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Age-In-Place

Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home

by Carol Marak
written by Carol Marak

Most of us want to age-in-place. But can we? Affordable, accessible and well-located housing affects the quality of life for all ages, but it’s most significant for older adults. In a report released by The Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University and AARP, it claims that the three key points are the cornerstone to comfort and security. How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home
Housing is the single largest item in most budgets and its costs and expenses directly influence financial security. The home’s location and accessibility are essential to health and safety, to stores, services, and transportation. Without the three components, older adults may experience inactive, non-productive, and isolated lives. If an individual lives with a disability or chronic disease, they will suffer since local supports and services could be difficult to find and access. How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home
Whether one chooses to remain independent and to grow older at home is up to individual and their loved ones to know if the home will allow them to age-in-place. Start early when assessing your preferences, the readiness of the home, and the community it’s located. How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home
I’ve listed suggestions and tips that will make the home safer. Consider these and adapt accordingly.

  • Numerous safety and fall hazards exist in everyone’s homes. What needs fixing is determined not so much by specific hazards, but by observing a person’s ability to maneuver (walk and transfer) safely in the home. For example, extra handrail support becomes a priority for balance.
  • Hire help for difficult talks. Many older adults have fallen off ladders or roofs doing home maintenance. It might be worth hiring someone instead. Keep the home clean by hiring a housekeeper.
  • Home technology helps and keeps people living with chronic illness to have healthcare in the home. While most people will think about physical space modifications, the most underutilized trend is the simple use of technology.
  • Adopt wearable or simple sensors which connect the older consumer with family, emergency support services, and detect falls, allowing family or caregivers to identify issues before they escalate and exacerbate.
  • Think of the future every time you make a change to a room. Every renovation should consider future need or ability to retrofit. Select lever handle faucet and add lighting options in dark hallways and bathrooms. Are studs in place for grab bars?
  • Use the assistive devices that are available to you-canes, walkers, hearing aids, etc. Look critically at how you use your space and what changes would make it easier for you to maneuver in your house. Get an evaluation from a physical therapist.

Think ahead. When considering retirement, some gravitate toward a place in the countryside, which feels like a good idea when active and able. However, there are real advantages to having neighbors, friends, and family close by.

How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home

How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home How to Age at Home and Not a Nursing Home

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Aging

Why Mom Needs a Stand-Alone Cane

by Guest Blogger
written by Guest Blogger

Are you worried about your mother falling at home? When it comes to older adults, the home is a real danger zone—at least when it comes to falls, slips, and other accidents. Despite being the most preventable health risk, falls are the leading cause of injuries among seniors and account for more than half of all serious injuries. What you may not realize is that many of these falls are a direct result from choosing the wrong type of cane. Why Mom Needs a Stand-Alone Cane

If Mom is bearing weight on her cane, then a single tip cane could be more dangerous than using nothing at all. A stand-alone cane is the best option for seniors who need more than just help with their balance. This type of cane provides increased stability and more traction than single tip models.

A stand-alone cane has the added benefit of remaining upright when not in use. If Mom is having mobility issues, it’s also likely that she won’t want to bend over to pick up her cane. Since repeated bending can result in accident or injury, the standing cane offers added safety.

Many falls lead to serious injury, such as broken wrists or fractured hips. Nervousness concerning additional falls often limits our elders from enjoying life to its fullest as they begin to avoid going out or staying in touch with friends for fear of falling. If Mom is nervous about falling, a standing cane could be just the thing she needs to live a full and healthy lifestyle at any age.

Why we love about the HurryCane:

Cutting-edge, patented technology allows the HurryCane, the #1 selling cane in America, to feel like a seamless extension of the body. The HurryCane is unrivaled thanks to industry-leading innovations. A SteadiGrip base simulates your foot’s natural stabilizing points, increasing traction and improving balance. To further maximize stabilization, the HurryCane automatically flexes on inclines, uneven ground, and fluctuating terrain both inside and outdoors. Effortlessly fold the HurryCane to one-third its normal size for compact storing whenever needed, and easily flip back out for continued use. To find the perfect fit that will provide lasting comfort, adjust the cane height between 30.5″ to 37.5″ by simply pushing the button located on the handle. Feel confident using the durable HurryCane to ensure the next steps you take are safe. The HurryCane is tested to support up to 350 pounds and is available in black, blue, purple, and red finishes.

