You are Never Too Old for A Walk in the Woods

Written by Ana Eyssimont

The beauty of the natural world is not something that is limited to a certain age group, and the inclusiveness of the outdoor community knows no limits. No matter where you spent most of your life, whether you are a home-body or a born nomad, there is no better time to get out into nature than in your senior years.

If you are skeptical about how you would enjoy a hiking adventure while managing the obstacles that come with older age, please continue reading.

This article will guide you through everything you need to know as a senior on how to navigate trails safely, how to use technology to find which trails are best for you and your capabilities, tips for gear and clothing, and more.

Consult with your doctors if hiking is right for you

There are certain medical precautions you must take before exposing yourself to new terrain. And if you are looking to expand your horizons when it comes to longer-distance hiking or more challenging trails, you should still discuss with your doctor what may limit your ability to accomplish your goals and if there are ways around those limitations, such as; quitting smoking, investing in a portable oxygen concentrator, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, a new diet plan etc.

If you struggle with common age related health issues you might find valuable resources online that will help you maintain vitality 

Common age related health issues that may affect your ability to hike develop in your bones, heart, and lungs. If you experience any of these complications, it does not mean that this is the end to your hiking endeavors. All this means is that you are going to start your uphill battle before hitting the trail.

Health issues that make it too difficult to hike  

COPD is one of the most common lung aliments and it will progress into a very serious condition if gone untreated.

That being said, we do understand the reality that some people's health conditions does inhibit their ability to hike safely and comfortably. However, walking is one of best things you can do for COPD, and other health complications like osteoporosis, or heart failure. 

Try pushing yourself to walk around your house once a day: walk to get the mail, or go up and down the stairs. From there your lungs, bones, and heart will begin to strengthen and hopefully your energy levels will increase allowing you to go further everyday, and potentially get outside on a trail someday.

Begin a hiking training program at home

If you are healthy and ready to start mapping out your next adventure, skip to the next section! Otherwise, begin implementing a strict exercise, weight management, and diet plan into your daily routine. Start your training by walking daily for a week and write down in a journal your route, distance, amount of time, and details about how you felt and anything you noticed about your body or experience.

You can try to share your stats and observations with your future hiking buddies or family to reinforce your efforts. Keeping a record can be very self gratifying because hiking can become addictive!

You should also enforce a strict diet plan that is high in nutrients your body craves. Talk to a nutritionist about foods you can start incorporating into your diet, so you are more capable of building strength and endurance for the trail. 

Strengthen your core

To walk for hours at a time, do not be fooled, you’ll need more than just strong legs. Distance walking has been proven to compress your spine, causing backaches. One way to minimize back pain or aches while hiking or long distance walking is to focus on building core strength.

While you are walking, always try lengthening your spine by keeping your shoulders down, abdomen (stomach) contracted into your spine, keep your head held high, and avoid staring straight down at the ground. You can also try swimming, water aerobics, pilates and yoga to help build your core and keep you limber.

It is completely normal to lose muscle mass as you age, but you are able to tone the muscle you do have by incorporating cross training exercise with your hiking and long distance walks such as: Downward dogs and planks from yoga, Cardio from water jogging and aerobics, and crunches and even gardening for extra core work.

Download the AllTrails app on your apple or android smartphone

AllTrails will act as your guide if you do not want to hire a guide or go hiking with a tour group. While the latter options are great, some individuals value independence on the trail and in the wilderness.

This app is simple and easy to use, you can find trailheads near your area and far beyond, and you can use the app while you are hiking as a map so you stay on the trail and don't get lost.

You are able to use GSP and find hikes near you, or input a nearby town or mountain range you are looking to explore. You can filter the results by the “Best Match”, “Most Popular”, or the “Closet”, and you can choose ''Easy”, “Moderate”, to “Difficult” trails.

The app will also only show you the trails that are a specified distance, so if you only want to go 1.5 miles one day, you are capable of finding a trail that's perfect for you.

AllTrails will also inform you of the hiking trails that offer mountain biking, dog, horseback riding, or motorized vehicles, so you will be aware of all the faster moving obstacles you might encounter.

The most useful AllTrails feature for seniors or people with disabilities or health conditions is the option to filter trail results that are wheelchair friendly and paved or partially paved. Also by being able to input elevation gain, you can find flat trails that you can wheel your continuous flow oxygen concentrator or feel confident carrying a portable oxygen concentrator with ease.

Choose the trail that is right for you

Now that you have an essential application (AllTrails) for choosing the right trail, it is time to be honest with yourself, and decide what hike is within your capabilities. It is perfectly normal to start small: Take a short 0.7 mile hike, that is partially paved, and close by your home.

Hiking trails that are good for seniors who do not normally hike are typically flatter and wider. If you are a beginner stick to a trail with a smooth walking surface that is better for balance and try to avoid trails with higher elevation gain.

Hiking uphill can be strenuous for your lungs, while hiking downhill can be rough on your knees.

Once you begin to feel more comfortable on the trails, you can start poking around your comfort zone, but never feel obligated to be uncomfortable, hiking should be a stress reliever, and if you are feeling dread or fear over a hike you planned, it is not the best option for you at that time.

Check the weather in the nearby town or area

If you are about to embark on your adventure in the woods, along the beach, through the plains, or along foothills be sure to check the weather in the nearby town before you go. Be aware that the weather at higher elevation tends to change rapidly and with little to no warning.

Know as much as you can about the weather patterns in the area before you go so that you can pack all of the essentials: rain coat, wind breaker, sunscreen, sun hat, or insulated jacket.
 

Dress for the weather

The best advice for hiking clothing is to wear or bring multiple layers. Going up hill you may feel warm, and going down hill you might get chilly. Weather will also change through out the day so you are able to de-layer or add layers whenever necessary for your ultimate comfort. Here are some ideas for outerwear options in different weather conditions:

Early morning hike in the middle of July:

• Light/ medium jacket: The morning air may be chilly especially if you are in the mountains or exploring in higher elevations
  
  

• Breathable hiking pants: While it may be chilly in the mornings, towards the middle and end of your hike the sun will kick in and having breathable pants will make a world difference. You will want to avoid wearing shorts to limit bug bites and exposure to harmful UV sun rays
  
  

• Sun hat: Invest in a hat that covers your forehead, ears, and neck. Even by applying sunscreen to these areas, your forehead and neck will likely sweat during the hike and if you forget to reapply sunscreen the sun damage can be irreversible.
  
  

Afternoon hike to see the leaves changing at the beginning of Autumn:

• Base layer: Your base layer should not be cotton fabric. You will likely sweat on the way up the trail, and rather than wicking away perspirant, cotton will trap moisture keeping you cold and wet on the way down.
  
  

• Insulated rain coat: Even if there is no rain in the forecast, an insulated raincoat will keep you warm all the way up and down the trail, and if an unexpected afternoon storm rolls in you’ll be prepared.
  
  

• Hiking pants: Hiking pants that are comfortable yet warm will be perfect for an Autumn hike. If you walk at a steady pace, you don't want to get too hot by wearing an extra base layer.
  
  

A sunny but wintery hike for a chance to get outside before the next storm rolls in

• Base layer: Your base layer should not be cotton fabric. You will likely sweat on the way up the trail, and rather than wicking away perspirant cotton trap moisture, keeping you cold and wet on the way down.
  
  

• Breathable sweater: A mild sweater will keep you warm if you are too warm wearing the puffy coat and you want to de-layer
  
  

• Puffy coat: The best way to stay warm in cold temperatures is to have a down or synthetic down puffy coat. These will also fold down small enough to stuff in your backpack when you start to warm up and need to de-layer.
  
  

• Base layer pants: water wicking pants with some insulation will keep your extremities warm through, snow, wind, and cold temperatures.
  
  

• Hiking pants: Wearing thick hiking pants will protect you against cold winds while still allowing maneuverability
  
  

A hike across the valley to see the annual spring blooms

• Base layer: Your base layer should not be cotton fabric. You will likely sweat on the way up the trail, and rather than wicking away perspirant, cotton trap moisture keeping you cold and wet on the way down.
  
  

• Light rain jacket: A light rain jacket will keep you dry if there are any showers but won’t insulate heat so you won’t get too hot.
  
  

• Hiking pants: Pants are always the best options for protection against rain, wind, and sun.
  
  

Use trekking/hiking poles

Hiking poles are a great option for hikers of all ages because they help immensely with balance. Poles can be used to lighten your steps, ease your knees, help propel you forward, help you detect a path’s surface, and test wobbly rocks.

You should train to use your trekking poles before you get on the trail to develop efficiency and to gain arm strength. When you are buying trekking/hiking poles, remember that most hiking poles are adjustable so you are able to shorten the poles for the hike up and lengthen them for the way down.

Drink plenty of water

Having enough water is the key to enjoying physical activities, especially outdoors while hiking. One trick to getting enough water and staying hydrated is to drink plenty of water a couple of days before you plan to go hiking so your body is already fueled and hydrated before your hike.

If you are going on a longer hike, bring a camelback backpack, and a water pump to filter running water in case you run out. This should on be necessary for very experienced hikers going very far distances upwards of 6-10 miles, with high-levels of elevation gain.

A 24 fl oz water bottle should do the trick for a mile long hike, unless it's mid-day, June-August, and hot, you should bring at least two water bottles and place them in the side pockets of your backpack.

If carrying water is too heavy, hydrate a lot the week before you go hiking, drink a full bottle of water on the drive to the hike, carry a smaller light weight water bottle for sipping during the hike, and leave an entire water bottle full in the car for afterwards.

Pack a first aid or emergency kit

Even if you are just going for a short hike, you should always bring a first aid kit especially if you have any health conditions. This can be a makeshift first aid kit, with all of your personal essentials like an inhaler or nebulizer, or if you do not have any health condition, you can find a small first kit at any general store.

If you are embarking on a longer more strenuous journey, pack an emergency kit with an outdoor first aid kit, extra food and water, a way to start a fire (like waterproof matchers or a lighter), and always bring a headlamp or flashlight.

Hike with a group

Some people enjoy the isolation of being out in nature alone, but if you have any underlying health conditions, it is important to have people who can help you if something goes astray.

Try finding a buddy or two who enjoy the outdoors, and are willing or able to maintain your hiking pace. It is not always fun leaving your group behind or feeling rushed and overwhelmed being in the back of the group.

There is nothing wrong with finding your pace, and sticking to it, but a healthy group dynamic while hiking keeps morale high.

