Posts Tagged: older adults

Recognizing Parkinson’s Awareness Month: Understanding, Support, and Hope

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April marks Parkinson’s Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about Parkinson’s disease (PD), a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. With millions of people worldwide living with PD, the importance of understanding, supporting, and advancing research for this condition cannot be overstated. This month, we aim to shed light on the challenges faced by those with Parkinson’s, celebrate the strides in research and treatment, and offer ways for communities to come together in support of individuals and families affected by PD.

Understanding Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is characterized by the degeneration of nerve cells in the part of the brain called the substantia nigra, which controls movement. This degeneration causes a reduction in dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in coordinating movement, leading to the symptoms commonly associated with PD. These symptoms include tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and balance problems. While the disease progresses differently in each individual, the impact on daily living can be significant.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease can be challenging, as symptoms are often subtle and gradual. However, early detection is crucial for managing symptoms effectively. Neurologists use a combination of medical history, physical examinations, and sometimes specialized imaging tests to diagnose PD. Awareness of the early signs of Parkinson’s is essential for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Advances in Treatment and Care

While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, significant advances in treatment have been made. Medications can help manage symptoms by increasing dopamine levels or mimicking its effects. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are also integral parts of managing the disease, helping individuals maintain mobility, function, and communication.

Innovative research into new treatments, including gene therapy, stem cell therapy, and neuroprotective strategies, offers hope for the future. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery has also provided life-changing benefits for some people with PD, improving quality of life where medication alone is not sufficient.

Supporting Those Affected by Parkinson’s

  • Support for individuals with Parkinson’s and their families is vital. Parkinson’s can be an isolating experience, and the support from communities can make a significant difference. Here are a few ways to offer support:
  • Educate Yourself and Others: Learning about Parkinson’s disease and sharing your knowledge can help dispel myths and reduce stigma.
  • Participate in Awareness Events: Join or organize Parkinson’s awareness events in your community. These can include fundraising walks, educational seminars, or support group meetings.
  • Advocate for Research Funding: Advocate for increased funding for Parkinson’s research at both the national and local levels to support the search for a cure.
  • Volunteer: Many organizations that support PD research and patients rely on volunteers for their programs and events.
  • Offer Practical Help: For families affected by PD, practical support such as helping with daily tasks, providing transportation, or simply being there to listen can be incredibly helpful.

The Power of Hope and Community

Parkinson’s Awareness Month is not only about understanding the disease but also about fostering a sense of community and hope. By coming together, sharing stories, and supporting research, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by PD. Let this month be a reminder of the strength found in unity and the ongoing journey towards a future without Parkinson’s disease.

Conclusion

As we observe Parkinson’s Awareness Month, let’s commit to increasing awareness, supporting those in need, and contributing to the advancement of research. Every effort counts in the fight against Parkinson’s disease, and together, we can look forward to a day when this condition can be effectively treated or even cured. Remember, through understanding, support, and hope, we can make a significant impact on the lives of individuals and families navigating the challenges of Parkinson’s disease.

Nutrition Month: A Guide to Healthy Eating for Older Adults

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March is Nutrition Month, an opportune time to spotlight the significance of nutrition in the lives of older adults. As we age, our nutritional needs evolve, making it crucial to adapt our diets to meet these changing requirements. For older adults, proper nutrition can help manage chronic conditions, maintain mental acuteness, increase energy levels, and improve immunity. As a home care agency dedicated to the well-being of seniors, we understand the unique dietary challenges they face. Here’s how caregivers and families can support older adults in adopting healthier eating habits for a fulfilling, nourished life.

Understanding Nutritional Needs of Older Adults

Aging affects metabolism, and the body may require fewer calories but more of certain nutrients, including calcium, vitamin D, fiber, and B vitamins. Additionally, hydration is crucial since the sense of thirst may diminish with age.