Click here to buy the stand-alone HurryCane – the #1 Selling Cane in America!

Why Mom Needs a Stand-Alone Cane

Why Mom Needs a Stand-Alone Cane Why Mom Needs a Stand-Alone Cane Why Mom Needs a Stand-Alone Cane Why Mom Needs a Stand-Alone Cane Why Mom Needs a Stand-Alone Cane Why Mom Needs a Stand-Alone Cane Why Mom Needs a Stand-Alone Cane Why Mom Needs a Stand-Alone Cane Why Mom Needs a Stand-Alone Cane Why Mom Needs a Stand-Alone Cane Why Mom Needs a Stand-Alone Cane

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Maximize Your Mind, No Matter Your Age
Aging

Maximize Your Mind, No Matter Your Age

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson
Baseball great Leroy Satchel Paige asserted that age is a question of mind over matter. “If you don’t mind,” he said, “it don’t matter.” Age, after all, is just a number. But, as we age, it’s important to mind–not our manners–but our minds. Maximize Your Mind, No Matter Your Age
Yes, you can become more brain-powerful. You really can optimize your cognitive capacity. And you can truly maximize your mental operations. But… you have to commit to improving your cognitive processes. We recommend spending five-to-ten minutes a day, three days a week. Here are practices to help sharpen that marvelous computer that sits atop your shoulders.

CREATE A MNEMONIC DEVICE

The mind is an amazing organ. This gelatinous mass of a hundred trillion nerve cells , when maximized, can serve you well. (The need to facilitate memory goes back thousands of years. From Mnemosyne, the Greek goddess of memory, comes the word “mnemonics,” which is simply the use of told that will help us remember. Think about the mnemonic devices you already use (H-O-M-E-S for the first letter of each of the Great Lakes) and commit to using such a device for better recall of information that’s important to you.
What set of things do you wish to remember? Consider acronyms, rhyme, alliteration, visualization, or any other method that works for you, such as noting the word “paper” ends in “er,” as does the word “stationery,” when it means “paper.”
Ever admire those who can rattle facts and figures off the top of their head? (Think of how much more productive you would be if there were certain numbers, statistics, words, addresses that you didn’t have to look up every time you needed them.) Ever wonder if the brains of such people are superior to your own? They are probably not, except in this regard: those with good memories have trained their brains to work for them. Get started doing the same.

PRACTICE

Once a day, have a relative or friend practice with you. Your coach will give you a one-digit number, which you are not to write down until he or she says “Record.” Then, you’ll receive a two-digit number. When the coach says, “Record,” write the number down from memory. Each time, your coach will give you a number one-digit-longer than the preceding number. Keep a log of your progress, specifying how many digits you were able to commit to short-term memory. Here are a few to get you started.
3 87 901 5201 84215 075328 40152856
104867624 6903457182
5 26 738 9320 52916 380157 6281302
392815647 2753019586