Enjoy the views

We hope that everyone can find some outdoor adventure that suits their needs, and we hope to give you the tools to navigate the outdoors with ease and confidence going forward.

If you enjoyed this article keep following us for upcoming posts about outdoor recreation for seniors or anyone with a health condition that might feel limited in their ability to do outdoor activities. 

If you would be interested in hearing about hikes near you, please leave a comment below and a note about your capabilities so we can research ideas for your next adventure and write about it in out next blog post.

Remember there is no right or wrong way to hike, as long as you are safe responsible and enjoying your time outdoors! 

Topics: portable oxygen concentrator, oxygen therapy, wellness goals, exercise, wellness for seniors, outdoor recreation

Found on LPT Medical site

A Comprehensive Guide to Eye Care for Seniors

Article written by and found on: ucfhealth.com

Quick Links:

• Cataracts

• Macular Degeneration

• Glaucoma

• Diabetic Eye Disease

• Preventative Eye Care Tips

• Eye Check Ups for Seniors

• Resources

Introduction: Why Is Eye Care for Seniors Important? 

As we age, there’s nothing more important than our health, specifically the wellness of our five senses. Vision is no exception to the rule, yet it can be difficult to feel like you’re doing enough for your eyecare as you get older.  According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, approximately one in three elderly people experiences some type of vision reduction or eye disease by age 65. 

Regular, preventative eye care screenings ideally are already a part of your annual or biannual health check-ups. Sure, it’s normal for prescriptions to change. As you grow older, normal changes to vision are bound to happen. Your 20/20 vision may fade. You may find yourself trying on reading glasses at the pharmacy these days. Seeing your eye doctor (ophthalmologist) once in a while may seem like enough of a preventative measure but for seniors, it’s critically important to go the extra mile. 

Why Should You Care About Your Eyes as You Age? 

Eye health can affect your holistic physical and mental health. Many seniors experience slips and falls that otherwise could be mitigated by successful eye surgery. Seniors with eye conditions may get back functionality and independence when they seek professional treatment. 

For example, successful eye surgery may lengthen the time one can continue to drive a vehicle. Vision is a beautiful part of life, and no one who can have relief from symptoms should settle for less than great eyecare. 

It’s important to understand that an eye disease or eye condition does not always indicate that you will experience vision loss. Often, vision loss occurs when symptoms are beyond surgical repair. 

In this guide, you’ll learn eyecare best practices, discover warning signs of age-related conditions, and know what to expect when you get a preventative eye exam. When you’re armed with knowledge about symptoms and treatment options for eye conditions like glaucoma and cataracts, you’ll make smarter, logic-informed decisions for disease prevention. 

What Eye Conditions Should You Look Out For? 

There are four critical diseases of the eye that affect seniors: 

1. Cataracts

2. Macular Degeneration

3. Glaucoma

4. Diabetic Eye Disease  

1. Cataracts

A cataract is a medical condition where the lens of the eye starts to become visibly cloudy, causing blurred vision and decreased coordination due to lack of clarity. 

Specifically, proteins in the eye accumulate and eventually prevent the retina and the lens of the eye from sending clear images to one another. Developing a cataract is considered a standard age-related condition, and the main treatment option available for cataracts is surgery. 

A) Early Signs and Symptoms of Cataracts 

Cataracts tend to develop slowly over time, but there are common signs beyond cloudy vision you can watch out for. 

• Double vision or seeing halos

• Light sensitivity 

• Difficulty seeing in low light 

• Noticable changes in prescription or vision, especially if in between appointments with your eye care practitioner  

• Loss of vibrancy when seeing color 

• Blurred vision

B) Who Is Most at Risk?

Opthamologists generally refer to cataracts as an age-related condition of the eye. However, there are some lifestyle and health decisions that can increase your risk of developing cataracts, such as: 

• Smoking or excessive consumption alcohol 

• Obesity 

• Diabetes 

• High blood pressure

• Sustained, regular, unprotected sun exposure (specifically to UV radiation)

• Previous injury to the eye

C) Treatment 

If you’re not interested in eye surgery and prefer to manage cataracts alternatively, talk to your ophthalmologist about stronger lenses or other ways to live with your cataracts. 

However, in most cases, your eye doctor will recommend surgery to remove the cataract so you can return to daily activities and maintain your eye health for longer.

The National Eye Institute reports a 90% efficacy rate, where 9 out of every 10 people who get the surgery have better vision afterward. 

Cataract surgery tends to be an outpatient procedure that takes an hour or less. The eye will receive an anesthetic, and the patient will receive a mild sedative to place them at ease.

D) Resources on Cataracts

• Healthline Guide to Cataracts

• Signs You Have Cataracts

• Everything You Need to Know about Cataract Surgery 

• Good Eyes Guide to Cataract Surgery

• Reasons Why You Need to Watch Cataracts Carefully 

2. Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is the thinning of the “macula,” which is the part of the retina that makes vision clear and detailed. The Gavin Herbert Eye Institute defines “age-related macular degeneration” (AMD) as progressive eye condition that affects as many as 15 million Americans, with 200,000 new cases each year. 

Though macular degeneration is classified as incurable, there are varying degrees of severity. AMD happens gradually, and there are three stages of the disorder:

1. Early AMD, where vision loss has not yet occurred. Your eye doctor can still discover macular degeneration during this stage, especially if you are getting examined regularly. 

2. Intermediate AMD is where you may experience some vision loss, but perhaps not enough to notice or worry you. 

3. Late AMD, where vision loss is recognized.   

A) Early Signs and Symptoms of Macular Degeneration 

Symptoms will vary based on the person, but a few things a macular degeneration patient may experience are: 

• Diminished vision in one (or both) eyes 

• Difficulty adjusting to changes in light, or work in dim light

• Blurred vision, whether when interacting with people or reading 

• Uncomfortable brightness in situations that aren’t as bright as perceived 

B) Who Is Most at Risk? 

According to The Mayo Clinic, smoking nearly doubles your risk of developing AMD. Studies suggest that obesity and cardiovascular disease may predispose someone to macular degeneration as well. Your eye doctor will also always take family history and genetics into consideration. Most patients with AMD are over the age of 50.

C) Treatment 

Unlike glaucoma, there isn’t a medical treatment for macular degeneration. The best measures against AMD are preventative ones, such as following a diet dense in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and omega-3s. Quitting smoking or avoiding smoking is another way to reduce your likelihood of macular degeneration. 

Protecting the eyes from sun exposure such as harmful UV rays or blue light is another key prevention tool. 

D) Resources on Macular Degeneration 

• The Macular Degeneration Foundation   

• A Guide to Living With AMD 

• A 2017 study found inconclusive results on the correlation between screen-related blue light exposure and macular health.

• Treatment types identified by the American Macular Degeneration Foundation 

3. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye condition where the main nerve to the eye—also referred to as the “optic nerve”—becomes damaged. Vision becomes patchy. 

While scientists aren’t completely sure why this happens, glaucoma can lead to sudden and complete vision loss without showing major signs or symptoms. Early detection is the only way to prevent glaucoma from affecting vision. Any vision loss associated with glaucoma can’t be recovered. Glaucoma Research Foundation reported research from The Eye Diseases Prevalence Research Group that in the U.S., more than 120,000 are blind from the condition.

Regular eye exams can make the difference between glaucoma detection and missing a diagnosis. There are multiple types of glaucoma, according to the International Glaucoma Association, such as primary open angle glaucoma, secondary glaucoma, and others. 

A) Early Signs and Symptoms of Glaucoma 

The tricky part about glaucoma is that it usually doesn’t have symptoms at first, which can make detection difficult. Signs of the disease worsening include loss of peripheral (side) vision. Glaucoma can occur in one or both eyes. 

Some other symptoms of glaucoma include blurred or distorted vision, eye pain, loss of peripheral vision, and headaches. 

B) How is Glaucoma Diagnosed? 

Glaucoma is typically diagnosed through a dilated eye exam, which is painless for the patient. 

C) Who Is Most at Risk?

According to the National Eye Institute, glaucoma can affect anyone, but those who are over the age of 60 are the most susceptible. If you have a family history of glaucoma, you’ll want to be extra vigilant about getting regular complete eye exams. 

The American Optometric Association reports that African Americans over the age of 40 and Hispanics over the age of 60 present a higher risk of developing glaucoma.  

It’s worth noting that glaucoma doesn’t only affect seniors; it can happen at any age. Developmental glaucoma is when newborns or young children experience the disease.

D) Treatment 

Eye conditions like glaucoma are highly variable, and eye doctors determine specific treatment based on factors like the damage to the optic nerve, corneal thickness, and how much the glaucoma is affecting peripheral vision. There are three main forms of glaucoma treatment today:

1. Eye drops, which lower the pressure of the eye to lessen optic nerve damage 

2. Laser treatment, also called Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty, creates better drainage in the eye to relieve intraocular pressure (IOP)

3. Surgery was previously the least common treatment type, but is gaining popularity in newer studies. Glaucoma specialists will recommend surgery when laser treatment and eye drops aren’t helping your symptoms. The typical recovery period for eye surgery lasts between 3-6 weeks. 

E) Resources on Glaucoma 

• Glaucoma at a Glance: National Eye Institute

• Guide to Glaucoma from American Optometric Association 

• Glaucoma Prevention and Risk Facts from Bright Focus

• What To Expect After Glaucoma Eye Surgery 

• Charity efforts and aid information from the International Glaucoma Association 

4. Diabetic Eye Disease

Diabetic eye disease is also called “diabetic retinopathy,” occurring when blood vessels of the retina are damaged. Poor regulation of blood sugar can increase your risk of diabetic eye disease. The longer you’ve been living with diabetes, the higher your chance of developing retinopathy. 

There are two main types of diabetic eye disease: 

1. Nonproliferative Retinopathy, which is where capillaries in the eye form pouches that affect vision and is the most common of the retinopathies

2. Proliferative Retinopathy, which causes the development of new, weak blood vessels as they try to increase blood flow to the struggling eye. 

The best thing patients with diabetic eye disease can do is closely monitor both their vision, diabetes, and health. Working with multiple healthcare practitioners for a holistic practice is critical to slow its progression. Diabetic blindness can occur when the disease is left to its own devices.

