Leslie Newlife

Things Seniors Can Do Outside During Social Distancing

Elders may experience intense stress and worry due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While all seniors are at risk, those with underlying health conditions are in even more danger from potential exposure. Nevertheless, seniors who can manage safely on their own can benefit from getting outside for some activity, which can reduce stress and lift the mood. With appropriate precautions, there are still things seniors can do outside during social distancing. Seniors should avoid areas where people are failing or refusing to comply with the recommendation to wear a cloth face covering, and they should certainly stay away from anyone who seems sick.

Dancing on the Deck, Prancing on the Patio

Living situations that provide private outdoor space offer seniors the chance to get outside for some fresh air and activity without getting too close to others. Elders can put on some favorite music and do a little dancing (seated or standing, depending on mobility).

Gardening

Growing something from the ground up brings a special kind of satisfaction. Seniors can order supplies for contactless delivery and enjoy creating small container gardens or planting some flowering perennials that will return next year.

Stargazing

Seniors who are lucky enough to live in communities relatively free from “light pollution” need only look up for some peaceful enjoyment on a warm, clear night. Stargazing—with the naked eye, or with a sanitized telescope or binoculars—is a wonderful way to relax and enjoy the “big picture” outdoors. Several apps turn cellphones into celestial maps that identify stars, planets, comets, and constellations. Some even show where and when satellites or the international space station will pass overhead.

Walking

Seniors who may safely travel to parks and preserves can still take a nice walk outdoors, as long as they observe appropriate social distancing. The “six feet apart” rule is a minimum. Active seniors that want to go for a walk or a run must be careful to avoid crowded areas and find ways to separate themselves from others on the track or trail. Stay away from others, and give a wide berth to those passing in either direction. Seniors should not touch any surfaces in a public park or preserve, including railings, benches, picnic tables, or playground equipment.

Seniors venturing outside beyond their own backyards or patios should take some hand sanitizer along. Immediately upon returning home, anyone who has been outside should wash their hands with soap for the recommended twenty seconds, being sure to lather all the fingers, thumbs, the palms, and between the fingers, as well as wrists and palms. Sanitize all doorknobs, keys, or light switches that anyone who has been outside has touched. Sanitize these frequently touched surfaces several times a day, if possible.

With care and caution, healthy seniors who can safely move about on their own can still go outside during social distancing if they observe the rules of keeping distant from others and avoiding places where others fail to cover their noses and mouths.

Overcoming Hearing Loss for Better Communication and Care

In January 2020, a senior health website named Clear Living conducted a study on the effect of hearing loss on all facets of life. In this study, it was found that communication with others was the most heavily impacted area of life.

As one might assume, losing your hearing can put up a few roadblocks when it comes to communicating with friends or loved ones. Caring for someone with hearing loss can be taxing – both parties can get frustrated over the communication blocks, and the process can become quite grinding. It can even lead to cognitive decline, as mental stimulation through conversation lessens over time.

But it doesn’t have to – indeed, there are several ways to move beyond hearing loss and retain audiological independence. And while these roadblocks could frustrate anyone, the elderly are the most at risk of both experiencing hearing loss, and undergoing its more frustrating side effects.

What’s the problem with poor communication?

With everyone texting and emailing, it can be hard to remember that words are only one aspect of communicating with someone else.

For example, the phrase “great job” can be interpreted very differently based on how it’s said. An emphatic “great job!” can only be a good thing, while an apprehensive sarcastic “great job…” isn’t such a nice thing to hear.

When you have hearing loss, you can miss some of the nuances in the spoken word. While it probably won’t get to the point where you’ll be mixing up “Great job!” and “Great job…”, some subtext may be completely missed, making things more confusing and unclear.

Poor communication doesn’t just mean getting frustrated due to missing out on words. It can lead to real cognitive issues, like depression, memory loss, and even dementia. As sad as it is to hear, enjoying some lifelong hobbies is often severely impeded by hearing loss:

  • “Difficulty hearing women's voices at plays and films.”
  • “I don't go out to parties or do anything fun anymore.”

How the elderly struggle with hearing loss

While these effects can hinder anyone’s way of life, older people and those in need of care are in a particularly at-risk spot. The study includes comments from older people struggling with hearing loss, and how it has affected their quality of life, finding that 39% of people found that their communication was negatively affected by hearing loss, with a further 8% feeling isolated and lonely. Here’s what some of them had to say:

  • “ [I’m] not participating in family gatherings, feeling left out.”
  • “It has drastically affected my quality of life. I can no longer participate in normal conversations because I cannot hear nor understand the words being spoken.”
  • “It's seriously become an issue. I'm leaving him because of it. I doubt he’ll hear me leave.”

