. When you are not mobile, it’s easy to sit around and watch TV for hours. And this might not give your mind the kind of stimulation that it requires. Playing brain games will improve your mental health.

8. Watch TV shows and listen to music

Watching TV all day long is not one of the best ways to spend your time. However, watching a few TV shows will allow you to enjoy your day. Watching TV can go hand in hand with a hobby. For instance, you can watch a documentary on a topic that you are passionate about. Travel and Food channels can also inspire you to travel and try out new recipes.

9. Listen to music

Listening to music is a great way to spend your time. Scientific studies have shown that music has the power to reduce, anxiety, stress, and pain. It also improves sleep and immune function while boosting memory.

10. Volunteer

Even if you are an immobile senior, there are several great ways to give back to the community. It a great way to stay engaged and feel a sense of accomplishment and purpose. You should consider contacting local hospitals, charity organizations, and religious institutions to find out if there are projects that you can contribute to. This could mean crocheting hats, knitting, creating blankets, or assembling packages.

Conclusion

As we get older, our mobility starts to suffer. You may start noticing pains, aches, and fatigue affecting you in different ways. Recovery time can get longer. However, getting old doesn’t mean that you have to confine yourself to your home. As you have seen, there are lots of exciting activities that you can indulge in to improve your physical and mental health.

Author Bio:

Jennifer Holland is a professional writer at Assignment Masters, essay writing service and best essay writers with 3 years of experience who has been writing about education, student life and career development for several years. She helps students get their dream job by offering them her excellent writing skills and knowledge.

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Kitchen Safety Tips for Seniors Receiving In-Home Care
Caregiving

Kitchen Safety Tips for Seniors Receiving In-Home Care

by Richard Bitner
written by Richard Bitner

The kitchen is one of the busiest places in any home – but also one of the most dangerous. Along with bathrooms, kitchens represent some of the most significant health and injury hazards to seniors. At Visiting Angels, our in-home care professionals work with seniors to make kitchens safer. Over the years, we’ve developed a number of safety tips that can be used by seniors, their caregivers, and their loved ones to improve kitchen safety. Kitchen Safety Tips for Seniors Receiving In-Home Care
“Preventing injury is one of the most important aspects of in-home care,” says Larry Meigs, CEO and President of Visiting Angels, a nationwide network of in-home care providers. “Simply put, safer kitchens make for safer seniors.” Kitchen Safety Tips for Seniors Receiving In-Home Care
To improve the safety of your loved one’s kitchen, try out these tips and tricks for making kitchens in-home care friendly.

Quick Tips for In-Home Care Providers

There are a number of day-to-day things that can be done to improve kitchen safety for seniors. These tips can be used by you, your loved one, or your loved one’s professional in-home care provider. Remember that bad habits are hard to break, and it can be easy for your loved one to forget these important safety tips. As such, it may be best if you or a care professional is with your loved one during cooking or meal preparation.

  • Keep all cupboards and drawers closed when not in use
  • Store heavier pots, pans, dishware, and appliances in easy-to-reach areas
  • Keep knives and other sharp implements in a secure place
  • Unplug any electrical appliances when not in use
  • Have a step-ladder handy for hard-to-reach shelves
  • Always keep countertops free of clutter
  • Make sure that pot and pan handles don’t overhang the edge of the stovetop
  • Never wear loose clothing when cooking over the stovetop
  • Keep oven mitts available
  • Quickly clean up any spills
  • Remove tripping hazards including throw rugs
  • Keep a first aid kit easily available

Senior-Friendly Kitchen Reno

Making your loved one’s kitchen more senior care friendly may require renovation work. Thankfully, kitchen renovations offer the best return-on-investment out of all home improvement projects. Because of this, adapting your loved one’s kitchen for in-home care and age-related difficulties can actually improve the value of your loved one’s home.
Here are some kitchen improvement projects that will make in-home care and everyday living safer for your loved one:

  • Install high-quality lighting to improve visibility
  • Make sure the stove has a well-functioning range hood
  • Install high-traction, non-slip tile
  • Turn low-level cabinets into pull-out drawers
  • Install a lever-style faucet

Of course, the best way to keep seniors safe in the kitchen is to have a second set of eyes, ears, and hands to detect potential dangers and help your loved one with difficult tasks. You may be able to fill this role yourself – or you may wish for the help of an in-home care professional. If so, Visiting Angels can help.

Kitchen Safety Tips for Seniors Receiving In-Home Care

Kitchen Safety Tips for Seniors Receiving In-Home Care Kitchen Safety Tips for Seniors Receiving In-Home Care Kitchen Safety Tips for Seniors Receiving In-Home Care Kitchen Safety Tips for Seniors Receiving In-Home Care Kitchen Safety Tips for Seniors Receiving In-Home Care Kitchen Safety Tips for Seniors Receiving In-Home Care Kitchen Safety Tips for Seniors Receiving In-Home Care Kitchen Safety Tips for Seniors Receiving In-Home Care
 
 

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