A) Early Signs and Symptoms of Diabetic Eye Disease 

In the early states of diabetic eye disease, symptoms may be very mild or difficult to connect with your diabetes. You may experience: 

• Flashing lights in your vision 

• Floating spots in the eye, called “floaters”

• Blind spots

• Poor or diminished perception of color 

B) Who Is Most at Risk?

• People with type 1 and 2 diabetes are at increased risk for the disease and its complications, according to the American Diabetes Association.  

• Those who smoke or have smoked in the past 

• Those with patterns of high blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar

• Those with diabetes who opt not to get an annual dilated eye exam, which can ward off the advancement of the disease

C) Treatment 

Milder cases of diabetic eye disease can be maintained with careful monitoring of diabetes and blood sugar. Once blood pressure and blood sugar are controlled for several months, repair can begin to naturally occur, according to Harvard Health Publishing. 

More serious cases of diabetic retinopathy mean that the retina has sustained damage that require surgery. Laser treatments, injections of medication into the eye, and surgery on the retina are common treatment options for this category. 

The retina can detach from its proper place, so an eye doctor may recommend a laser surgery to shrink the rogue, weak blood vessels causing the detachment. Injection of a medication to the eye that blocks the growth of blood vessels in the eye is another course of treatment that has seen an increase in efficacy according to the American Society of Retina Specialists. 

Always ask your eye doctor which treatment is most appropriate for your case of diabetic eye disease.

D) Resources on Diabetic Eye Disease

• Guide to Diabetic Eye Disease, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

• Symptoms and 4 Stages of Retinopathy from Vision Aware

• Clinical studies on diabetic retinopathy from ScienceDirect

• Diabetic Eye Care Videos from the Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania 

• Innovations in Diabetic Eye Disease, CollaborativeEye.com  

Preventative Eye Care Tips 

Daily life has plenty of distractions, screens, and harsh lights that can affect your vision over time. 

One tenant of good eye care is consistency. You wouldn’t apply sunscreen only on beach days, right? The same principle applies to practicing good eye care. Here are some tips: 

• Ask your family and loved ones about their eye history, and write down their responses to share with your eye doctor

• Take measures to quit smoking or avoid smoking altogether

• Exercise regularly for optimal health. The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of exercise per week for adults

• Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect the eye from harsh UV lights

• Wear protective eye gear during activities where the eye may sustain damage or get hurt

• Don’t overwear contact lenses, which can cause infection of the eye

• If you do wear contact lenses, follow cleanliness guidelines and your eye doctor’s instructions for how often to discard them

Nutrition 

We’ve all heard the old wives’ tale at the kitchen table: “Eat carrots to improve your vision!” Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as a carrot a day keeps the cataracts away. Though carrots do contain essential vitamins like Vitamin A, which protects the eye by strengthening its surface.

There are dietary best practices that can better your eye health in the long-term; for example, Real Simple recommends following a diet that’s dense in leafy greens like kale and spinach, squash, and, essentially, sticking to a colorful diet. 

Medical News Today also provides dietary suggestions such as increasing intake of antioxidants and omega-3s, as well as recommended daily intakes from the American Academy of Ophthalmology. 

Eye Check Up Protocol for Seniors 

Why Do You Need an Eye Exam?

Eye exams are the only method we have of identifying early onset eye conditions. 

It’s important to get eye exams on a regular basis the same way that you’d put gas in your car if the tank was running low, or visit the doctor annually for a physical exam. 

For those over 60 years old, regular eye exams can make a difference in the future health of your eyes and your vision.  

How Often Do You Need an Eye Exam?

According to Prevent Blindness.org, how often you should get your eyes checked varies based on your age range and pre-existing health conditions.  

• Those between 40-64 should get a complete eye exam every 2-4 years 

• Those 65 years or older should see their ophthalmologist every year

• Those with pre-existing eye conditions or concerns about family history should ask their eye doctor how often they’d like to see them

Do You Need An Eye Exam If You Have Good Vision? 

The short answer is: yes! Just because you have good eyesight doesn’t mean you may not have underlying conditions that can’t be seen with the naked eye. Regular eye exams, just like going to the dentist or your primary care doctor, are preventative and can identify warning signs of eye disease or vision issues before symptoms appear, or worsen. 

What to Expect at an Eye Exam for Seniors

Even if you have good vision, you’ll still need to have your eyes tested. Eye exams can be as simple as the standard inspection ophthalmologists use to prescribe glasses. Early detection is the key to preventing vision loss. 

With advancing technologies, videos of different eye conditions make it easier to understand potential conditions and diagnoses. You don’t need to be in medical school to benefit from learning some eye anatomy. 

You may hear a lot about corrective surgeries like Lasik, but remember—your ophthalmologist would never recommend an exam or treatment that they truly didn’t believe you need.  

Why Do I Need a Dilated Eye Exam? 

Dilation is the widening of the pupil to increase light to the eye. Dilated eye exams are one of the only methods of detection for glaucoma or macular degeneration. According to the Mayo Clinic, dilation can also identify health issues like high blood pressure and diabetes. After dilation, which is a painless process, you will generally experience blurry vision or some extra light sensitivity. 

If you do have a dilated eye exam during your visit with the ophthalmologist, it’s recommended that you avoid driving or operating machinery for at least several hours until the pupil returns to normal dilation. 

Convincing An Elderly Family Member to See An Ophthalmologist

As family members and friends grow older, it may be tricky to convince them that going to the ophthalmologist is necessary—especially if they insist they’re healthy. You may be tempted to take a family member at their word, but eye issues can come on suddenly, and seniors may not realize the severity of their symptoms if they’re treating other major health problems in tandem. 

Some don’t have eye insurance, which can add another layer of difficulty, especially if they’re paying out of pocket for all their eyecare. Exams, treatments, and surgeries can add up on top of existing bills and medical necessities.

However, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vision is well-cared for and addressing any symptoms that arise far outweighs the alternative—missed diagnoses, discomfort, or even loss of vision. 

Resources: 

• EyeCare America, also known as the American Academy of Ophthalmology, provides information on no and low-cost eye exams. 

• The National Eye Institute compiled a list of applications and programs to help pay for eye care and low-cost alternatives. 

• Programs that provide free eye exams and glasses 

Check Your Insurance Coverage: 

• eHealthMedicare details what specific Medicare programs can help with senior eyecare

• Learn details of individual plans like Humana

• Recommendations on vision insurance from Senior Living

Having a Hard Time Seeing? More Resources: 

At UCF Health, our dedicated ophthalmologist is trained to identify, treat, and care for eye conditions without overwhelming the patient with medical jargon. When it comes to eye care for seniors, knowledge is indeed power. Here are additional resources for seniors: 

• Common eye disorders identified by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) 

• A full list of eye diseases, according to Medline.gov

• Be My Eyes: an app which connects a blind or low vision person with a skilled volunteer to provide virtual assistance. An option for those experiencing vision loss to resume some daily activities 

• WebMD Eye Care Guide for Senior Years

• American Academy of Ophthalmology  

• Columbia University Department of Ophthalmology

• American Board of Ophthalmology

• All About Vision: Over 60 – Vision Care for Seniors

• American Optometric Association Guide to Adult Vision (Over 60)

• Association of Vision Science Librarians (AVSL) Internet Eye Resources

• What To Expect When Your Eyes are Dilated

• International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, a global initiative working to educate the public on ways to prevent blindness

The Health Benefits of Pets for Older Adults

They reduce blood pressure, help us get exercise and brighten our outlook

By Ronni Gordon

When Lynette Whiteman’s youngest child went to college, Whiteman went out and got a second dog that she calls “my empty nest dog.” She wanted someone else to care for, “who loves me non-judgmentally and doesn’t mind if I’m gaining weight or getting gray.”

Whiteman may get home from work tired, but the 60-year-old resident of Toms River, N.J., says the dogs stare at her until she puts their leashes on. She walks them and always feels good afterwards.

Helping Us Stay Well After 50

Dogs are especially important for the 50 and over group. They keep people connected to their communities and keep them on the move, a vital part of staying healthy into the later years. And research shows that having a dog promotes walking, considered the best form of exercise for people in this age group.

“People walk because they want their dog to get exercise, and without realizing it, they get theirs,” says Rebecca Johnson, a nurse gerontologist and director of the Research Center for Human/Animal Interaction, a collaboration between the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine and the Sinclair School of Nursing.

For older people unable to care for a dog, Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey matches therapy dogs with homebound older adults for weekly visits.

“It’s vitally important to stay as physically active as possible, not only from the point of view of preventing illness, but also because of the social benefits,” Johnson says. “Dog owners are less likely to have loneliness and depression than those who don’t. And when they interact with a dog on a walk, it draws them into the moment and they forget their aches and pains.”

The Benefits of Dog-Walking

Gloria and Jim Ross, 80-year-old retirees in Waverly, Pa., say their standard white poodle Louie is the reason they walk between two to three miles a day. “He gets you up in the morning and he’s always in good spirits whether we are or not. He brings a smile to your face,” Jim Ross says.

A 2010 study, “Exercise Motivation and Fitness through Dog Walking Among Older Adults,” for which Johnson was the lead author, showed that a group who walked with shelter dogs improved their normal walking speed and distance. They were also more likely to go for a walk than those who walked with a human companion and those in a control group. In fact, the human companions often discouraged each other from walking.

And a survey article last year in The Gerontologist, “Dog Walking, the Human–Animal Bond and Older Adults’ Physical Health,” concluded, “Dog walking was associated with lower body mass index, fewer activities of daily living limitations, fewer doctor visits and more frequent moderate and vigorous exercise.”

Merely Owning a Pet Also Helps

Research also shows that pet owners (primarily of dogs and cats) can decrease their risk of coronary heart disease, the most common cause of death of men and women 60 years and older.

According to the American Heart Association, studies have shown that pet owners have lower blood pressure and smaller increases in heart rate and blood pressure in response to stress, lower resting baseline heart rates and blood pressure, significantly smaller increases in heart rate and blood pressure in response to stress, and faster recovery from stress.

In one early study, Erika Friedmann, professor of organizational systems and adult health at the University of Maryland School of Nursing, even found higher survival rates of heart attack patients who owned pets.

Good for Mental Health, Too

Sally Morgan, a physical therapist for people and animals in West Hatfield, Mass., elaborates on the social and emotional benefits for people over 50. “They may find themselves living alone for the first time in years after a spouse dies, a divorce, or even simply after the children move out of the house,” she says. “Group dog walks and other events keep people integrated in the community.”