1. Encourage a Variety of Nutrient-Rich Foods

Diverse diets ensure a wide range of essential nutrients. Encourage colorful plates filled with fruits and vegetables, lean proteins (like fish, chicken, and legumes), whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. These foods are packed with the nutrients older adults need without too many extra calories.

2. Prioritize Whole, Minimally Processed Foods

Whole foods are not only more nutritious but also easier for older adults to digest. Processed foods can be high in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats, which are particularly harmful to senior health, potentially exacerbating heart and kidney conditions.

3. Manage Portion Sizes

With a slower metabolism, older adults need fewer calories. Managing portion sizes can help prevent weight gain and control conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Using smaller plates and bowls can naturally help reduce portion sizes without feeling deprived.

4. Ensure Adequate Hydration

Older adults are at a higher risk of dehydration. Encourage regular intake of fluids throughout the day, not just when they feel thirsty. Water, herbal teas, and water-rich fruits and vegetables are excellent for staying hydrated.

5. Adapt Eating Habits to Health Needs

Many older adults manage chronic conditions that require specific diets (e.g., low sodium for high blood pressure, or sugar control for diabetes). Tailoring meals to these needs while ensuring they’re balanced and nutritious is key.

6. Simplify Meal Preparation

Cooking can become a challenge with age due to physical limitations or lack of motivation. Home care agencies can assist by preparing meals or teaching simple, nutritious recipes that are easy to make. Meal delivery services tailored to seniors can also be a valuable resource.

7. Encourage Social Meals

Eating alone can decrease appetite and enjoyment of food. Whenever possible, make meals a social event. This can be within the household, with friends, or at community senior centers.

8. Monitor and Adapt to Changes in Appetite and Ability

Changes in medication, health status, and physical ability can affect appetite and the ability to eat. Regularly assess and adapt to these changes, whether that means shifting to softer foods, enhancing flavors without salt, or addressing dental issues that make eating difficult.

9. Educate on Reading Nutrition Labels

Help older adults understand nutrition labels to make healthier choices when shopping. Focus on low sodium options, whole grains, and avoiding added sugars and unhealthy fats.

10. Celebrate Nutritional Wins

Every step towards healthier eating is a victory. Celebrate these moments, whether it’s trying a new vegetable, drinking more water, or cooking a meal at home. Positive reinforcement can motivate continued progress.

Conclusion

Nutrition Month is a reminder of the power of food in enhancing the quality of life, especially for older adults. By focusing on nutrient-rich foods, staying hydrated, and adapting to the unique needs of aging, caregivers and seniors can work together towards achieving better health and well-being. Remember, small changes can lead to significant benefits, and every meal is an opportunity to nourish the body and soul.

10 Simple Steps to a Healthier Heart for Older Adults

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Heart health is crucial at any age, but for older adults, taking steps to protect the heart can significantly improve quality of life and independence. As a home care agency dedicated to the well-being of seniors, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities in promoting heart health among the elderly. Here are ten simple, caregiver-friendly steps to support heart health in older adults.

1. Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet

Encourage a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. For older adults, focus on easy-to-prepare, nutrient-dense foods that are high in fiber and low in sodium to help manage blood pressure and cholesterol.

2. Promote Regular Physical Activity

Physical activity is essential, even for those with limited mobility. Tailor exercises to the individual’s ability, focusing on activities like walking, chair yoga, or light stretching exercises that can maintain cardiovascular health without overexertion.

3. Support a Healthy Weight

Help seniors maintain a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular activity. This often involves managing portion sizes and ensuring meals are well-balanced.

4. Encourage Smoking Cessation

For seniors who smoke, offer support and resources to help them quit. This might include connecting them with local support groups or exploring nicotine replacement therapies, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

5. Moderate Alcohol Consumption

Advise moderation in alcohol intake, as excessive drinking can exacerbate health issues, including those related to heart health.

6. Manage Stress Effectively

Help seniors find ways to manage stress through activities like reading, listening to music, engaging in hobbies, or mindfulness practices. Caregivers can play a significant role in identifying sources of stress and providing comfort and support.