CHASE STRESS AWAY

Stress causes increased production of a hormone named cortisol. According to Dr. Blair Justice of the University of Texas Health Science Center, the cortex of the adrenal gland releases this hormone, which can have a negative impact on the cells of your immune system. Cortisol also reduces the number of natural killer (NK) cells, which travel through the body, looking for and destroying aberrant cells. If you don’t have enough NK cells doing their job, the abnormal cells can eventually develop into tumors.
When cortisol is racing through your body, it can damage the neurons in your brain in the long-term and cause your brain to become frozen in the short term. Experts advise engaging in a mental challenge just prior to a stressful event such as meeting a new person, asking someone on a date, interviewing for a new part-time job. There are any number of exercises you can engage in to develop your powers of concentration and control your stress. Here ‘s one.
Have a friend note how long it takes you to complete these six puzzles. Then make up others and exchange with your friend. Time yourself on the second set and strive to beat your earlier time.
EXAMPLE: C-A-T is to A-C-T as 1-2-3 is to
a) 3-2-1- b) 2-1-3 c) 2-3-1 d) 1-3-2 e) 3-1-2
If “C” in CAT is given a “1,” and “A” is given a “2,” and “T” is given a “3;” then the letters in ACT would be represented by the numbers 2-3-1, answer “c.” Time yourself on the following challenges.
1. N-A-P-E is to P-A-N-E as 8-2-4-7 is to:
a) 4-2-8-7 b) 4-7-8-2 c) 7-2-8-4 d) 4-8-2-7 e) 2-7-8-4
2. P-O-R-E is to R-O-P-E as 3-6-9-1 is to:
a) 9-6-3-1 b) 3-1-6-9 c) 9-1-3-6 d) 9-3-1-6 e) 6-1-3-9
3. T-O-P-S is to P-O-T-S as 4-1-7-9 is to:
a) 7-4-1-9 b) 7-1-4-9 c) 9-4-1-7 d) 7-9-1-4 e) 4-9-1-7
4. L-I-P-S is to S-L-I-P as 5-8-3-0 is to:
a) 0-3-8-5 b) 0-8-3-5 c) 0-5-8-3 d) 3-8-0-5 e) 8-0-5-3
5. S-L-A-T-E is to T-A-L-E-S as 6-7-3-5-2 is to:
a) 3-7-2-5-6 b) 2-6-3-7-5 c) 5-7-3-6-2 d) 5-7-2-3-6 e) 5-3-7-2-6
6. S-A-I-D is to D-A-I-S as 2-8-4-1 is to:
a) 1-2-4-8 b) 1-8-4-2 c) 8-1-2-4 d) 2-4-1-8 e) 1-4-8-2
As we grow older, many things no longer matter. But, in the case of our minds, they do matter. And committing to keeping our minds sharp is made easier when we practice exercises like these on a regular basis.
– Dr. Marlene Caroselli is septuagenarian author and speaker whom you can reach at msmccpd@gmail.com.
Answers: 1a, 2a, 3b, 4c, 5e, 6b.

Maximize Your Mind, No Matter Your Age

Maximize Your Mind, No Matter Your Age Maximize Your Mind, No Matter Your Age Maximize Your Mind, No Matter Your Age Maximize Your Mind, No Matter Your Age Maximize Your Mind, No Matter Your Age Maximize Your Mind, No Matter Your Age
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Power & Limitations of Power of Attorney Documents
Money Tips

Power & Limitations of Power of Attorney Documents

by Carol Marak
written by Carol Marak

Estate planning structures current and projected assets for future allocation and disposal. It eliminates the uncertainties over probate and maximizes the value of a families’ or individual’s estate. Having one helps reduce taxes and other expenses. Power & Limitations of Power of Attorney Documents
The estate covers all the things a person owns – a car, home, another real estate, checking and savings accounts, investments, life insurance, furniture, personal possessions, even pets.
Estate planning includes a will, trusts, beneficiary names, powers of appointment, a person writing the will selects a person (agent) to distribute the property under the will. An estate plan also includes several components: Will, Medical Power of Attorney, Financial Power of Attorney, and Advanced Healthcare Directives.
The POA documents allow an individual to decide in advance whom they trust and want to act on their behalf if they become incapable of making decisions. The selected person to act on behalf of the individual is the agent. Next, a person must distinguish between a medical and financial POA.
A medical POA is a legal form and called a health care directive or health care proxy that oversees your wishes for health care. It gives a trustworthy friend or family member (the agent) the ability to make decisions about the care the individual receives if one becomes incapacitated.
A financial POA is a legal form that gives the assigned agent the authority to handle financial transactions on an individual’s behalf. It is common to appoint one person to act as an agent for both financial and healthcare decisions, but in some cases, separate the two.
A health care agent decides:

  • What medical care the individual receives at the hospital, the surgery, medical treatment, home health care, etc.
  • The choice of doctors and care providers.
  • The location where the individual lives regarding residential long-term care. However, the individual must be able to afford these arrangements and the financial POA must approve these costs.
  • What food and nourishment the individual eats.
  • Who tends to activities of daily living.