She adds: “People over 50 are more keyed into their animals because their lives are settling down, there are no kids in the house and the dog is always with you and you’re not running to soccer games and building a career.”

Companions in Dark Times

Morgan, 59, falls into this age group herself and has first-hand knowledge of another way that pets help their people: comforting them in difficult times.

When she had chemotherapy for breast cancer eight years ago, her hospital allowed her to have her dog with her. And when she had a reaction to the drugs while getting prepped for radiation, her Welsh corgi, Comet, calmed her down by lying in the bed with her.

“He was important to my getting well,” Morgan says.

Across the ocean in London, a dog also helped Bridget Irving heal — from the trauma of a death in the family and a failed relationship. The 53-year-old illustrator, who also suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, adopted a neglected, older, one-eyed rescue dog — a Yorkshire terrier named Ben.

“I really began to heal mentally when Ben arrived,” Irving says. “He changed my focus because he needed me to do the right thing for him every day. ”

Animals and Hormones

The healing power of pets has a scientific basis, too, with studies showing that this type of interaction releases the anti-stress, calming hormone oxytocin in animals and humans.

Pioneering South African researchers Johannes Odendaal and Roy Meintjes first demonstrated the reciprocal release of endorphins (oxytocin and dopamine) in studies they conducted with humans and dogs in 2003. Petting dogs also results in decreased levels of the primary stress hormone cortisol.

And Swedish researcher Linda Handlin demonstrated that when women interacted with their dogs, the oxytocin-promoting bonding was similar to that produced when mothers breastfed their newborns.

For older people unable to care for a dog, Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey matches therapy dogs with homebound older adults for weekly visits. Whiteman, the executive director, says the group partnered with a local university to measure blood pressure after the visits. They found that blood pressure in the older adults decreased, as described in a study in the Journal of Community Health Nursing in 2016.

“Anecdotally, we see such a huge improvement in mood when our dogs visit,” says Caregiver Volunteers Executive Director Whiteman. “They adopt them like a grandchild.”

Dogs Aren’t the Only Helpers

Although research has focused on dogs, experts see some of the same benefits with owners of cats, rabbits, birds, fish and other pets.

“Cats get a bad rap,” says Beverly Roberts, a 64-year-old registered nurse who lives in Somers, Conn. She and her husband George have a Maine coon mix, Anthony, and a regular tabby, Boots. “Cats are very independent, and sometimes you feel they’re the boss of the house,” Roberts says. “But they can sense feelings. They can be very aloof, but not to us. If we’re sick and in bed, they watch over us. And when they sit on your lap, you feel like your stress is being released.”

With all this in mind, many retirement communities have pet-friendly policies.

For example, at TigerPlace, operated by  by Americare in affiliation with the University of Missouri Sinclair School of Nursing and College of Veterinary Medicine, residents who want to keep their pets get visits from pet care assistants each week and have access to veterinary care. The facility also has a program through which animals are brought to the community weekly.

Article can be found on nextavenue.org

What is Art Therapy?

written by: John Bramer

Art therapy can be a valuable and rewarding way to express ourselves creativity, as well as look after our mental and physical health. The beauty of art therapy is that it is accessible to a wide range of people, no matter their age or skill.

So what is art therapy, where did it begin, and how can we use it today?

Introduction

 In essence, art therapy is the practice of experimenting and playing through creativity, with the aim of working through difficult or uncomfortable feelings. It can lead to emotional breakthroughs, clarity of thought, and even a way we can overcome trauma.

 Whether it’s painting, sculpting, or using other materials, art therapy allows us to truly concentrate on the creative actions involved – freeing our mind of its stresses and other emotional burdens.

Art skills are not necessary for people to engage in therapeutic art therapy, and anyone can benefit from it. The fundamentals of art therapy are rooted in psychotherapy, and many leading art therapists want to go further by adopting a more analytical approach that leads to meaningful therapeutic breakthroughs for the participants involved.

History

British artist Adrian Hill is thought to be the first person to first give ‘art therapy’ its name. When Hill was ill with tuberculosis in 1942, he discovered the healing benefits of painting and drawing. From there, he began drawing and painting with other patients who were injured from the war – noting that the practice of art therapy seemed to improve their mental wellbeing. 

Although the concept of art therapy already existed in a loose form, it’s not until the 1940s that it really took off as a professional discipline. Since then, art therapy has become increasingly mainstream, with a range of artists and psychotherapists looking into the benefits of practising art therapy in people suffering with a wide range of mental illnesses. The benefits of art therapy for general health, both mental and physical, have also become widely appreciated.

The Positive Effects on Health for Seniors

Art therapy can be beneficial for a range of health problems. Research indicates that it can help to reduce pain, stress, anxiety, and depression, and even improve mental function for older adults with dementia. In general terms, art therapy is also beneficial for memory, dexterity, and mental health. The stress reduction that art therapy contributes to can improve physical health, too, as symptoms of stress can be severe and widespread throughout the body.

Art therapy is also valuable for its social aspect. In groups with others, art therapy can engender deep feelings of community and belonging. By unlocking our creative side and deeper emotions with others, we are able to strengthen our bonds with them in a truly meaningful way. Loneliness is sadly an epidemic among seniors, especially at the present time – with the coronavirus meaning many are isolated from friends and family. According to new research, over half of adults have admitted that the coronavirus has affected their mental wellbeing. In these challenging circumstances, any activity that allows people to connect with others on a deeper level is extremely valuable. 

"Remember Me" - A Reminiscence Tool

Information and tool from The Aging Collective

"REMEMBER ME: A Personal Preference Questionnaire" is a useful tool to start a conversation with a loved one. It helps to document personal preferences so that in the future your or your loved one’s desires and inclinations will be well known to the people who love you and who may someday be caring for you or your loved one.

The booklet contains 9 chapters, each with 15-20 questions about such topics as how I spend my time, clothing, religion, exercise/leisure activities, food/beverages, relocation, how I want to be remembered and end of life desires. The information you gather will best used at the time in your life when you or your loved may not be able to communicate innermost feelings, desires and thoughts. This isn’t an exercise of legality but one to improve a person-centered approach with the goal of improving life regardless of its longevity.

This reminiscence tool can be ordered at https://www.agingcollective.com/publications-tools

What is Music Therapy?

Information written by and from Piano Report

Music therapy is something that many of us might not be familiar with. However, it has been used to treat a range of mental health issues. It’s only natural that you’d want to learn more about its magical qualities, especially since it can help with physical disorders as well.

According to University of Pennsylvania researchers (link to the study: BMJ journal) music showed a significant decrease of preoperative anxiety on patients. The were listening to a very relaxing song before an operation.

There are many other success stories. For example parents used music therapy on their blind child. The therapy can help them make gains on every area of development.

The branch of research which explores how music effects the brain is called neuromusicology.

What Is Music Therapy?

All in all, music therapy is defined as (Maratos, Gold, Wang & Crawford, 2008):

the use of music and its facets to improve, restore or maintain health

If you play an instrument such as the piano, you may have noticed how the melodies soothe you. This is because music has a positive effect on the brain compared to most other things.

Actvitities based on Music represent an intervention without side effects. These can reduce psychological and/or behavioral disturbances.

Not all therapists can treat people using music. To do so, you need to be highly trained.

If you’re planning on using it to treat things like physical issues instead of mental health issues, you need to be trained in that field and not just be a music therapist.

A study, that was carried out in 2006, (Svansdottir and Snaedal 2006) shows that there is a positive effect of music therapy on patients. The Therapy took 6 weeks and was carried out by qualfied music therapists.

History Of Music Therapy

The use of music to treat others can be traced back to Ancient Egypt. Egyptian medical papyri talk about how doctors would use music to treat their patients, way back in 1500 BCE.

In fact, the healing properties of music are evident in the Bible as well. In 1 Samuel 16:14-16, 21-23, it reads:

Whenever the evil spirit from God bothered Saul, David would play his harp. Saul would relax and feel better, and the evil spirit would go away.

In this day and age, music therapy is used primarily to target mental health problems. The use of it to tackle these issues was officially introduced by the Ancient Greeks. Many who recommended its use for treating mental issues were leading minds. They include:

• Pythagoras

• Aristotle

• Plato

Famed mathematician Pythagoras continuously stated how music could help balance emotions and relieve many from intrusive thoughts. Thousands of years later we know he’s never been more right.

Modern music therapy came into being in the 18th century. The first scientific paper on it was published in 1789 and titled ‘Music Psychically Considered’.

Over time, it was utilized by doctors. Anesthetics weren’t so widespread, hence doctors in the late 1800’s used music to soothe their patients. This was especially the case during labor as obstetricians had phonographs by their side.

This widespread use finally made it a serious subject as Columbia University issued courses on ‘Musicotherapy’ in 1919.

Let’s run through which aspects of music affects which parts of the brain:

Tone

• The prefrontal cortex

• Cerebellum

• Temporal lobe

Rhythm

• Left frontal cortex

• Left parietal cortex

• Right cerebellum

Lyrics

• Wernicke’s area

• Broca’s area

• Visual cortex

• Motor cortex

What Are The Types Of Music Therapy?

Mainly, there are 2 types of music therapy that you can treat patients with (some people call it ‘Sound Healing’). These are receptive and active. From their names, you get an idea of what they are.

Receptive Music Therapy

You listen to music that your therapist picks out for you. The music he or she picks is especially for you and it helps with a range of emotions.

Active Music Therapy

Active music therapy is the opposite of its receptive counterpart. Instead of the therapist choosing music, he plays something while you’re in the room or the two of you collaborate on a piece together.

This is either done by playing instruments or singing. Some experts even use different kinds of lights while playing music.

How Does Music Therapy Work?

For music therapy to help mental health issues (which it’s primarily used for) it needs to affect aspects of our brain. These aspects make it easier for us to deal with our problems.

There are 5 them that we know about (Koelsch, 2009), so, let’s discuss them:

It Affects Attention

Music therapy affecting attention is called the ‘modulation of attention’. When you hear music, your mind will drift away from whatever you’re thinking about, losing focus.

This works well when you’re constantly thinking about negative stimuli that bring about anxiety or depressive bouts.

It Affects Emotion

When it affects emotions, it’s called the ‘modulation of emotions’. Music does this by stimulating the areas of the brain that are involved in the generation or maintenance of emotions. Most of the time, it affects these 2 regions but it also has an effect on the parts that initiates and terminates emotions as well.