It can be difficult to come to terms with hearing loss when you’ve been used to hearing naturally for 50-60 years. This is why some of them are often resistant to arranging or attending hearing tests – as people often don’t want to confirm their fears.

In fact, a massive 66% of people said that they had anxieties before undergoing their first hearing test, with 41% of them saying they were worried about their hearing loss being officially diagnosed.

When asked about their hearing loss anxieties, here are some answers that were given:

  • “[I was worried about] The results of how bad my hearing is”
  • “[I was worried about] Understanding the test/the words.”

Ways to help seniors overcome their hearing loss

Tell them to put on their hearing aid

A nice easy one to start – if they’ve been prescribed a hearing aid, then do yourself and your loved one a favor and ask them to wear it whenever they’re communicating with someone.

Ideally they’d be wearing this from when they wake up to when they go to bed, but if they refuse to, it’s a good idea for them to at least put it on for dinner or gatherings. Features like connecting your hearing aids to a phone can make daily use more convenient and appealing. Not only does a hearing aid help its user hear more effectively, but it also stops their hearing loss (and its ensuing implications) from advancing further.

However, these benefits pale in comparison to a hearing aid’s greatest gift – giving its user independence. Even if someone is under care, they’ll gain a huge amount of freedom and confidence by being able to hear once more.

Make eye contact

A nice rule for conversation in general, but especially for someone who’s hard of hearing. The spoken word gets a lot of context from the shape of the mouth as it's said.

You may have heard of the McGurk effect – an illusion that occurs when the auditory component of one sound is paired with the visual component of another sound, leading to the perception of a third sound.

Watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWGeUztTkRA

Looking at someone when you’re talking to them is crucial to conveying the whole message. People suffering from hearing loss are often susceptible to missing high frequency sounds, like t, f, sh, and s, meaning they can experience a flurry of gaps in the conversation.

This issue can be remedied by maintaining eye contact, and by allowing full view of your mouth (so not covering your face with your hands, for example).

Arrange a hearing test

If this is the first you’re noticing a decline in the individual’s hearing ability, then the best thing that you can do is book them a hearing test. After all, you shouldn’t be panicking about potential hearing loss when it might be something as inconsequential as a buildup of wax in the ear canal.

Hearing tests are quick, easy, and usually free. If you or someone you care for is experiencing hearing loss, this is always the first step you should take.

Be patient

Whether you’re communicating with someone who has hearing loss, or dealing with it yourself, remember not to get frustrated.

It can be hard being asked to repeat yourself several times, or missing something someone has said in a busy room, but getting mad at yourself or at the other person will only strain the relationship and make both parties upset.

This may be the hardest bit of advice to follow, as you might need to be reminded of it a lot, but be patient with each other and the whole process of communication will flow a lot smoother.

Overall

Humans are innately social creatures, and even the most secluded introvert could do with some healthy conversation every now and then. It’s an important part of keeping our mental faculties running and up to date, and should be treated as seriously as diet or exercise. Hearing loss makes the brain work harder than usual to keep up with conversation, so taking care of your ears can save you plenty of undue mental stress.

As found in the study discussed earlier, healthy hearing leads to healthier and happier relationships for both the individual and their loved ones, as well as better health overall. This is priceless for both caregivers and those whom they care for.

With recent events, the elderly may be more isolated than ever before. It’s important to be aware of the difficulties that come alongside hearing loss, and to do our best to accommodate them.


Clear Living 7 Ways to Help Older People during Coronavirus Infographic Clear Living

Aging and Teeth Shifting – Why It Happens and What You can Do

Dentist Examining TeethAs we age, we experience many changes in our body, including changes in our smile. Yes, that’s right. Teeth tend to shift from their position as we age. Therefore, problems such as overbite teeth, teeth overlapping, gapped teeth, etc. are common in older people. So, if you suddenly notice a change in your teeth, you’re probably not hallucinating.

There are some factors that result in teeth shifting. Let’s understand each.

What causes teeth shifting?

Skipping Retainers – It is common to assume that teeth correction will last forever, but that’s not the case. If you had braces for teeth correction during childhood or your teenage years but didn’t wear retainers after braces, your teeth will most probably shift back into their natural position. However, the teeth won’t shift overnight. You will start noticing the change over a few years.