7. Monitor Blood Pressure Regularly

Keep a regular check on blood pressure, utilizing home monitoring devices if necessary. This can help detect changes early and adjust care plans accordingly.

8. Manage Cholesterol and Triglyceride Levels

With the guidance of healthcare professionals, ensure that seniors are maintaining healthy levels of cholesterol and triglycerides through diet, exercise, and medication when prescribed.

9. Ensure Adequate Sleep

Promote good sleep hygiene by establishing a regular bedtime routine, ensuring the sleeping environment is comfortable and quiet, and addressing any sleep disturbances promptly with healthcare providers.

10. Facilitate Regular Health Screenings

Ensure that older adults are keeping up with regular health screenings and doctor’s appointments. This includes managing appointments for them and providing transportation if needed.

Conclusion

Caring for the heart is a lifelong journey, and for older adults, maintaining heart health is key to enjoying a fulfilling, independent life. As caregivers, we play a vital role in supporting the heart health of the seniors in our care, through both our actions and by fostering an environment that prioritizes their well-being. By implementing these ten simple steps, we can make a significant positive impact on the heart health of the older adults we serve.

When Professional Life and Personal Life Meld

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My Dual Role: The Professional and The Daughter

A good portion of my time is spent reassuring older adults and their family members that I understand what they are going through. I am a Clinical Social Worker with a 30-year career in working with older adults and their family members. The primary focus of my work has been to guide and support older adults in the aging process to improve the safety and quality of their lives. My undergrad and graduate education is in Social Work and my PhD was earned as being the daughter of a fiercely independent mother. You see, my professional and personal life often collide at this time of my life.

Understanding the Aging Process: A Social Worker’s Perspective

I have been an advocate of the rights of older adults’ wishes while being mindful of the need to provide safety measures. Social Work school taught me that a client’s right to self-determination is an ethical principle that recognizes the rights for clients to make their own choices.

Marie’s Way: The Independence of a 94-year-old

That goes out the window when dealing with my 94-year-old mom. Marie lives alone in her home of over 65 years in Ohio, she walks to her church and volunteers once a week, she does her laundry and cooks her own meals. There’s no topic regarding her safety that I discuss with her that is not dismissed in 2 minutes. My suggestions for her safety and quality of life are always met with the standard saying: “ I’m not ready”. In my professional opinion, she is very ready: for a walker, cleaning help, a move to a senior community where she can play bridge, enjoy happy hour, and talk sports, however, she believes she is not ready.

The Siblings’ Support Network: United for Mom’s Well-being

She lives life on her terms, and I continue to worry from a distance. I’m not alone in this; I am part of a group. This caring, cautious, and nervous group consists of my sisters and brother. We’re on a group text and reach out to each other often. We text to update each other and discuss ways to keep her safe and happy. When we feel a subject needs to be proposed to my mom, we turn to my brother, the oldest and her only son as she will listen to him. Last year an emergency response system was proposed after a serious fall, she rejected the idea. After a sibling conference call, Steve was elected to speak with her, she begrudgingly accepted it and now has an emergency response system.

Lessons from Care Management: The Beauty of Watchful Waiting

The majority of my career has been in the field of Care Management. This is the perfect fit for me, working with older adults in their home, over the course of time. I am honored to be a part of their life at this stage, have meaningful conversations and listen to their concerns, fears and hopes.  

I have discussed the concept of watchful waiting with my siblings and my client’s children. Staying updated on our parents and being ready to assist when they are willing to accept it. As adult children, we are first responders; ready to spring into action and be the ultimate safety net.   

Reflections on Independence in Aging

I commend all of us for navigating this stage of life. In my mind, I hear Frank Sinatra singing “I did it my way” and it makes me smile. 

The Dilemma of Independence and Safety: A Personal and Professional Take

How do we protect those who want to retain their independence and what will we want when we are their age? It is a dilemma that I understand at a professional and personal level.  