It Affects Behavior

When music therapy affects your behavior, it’s called the ‘modulation of behavior’ . It can do this by bringing about movement patterns that are involved primarily in walking and speaking.

It Affects Communication

By affecting your behavior, it can get you to communicate (as we just discussed). However, music can also tackle parts that are solely responsible for how well you get your ideas across.

The way it does this is thorough and a lot of research has been done on it. There are 3 basic ways (Geretsegger et al. 2014):

• Music improvisation helps with nonverbal and verbal communication

• Music therapy helps people who are nonverbal to communicate with others

• It allows people to interact more emotionally

What Can You Treat With Music Therapy?

All in all, music therapy can treat a number of problems. Let’s look at some of them.

Mental

Let’s go through some mental health issues it can tackle.

Autism

When suffering from autism, you may have bad motor skills. Music therapy helps you refine these skills. A study conducted by Thenille Braun Janzen and Michael H. Thaut showed that music helped children with autism refine their focus as they learned to listen to music.

This isn’t the only way music therapy can help children with autism. It teaches them social skills as they have to interact with the therapist actively. These skills can be applied in future circumstances.

Anxiety

A 2017 theoretical review showed that music therapy helped patients suffering from PTSD. Focusing on the music made them forget about their triggers, getting rid of a lot of anxiety.

Depression

By focusing on creating music, the therapy has shown to reduce the internalization of emotions that makes depression so severe.

Dementia

You’ll be happy to know that music therapy can help anyone that’s suffering from dementia. It can’t cure the disease but it can make life more livable.

It does this by improving the well-being of the patients. This was seen by Dr. Hanne Mette Riddler who used music to help the emotional responses of dementia patients in South Africa.

A meta-study showed that music therapy helped the elderly suffering from dementia reduce their restlessness and stress, helping them bond with their caregiver better.

Another study shows these fantastic results:

Mother-Child Bonding

If you’re a parent, you may be distraught by the fact that your little one isn’t bonding with you. Music therapy can help with this as singing together can cause a bonding experience.

If your child is an infant and you see a lack of connection, this is even more frightening. By singing lullabies to them, you’re making them relax and so, you’re promoting their wellbeing while creating an emotional bond.

Medical

Yes, it can be used for your medical health as well.

Heart Disease

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death among adults. To treat it, you’ll have to spend on expensive medication.

With music therapy, you improve heart rate and respiration as you’re more relaxed, thus reducing your blood pressure (Cochrane, 2013)

Strokes

Strokes are pretty scary. When it happens, you lose function in much of your body. Physical therapy will help but music therapy can accelerate its effects.

The rhythm of the music can help you remember important motor skills. And the music helps stroke patients understand their emotions better, letting them communicate easily.

Aphasia

Aphasia is a disorder not many of us have heard about. It’s when you understand language and have the necessary motor skills to speak but unfortunately, your frontal lobe is too damaged. This causes you to have difficulty getting your words out. If you do get them out, you’ll find it hard to use proper syntax.

Music therapy has shown to help with this as people with aphasia can get their words fully across through singing. Thus, melodic intonation therapy is a widespread tool when dealing with the disorder.

Unfortunately, we don’t really know how music does this, but it has been shown to work well.

Cancer

If you have cancer, chemotherapy is a must. It helps eradicate cancer cells but leaves patients very weak. This is where music therapy comes in as it can soothe take a patient’s mind off the pain.

A 2016 metanalysis showed that it helped chemo patients tackle stress, anxiety and depression. This made the treatment more bearable.

When Should Music Therapy Not Be Used?

Music therapy should not be used if the person undergoing treatment doesn’t want it. The effects of the music will be quite low and in the end, it would be a waste of money.

The therapy should not be used as the only form of treatment. If you’re suffering from Depression, the music will help but it’s not supposed to be a solo treatment. It’s important that you utilize music therapy hand-in-hand with your medication. The same goes for Anxiety and everything else.

This is especially true for physical conditions like heart disease or when you’re recovering from a stroke.

How Much Does Music Therapy Cost?

Music therapy isn’t the cheapest thing out there. If you’re wondering how much it’ll cost you, this will depend on where you live.

In general, it can be quite pricey.

You’ll have to pay for a consultation first and this can cost up to $400-500 USD.  With this out the way, an hour’s session can cost between $100-200 USD.

Of course, this depends on the clinic you go to as the more higher-end it is, the more expensive their services will be.

In fact, the equipment used will determine how expensive the sessions can get. You may also conduct activities with the music which would influence the final amount.

Unfortunately, you can’t go to therapy once a month. When undergoing music therapy sessions, you have to go at least once a week, even more depending on what your doctor recommends.

Most centers allow you to pay for your month’s sessions in advance, however.

How Effective Is Music Therapy?

Music therapy is incredibly effective. As we discussed above, it can be used to treat a wide range of physical and mental health issues. What’s best about this is that research has been done to prove its effects.

It can help treat:

• Heart disease

• Cancer

• Aphasia

• Autism

• PTSD

• Strokes

• Mother-infant bonding

• Anxiety

• Depression

In fact, these are just a few things music therapy can help with. There are countless more and as our knowledge of how it works expands, we will be able to treat other conditions with it.

There are many famous blind piano players too.

Who Can Benefit From Music Therapy?

Music therapy is used for a range of things.

You don’t have to suffer from anything serious to go for music therapy sessions. You may just have had a stressful week, so a visit to a music therapist can relieve you of your stress and help you feel more relaxed.

Playing instruments like the piano at home could help with this too. Even cheap pianos like the Yamaha EZ-220 work for this.

This doesn’t negate the fact that it’s mostly used to tackle more serious mental health issues.

Conclusion

It’s quite clear that music therapy is a form of treatment that should be taken very seriously. It can help with many things, and fortunately, it’s becoming more widely available.

That being said, you should be careful to ensure that it’s not the only form of treatment you’re undergoing as it’s not fit to be the only remedy for most illnesses. It works hand-in-hand with other forms of treatment and can help you get better.

There is a great deal of evidence showing that music therapy has been used throughout history, dating back to the Ancient Egyptians. This shows how powerful music really is.

Resources and External Links:

• ADHD Quiz

• What is music therapy

• American Music Therapy Association

• How music can help you heal

• When patients have ‘music emergencies’

• Music therapy Britannica

• Music therapy results

Typing Test for Seniors

A Typing Game was developed with Fenetic Wellbeing to help the elderly learn to touch type and type faster and more accurately in general. As the generations are becoming more technologically dependent, it is important for senior to know how to use these technologies!

Take the typing test

Pandemic could push industry to explore new options for nursing homes

The COVID-19 virus is spreading like wildfire through nursing homes and assisted living at a deadly rate. This could push the industry to explore different small house options like The Green House Project. Each Green House has no more than 10 to 12 residents, each of whom has an apartment and bathroom while sharing a common dining area. With two nursing assistants and a nurse for every 10 residents, the Green House concept allows the staff to develop more lasting relationships with residents. 

“Hopefully we will seize this as the moment that caused us to have that conversation, because until now long-term care has gotten the crumbs on the healthcare plate,” said Steve McAlilly, CEO of Methodist Senior Services in Tupelo, MS, who launched the first Green House in 2003.

For the full article see:

Pandemic could push industry to explore new options for nursing homes by Amy Novotney

As COVID-19 Ravages Nursing Homes, A New Push For Better Senior Housing by Patricia Anstett

Keeping Connected During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Written by: Chloe Walker

It’s certainly not an overstatement to say that the coronavirus crisis has had profound effects on people’s everyday lives. With more and more countries electing to go into lockdown, citizens of all nations are now being told to stay indoors and practice social distancing. It’s a lot to process; many of us are now tasked with finding ways to stay socially connected despite being physically apart from friends and family members.

Thankfully, the true value of the internet as a tool for social connection is appreciated now more than ever. There are countless tools and apps available to keep us virtually connected to the people we care about. As the stress and worry of the pandemic takes its toll, it’s important to remember that we are not really alone in these challenging times, despite the feelings of isolation that come with quarantine. The lockdown will come to an end one day, but until it does, we can stay close and connected in spirit, even in the face of worry and uncertainty. Here are a few tips for making it work.

Know that you are not alone

We are all part of a bigger community, whether we’re used to thinking of ourselves that way or not. The great thing about being in this crisis together is the reassurance that comes with knowing that you can ask for help if necessary, and that you can just as easily give it to someone in need.

Helping Hands, who have been in the caring industry for more than 3 decades, suggest that “As a community, we can help our neighbours, friends and loved ones who will need additional support to ensure they have everything they need at home.” Friendly and supportive gestures make everyone feel good. Strike up a conversation, pick up the phone or send a friendly email.

Get involved

Nothing combats feelings of isolation quite like joining in on group efforts. While there is a lot of fear and pessimism in the world right now, there is also a lot of good being done. There are several initiatives that you may enjoy taking part in – such as Clap for our Carers every Thursday at 8pm. People all across the country are coming together to show their pride and support for NHS workers by clapping, cheering, or even banging on pots and pans to show their appreciation.

Even as we remain physically distanced, it can be incredibly encouraging to know that others are there and concerned, and that we can always reach out help one another when it counts.

Rethink the way you use the internet

Many of us are beginning to realise how fortunate we are to have the internet, and the opportunities it now offers for keeping connected, running our businesses, and accessing quality information. However, in the era of fake news and depressing social media content, it’s also a key time to re-evaluate our internet habits and commit to using this tool wisely.

Are you making the best of the internet to really enrich your life during lockdown? For your mental and physical health, it’s a good idea to limit screen time and be discerning – avoid mindless scrolling or seeking online distractions when you’re bored. Try using social media to spread positivity and keep in touch with friends and acquaintances. Read reputable news sites and step away if you find yourself getting too stressed. WhatsApp, Zoom and Skype are great tools for recreating meetings and catch-ups with friends, but why not try out online gaming platforms, quiz nights, Skype group hangouts, online music concerts, a virtual choir or even a “Netflix party”? Granted, it’s not quite the same as face-to-face contact, but you might enjoy some of these activities so much that you stick with them even after lockdown is lifted.

Spare a thought for those older folks who are not only more vulnerable and at risk when it comes to the virus, but who may also feel more isolated and be less tech-savvy in general. Consider it a good deed to spend some time with the elders in your life, and make sure they’re up to date, feeling connected on chat platforms, and know where to get trustworthy news online.