Teeth Grinding – Grinding puts a lot of pressure on the teeth, surrounding bone, and gums, which tends to shift the teeth from their position. In most cases, grinding results in the upper set of teeth shifting forward. And though this can be corrected through overbite braces, the treatment may get complicated as you age. Moreover, teeth grinding can also result in enamel wear and gum damage, which eventually lead to severe bite problems and facial changes.

Tooth Loss – Gum disease, injuries, or dental decay can result in tooth loss, which creates extra space. And, to accommodate this change, the rest of the teeth start spreading out. This is why you must have seen many older people with very noticeable gaps between their teeth.

Bone Loss and Gum Recession – With age, your teeth start to appear longer because of bone loss in teeth and receding gums. Moreover, the lower jaw continues to grow forward even when you age. And eventually, when the lower set of teeth starts bumping into the upper set from behind, the pressure pushes the upper teeth forward too. And this movement becomes easy as the tissue, ligaments, and bone in gums become weaker with age. Also, if you have gapped teeth, you can expect it to get worse over time.

How can I stop my teeth from shifting?

Stop Teeth Grinding – Teeth grinding is known as Bruxism in medical terms and is common in people who experience a lot of stress, anger, and frustration. It is one of the most common reasons for teeth shifting but can be controlled. If you experience symptoms of bruxism, follow these tips:

  • Try methods such as meditation to cope up with the stress.
  • Try cognitive behavioral therapy to treat underlying anxiety. This will help you get rid of the teeth grinding habit from its root.
  • Massage your jaw and do jaw stretching exercises before going to sleep.
  • Ask your dentists to fit you with a mouth-guard to prevent teeth grinding when you’re asleep.

Go for Orthodontic Treatment – Crowded, gapped, and overlapping teeth tend to get worse with age. Therefore, it is important to go for braces or any of the other orthodontic treatments for teeth correction before teeth and jaw lose strength. As discussed above, it is especially essential to wear retainers after braces to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original position.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene – Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and eventually gapped teeth. Therefore, it is important to eliminate the cause of the problem – poor oral health. Following an oral care routine diligently will help tremendously.

Here’s what you can do:

  • Brush and floss your teeth at least two times a day.
  • Use an anti-bacterial fluoride-based mouthwash to clean your teeth if you’re traveling.
  • Go for professional teeth cleaning every six months.
  • Limit soda and alcohol intake.
  • Visit your dentist regularly for routine checkups.

Dental issues can affect your confidence and your health, no matter what your age. So, do not ignore the problems you have been noticing lately. Visit your dentist or orthodontist and check for options that may be best for you to stop your teeth shifting problem from getting worse. Some dental professionals offer on-site visits at senior communities and even in homes.

Additionally, advancements in cosmetic dental procedures have made it easier for individuals to maintain a bright, youthful smile even as they age. These treatments can address various dental issues, ensuring that your smile remains one of your most attractive features.


Author Bio: Sharon Williams’ day job is to handle digital marketing for Koch Orthodontics in Lawrenceville, GA. With a flair for creating compelling content that clears the clutter and connects with the audience in an instant, she writes about dental topics to educate and help her readers. She truly believes that a genuine smile can win a million hearts and talks to her readers about improving their smiles and overall dental health, as well as enhancing their overall lifestyle. In her free time, she likes to organize small meets in her neighborhood where she brings people together to discuss various topics that she writes about.

Do You Have an Elderly Relative Who Lives Alone? 5 Ways To Keep Them Safe

The thought of your aging parents or other elderly relatives living all by themselves can be nerve-wracking. However, you won’t be able to stop them if they want to enjoy and maintain their same level of independence.

Yes, their faculties may be declining, and you may be worried about them. It is perfectly natural to do so. Nevertheless, there are a number of things you can do to make sure they stay safe while you enjoy your well-deserved peace of mind.

Five Ways To Keep Them Safe

With time, your aging loved ones will need more and more care. If you aren’t able to provide this care to them personally, you can always find ways to accommodate their needs and keep them safe in their own home. It is all a matter of looking for some ideas, adopting a few best practices, and trying out a few technological solutions.

Here are a few things you can do if you are looking for ways to keep your aging relatives safe:

  1. Eliminating Potential Hazards

At least 55 percent of the fall injuries that older people experience occur right within their homes. Twenty-three percent of the rest occur around their homes.

