I am obviously a big fan of older adults. Seems like almost every one I come across has a hidden gem to offer…be it an insight or a historical perspective. The article bellow is from the Smithsonian and shares with us that, though some mental skills to decline with age, many others are actually more developed. And, happiness and overall satisfaction goes up to! It is a short read and might get you seeking the advice of a senior as you navigate the landmines of life!
Valentine’s Day
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, I considered doing a post on what might be a good Valentine’s Day gift for an older friend. I thought of making a card…taking someone lunch and sharing the meal with them. An invitation to some activity. Then, inadvertently, I came across the video below of an elderly couple sharing their story. The husband’s commentary is so moving, it made any thought I had about the “holiday of love” seem relatively unimportant. It is worth a look…and if we take a thing or two away from the two-minute video, it will mean more than any gift or card. Happy Valentine’s day!
Home Safety Checklist for Seniors
Most things that can help an older adult be safe are so simple and can make such a huge difference to the person trying to be independent. Make sure regularly used things are easily reachable…get rid of throw rugs…make sure you change smoke detector batteries. To a capable person, this is a piece of cake…to a senior, little things can be problematic. I found the article below on Inside Elder Care. It is worth a read if you have a loved one in transition.
Seniors and Exercise
So often the loss of one’s independence can be postponed by a few simple actions by both the family and their loved one. I recently posted an article about assistive devices. Most people do not even know what is out there to make life safer and easier for those with strength and mobility issues. Simple things like bed rails and lift chairs can make a huge difference. And, many companies can even modify existing bath tubs to eliminate having to climb over the edge.
I am attaching a link to an article by OthoInfo that speaks to exercise and older adults. I frequently see clients that make significant progress towards increased independence simply by utilizing assistive devices and doing simple exercises. No matter how young or old a body gets, it needs to be on the move. Take time each day to tune the most important instrument of your life!
Transitions to Assisted Living
Many older adults end up, at some point, needing assistance beyond home care. It is a natural reaction for someone leaving the comforts and familiarity of home to be hesitant to make the change. The truth is, many seniors end up finding assisted living to be a rebirth of sorts. Suddenly, many of the challenges of living alone vanish…and they find their social life skyrocket. My aunt encountered just that. She was so resistant to the change…but once she took the leap, she commented that she was enjoying some of the best years of her life. She went form somewhat isolated to having a very active social calendar. Happy hours…game time…movies with friends. She seemed really happy. Plus, the place had a pool…making a visit by family terrific for kids!
Caring Companions is here to help if you need us…but don’t be discouraged if your loved one shows resistance to discussions about moving into assisted living. Listen and be patient. Help them ease the transition. For many it ends up being the best thing they have done in a long time! See the article below for more information.
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