Ten COVID Scams Older Adults are Falling for Right Now

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Across the country, federal and local law enforcement agencies are warning older adults about COVID-19 scams and requesting personal information or making false promises about COVID-19 cures and test kits.

Corewood wants to make you aware of these coronavirus scams. We also want you to know that experts believe the number of new schemes will only increase over the coming months. Some of the most common scams include:

  • Individuals selling treatments for COVID-19 vaccine, cure, or insurance.
  • Online sales of high demand medical supplies such as N 90 or N95 masks.
  • Phishing calls, text messages, or emails from national or global health authorities asking for personal and/or financial information.
  • Calls or emails requesting contributions for obscure COVID-19 treatments.
  • Appeals for donations for individuals affected by COVID-19.
  • Unofficial COVID-19 apps and downloads that can potentially compromise a person’s computer or phone with malware.
  • Financial planners alleging they have “inside information” to prevent, detect, or cure COVID-19.
  • Scammers calling as contact tracers claiming the individual has been exposed to COVID-19 and needs to act quickly. They then request the person’s social security numbers, insurance information, or advanced payment for bogus COVID-19 tests.
  • Calls claiming to be from the Social Security Administration (SSA), claiming that benefits will be interrupted unless the caller provides their social security or bank account number.
  • Scammers impersonating bank employees who claim that banks are falsely limiting access to funds or alleging security issues with bank deposits.

Top TEN Tips for Avoiding COVID-19 Scams:

  • Discount claims about COVID-19 vaccine, cure, or treatment.If there is a medical discovery, it wouldn’t be reported through unsolicited emails or online ads.
  • Depend on official sources for current information on COVID-19.Review your state’s health department websites, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or the World Health Organization for the latest developments.
  • Know that the safest place for your money is in the bank—your funds are physically secure and federally insured, something you don’t have when your money is outside the banking system.
  • Be on guard for phishing scams.  Do not click on links, pop-up screens, or open any attachments from sources you don’t know. NEVER share your password, account number, or PIN with anyone.
  • Investigate before donating. Be circumspect about any individual, charity, or business requesting COVID-19-related donations in cash, by wire transfer, gift card, or through the mail.
  • Keep your computers and mobile devices up to date. Using the latest security software, web browser, and operating system are your best defenses against viruses, malware, and other online threats. Turn on automatic updates to get the newest fixes.
  • Avoid bogus website links. Hackers embed malicious links into devices by tricking you into downloading malware or route users to bogus websites. Fraudulent links are often disguised by simple changes in the URL, such as www.ABC-Bank.com vs. ABC_Bank.com.
  • Enable multi-factor authentication for critical financial accounts. Multi-factor authentication is a second step to verify who you are. This often means you will receive a text message to verify your status before gaining access to a site.
  • There is a high potential for fraud presently. Be leery of any company claiming the ability to prevent, detect, or cure coronavirus.
  • Help others by reporting coronavirus scams. Contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov to report suspected or confirmed scams. The Federal Trade Commission also provides an updated list of the latest coronavirus scams at ftc.gov/coronavirus.

Have questions? Feel free to contact Mary Ann Buckley, Director of Care Management, at maryann@corewoodcare.com. We’re here to help.

Care Manager Success Story

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Years ago, we were honored to help a woman decide a move from her home into a senior living community where her sister lived. The older sister was unrelenting in telling her younger sister to move to her community and as soon as possible. She told me it was reminiscent of childhood with her older sister bossing her around.

This situation was causing a rift in the sister’s relationship, and they both were stressed. The sisters went to the same Physician who learned of the disagreement from each sister’s viewpoint. He recommended a Care Manager to help the younger sister choose a senior community based on her desires, needs, and budget.

The Care Manager met with her and reviewed all her preferences for her ideal housing type to meet her needs now and in the future. She always visited her sister and enjoyed her community but was not sure it was the one for her.