Most such falls can be avoided by fixing potential hazards in and around your home. It may not even cost you a lot if a few simple adjustments can do the trick. For instance:

  • You can make sure every nook and corner of the home is well-lit.
  • Make sure the floor is clear of any throw rugs, electrical cords, or anything else that might cause your aging parents to trip and fall.
  • Put orange tape at doorways, to alert your parents of any changes in floor surfaces such as tile to wood or carpet.
  • Install fire safety equipment or alarms at appropriate places.

If your aging parents are living in an older home, you may want to consider some updated options, such as widening the doorways and building ramps.

  1. Making the Bathrooms Safe

Bathrooms are those places where maximum accidents happen, especially those involving seniors. There are a few things you need to look into, if you want to minimize such accidents:

  • Install anti-skid flooring in shower area or use mats with non-slip bottoms. You might want to skid-proof the tub too.
  • Make sure the door locks can be opened from both sides.
  • Install bathing aids such as grab bars and safety rails on the sides of the toilet as well as on the walls of the bath/shower stall.
  • Make it easier for them to identify the cold and the hot faucets.
  • Make sure the water heater is turned to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. This will help to avoid burns from scalding temperatures.
  1. Improving Mobility

Mobility becomes a major issue as people start aging, especially if they have arthritis or any other mobility-related problems. Here are a few things you can consider to make the home easier for them to move around:

  • Make sure the entrances are free of steps. Building ramps would be a better alternative.
  • Replace swing doors with pocket doors.
  • Consider installing an elevator or an electric stair lift if the home has multiple floors.
  • Make sure the doors and the doorways provide walker or wheelchair access.
  1. Setting up Surveillance and Monitoring Systems

You can increase your peace of mind if you install the necessary equipment to help monitor your parents 24/7. Set up webcams in every room of the house so that you can keep an eye on your loved ones even when you are not there. Choose the ones that come with high-definition images, night vision, and two-way talk. Make sure you get alerts on your smartphone whenever the camera detects any movement.

  1. Making it Easier to Handle Emergencies

If your parents are suffering from any medical conditions that put them at high risk, you might even consider investing in a medical alert system. This will automatically connect them to a call center in case of an emergency. Top10.com compared the best medical alert systems in the market and compiled a list that might come in handy for you.

Make it a point to place a phone extension in every room of the house, in case your parents don’t have the habit of carrying their cell phones with them. You can also consider making them wear an emergency contact system that comes with a panic button.

Make Your Home Senior-Friendly

Take a walk around your home to make sure there are no potential hazards that can put your aging parents in danger. Pay attention to every nook and corner and make sure things are accessible to them. If need be, get a professional to inspect your home and give you a few suggestions.

 

 

Signs Your Loved One Needs A Caregiver

As our loved ones grow older, it shifts into us finding ways to ensure that they are safe. One thing you may have to consider is getting a quality caregiver who can watch over your loved one to make sure nothing bad happens to them—especially when they are alone in their home all day. Notice the signs your loved one needs a caregiver so you can act when needed.

Loneliness

If you begin to notice that your loved one is suffering from loneliness or depression, this is a telltale sign they need a caregiver. Some indications that could point towards this could be a sudden weight change, not talking, or a change in mood. Try to remain in regular contact with your loved one to see if this is the case. A caregiver can be a great companion for your loved one every day.

Unpaid Bills

Another sign that may mean that your loved one needs a caregiver is if they start to accumulate unpaid bills. An easy way to spot this is if you notice a pile of unpaid bills or mail in the mailbox or in their home. A caregiver can help your loved one stick to paying their bills on and not letting duties like that fall to the wayside.

Poor Hygiene

Unfortunately, your loved one may also have some poor hygiene, such as body odor, bad breath, or poor grooming. The good news is a caregiver can also help your loved one keep up with their personal hygiene.

Health Risks at Home

When it comes to your loved ones, you must always look out for any health risks at home. If them being left alone seems dangerous, that’s a clear sign that they need a caregiver. For example, a common health hazard is falling downstairs. This and other potential accidents can be minimized if you get a caregiver for your loved one.

It’s important you bring these signs to the attention of your loved one as well, so they can understand why the decision may be necessary.

Pension vs Property in the UK: Should I Invest My Savings Rather Than Put Them in a Pension Pot?

