Fun After 50
Resources for Boomers
Interactive Blogs
Games and Trivia
Mind and Body Fitness
Resources for Boomers
Interactive Blogs
Games and Trivia
Mind and Body Fitness
Aging is Inevitable,
Enjoying Aging is Essential!
Aging is Inevitable,
Enjoying Aging is Essential!
Blog Posts
0 Common Signs That It May Be Time for Senior Assisted Living
Photo via Unsplash Common Signs That It May Be Time for Senior Assisted Living As your senior loved ones get older, you might have to consider moving them into assisted living. But how do you know when it's the right time? Often, there is no clear and definitive sign that a senior needs daily care, but you can keep an eye out for some common indicators and red flags. Certain behaviors, physical limitations, vision loss, and mental health conditions can signal that moving into assisted living would be beneficial. Recent Falls or Other Injuries Due to a variety of medical and age-related factors, household injuries are unfortunately common among seniors, especially those living alone. Injuries from falls can affect a senior's quality of life significantly, limiting their activities and socialization opportunities while increasing their risk of falling again. Full-time care in an assisted living facility can help your loved one avoid injury in the future. Your aging loved one might also be experiencing significant vision loss due to cataracts or macular degeneration. If you notice behavioral changes like grabbing onto furniture, increased falls, or squinting, or if you notice more bruises that could be from bumping into unseen objects, take your loved one to be checked by their eye care professional. Trouble Performing Daily Activities Is your loved one able to cook, clean, bathe, do laundry, maintain their home, and tackle other activities of daily living? Seniors who have trouble with these tasks may suffer rapid weight gain or loss, increased risk of infection, loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Keep an eye out for signs that your loved one may be struggling with their daily activities. An empty fridge, an unusually unkempt home, an overgrown yard, and new body odors may signal that your senior loved one could use some help with their daily living tasks. In some cases, a grocery delivery service (or picking up groceries yourself) can help your loved one. In other cases, such as dealing with cleaning around the house and backyard, you're better off hiring some assistance. Isolation and Loneliness If your senior loved one lives alone, they may be experiencing the negative effects of isolation. Sadly, loneliness can increase the rate of mental and physical decline in old age. Seniors often experience isolation when they lose their ability to drive or develop mobility difficulties, or when long-time friends move out of their neighborhood. Some signs that your loved one may be experiencing loneliness include sleeplessness, increased spending, loss of appetite, and a change in the frequency of phone calls. Fortunately, moving into an assisted living community will provide your loved one with numerous socialization opportunities so they can avoid the threat of isolation and loneliness. How to Talk About Assisted Living If you think assisted living is right for your loved one, it's time to talk about it. These can be very tough conversations to have. Assisted Living Today recommends broaching the subject when your loved one is feeling happy and relaxed and there are close friends and family around for support. Try not to push the subject if your loved one gets upset. You can always bring it up again at a later date. Think of your first conversation as a way to plant the seed and get the ball rolling on further discussions. Most importantly, don't tell your loved one that you made this decision for them already. You might have an easier time convincing a reluctant senior to consider assisted living if you approach your conversation as a negotiation and do some research and gather information before beginning your discussion. Look up assisted living communities in your area and find out what alternatives are available, such as adult day care services or accessibility solutions for aging in place. Be prepared to answer any questions or concerns your loved one might have about moving. These resources can help you kick off your research: 7 Benefits of Assisted Living How to Manage Your Expenses While in Assisted Living How to Make a Home Safe for Your Aging Parent Assisted living facilities provide assistance with all kinds of daily activities, from cooking to bathing, which can be an enormous help to seniors and their family caregivers. Still, it's very difficult to confront the idea that your loved one may need to move into assisted living. While it may be tempting to put this decision off, for now, you'll have a much easier time planning and discussing your options without pressing time constraints. Planning ahead will ensure you make the best possible decision! A special thank you to Lydia Chan at alzheimerscaregiver.net for contributing this article. If you enjoyed this article, or have a topic you would like to suggest for a new article, please leave a comment in the form below. Content Marketing Offers the Highest Return On Investment Online, or content marketing and advertising, is currently the second-highest method of promoting businesses following only Television which, for now, remains in the number one position. Experts have predicted that digital ads will surpass TV by 2025 and not look back. For cost-effectiveness, and the ability to directly target your audience, nothing matches the ROI of digital marketing. Learn More Digital Marketing Offers Three Opportunities To Reach Your Audience Studies show that the majority of people will use their phones to search for content that addresses their current needs and then switch to their computer for more in-depth research before making final decisions or purchases. With three different platforms, computers, tablets, and phones, it is important to make sure your audience can follow your content and ads on any device. The upside to this is you have three opportunities to reach them. All of our Websites are developed to work flawlessly on all three platforms. Learn More