A financial agent acts on the individual’s behalf:

  • Has access to the financial accounts and pays housing, care costs, and bills.
  • Files taxes.
  • Makes investment decisions.
  • Collects debts, manage property, applies for public benefits such as Medicaid, etc.

What the agent cannot do:

  • Change the will.
  • Break the fiduciary duty to act in the best interest.
  • Make decisions on behalf of the principal after their death.
  • Transfer POA responsibilities, but the agent has the right to decline their appointment at any time.

Carol Marak, aging advocate, Seniorcare.com. She’s earned a Certificate in the Fundamentals of Gerontology from UC Davis, School of Gerontology.

Power & Limitations of Power of Attorney Documents

Power & Limitations of Power of Attorney Documents

Power & Limitations of Power of Attorney Documents Power & Limitations of Power of Attorney Documents Power & Limitations of Power of Attorney Documents Power & Limitations of Power of Attorney Documents Power & Limitations of Power of Attorney Documents Power & Limitations of Power of Attorney Documents Power & Limitations of Power of Attorney Documents

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Is dementia reversible or curable?
Conditions & Treatments

Is dementia reversible or curable?

by Silverado
written by Silverado

It’s rare to find a life that has not been touched by dementia in some way. But for as prevalent a problem dementia is in our society, general public knowledge about the condition is surprisingly thin. When it comes to caring for those with dementia, knowledge is key. Is dementia reversible or curable?

It’s rare to find a life that has not been touched by dementia in some way. But for as prevalent a problem dementia is in our society, general public knowledge about the condition is surprisingly thin. When it comes to caring for those with dementia, knowledge is key. Is dementia reversible or curable?
Each Silverado memory care community has its own dedicated physician medical director with a background in caring for those with dementia, and every year they gather for a symposium to discuss the latest on advances and care techniques. In the video above Silverado Oak Village medical director Dr. Richard London explains the progressive nature of dementia and efforts to undo its effects.
For more videos of physicians discussing common dementia questions, please visit silveradocare.com/MDVideos.

Is dementia reversible or curable?

 

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What are some Alzheimers Risk Factors?
Caregiving

What are some Alzheimers Risk Factors?

by Silverado
written by Silverado

There are several commonly accepted risk factors associated with Alzheimer’s. Some factors like age, family history and heredity cannot be changed. However some can be managed or prevented. What are some Alzheimers Risk Factors?

Research also suggests that there may be a serious link between head traumas and future risk of Alzheimer’s. Dr. Sarah E. Ross, medical professional at Silverado’s Dallas Fort Worth Memory Care Communities explains that head traumas, such as from an accident, can mean that a patient has a slightly higher risk of losing brain function and later developing Alzheimer’s or dementia. What are some Alzheimers Risk Factors?
Other risks include cardiovascular factors. There have been links between poor cardiovascular health and also severe depression to development of dementia. Since the brain is an extremely rich network of blood vessels, every heartbeat pumps 20­-25% of your blood to your head, bringing necessary food and oxygen for brain function. Studies have also shown the connection between the increased chances of developing vascular dementia when you have damaged heart vessels. Some causes of this include high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Overall, it’s key to be both heart­ healthy and brain healthy.
For more videos of dementia specialists answering common questions, click here.
Sources: http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_causes_risk_factors.asp

What are some Alzheimers Risk Factors?

What are some Alzheimers Risk Factors? What are some Alzheimers Risk Factors? What are some Alzheimers Risk Factors? What are some Alzheimers Risk Factors? What are some Alzheimers Risk Factors? What are some Alzheimers Risk Factors? What are some Alzheimers Risk Factors?
 