For decades people have put their monthly earnings into a pension pot for when they retire. This may seem like the only logical explanation for many people, but there are others out there too. Rather than putting your savings into a pot and allowing the savings to collect dust until your retirement days arrive, you can invest that money into a stable and secure asset such as property. The decision to invest your money rather than allowing it to only gain interest through an account is often deemed a huge one. Understandably you’re taking a risk with any investment type, but if you do your research first, then you’re sure to feel more confident with your choice.

In this quick guide, we will address saving for your pension in a traditional way, using a pension pot. However, the decision is ultimately up to you, whether you choose to invest your savings before you retire or you want to be more traditional is entirely your choice and should not be taken without serious consideration. Below we are comparing the two and what might be best depending on your financial situation.

Investing in Property

Out of the two choices, investing in property is the one that is going to get you the biggest and best return. If you’re a savvy investor and choose to invest in a high yielding area, not only will your property appreciate in value over time, it will also give you a steady secondary income that you can either reinvest or save up. Plus, when it comes to retiring, you can either sell on your asset or pass it down to your children. With many property investments, you will make returns from day one.

Like the properties offered by RWinvest, there are hundreds of modern, off-plan or refurbished buy to let opportunities across the country, but you must do the research first. Property investment can be a career option if you are wise with spending and build up your portfolio. This is why so many investors choose to invest in property rather than put their savings in a pension pot. If you’re lucky enough to have a large sum of money that would otherwise sit in a low-interest savings account, investing in property means you will get returns and also have an asset to your name too.

Before taking the plunge and investing, you may want to look at the market and decide which area is best for you. Northern UK cities have been known to offer investors better rental yields and capital appreciation and properties in the UK capital, London. However, you need to feel confident and believe in the property and the area to know you’re going to succeed with your investment.

Pension Pot

Investment of any type can be seen as taking a risk, which is why many people simply choose to put their retirement funds into a pension pot. There are two main issues with this; you’re not going to make big returns so, therefore, whatever you put in you won’t get much more out, and also, you will need to think about whether putting money into a pension pot suits you financially.

Compared to owning a buy to let property, with pension pots, you don’t gain any interest (or whatever interest you do get will be minimal) which is why people choose investment rather than saving. However, if you are going to save for your pension, it is recommended you put your money into the likes of a Lifetime ISA which allows individuals between 18 to 50 to put away £4,000 (almost $5000) per year and receive £1,000 ($1250) as a bonus. It is worth noting that while this ISA is useful for getting a bonus every tax year, you can only open it until you’re 39 (despite being able to save until you’re 50).

Why It’s Important for Seniors to Stay Active and Physically Fit

As older adults, we hear it all the time—exercise, exercise, exercise. But is it really that big of a deal if we don’t get the recommended amount of exercise each week? Well, we’re here to say that, indeed, staying active and physically fit is one of the most important things you can do to live a long, healthy, and happy life. When we hear it over and over again, sometimes it’s easy to forget why getting routine exercise is so important. Here are the reasons why your doctor demands that you get active.