The Care Manager identified three communities that met the younger sister’s preferences, and they toured all three with an open mind. They compared each community, even making a pro and con list, and discussed the long and short-term advantages.

In the end, the younger sister chose the senior community where her older sister lived, but it was only after she had the time to look at her options and make a decision that was best for her. She felt confident that the move was the right one for her and not what her older sister wanted her to make.

At times like this, a Care Manager can provide professional, impartial guidance and options to consider. The Care Manager also assisted the younger sister with all of the steps required to sell her home, downsize, pack/move, and settle into her new home at the senior community on a different floor than her older sister.

New to Care Management? How a Care Manager Works with Clients and their Families

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Corewood’s Care Management team works with clients and their families on a wide variety of issues, health conditions, and family dynamics. You may not know about all we do, so please let me provide a brief overview of the most noteworthy tasks we undertake.

Determining Where an Older Adult Should Live

Every family’s situation is different. Some older adult clients are temporarily immobilized due to a fall or hospitalization, or one spouse has a condition that will worsen over time, such as Alzheimer’s. Can the spouse or caregiver help with bathing and dressing? Does the older adult need constant supervision or someone to check in on them occasionally?  The answers to all of these questions – and many more – will need to be taken into consideration when deciding where an older adult will live. Care Managers are trained to look for warning signs to determine if an older adult is safe living at home alone. Whether or not an older adult remains at home, there are concerns that the Care Manager will review to ensure safety.

  • Making a Home Safe – If an older adult is going to remain in at home, a Care Manager can recommend modifications to make the home safer.
  • Finding Senior Housing – If an older adult can no longer live independently, a Care Manager can assist with a move to a senior housing facility, such as assisted living or CCRC. Throughout the process, a Care Manager will evaluate a community based on the level of care a person needs now and in the future as well as consider their lifestyle.

Covering Your Legal Bases

If you, your spouse, or your parent were suddenly incapacitated, who has the legal authority to act on their behalf? A Care Manager works with older adults and their families to avoid legal red tape and make sure older adults have the right legal documents in place. They will recommend and work with an attorney to be sure there is a power of attorney, advance care directives, a will, and, if needed, guardianship.

Organizing Finances

Would you know what to do if you suddenly had to take over managing money and paying bills for your spouse or parents? Care Managers work with older adults and their families to be sure trusted individuals know where the essential paperwork is kept and how to access funds if need be. Care Managers also work with older adults to review long-term care insurance to help cover the cost for care as well as help them determine their eligibility for Medicare, Medicaid, or Veteran’s Assistance.

Managing Medical Care

Care Managers are often first called when there is a medical crisis. Care Managers are older adult’s front-line advocates who know the medical system, know the older adult, and can help provide the best care. Before a crisis occurs, a Care Manager knows an older adult’s full medical history, record all of the prescription medications, and have attended doctor visits with an older adult in the past. They know how to ask questions and bring up concerns with a doctor and can summarize and take notes of the encounter to be discussed afterward with all interested parties.

Talking About the Future

When an older adult is ill, plans for the future must be made. Holding a family meeting helps make sure everyone is informed and on the same page. Care Managers are often called upon to facilitate these difficult conversations that must take place. They work to ensure an open, honest conversation but are also prepared for resistance. The goal is to determine the older adult’s current needs, limitations, and concerns, and let them state their wishes for the future.

Coping with the Reality of Caregiving

The emotional and physical health of the lead caregiver is always a top concern for the Care Manager. They work to prevent burnout and isolation as well as provide relief time for the caregiver. A Care Manager may coordinate coverage so that the lead caregiver can get out to dinner, a movie, or a walk in the fresh air. Without such relief, the physical and mental toll can be heavy on the lead caregiver.

Care Managers are trained professionals who work with older adults to find support and resources to make their daily life more comfortable. They are especially helpful when family members live far apart because, as we age, it is imperative to have supporting eyes and ears available locally.