0 Starting a Home-Based Business as a Senior: Strategies for Success
Image: Pexels There are nearly 32 million small businesses in the United States, about half of which are home-based. If you're a senior interested in launching a company, a home-based business is an excellent option. Along with providing flexibility, they don't typically require a lot of capital. Plus, working from home may be ideal for seniors with mobility issues. Considering that 20 percent of seniors have mobility challenges, that's a point you should not overlook. With the right preparation, seniors can launch incredibly successful home-based businesses. If you're thinking about becoming an entrepreneur, here's what you need to know. Take the Time to Sharpen Your Business Skills While it's tempting to jump right in and launch your company, it's usually best to spend some time sharpening your business skills if you didn't run a business before retirement. That way, you'l have a strong foundation, ensuring you can successfully navigate the steps involved. As a home-based business owner, you'll need to be ready for the financial responsibilities. Expense tracking, paying taxes, and invoicing aren't always easy to manage. Plus, you may need inventory management knowledge, resource planning expertise, and customer relationship management experience to ensure you thrive. If you need to sharpen your business skills, consider enrolling in an online MBA program. You'll expand your knowledge in key areas, including strategy, management, and more. Plus, you'll learn about leadership and self-assessment, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed. Keep Your Lifestyle in Mind As a senior, there's a good chance you don't want to spend 40+ hours per week focused on your home-based business. Instead, you probably prefer finding the right work-life balance, ensuring you can bring in some income while still enjoying your golden years. If that's the case, you'll want to pick a home-based business that won't take over your entire life. Precisely what that looks like may depend on your skillset and the kind of work you'd like to do. If you're not opposed to spending your working hours at a computer, multiple freelancing options could serve as starting points. For example, you could become a freelance consultant, offering your expertise from your previous career to other businesses. If you'd rather make something and are a bit crafty, you could sell your creations online. If you want to remain active, launching a dog walking service could be a wise move. Take your preferences and interests into account. That way, you can find an option that keeps you engaged, brings in a steady income, and provides you with the flexibility you need to thrive. Get Ready to Market Your Company Generally speaking, marketing will be an essential part of the equation. What you need to do may depend on the type of business you run. If you're planning on freelancing, you can market yourself on online job platforms. You can set up profiles outlining your services, upload samples to showcase your expertise, and set pricing. Launching a website is a wise move for any business. Couple that with SEO (Search Engine Optimization) best practices and you can generate interest and connect with customers. Similarly, marketing through social media is an effective strategy. Sign up on platforms that work best for your company type. In many cases, Facebook is a solid starting point. Beyond that, you may want to venture into Instagram if your offerings are highly visual, such as custom-made products. YouTube can also be worthwhile if you'd benefit from video marketing. By focusing on those areas first, you can get a solid foundation. Then, as your company grows, you can branch out if needed, ensuring you can secure the customers you need to succeed. If you're a senior not ready to retire full-time, starting a home business could be a terrific opportunity. Use the tips above to achieve your goals and become a successful entrepreneur. A special thank you to Dan Hall at dadschange.com for contributing this article. Content Marketing Offers the Highest Return On Investment Online, or content marketing and advertising, is currently the second-highest method of promoting businesses following only Television which, for now, remains in the number one position. Experts have predicted that digital ads will surpass TV by 2025 and not look back. For cost-effectiveness, and the ability to directly target your audience, nothing matches the ROI of digital marketing. Learn More Digital Marketing Offers Three Opportunities To Reach Your Audience Studies show that the majority of people will use their phones to search for content that addresses their current needs and then switch to their computers for more in-depth research before making final decisions or purchases. With three different platforms, computers, tablets, and phones, it is important to make sure your audience can follow your content and ads on any device. The upside to this is that you have three opportunities to reach them. All of our Websites are developed to work flawlessly on all three platforms. Learn More