  1. It Prevents Heart Disease –  The number one reason why older adults need to exercise is because it prevents the leading cause of death in America, heart disease. Exercise gets your heart rate up and strengthens it while also helping to control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.  When you have these things under control, you’ll be much less likely to experience heart attack, stroke, and other fatal cardiovascular episodes. Interestingly, research shows that exercise even helps the heart’s arteries dilate easier and helps manage your sympathetic nervous system, which controls heart rate and blood pressure.
  2. It Keeps Extra Weight Off – Exercising burns calories and aids in regulating blood sugar, which will help you lose weight and keep it off. And, while we still don’t know all the ways carrying a few extra pounds can affect us, there is research indicating that it’s one of the worst things for our health and well-being as we age. Being overweight or obese can seriously increase and exacerbate health risks in seniors, as it’s linked to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, cancer, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, fatty liver disease, kidney disease, and more.
  3. It Lowers Blood Pressure – High blood pressure (hypertension) leads to heart disease because it puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels, but there are more negative ways it impacts your body. In fact, the Mayo Clinic says that high blood pressure can cause serious damage to the brain, including dementia, transient ischemic attack (TIA), stroke, and cognitive impairment. It also has a worrying effect on the kidneys, eyes, and sexual organs.
  4. It Strengthens Your Muscles – While cardiovascular activity is good for the heart, you also need to incorporate strength training and stretching into your complete fitness routine for full-body health. Stronger muscles scaffold the entire body, helping to mitigate back pain, keep your spine straight, and support your hips and knees. If you have chronic back pain, incorporating strength-building into your routine may seem like a challenge. We recommend using a laser light therapy belt to temporarily relieve and relax muscles after a strenuous workout.
  5. It Protects Your Bones – Did you know that working out can improve bone health? Yep! In fact, bones are similar to muscles in that they respond to exercise by becoming stronger. Keeping your bones strong into old age can help prevent injury while improving coordination and flexibility. But exercise is both good and bad for the bones and joints, so you need to make sure you’re doing the right kinds for your age and body. Low-intensity activities such as swimming can help build muscle and condition the heart without stressing the joints.
  6. It Makes You Happy – Who can deny the pure, natural joy of runner’s high? The chemicals released during a good workout session are second-to-none, and there are few other ways you can get such a guilt-free thrill! Working out makes you happy because it releases endorphins that reduce your perception of pain and makes you feel happy, but it also just feels good because you know you’re doing something great for yourself and your health!
  7. It Encourages Socialization – Working out doesn’t have to be a solo activity and, in fact, it’s actually better when done with others. Exercising in a group is an awesome way to stay accountable and connect with others. Some of the best ways to do this are through fitness classes and clubs, such as hiking or running clubs. One of the most overlooked ways to enhance physical and mental health is spending time with friends and family. Being around others can make you feel happy, confident, loved, and self-assured, which is important to good health.
  8. It Boosts Your Energy – There’s no denying it: We get more tired as we get older, so anything we can do to ward off fatigue and feel more energetic is worth a try. Exercise is one of the best ways to improve energy levels because it delivers essential oxygen and nutrients to the tissues, helping the heart and lungs work more efficiently and giving the whole body a big-time boost of oomph.

9. It Helps You Sleep – Yep, exercise does it all—boosts energy and improves sleep. The truth is that, by the time you’re ready for bed, the body will be more tired and ready for deep sleep                when you’ve spent a portion of your day working out. Like diet and exercise, sleep is a crucial pillar of good health in older adults, as it helps reduce fatigue, stress, depression, and anxiety.                And, of course, poor sleep has been linked with serious health issues such as heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

 

You probably already know why working out is essential, but sometimes it’s nice to have a reminder and remember exactly why we do what we do. At the end of the day, if you log some quality fitness time, you will undoubtedly see for yourself why it matters so much! The reward comes in the form of a longer, more enjoyable life!

5 Effective Ways to Help Take Care of Your Grandparents

When it comes to taking care of your grandparents everyone wants to be sure that they are handled with good care, patience, and love. While at times it may be stressful, you must also keep in mind that it is not easy for them to become dependent on others. It is also difficult for them to ask you even for a single small thing, they need your help in moving from one place to another, they need you to get their food and for many other things. This sometimes makes them insecure and they feel down. So this is where you need to cheer them up to enjoy their old days.

It is also crucial that everyone become familiar with ways to provide their elderly loved ones with the best possible care and love.

1.      They Need Social Interaction

The first thing that makes your grandparents happy is social interaction. Being old and living alone is the toughest thing that becomes life challenging and hard for old people so visit them often. Spend some time with your grandparents. They want you to listen to their stories and when you sit with them it assures them that they are healthy, safe, and doing well.

2.      Make Sure to Provide Them with Medicines

Be sure that your grandparents are appropriately supplied with their medications. It is essential that all their prescriptions are refilled. If your grandparents are on several medications, it is always a good way to purchase a pillbox and label the compartments with the days and time. This will simplify their medicine taking process. Moreover, if a new medication is prescribed, ask the pharmacist or doctor about the possible side effects.

3.      Use Tracker Apps

Almost all of us have grandparents at home and sometimes with our jobs it can be hard to take care of them. Nowadays, with modern technology it is not difficult to track those at risk of wandering. Your parents and you can install a phone tracker to follow them. These tracking apps cannot replace you but help you to keep a good eye on your grandparents if needed.

4.      Plan a Day Out With Them

Planning a day out with your grandparents is a fun way to keep them engaged. According to few researches, when teens or young people plan days out with old people they feel more energetic and healthier. So ask them to tell you what they have in their bucket list, where they want to go, what they love to do, and plan accordingly. In this process you may come across some resistance but with some efforts you should be able to convince them to share their plans and wishes with you.

5.      Exercise and Diet

It is always good to accompany your grandparents for morning or evening walks. It will make them feel refreshed and also provide you with an opportunity to spend time with each other. On the other side, paying attention to diet is also important. They may not be able to consume any heavy diet at this age hence it is crucial to feed them a healthy and nutritious meal.