There’s no doubt that the coronavirus pandemic has put new and at times very difficult pressures on us all. Thankfully, we have access to technology that can instantly help us connect, even as we keep safe in our own homes during lockdown. All it takes is some flexibility and a willingness to reach out and connect.

Crafting a Plan for Your Long-Term Care Needs

Article written by: Hazel Bridges, Aging Wellness

Will You Need Long-Term Care?

There are a lot of questions one must ask themselves as they approach their senior years. One of those questions for which many are woefully underprepared can be hard to ask yourself: Will you need long-term care? Nobody wants to imagine a time where they cannot take care of themselves, but it’s an important thing to consider.

Photo by Josh Appel on Unsplash

To be fair, “long-term care” isn’t always as bad as it sounds. It’s a blanket term that covers many different types of care. Yes, nursing homes are one of those types, but they are not the only option. Assisted living facilities, adult day care, continued care retirement communities, and in-home care all fall under the long-term care umbrella. Knowing your options and planning for how you will pay for them ensures you get the kind of care you want and deserve.

As mentioned above, the majority of seniors will need some type of long-term care. However, much of that care is actually non-medical. Rather, it helps with daily tasks such as bathing and meal preparation. With that in mind, consider in-home care as an option. If you live in a home with accessibility features that allow you to age-in-place, an in-home caregiver can be much more cost efficient. If your home is not accessible, consider downsizing to a place in your area that is more manageable. Depending on how much you sell your old house for and the cost of your new place, you may be able to net your profit and use that to pay for your long-term care needs. If not, consider these other payment options.

Paying for Long-Term Care

Long-term care is a huge expense. Depending on the type and amount of care you receive, it can cost anywhere from $20 to $260 a day. The younger you are when you start planning for your long-term care needs, obviously, the more time you have to save for the expense. But it’s not just about time vs. money-- the earlier you begin planning, the more options you have as well.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Long-term care insurance covers all costs associated with your long-term medical needs, but plans come with high premiums. The younger you are when you start paying for long-term care insurance, the more affordable it will be. Note that you cannot buy a policy if you’ve been diagnosed with an illness such as Alzheimer’s disease that will eventually necessitate long-term care

Reverse Mortgage

A reverse mortgage allows you to borrow against the property you own for cash you can use today. Note that this is only a good option for people who already own their homes or are very close to doing so. When you pass, your family can either sell the property to pay off the loan or pay it off themselves if they want to keep the house.

Health Savings Account

A health savings account (HSA) is a tax-free savings option for people who have high-deductible health insurance policies. The amount you can deposit into your HSA depends on the year and whether or not you’re depositing as an individual or family. You can withdraw HSA funds to pay for any qualified medical expenses, including those associated with senior and long-term care.

****

The more you plan for your long-term care needs, the more options you have when the time actually comes. If you want to age-in-place and receive in-home care, prepare yourself by either adding accessibility features to your home or downsizing to a place that’s more manageable. If you want to plan for other types of care, you’ll need a financing plan, such as long-term care insurance, a reverse mortgage, or savings through your HSA.

Assistive Technology and the Aging Population

Article written by: Emily Collins, Cortech Healthcare

As the global population ages and more individuals are living with disabilities, it may be necessary to consider the option of moving into residential care homes to receive the care that is needed. The decision to move into a care home is often a difficult choice faced by the community today.

For the elderly community, assistive technology can enable individuals to continue to live at home and delay or prevent the need for intervention or residential care.

Assistive technology is the name given to products, equipment and services that assist an individual with their day to day lives.

A key benefit of assistive technology is the increase in choice, enabling an individual to have more choice over their actions and a deeper sense of control of their personal care.

It also improves the safety of everyday life for the user and thereby reduces accidents and falls in the home.

Assistive technology can improve support for people living with long term health conditions and ultimately improve the quality of life for  the individual and those caring for them..

There are many groups of people that may benefit from assistive technology;

●      the frail elderly,

●      individuals living with disabilities

●      individuals with gradually declining functions

 In fact, one in eight elderly people state that they live with some level of unmet need that limits their ability to carry out important daily tasks.[1]

To meet the needs of the population, new and innovative assistive living technologies are being developed to support people to live more independent and comfortable lives within their own homes.

Assistive technology has the capacity to maintain or improve an individual's independence and  functioning, resulting in improving their quality of life and mental well being. Assistive technology allows individuals to feel less isolated and excluded from opportunities, consequencing in less strain placed on a family and the society.

More than 1 billion people globally need or use one or more assistive technology products and with an aging population who are living longer it is predicted that by the year 2030 more than two billion individuals will require an assistive technology product. Wheelchairs, glasses, hearing aids, shower chairs and commodes are all examples of assistive technology products.

[1] https://www.ageuk.org.uk/Documents/EN-GB/For-professionals/Research/The_Health_and_Care_of_Older_People_in_England_2016.pdf

Examples of Latest Assistive Living Innovations

Telecare systems use sensors placed around the home to remotely monitor the safety of users. Alerts can be sent to a 24/7 monitoring centre, carer or family member if there’s a problem. Telecare sensors send alerts when someone hasn’t moved for some time, has got out of bed and has not got back in again or has left the gas on or their bath running.

https://www.telecarechoice.co.uk/telecare-alarms/

Pill dispensers can be useful to set a reminder to take medication or avoid taking repeated doses. Some of the more advanced pill dispensers can be loaded with up to four weeks’ medication at a time. https://dementia.livebetterwith.com/products/pivotell-advance-automatic-pill-dispenser?variant=29399404806219&currency=GBP&sfdr_ptcid=31654_100_498791843&sfdr_hash=f3149d9609e6c6b0dddc085d97bfb31a&gclid=Cj0KCQiAmsrxBRDaARIsANyiD1pbSJQhZTlFhXaJlIxjYxqZasd1bXuzexHWR4Tz23ODWOfV9m8Ey54aAgoeEALw_wcB

Cortech Healthcare’s have recently launched the Komodo Electronic Shower Chair Commode, which uses rechargeable batteries to achieve a wide range of positioning assistance, increasing the dignity of the user and removing some of the strain from the carer.

The Komodo features both a stand and shower assist function that mimics human movement, re-engaging the correct leg muscles to improve user mobility. Komodo is lightweight for ease of movement, comes with a handset remote control and is optimized for use by a single carer.

https://www.cortech-healthcare.com/

Assistive technology has many benefits, giving many people the opportunity to live independent, healthy and dignified lives. By implementing assistive technology into day to day life it can reduce the need for interventions by healthcare professionals and in depth assistance from support services. It can also reduce long term care and the strain and workload placed on caregivers and traditional healthcare services.

Ultimately, assistive technologies are about enhancing an individual’s quality of life through improved outcomes in safeguarding, living standards, social interaction and greater independence.

5 Technological Innovations for Those With Dementia

Article written by: Holly Clark

Dementia is among those diseases or rather brain function impairments that have no particular cure. This means that the patients of dementia have to live with the symptoms of this disorder for the rest of their life. Most cases of dementia are, however reported in the elderly.

Photograph from Shutterstock.com

 With dementia, a patient cannot take care of themselves as they used to be before the signs and symptoms were detected. They tend to forget or have a poor judgement of things. This means that they need a caregiver to help them sail through dementia.

 Even with the help of a caregiver, there are always cases of missed medication, lost patients, accidents or overburdening of the caregiver; however, this is soon going to be a thing of the past with the technological innovations being carried out. Below are 5 technological innovations for those with dementia;

1. GPS Location & Tracking

A GPS tracker is among the innovations to help the caregiver and the patient. When a patient wears a GPS tracker, they can be easily located if they missed their way back to the house. Moreover, the caregiver is able to monitor the movements of the patient around the house and alert them if the patient wanders outside the premises.

2. Picture phones

Communicating is always an issue for those with dementia. This means that they are unable to call in for help in case of an emergency. Technology has come up with picture phones that come with large buttons on which pictures of their closest relatives or caregiver are placed so that the patient can easily call for help by relating to the patient via image rather than by names in the phonebook.

3. Reminder messages

Reminder messages are another innovation that will go a long way to help those with dementia. The caregiver records reminder messages and put in timer gadgets that alerts them when it's time to do a particular thing. For instance, the reminder can play out at the time the patient is supposed to be taking their medications. It can also remind them to lock the door when they are leaving the house.

4. Home care robots

Caregivers are normally overworked. Now, to make their work easier, scientists are coming up with home care robots that will help out caregivers with some house chores, remind patients to take their medications and also call for medical assistance if the dementia patient is unwell. The robot also acts as a home monitor when the caregiver is away.

5. In-home cameras

In-home cameras are another vital gadget. They help the caregiver to monitor the movement of the patient at home. This allows them to check if the patient is doing all assigned tasks, such as taking medication. Moreover, some in-home cameras allow communication whereby the caregiver can talk to the patient and remind them of anything they might have forgotten.

Jane Byrne, a project coordinator from a nursing home in Bray,  points out that dementia is now affecting a lot of elderly people. Therefore, it is imperative that we find ways to help patients live their life as normally and comfortably as possible.

Dementia might be hard to deal with medically, but technology has definitely helped caregivers offer their services easily.

The Most Common In-Home Injuries for Seniors and How to Prevent Them

Article by HomeAdvisor

As we age, we strive to keep the independence we gained throughout our lives. This is no easy task. Bodies become worn and weakening from years of use. Our brains are full of a lifetime of experiences and information, causing our cognitive functions to slow. Illness and injury, be it temporary or terminal, seem to find us more often than others.

Fortunately, for most of us, the same ambition that drove us toward independence as children will drive us to keep it as long as possible into and throughout our senior years. Whatever your motivation–whether you’re recovering from your first age-related injury in the hospital or more of your friends have moved into assisted living homes–staying at home can make the transition into twilight years easier.

Common Illnesses & Injuries Affecting Seniors

As we age, our ability to care for ourselves begins to diminish. This happens slowly at first, and you may start to notice that bruises last longer, or small cuts take longer to heal. These issues become more pronounced and frequent as we get older. There are a number of common conditions that affect seniors, such as:

• Cataracts

• Glaucoma

• Macular Degeneration

• Arthritis

• Osteoporosis

• Diabetes

• Depression

• Incontinence

• Dementia

• Parkinson’s disease

• Cardiovascular disease

• Lung disease

• Shingles

Your doctor will check you for many of these conditions, as well as any complications that may arise each time you visit. It is also important to understand that decreased visual acuity and mobility that may result from these or other conditions related to aging can lead to injuries if you don’t take precautions. The most common injuries experienced by seniors who still live independently include:

• Car accidents

• House fires

• Falls (which may result in brain injuries, or hip, vertebrae or pelvis fractures)

• Bedsores

• Infections

• Burns

• Lacerations

• Sprains

• Joint dislocation

Home invasions are also becoming a common occurrence for seniors and may lead to severe injury.