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You Are Never Too Old
Healthy Living

You Are Never Too Old

by Kendall VanBlarcom
written by Kendall VanBlarcom

People are living longer than they have in previous generations. As you age, it is important to remember that you are never too old to create the life you want. You Are Never Too Old
Creating happiness is something that can be done at any age, yet it is common for people to equate aging with the idea of being too old to learn new things. You are able to bring new activities and connection into your life at any point, provided you are motivated to do so and are willing to seek out the right tools and guidance.

Is It Too Late For Me?

Sometimes, as life changes, people find themselves living a life they never planned on, and yet they are unsure what to do next. Why is this? Well, often it is because children grow up, move away, and have children of their own. Or jobs change and people retire. Sometimes retirement happens before you want it to, either through staffing changes or economic shifts. When any of these life changes happen, it’s time to take stock in your life and figure out what you’d like to do next.

What Do I Want?

For some people, this is a scary question. But it’s important to keep yourself open to new friendships, opportunities, and experiences. You are never too old to improve your life. Believing you are too old will only stifle your growth, making it difficult for you to move forward. Make yourself and your own happiness a priority.

You Are Never Too Old To Make Change

  • Purse a hobby. Either revisit a hobby you enjoyed in the past or find a new interest. Shared hobbies can also be a great way to bond with your spouse or others in your life.
  • Start journaling. Writing down your ideas can help you to discover your dreams. Plus, writing your thoughts and emotions down can be a path to healing. Some find it helpful in dealing with past traumas, because writing can be a way to break through emotional blocks.
  • Listen to books. Think of the books you have wanted to read and look into audio books. You can relax, take in the tale, and allow your imagination to soar.
  • Spend time with friends and family. Make dinner plans with people you miss or invite someone over to your house if you want company at home. If some relationships have weakened, make an effort to reach out. Sometimes it is easy to complain about people moving out of our lives, yet we have stopped making the effort as well.

Life is full of possibilities. Yes, your abilities and interests might change, but you are never too old to pursue the life you dream of. Change your thoughts about aging. Getting older can be an experience to enjoy if you allow yourself to learn new things and make new connections. You may find yourself having fun. Inspiration to live life fully could follow.
Want to make a change? You can. Talk through your problems and discover your path to health and happiness.

You Are Never Too Old

You Are Never Too Old You Are Never Too Old You Are Never Too Old You Are Never Too Old You Are Never Too Old You Are Never Too Old You Are Never Too Old You Are Never Too Old You Are Never Too Old You Are Never Too Old You Are Never Too Old You Are Never Too Old

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9 Great Ways for Seniors to Stay Fit
Exercise & Fitness

9 Great Ways for Seniors to Stay Fit

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

 
Today’s new exercise trends seem better suited for millennials than seniors. It’s hard to find motivation when new workouts are so daunting. But you don’t have to jump on the train of virtual boxing or hardcore parkour to stay fit. There are plenty of old-school ways to break a sweat in your golden years. 9 Great Ways for Seniors to Stay Fit
So don’t worry about trying to catch on to the next fitness fad. Whether you try one or you sample them all, these nine classic workout activities will have you feeling more energized than ever.

Take to Exercise Like a Fish to Water

Working out in a pool is a great way to mix up your daily routine. Water workouts offer the added benefit of water resistance to kick your exercise routine up a notch.

  • This low impact workout easy on the joints, making swimming a senior’s best friend. Take advantage of the pool at your gym or the local YMCA to swim laps three days a week. Pro tip: a swimming cap will help keep your hair dry while adding some aerodynamics to your stroke.
  • Aqua Aerobics. Break up the days of swimming laps with fun and engaging aerobics classes. Held in the shallow end of a pool, aqua aerobics uses the resistance of the water and your own body weight to tone and strengthen muscles. Pro tip: take a class with a friend for twice the fun. 9 Great Ways for Seniors to Stay Fit
  • Water Polo. Not for the faint of heart, Water Polo is the water sport version of Soccer. It’s a high intensity, high cardio workout that will keep you moving through the water the whole time. Pro tip: look into classes or amateur leagues in your area to get started.