Doing all of these things will not only be good for your grandparents, but good for your relationship with them!

How to make sure an elderly loved one is safe during the COVID-19 crisis

Caring for Elderly Loved Ones during Covid-19
Free image taken from https://unsplash.com/photos/UrcuFgKfSS4
In all the whirl of uncertainty and conflicting statements that dominate the COVID-19 pandemic, it seems that one thing is for sure: the virus is particularly dangerous for the elderly and people with preexisting conditions, which have a high incidence among the elderly anyway. Data from China, Europe, and the US, all shows that people over 65 have an increased risk of contracting the virus and experiencing health complications. As a result, one of the first recommendations from the World Health Organization was to keep senior relatives inside as much as possible and take extra precautions to protect them. If you have elderly loved ones living alone or in a care home, you may be feeling anxious or scared about their future. Fortunately, you’re not completely powerless and, by following a few precautions, you can help your senior relatives stay healthy and safe throughout this pandemic. 

Avoid unnecessary visits 

In this period, you may be anxious and feel the need to check on your loved one more than usual, but health experts say that this could do more harm than good. Because some cases of COVID-19 are asymptomatic and the virus has a relatively long incubation period, there’s a chance you may have it and not know. Yet, the virus can be passed on to someone else. 

If your loved one is in a nursing home, they may have already adjusted visiting hours or started lock down to limit exposure and protect the seniors, so make sure you call to inquire about their policy before coming. Restrictions don’t necessarily mean that you have to stop visits but rather that you have to stop unnecessary contact. 

This advice also applies if your loved one is at home. As difficult as it may be to see them less often, it’s for their own good.  

Safety precautions 

If you feel that you’re being paranoid and taking too many precautions, you’re doing the right thing. Whether your parent or grandparent lives at home or in a care center, you have to establish some ground rules and precautions: 

  • When visiting your loved one to check on them or deliver groceries, stay outside and avoid physical contact. No hugging, kissing, or handshaking. 
  • Reduce contact between grandparents and grandkids. Preliminary research shows that children are less likely to display symptoms once infected, but they can spread the disease. 
  • Always sanitize your hands before visiting. If you’re worried that you might have the virus, wear a mask. 
  • Tell them not to leave their home unnecessarily and avoid contact with neighbors
  • Tell them to postpone any travel plans, such as cruises and trips, until further notice 
  • If possible, arrange that someone else delivers their groceries and runs their errands
  • If your loved one lives at home but is looked after by a home carer, make sure they practice excellent hygiene and take the right safety precautions 
  • If your loved one is in a nursing home, call them to make sure they have a protocol in place to prevent infection
  • Make sure that your or another emergency contact can reach your loved one or their family doctor quickly 
  • Give your loved on a list of contacts that they can reach out to if they have an emergency or are worried that they’re getting sick

A healthy lifestyle is more important than ever for seniors 

Chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or asthma can increase the risk of complications and cause an aggressive form of the disease, so apart from taking all the safety precautions above, it’s essential for your elderly relative to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. 

When doing their groceries, make sure they have a bit of every food group and that their meals cover all their nutritional needs. Fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and healthy fats are essential in strengthening their immune system. The experts at Mind Your Head York also recommend adding supplements into their diet because seniors tend to have a lower calorie intake, and their bodies are less efficient at absorbing essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, folic acid, and calcium. 

If your loved one is still in relatively good health, encourage them to stay active by doing light exercises, gardening, or cleaning the house. Physical activity not only boosts the immune but also promotes a positive state of mind and helps reduce anxiety. 

Practice physical distancing, not social distancing

Recently, experts have changed the term “social distancing” to “physical distancing” because the former was rather misleading and gave people the impression that they had to avoid each other entirely. Social distancing isn’t about this – it’s about reducing physical contact, but that doesn’t mean we should be disconnected and stop all forms of interaction with loved ones. On the contrary, this is the best time to come together as a society and show support even if we’re not physically there. 

Studies show that one in three seniors struggle with loneliness, and, most of the time, they feel isolated. The current pandemic can amplify the effects of this loneliness and cause a worrying series of health hazards: altered brain function, decreased memory, higher stress levels, and even faster progression of degenerative brain disease. So, while you’re social distancing to protect your loved one from the novel coronavirus, stay mindful of their needs and don’t shut them out of your life. Your visits, afternoon visits from neighbors, daily trips to the grocery stores may have been their only occasions to socialize, so when these are taken from them, they can feel sad, angry, and confused. 