COVID 19 has shown that supporting an older adult is not a process that can be managed long-distance, even as in-touch as we are with cell phones, text messaging, and Zoom conferences. A relationship with a Care Manager can allow a spouse or children of an older adult to be the spouse or the children, while someone else manages the situation.

When a spouse or daughter is providing hands-on care, the quality time they have to be there emotionally for their spouse or parent is limited. A Care Manager can handle the difficult interpersonal issues, address the immediate problem, remain connected once the crisis passes, and get back involved as the situation requires it.

Preparing for a Pandemic and a Future Wave This Winter

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Officials at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have warned that this fall we will most likely experience a second wave of COVID-19. Many health officials are suggesting that Americans prepare over the summer for the potential of widespread illness and more stay-at-home orders.

In case of an outbreak, what can older adults do to protect themselves and their families?

Here are recommendations for how to prepare now to be ready for another outbreak.

1.    What should I buy now to prepare?

The US Department of Homeland Security, before a pandemic strikes, store a two-week supply of water and food, as well as over-the-counter medications you tend to take.

Items to consider stocking up on for your pantry:

  1. Canned soup, vegetables, fruit
  2. Crackers, snacks
  3. Cereal/oatmeal
  4. Hand soap
  5. Paper towels
  6. Kleenex
  7. Lysol, Clorox wipes, laundry detergent
  8. Toilet paper: this goes without saying, right?
  9. Disposable gloves
  • Chocolate: This is my favorite, as a staple and a smile maker.

2.    What should I do about groceries if I can’t or should not go out this fall?

Many online grocery options have been overwhelmed during the recent COVID 19 pandemic. Nevertheless, many of these online options are gearing up on supplies, workers, and delivery options in preparedness for the fall. Consider joining and using the service now while demand eases off, so when ordering online becomes more popular again, you are already in the queue.

Some online shopping options to look into include:

  1. Peapod
  2. Fresh Direct
  3. Shipt
  4. Boxed
  5. Instacart
  6. Thrive Market
  7. Instacart
  8. Walmart Online Grocery Delivery
  9. Target
  10. Whole Foods

Another option to look into for grocery delivery is your local senior Village. A Village is a neighborhood-based nonprofit membership organization supported by volunteers that work to keep older adults living safely, comfortably, and act in their own homes. Some Villages are providing once weekly grocery delivery for full-time members. To learn more contact your local Village Network.

3.    What should I have in my medicine cabinet?

Before a pandemic, it is recommended to periodically check your regular prescription drugs to ensure you have a continuous supply in your home if needed.

Some additional suggestions you may want to consider obtaining, in consultation with your Primary Care Physician, include:

  • A list of all your medications, vitamins, supplements: keep this current
  • Thermometer: for your use, guest use, and/or caregiver.
  • Check with your doctor to see if you should have: Pulse Oximeter, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, throat lozenge, cough medicine, Pedialyte/Gatorade
  • First aid kit: band-aids, gauze pads, hydrocortisone, tweezers, nail clippers, q-tips. If you have been worried like me, you may be picking at your nails/have not been able to get out for a manicure.

 4.    What documents should I be sure to have access to if I need to go to the hospital?

We have learned that this virus has changed the way we had been living our life. Emergency rooms and hospitals have always welcomed family members and visitors to assist their patients in the healing and recovery of illness and surgery. That has not been an option with COVD-19. You will be alone in these settings without direct contact and touch with those you care for and about.