Stay Fit Inside and Outdoors

Whether you hit the great outdoors during the summer or make use of the treadmill during the winter, you won’t have to sacrifice your workout days with these activities.

  • Universally beneficial for any age, walking is the easiest way to stay active. Take a turn around the block, or grab a friend for an hour of powerwalking. Pro tip: invest in a good pair of walking shoes to keep your feet and body supported while you move.
  • While you’re not aspiring to be the next Usain Bolt, running is still exercise seniors can take advantage of. Try your next run “off-road”—unpaved trails are easier on the feet and knees than running on pavement. Pro tip: have an expert assess your form the next time you’re at a running shoes store. 9 Great Ways for Seniors to Stay Fit
  • Hopping on a bike is a great cardio boost, and the perfect time to get the wind in your hair. Map out your route and take a leisurely ride or do a couple laps for more intensity. Pro tip: always wear your helmet when cycling outdoors.

Bring Your Mind and Body Into Harmony

Not all exercise means you have to sweat it out. Balance your workout days with gentle stretching and mindful movement.

  • Fine-tune your Downward Facing Dog while quieting your mind. With different styles and levels of yoga, seniors can tailor their practice to fit their needs that day. Pro tip: look for gentle yoga classes for a solid introduction to the practice.
  • Granted, meditation is not a physical workout, but the mental benefits make adding this practice into your routine well worth your time. Calming your mind lowers stress levels and boosts feelings of rejuvenation. Pro tip: try meditating before your normal workout to bring extra focus to what you’re working on that day.
  • Tai Chi. A rhythmical, almost dance-like form of martial arts, Tai Chi is promoted as a moving meditation. With slow controlled movement, Tai Chi is great for seniors looking for a more accessible starting point to exercise. Pro tip: take a class outdoors for a breath of fresh air.

Love the New You with Old-School Moves

Forget worrying about trying to beat the computer in virtual boxing. You’ll be rocking your way to a new you with any of these nine effective workouts. Get ready to break a sweat well into the best years of your life. 9 Great Ways for Seniors to Stay Fit
By Sonja Wright
Bio: Sonja Wright is a writer for Alert1, a personal safety and technology firm dedicated to helping seniors live safely and independently. A graduate of San Francisco State University, Sonja has an extreme weakness for yarn and the fiber arts. She unevenly divides her time between yoga, dance, and petting her cats.

9 Great Ways for Seniors to Stay Fit

9 Great Ways for Seniors to Stay Fit 9 Great Ways for Seniors to Stay Fit 9 Great Ways for Seniors to Stay Fit 9 Great Ways for Seniors to Stay Fit

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4 Excuses Seniors Use with Caregivers to Avoid Exercise
Exercise & Fitness

How Exercise Helps your Body and your Brain

by Silverado
written by Silverado


(Link to YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAMLfcat1aw)
It has long been known that exercise benefits the brain through improved vascular health, but scientists are beginning to discover that the benefits could be much more far-reaching. Watch Richard London, MD, Silverado Oak Village Medical Director, explain how exercise may be far more beneficial than previously believed.
Recent studies show an association between higher levels of physical activity and a slowing in cognitive decline and dementia onset. In some cases, an increase in the volume of the hippocampus (where Alzheimer’s starts) was observed. Based on this research, Silverado has made physical exercise a pillar of the Nexus program, which is designed to help defend against the onset and progression of many common dementias.
Exercises that can help your brain include, but are not limited to:

  • Walking
  • Hiking
  • Dancing
  • Biking
  • Strength training
  • Chair exercises
  • Zumba
  • Ping pong
  • Golf
  • Swimming

To watch more videos of medical experts discussing ways to keep the brain healthy, visit this page.

How Exercise Helps your Body and Your Brain

How Exercise Helps your Body and your Brain How Exercise Helps your Body and your Brain How Exercise Helps your Body and your Brain How Exercise Helps your Body and Your Brain

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