To help your loved one feel less lonely, schedule daily video calls, let them talk to their grandchildren on Skype and read them bedtime stories, tell them about your day, and take the time to answer their questions. It seems that the current state of events had the roles switched, and you may feel that your parent is now the teenager and you’re the overprotective one. As tempting and understandable as it might be to lose your patience and shout as you’re coming to terms with your own anxiety, we could all be a little more patient and compassionate with our elderly loved ones. 


Life Plan Communities: 4 Different Levels of Care

If you’re a baby boomer, chances are you’ve been planning for your sunset years for sometimes now. You’ll be pleased to learn that senior living has advanced considerably over the years to include many new options. As you grow older, you’ll naturally become more curious about senior care services. Some of the questions you’ll ask regularly include:

  • What particular services will I require as I gradually advance in age?
  • Which senior community best serves my needs?

To answer these questions, let’s learn more about Life Plan Communities.

About Life Plan Communities

Life Plan Communities, also referred to as Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), offer you various types of care, ranging from independent residential accommodation to nursing care that assists you as your needs evolve.

It’s essential that you understand how supportive a Life Plan Community can be as you age. This removes any concerns you might have about future health issues, such as memory loss and failing health. The following are the various types of care you should expect from a Life Plan Community, as well as some common differences:

1. Independent Residential Living

As is the case with most seniors, you probably started considering retirement living years before you needed constant care. Independent residential living is convenient because it offers you cottages and apartments in a secure community of your peers.

In this environment, you’ll have grounds care and maintenance taken care of. This gives you ample time to enjoy social and fitness activities with your fellow citizens. Such communities also provide standard on-campus amenities. These include beauty parlors, fitness centers, medical services, transportation, and therapy services. With these essential services always close, you’ll achieve peace of mind in no time.

2. Personal Care

Personal Care offers you extra services if you need help with daily living. As a resident, you’ll still be independent, but have ready access to skilled staff who will assist you in performing activities of daily living (ADLs). These services include grooming, performing household chores, medication administration, running errands, and incontinence management.

The support and pricing you receive will depend on the amount of assistance you’ll require. Standard Personal Care packages have a minimum of three daily meals, linen service, housekeeping, and access to social amenities.

Personal Care units can vary from little efficiency apartments to single-room units equipped with a full bath. In some communities, you might be offered Assisted Living Services. This resembles Personal Care but includes medical support.

3. Memory Care

As a senior, you might suffer from dementia, Alzheimer’s and other memory loss complications. Memory Care aims to provide you with a tranquil, self-reliant environment that is both secure and comfortable. Memory Care is designed to preserve your self-dignity even if you’re battling memory difficulties. Personnel is particularly trained to handle members who are undergoing brain change.

Starting with prepared meals, to customized support from staff members, the whole environment is meticulously designed to offer ready assistance if you suffer from memory loss. Each activity is set up to fit your individual needs. Memory Care can either be a dedicated section, or a part of Personal Care and Healthcare facilities.

4. Healthcare Center

Healthcare Centers offer you high-quality nursing and suitable custodial assistance, whether you’re in for long-term or short-term rehabilitation. The medical treatment plan also includes care delivered by licensed nurses. This is a higher quality of care provided as an answer to one-off or recurring medical conditions.

Short-term rehabilitation refers to a limited stay you undergo in a skilled nursing facility. This commonly occurs after a stroke, surgery, or other exceptional health problems. The temporary care is meant to ensure you receive both treatment and crucial support you need before going back to your home.

Long-term care is a more exhaustive treatment choice. It’s best if you have chronic ailments or progressive conditions like dementia, strokes or long-term disabilities. As a member, you get immediate access to medical professionals any time you need them. Such highly trained personnel can respond quickly to any health issues you raise.

Healthcare Centers also offer end-of-life care during the final chapter of their members’ lives. The care that’s administered includes hospice care for those suffering from terminal illnesses. At this point, the focus shifts to making their final days as comfortable and pain-free as possible.

The United Zion Retirement Community & the Life Plan Difference

At United Zion Retirement Community, we have all the answers to your senior living-related questions. We offer high-quality care from our scenic hilltop location in Lititz, Lancaster County, PA.

Our full-range of services are designed to maintain your health, dignity, independence, and passion for life as you age. For more on the advantages of Life Plan Communities in general and United Zion’s services in particular, contact us today.