Lists/Documents to have in one place:

  1. Power of Attorney: make copies
  2. Advance Directive/Living Will
  3. Medication list: yes, I have it twice because it is that important
  4. List of phone numbers: Emergency Contact, Family members, Physicians, Neighbor
  5. Medical history, current diagnosis, past diagnosis, surgeries, allergies to food/ medications
  6. Copy of insurance cards: front and back
  7. Copy of Photo ID
  8. MOLST form if you have one
  9. Long term care policy information (if you have one)  

What to leave behind:

  1. Wedding rings
  2. All jewelry
  3. Watches
  4. Wallet and money

What to take:

  1. Glasses
  2. Hearing aids and batteries
  3. Dentures
  4. All documents listed below

5.    Stay informed:

If you have more questions about the Novel Coronavirus, stay up to date on the CDC’s website at https://www.cdc.gov/. 

Experts agree that the most important thing you can do is not panic and stay informed.

It’s important now to plan and have a conversation with your family and/or the important people in your life about what you want to happen if you contract COVD-19. This will benefit not only you, but those close to you, and all the medical staff who will be taking care of you.

Meditation for Older Adults

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For many families and their loved ones, COVID-19 has not only brought on fears of health, safety, and physical wellbeing but also has negatively impacted current living arrangements and relationships among families and loved ones. For older adults, living alone has become even more burdensome as social visits, fitness and exercise, physical therapy visits, and limitations to healthy food options have been limited if not non-existent. Families that have taken on caregiving duties for their loved ones have been experiencing increased anxiety, tension, and a decline in personal health. Meditation during this time has become more important for older adults, their families, and caregivers during this time.

Research supports the many benefits meditation can bring. Meditation can help memory, cognitive abilities, anxiety, stress, loneliness, depression, circulation, and digestion to name a few. The website U.S. News Health section supports these benefits. You can visit the website here U.S. News: Health

Below are a few tips for first-time meditators and beginners as well as different meditation techniques to try. Meditation can be an activity done at home alone or even virtually with your loved one. Start slow, 5 minutes, and build your way up to 15 minutes a day. The more you practice the easier meditation will become and the more beneficial it will be to your overall health.

The Basics

  1. Schedule 5 to 15 minutes of your day when you will not be distracted by others, phone calls, or other distracting noises. Think of meditation as a “daily vitamin” that you need to take for your health and let others in your household know you are going to meditate and cannot be bothered at this time. It is important for others in your household to appreciate and understand this time is important for you.
  2. Get comfortable. Either lay down or sit where your body feels relaxed. You do not need to be in the quintessential meditation poses if your body feels relaxed and comfortable then you are ready for meditation.
  3. Close your eyes and breathe! Breathe in deeply through your nostrils, filling your stomach with air, to the count of four. If able, hold for a count of four and then release your breath through your mouth to the count of 8. This may take some time to work up to. The idea of meditation is to clear your mind. Focusing on this breathing technique prevents any daydreaming and wandering of thought. Again, the more you practice meditation the more you can clear your mind easily and prevent your thoughts from wandering. Do not be frustrated with many different thoughts coming and going and the complete ability to stop them. This is natural. Just go back to focusing on your breathing and the repetition of the breathing technique
  4. Slowly open your eyes after your meditation has ended. It is also important to slowly move your body from the position you are in. Like waking from a deep night’s rest, let your body adjust back to the external stimulus.

Types of Meditation

Here are a few types of techniques and ways to meditate.

  1. Mindfulness Meditation

This relates to being present in your current situation. This type of meditation helps you feel grounded and secure in your current situation. Overthinking, worrying about the future, fears of the future, and appreciation of where we are and what we have is a focus of this meditation.

  1. Meditation for Anxiety

Imagery and guided meditation are very helpful for anxiety and stress. A trained instructor guides you in a calm voice on how to breathe and an imaginative situation to envision. Through their words and instruction, you can follow along and feel relaxed and at ease at the end of the meditation session.