Preventing In-Home Injuries

For seniors to keep their independence, they must have a safe environment to live in. Safe is a relative term that must factor in a person’s individual needs. Understanding your health, medical conditions and any complications that may arise is the first step to staying in your own home.

Not making the necessary modifications in preparation for the progression of your condition and age can worsen physical pain and lead to permanent injury or even death.

Falls

Falls are the leading fatal injury among seniors. Around 3 million seniors are hospitalized each year due to a fall. Fall-related injuries can range from minor to severe. They include hip, pelvis, or vertebrae fractures, which often require major surgery to repair. This can lead to permanent disability and financial instability. Costs for treating falls and fall-related injuries in seniors is estimated to be near $70 billion annually.

Any injury that leads to lengthy or complicated, rehabilitation can prevent you from living independently. The recovery process following a severe fall can lead to depression as well as a complete loss of physical and financial independence, making fall prevention an important consideration for all seniors. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) or other head trauma sustained during a fall can also have long-term consequences from which a senior may never recover.

Regular exercise under the care of a physician or physical therapist along with vitamin D supplements will strengthen the body, increase stability, and help prevent falls. If mobility is a major issue, changing your home to reduce fall hazards is also a good idea. Changes to consider include:

• Add handrails and seats to showers and tubs.

• Place non-slip mats in some areas.

• Remove rugs that may cause tripping.

• Remove clutter and other obstacles.

• Secure furniture that may tip over.

• Remove items with sharp edges or glass tops.

• Install an elevated toilet or toilet seat.

• Install ramps or lift assist devices for stairs.

Hire a contractor to make aging accommodations in all the trouble spots in your home. Don’t forget to budget for these important projects by finding out the average cost of aging or disability home modifications and whether you qualify for related grants. There are also budget-friendly smart home devices that can help improve the quality of your life at home while enjoying time alone or with friends and family.

Burns

Burns are very common among seniors—the second leading cause of death from home injuries. Older adults do not respond as well to burn treatments and experience a much higher mortality rate as a result. This makes burn prevention a critical issue.

Individuals with balance, vision, or memory issues are more likely to burn themselves accidentally or start a fire. Conditions such as peripheral neuropathy dramatically increase the chances of a person experiencing a severe burn. Peripheral neuropathy affects how and when sufferers feel pain and can occur from physical injury, cancer, diabetes, infection, some medications, diseases and environmental factors.

To help prevent burns and the potential for a fire, consider:

• Set water heaters to a lower temperature.

• Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the home.

• Consider integrating strobe lights for those who are hard of hearing. However, strobe lights should not be used by those who are prone to seizures, epilepsy, or migraines.

• Plan an escape route.

• Keep all rooms properly lit.

• Have fire extinguishers in the kitchen.

• Simplify food preparations to avoid the need for hot burners or fire.

• Remove fire sources, including lighters, cigarettes, and candles.

This list isn’t comprehensive, but it covers the most basic considerations. Those at risk for burns, especially individuals experiencing peripheral neuropathy, should talk to a healthcare provider about additional precautions.

It is important to consider whether professional in-home services like errand running and personal assistants, meal delivery, regular fire and safety inspections, or a home healthcare aid may help prevent injury.

Additional Considerations

Burns and falls are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they often occur together or with other injuries. Taking time to understand the consequences of sustaining an in-home injury will guide you in taking the right preventative measures. This may seem daunting at first. However, preparing your home to age in place while you have the time and resources will help you keep your independence longer.

Introducing Technology to Seniors

Article written by: Ruby Clarkson

Modern technology like the Internet and smartphones offer a great connectivity tool, but many elderly people feel uncomfortable using these resources. Fortunately, you can help build a bridge between modern technology and their personal interests by showing them how to use these tools to improve their lives. Learning to embrace technology can have a big impact on seniors level of socialisation, knowledge, and even their physical and mental health. Here are some of the top ways that modern technology can benefit seniors.

Staying in touch

According to care provider Helping Hands, as people age it becomes increasingly important to be able to openly communicate with them and stay connected. Technology offers a great platform for connection across families. Studies have found that across all generations, the computer is seen as helping family communication. Though spending quality face time together is important, connecting online through social media and tools like Skype is a great option for families to stay in touch when they are separated by geography or unconventional family structures. Having this regular interaction has also been shown to effectively treat conditions such as senior depression.

Bonding through learning

Modern technology also offers seniors a way to bond with their families, share information, and learn from each other. One study found that more than 75% of elderly people learn about technology from their grandchildren. Families can form stronger bonds by exploring the internet and learning about new technology together. What’s more, online learning opportunities for the elderly are becoming more and more popular, making it possible for students of any age to develop a new skill, and receive tuition from accredited educational institutions all around the world - plus many of these courses are free for pensioners!

Medical assistance

Digital health resources like online patient portals and tracking apps, can be extremely beneficial to elderly people - but only if they know how to use them. To help seniors overcome any issues with accessing and using this technology, it’s best to explain to them what the practical benefits are of things like contacting their GP online and turning to smartphone apps to manage their medical conditions. Technology and smartphone Apps can also be used for medication management and to help prevent missed medication and medication errors.

Safety

Advancements in technology mean that more elderly people are able to stay living safely in their own homes for longer. Any senior who lives alone should have a Personal Emergency Response System (PERS), which allows the wearer to call for help with the simple push of a button. You and your family can have peace of mind knowing the PERS can facilitate a call for help in any emergency situation. GPS tracking devices can also be used to monitor a senior’s location, making them a great tool for people who suffer from dementia including Alzheimer's.

How to introduce technology to your grandparents

Now you know the benefits, here are some tips on the best ways to introduce modern technology to your grandparents:

●      Keep it simple - Remember that computers and technology can be overwhelming for those without a lot of technological exposure, so keep things simple - there’s no need to explain how an internet router works!

●      Find elderly-friendly technology - Look for technology that is geared towards seniors - touchscreen tablets are a good example because they are larger than smartphones, yet they don’t require as much navigational know-how as a standard laptop or desktop.

●      Stay calm - You should never lose patience or become frustrated when teaching seniors how to use technology. Remember that they didn’t grow up on hashtags and messengers, so it might take them a little longer to understand how things work.

●      Keep them interested - Everyone learns best when their personal interests are engaged. Therefore, if you want to get elderly people to embrace modern technology, it’s a good idea to show them how it links in with their favorite activities. For example, online games like Bingo could be of interest.

●      Explain the importance of privacy - Although you won’t want to intimidate them into not using the internet or their smartphone, it’s important to make seniors aware of cyber security threats. Help them stay safe when using modern technology by explaining the importance of using secure sites, and choosing quality passwords that will keep hackers out.

●      Enroll them in local classes - Many communities offer free or low-cost computer classes for the elderly, which will enable your grandparents to learn with their peers. The classes will be taught at a pace that the majority of older adults can keep up with.

Five Things to Know When Adding Smart Technology to Senior Living

Article written by: Elise Morgan

Image by Pexels

The leaps and bounds in smart technology have made life much easier for many people, not least of all enabling seniors to retain their independence for longer. Whether choosing to remain in their own homes or join a residential community for seniors, smart technology can enhance elderly people’s lives – just as it does for the rest of the population. If you are considering improving senior living with smart technology, select the most appropriate products with our five tips.

What is Smart Home Technology?

Smart home technology is an encompassing term for many different products that assist people in running their home, making life more convenient, comfortable and secure. From ‘smart’ thermostats to lighting and onto sensors; smart technology connects to a central home hub from which users can control the products.

 To avoid the need for elderly people to learn a number of different apps and control them from a smartphone or other device, it is useful to start off with a smart home assistant such as Amazon’s Echo, or Google Home. By installing a central control, all other smart technology can be controlled and monitored through a single product. A second benefit of a smart home hub is the ability to control products with a voice command.

 Considering only 10% of people over the age of 65, and just 16% of 50 – 64 year-olds use a smartphone, voice command technology is invaluable in senior living.

How Can Smart Home Technology Be Beneficial to Seniors?

Smart home technology can connect and control speakers, lighting, thermostats and much, much more. Considering the range of health and well-being related issues that are pertinent in our later years, smart technology can be used to either mitigate or eradicate them. In doing so, elderly people are able to maintain their independence, dignity and continue active lives.

Improved Sleep Quality: Sleep disturbances are more common among the elderly population than any other group. Trouble falling asleep, restless nights and difficulty staying asleep are all more prevalent when we reach our later years. Smart technology can aid elderly people with one of the top recommendations for getting a good night’s sleep – the bedroom environment. A smart thermostat can be installed so that room temperature can be lowered to a more conducive level for sleep at the call of the occupant. Another option is to install smart speakers that can be instructed to play white noise keeping light sleepers from waking.

Better Health: At a time when our memories are likely to fail, taking medication at the right times can become imperative for our health. Forgetting to take a particular pill, taking it twice or taking it too close to another medication it may have an adverse reaction with, can have serious consequences. Smart technology can again be used to help seniors take the right pills at the right times, without the worry of doubling up. Smart medication dispensers such as Reminder Rosie and MedMinder can alert people at the right time about the medication they need, and even other appointments or tasks.

Better for the Environment: It may seem like a small thing, but left-on lights, stoves and appliances are not only bad for utility bills, but the environment too. Smart technology can be used to control lights, heating and even the stove – switching them off at predetermined times, or when sensors detect no-one is in the room and using them. A wide range of electric stove turn-off products are already on the market, some run on a timer and others have sensors. Technology for gas stoves is still under development.

The development of smart technology is expected to continue growing and is sure to make the lives of senior and disabled people far easier and more comfortable as further products become available.

6 New Skills to Learn That Will Enhance Your Life

written by: Julie Morris

Image via Unsplash

Are you bored? Are you stressed from the challenge of trying to juggle work and relationships? Do you just want to learn something fun that doesn’t involve sitting on your rump and watching TV? Whether you’re a retiree in your golden years, full swing in the middle of your career, or a student who is still trying to decide what path to take, learning to do new things can take your quality of life to the next level. Here are six new skills to consider for adding fun and productivity to your life, many of which can be done online or with a group of friends.

Musical Instrument

 Besides just being really fun, learning a musical instrument has amazing cognitive benefits and can be a mental health booster. While learning any instrument is beneficial, certain instruments work certain parts of the body and brain. Research various instrument options with your unique personality and goals in mind, or visit a music store in your area to determine which one suits you. You can find free tutorials on YouTube, take Skype lessons, or look for local traditional classes if you want to add a socializing aspect to the learning process.

Speed-Reading

 Learning to speed-read can come in very handy. Of course, there are times when you will prefer to just relax and take your time with a good book. But being able to finish your required reading three or five times faster would leave you with more time in the day to accomplish other things. Click here to read about a method called “The PX Project,” which has increased participants’ reading speed by an average of 386 percent.

Video Production

 Videos are a great way to document the lives of you and your people. Whether you’re making home videos to watch with the family each year or creating a collage of friends and events that will bring nostalgia for years to come, being able to make quality videos is a skill worth learning. You can find tutorials and classes online or check at your local community college to see if they offer a video production course.

Carpentry

Learning carpentry as a hobby is a great way to become handier around the house, but it’s also one of the more satisfying and enriching trades on this list. There’s just something special about working on a project with your hands and seeing the final product. The process of woodworking can also reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and combat cognitive decline.

Gardening

Like many of the other skills on this list, gardening is well-known for alleviating stress and improving overall health. One of the best parts about it, however, is the nutritional aspect. Growing your own food is a way for you to eat as fresh and healthy as possible, and most gardeners eat more fruits and vegetables than their peers. Furthermore, you don’t need a huge spread in your backyard to begin gardening. You can start by planting in a small container and go from there! Another option is to take on some landscaping projects around the house, including planting trees, flowers, and shrubs.

Cooking

Who doesn’t want to know how to cook a killer dish? Everyone wants to, but not everyone is willing to take the time. Cooking is an art that teaches you patience and develops and exercises your creativity. There’s no limit to the variety of foods you can master, and you can expose yourself and your loved ones to many different cultures. It’s also an inexpensive way to reduce stress. You can even make some money on the side if that’s something you’re into.

No matter your age, learning new skills will enhance your life and improve your health. Look online or locally for opportunities to learn speed-reading, video production, a musical instrument, carpentry, cooking, gardening, or one of the countless other activities available. Whether you’re looking to do it as an individual or with a group of friends, there’s something out there that you can start today.

Are You Prepared to Live to 100?

Blog post from Smart Living 360

When Living to 100 is Not Uncommon

As Yogi Berra once said, “It’s tough to make predictions, especially about the future.” However, it’s not too challenging to see that many of us will be living longer, often much longer, than previous generations. Remarkably, researchers predict than the first person to live to 150 is alive today. Event Yogi is example of increasingly longevity: he lived to 90 years of age.

We’re on the brink of where living to 100 will not be uncommon. In fact, demographers predict that a child born in the developed world today has a greater than 50% chance of living to be over 100. It’s not just about young people, however. If you’re 65 and healthy, odds are you will live to at least 90 years.

How Do You Plan to Live to 100? Start with Realistic Expectations

How do you plan to live to 100? Carefully (but be flexible!).

We need to be honest with our particular circumstances and range of possible outcomes.  For those nearing traditional retirement age, be realistic about how long you may live and focus on lifestyles that work financially and make you happy overall. For those in mid-life, there will most likely be changes in your job or career and related fluctuations in income. At the same time, it’s good to make an effort to stay in touch with friends while also reaching out to new ones. For those earlier in life, gain an appreciation for the change that will occur over your lifetime and be open to navigating these changes successfully.

In every case, we’re all trailblazers for a new era.

Lynda Gratton and Andrew Scott recently tackled this subject in their award winning book The 100-Year Life: Living and Working in the Age of Longevity.  With Ms. Gratton’s background as a psychologist and Mr. Scott’s as an economist, the authors – both professors at the London Business School – provide a blended perspective of how to prepare for such a long life. They conclude that how people approach life will change profoundly.

An End to the Three Stage Life 

The traditional stages of life – education, employment and retirement – will end. Laura Carstensen, Director of the Stanford Center on Longevity, has long advocated for reimagining this standard life course as she describes in the video The Big Idea in Four Minutes. She posits that there is an opportunity to work less during the child rearing years and to work more later thereby pushing out the traditional retirement stage. Ms. Gratton and Mr. Scott see the same thing: life will become multi-staged and transitions will become the norm. Visionaries like Marc Freedman and his colleagues at Encore.org are helping create a stage after one’s work career but before retirement which they call the “encore career.” Encore.org encourages people to use their gifts and experience to help society at large, increasingly in an intergenerational context.

The Role of Work and Financial Planning

The nature of work will change. With technology disruption around the corner, such as with artificial intelligence, machine learning and other advances, people will need to evolve to make sure that their skills fit with the needs of the workplace. Job changes are already changing at an accelerated path: LinkedIn found that Millennials have switched jobs at twice the rate of GenX.

One of the likely outcomes is that more people will work beyond traditional retirement age. Signs indicate that this is already happening (see graph below). Given pressures on pensions and social security, it is unlikely that government will be able to provide the same benefits prior generations received, particularly in the context of longer lives. More of the responsibility will fall on individuals to navigate financial security in this new era. Indeed, the power of compounding returns – applied to the spread between income and expenses – becomes even more significant over the course of a long life.

Note the Impact of Compounding Returns for Many Aspects of Life

While getting finances squared away is critical, there is much more to succeed in long life planning than having a proper nest egg.  A key part of the equation is having properly invested in other elements of life. Are you able to have a clear purpose at each stage of life? Do you have relationships to support you in your journey? Are you actively caring for your health? Much like compounding investment returns, good habits in these areas can ultimately have an outsized impact in your overall well-being.

Valuing the Importance of Place

The role of place – or “Power of Place” as outlined in a SmartLiving 360 blog from last year – is an important element, too. The right living situation can strengthen our social connections and reduce the risk of social isolation and loneliness. There is simply no equal to regular, face-to-face interaction with people who know and care for you; and certain neighborhoods, for example, are conducive to creating such relationships.

Further, the right housing can keep us healthy. For example, about 1/3 of older adults fall each year leading to over 700,000 hospital visits. Most of these falls occur within homes which is not surprising given that less than 5% of all housing stock is designed with features accommodating people of moderate mobility difficulties. Fortunately, new, attractive housing options designed for people of all ages are emerging.

What’s My Next Step? 

Where do you go from here? For some, talking to your financial planner is a good next step to make sure the key assumptions driving your plan are conservative and account for the odds of increasing longevity. There are several free online financial tools that can assist in this, too.

But the opportunity is broader. Ms. Gratton and Mr. Scott have created a website to accompany their book: www.100yearlife.com. This website includes a diagnostic tool to help evaluate your readiness across several dimensions, including those that are tangible, such as your finances, and those that are intangible, such as the strength of your friendships. Designing Your Life, a NY Times best-selling book by a couple of Stanford professors, is also a useful guide and was the subject of a SmartLiving 360 blog (“Design Thinking for Your Life”).

I would expect more and better tools to emerge in the future to help properly plan and execute on these plans in the context of an increasingly long life.

A Mindset to Thrive, Not Just Survive

The most important step is to have a mindset to see these extra years as a gift – in the form of thousands of days as compared to prior generations – and one worth planning for and embracing. While we learn to seize this opportunity, we should also an effort to educate the next generation as this trend will impact them even more.

How to Avoid Loneliness in Older Age

content from https://www.beindependenthomecare.ie/our-services/overnight-care-at-home.html

When Five Bedrooms Become Two

Written by: Marie Villeza

When Five Bedrooms Become Two

 There comes a time in every parent’s life when their adult children leave the nest. You may begin to look at those newly-empty rooms as a sign that it’s time to downsize into a smaller home that will meet your new lifestyle. Swapping your large family home for a smaller one will free up money and allow you to travel, enjoy life, and leave your worries behind.

 Where to begin?

Your first step is to determine your ideal location. Are you a shopper and like the idea of being near retail establishments? Do you enjoy being outdoors? Choose your location based on proximity to your priorities.

 Making the move

If there is one thing that’s universally true about the process, it’s that you’ll find you have a lot of stuff and a lot of stuff that you don’t need. Somehow, you either have to fit all that stuff into your new home or pick and choose what stays and what goes. When you’re downsizing, you’ll be forced to do the latter. Thankfully, you don’t have to do it all at once and you don’t have to do it alone.

 US News recently posted an article on how to declutter quickly before a move. Their suggestions include:

●      Start early; putting things off will only add stress down the road

●      Start small; start in the kids’ former bedrooms, and send their personal mementos to them

●      Be prepared; have plenty of packing material on hand, a paper shredder, a recycling bin, and a box for trash

●      Donate what you don’t need; this is the perfect time to lighten your load while doing good for others

 As for not doing it alone, if you don’t have adult children that can lend a hand, consider bringing in a professional home organizer. A professional home organizer can help you evaluate your new space and determine which of your personal belongings, including furniture, clothing, and knick knacks, will lend best to a downsized lifestyle.

Things to consider

If you’re planning to be in your new home for the long haul, the good news is that it is your property, and you have the right to modify the interior to best suit your needs. Before moving in, it’s a good idea to determine if your floor plan will be right for you as you age. You may need to budget for certain accessibility home improvements, such as widening doorways and installing a walk-in bathtub, so plan for these items early. Accessibility modifications can range from just a few dollars with things like grab bars in the bathtub to pricier construction such as adding a ramp to your steps.

One room you’ll undoubtedly need to look at with an accessibility-minded eye is the kitchen. A complete kitchen remodel in Catonsville, MD, runs from about $11,750 to $30,317, but depending on your needs, you may be able to accomplish the updates you require for much less. Updates such as adding push-controlled buttons on the front of the stove, putting food on lower refrigerator and pantry shelves, and clearing out cabinets below sinks to provide wheelchair access can be done without a huge financial investment.

 Moving to a new, smaller home is an exciting step in the lives of many still-young-at-heart Americans who wish to live life to the fullest now that their children are no longer children. It is a cost-effective option that offers you the ability do the things you’ve always wanted and to age in place.

The Elderly and the World Wide Web

Original post and content provided by: medalerthelp.org