  1. Meditation for Sleep

We are all aware of the physical and mental benefits of a good night’s sleep. Still, many of us can attest to needing more sleep and constantly not receiving enough. Personally, I have found that meditation, whereas I am waking 2-3 times throughout the night, is the best way to get back to sleep. I do this with Body Scan meditation techniques. First, I take 3-7 deep breaths using the breathing technique I mentioned above. Second, I start envisioning my feet and toes. Internally I tell my toes to relax. Sometimes I will clench and then relax. I then proceed with every body part I think of, moving slowly from my feet to my legs, from my torso to my neck, and so on. Each body part and area I tell to relax and envision these parts as being weightless. Chakra meditation puts these parts of the body into zones that you can also focus on through meditation. With the Body Scan technique, I am usually fast asleep by the time I reach my head.

By starting with 5 minutes a day and incorporating meditation into your daily schedule, you will be providing the many benefits stated above to not only yourself but the ones you love and care for as well. Meditation truly is a win-win!

Halloween Activities for Older Adults

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Halloween isn’t just for kids. It’s a great excuse for seniors to dress up, do some spooky crafts, and, of course, eat goodies. Here are five activities your senior loved ones can enjoy:

  1. Movie Nights.

What’s Halloween without a spooky movie? Here are some of our favorites that are fun for all ages:

  • Hocus Pocus: a light-hearted comedy about witches seeking revenge, featuring Bette Midler.
  • Casper: based on the comic book character, this movie is about a ghost who wants to make friends.
  • The Witches: a humorous movie about outsmarting an evil witch, played by Angelica Houston, and her plan to turn all children into mice.
  1. Spooky Photos

Photo props are great for creating fun memories. Pull together old clothes and accessories or create your props using craft sticks and paper. Use them at a Halloween family gathering and take lots of photos to cherish for years to come. 

  1. Halloween Snacks

There are a lot of other snacks to enjoy apart from the candy. For a senior-friendly take on candy apples, make or buy caramel apple dip and serve with sliced apples. Create a sweet and salty snack by mixing candy corn with either popcorn or peanuts. 

  1. Make a Mask

There is no need for a full costume when seniors can be just as festive in a simple mask. It’s easy to make your own with a plain masquerade mask and craft supplies like feathers, rhinestones, and glitter. Have your senior parent wear the mask on Halloween night to surprise their grandkids or unexpecting trick-or-treaters.

  1. Pumpkin Games

You can set up several games using pumpkins, like Pumpkin Knock Down game. Another pumpkin game could be guessing the pumpkin’s weight. Award the winners with great prizes.

  1. Halloween Trivia

You can educate people with fun facts about Halloween. This could be a movie trivia test or a general trivia but make the contest interesting and challenging.

Tell your guests the plot line of a famous horror movie. Keep in mind that the movie must be relevant to the senior generation. Using only hints from the plot, let the guests guess the name of the movie. Keep score of the correct answers.

  1. Attend a Costume Party

Choosing a Halloween costume can be fun and wearing it at a costume party can be even more exciting. Attending parties is also a great way for seniors to increase social interaction which benefits their health. It also provides a sense of belonging and increases self-esteem.

  1. Making Cards

Seniors can express their talent by making unique Halloween cards. This can help them connect with friends and family and keep them engaged.

  1. Prepare for Halloween Trick-or-Treaters

You’ll probably be handing out a lot of treats to children during their trick-or-treating sessions. It’s important to prepare for this beforehand. You can make pumpkin pouch goody bags, decorate your front door to look more welcoming, and perhaps make a mixed bag of candy, as well. Get creative!

  1. Enjoy the Fresh Air and Nature

Fall is a great time to enjoy nature. Breathe in the fresh air, admire the colors on display and go for a walk. You can do any of the following:

  • Crack open a window to enjoy the fresh air
  • Relax in the backyard
  • Go for a walk through the local park
  • Stroll in your neighborhood
  • Take your pet out for a walk

Making festive treats, engaging in games, hosting a party, or taking your grandkid trick-or-treating are just some more ideas about what an older person can do during Halloween. There’s no need to feel restricted by your age. Enjoy the occasion to the best of your ability by doing any of the above-mentioned activities.

Halloween is great for kids, but seniors can have some fun with it, too. 

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