0 Vitamins and Minerals: Are You Getting What You Need From Them?
Vitamins According to the Google Dictionary vitamins are defined as: 'Any of a group of organic compounds which are essential for normal growth and nutrition and are required in small quantities in the diet because they cannot be synthesized by the body.' North American: 'A pill containing a specified amount of a particular vitamin or vitamins, taken as a dietary supplement.' 'Most people can get all the vitamins they need from a healthy diet.' Minerals Google defines minerals as: 'A naturally occurring inorganic solid, with a definite chemical composition, and an ordered atomic arrangement not made by humans.' This explains what vitamins and minerals are, and that it is necessary to get them from outside sources because our bodies are not capable of making them internally for ourselves. What it doesn't cover is the controversy surrounding vitamins and minerals taken as dietary supplements. Since the early 20th-century man has been producing and selling vitamins and minerals in the form of an elixir or pill that can be easily taken at any time of the day or night. Lately, there has been some pushback as to the validity of vitamin supplements. One of the more recent articles comes from Yahoo and claims that a new report shows supplements as having no added health benefits: ~~~~~~~~~ Are vitamins a waste of money? A new study says yes - Yahoo Vitamins, supplements have no added health benefits, the study contends. A new report says taking supplements could be a waste of money and may even be harmful to your health. ... In fact, nearly 70 percent of people take supplements, according to the industry trade association, the Council for Responsible Nutrition. ~~~~~~~~~ Real or Placebo Manufactured supplements is a 35 billion dollar a year industry and a lot of people are making a fortune from selling them. The question is, if nearly 70 percent of people take them, can they all be that gullible? Some people buy them, take the entire contents of the bottle and swear they've felt no change and conclude that it was a waste of money. Others can take the same supplement and swear they feel much better and conclude that it has to have been the supplements. Can this really be the placebo effect and only the true believers feel a difference? There are many factors to consider when trying to answer this question. Was the supplement made by the same manufacturer, were the ingredients sourced from a natural organic process or created in a lab, how fresh were the contents of each bottle (had one been sitting on a store shelf for a long time), etc? These are all valid concerns that still don't answer the question; do vitamins really work or are they simply a placebo? The Need Is Real While the jury is still out on the question of whether supplements are effective or just a waste of money and resources, the fact that our bodies need vitamins and minerals is not in question. In the past our only source of getting the resources the body needed was through the foods we ate. Unfortunately with all the processed foods we consume today, that is no longer the case. Busy schedules, convenience, and price are all contributing factors to why we choose the foods we eat, but in the end, the result is vitamin deficiency. Finding the Right Source There are many ways of getting the nutrient-rich foods we need, but all too often they are out of reach for the average consumer. Most grocery stores offer an organic option but these options are usually priced beyond what many families can afford. On the extreme side, some have resorted to growing their own vegetables and raising livestock for their family. Some have even been successful enough to sell the excess but for most of us that is not practical, or possible, considering we don't all live on farms. So how do we get around this obstacle and still be able to get all the nutrients we need? Some say the government should subsidize the organic growers like they have other farmers, but how sustainable can that be long-term? Others think there should be price controls placed on the growers and they should be forced to sell their products at a price everyone can afford. Not only is that not fair, but how long do you think these growers could stay in business if they can't charge enough to cover their operating costs? Until man can come up with a food source that supplies all the nutrients we need, at a price everyone can afford, and tastes good; supplements may be our only option. Supplements Vs. Food The thing to remember here is that a supplement is not to be confused with a replacement. A supplement is defined as 'something that completes or enhances something else when added to it.' No one ever said you should replace the foods you eat with a pill, but using them to supplement a lack of nutrients is not a bad thing. Before you run out and grab any bottle of vitamins you see on the shelf, do your homework and find the right supplement for you. If, for example, you know you drink plenty of milk on a regular basis, you probably won't need to add vitamin D, A, B1, B12, calcium, magnesium, potassium, or zinc to your list of supplements. Consider the foods you consume regularly and the nutritional values they provide before you add a supplement to your diet. The following is a list of the most common vitamins and minerals, along with the foods you may already be eating that will provide most, if not all of them. ~~~~~~~~~ The following information was sourced from Med Line Plus. Page last updated: 12 January 2022. Vitamin A: Dark-colored fruits, Dark leafy vegetables, Egg yolk, Fortified milk and dairy products (cheese, yogurt, butter, and cream), Liver, beef, and fish. Vitamin D: Fish (fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, herring, and orange roughy), Fish liver oils (cod liver oil), Fortified cereals, Fortified milk and dairy products (cheese, yogurt, butter, and cream). Additional sources include: egg yolks, direct sunlight on our skin, canned light tuna, orange juice, and mushrooms produce vitamin D2 which helps raise blood levels of vitamin D. Vitamin E: Avocado, Dark green vegetables (spinach, broccoli, asparagus, and turnip greens), Margarine (made from safflower, corn, and sunflower oil), Oils (safflower, corn, and sunflower), Papaya and mango, Seeds and nuts, Wheat germ and wheat germ oil. Vitamin K: Cabbage, Cauliflower, Cereals, Dark green vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus), Dark leafy vegetables (spinach, kale, collards, and turnip greens), Fish, liver, beef, and eggs. WATER-SOLUBLE VITAMINS Biotin: Chocolate, Cereal, Egg yolk, Legumes, Milk, Nuts, Organ meats (liver, kidney), Pork, Yeast. Folate: Asparagus and broccoli, Beets, Brewer's yeast, Dried beans (cooked pinto, navy, kidney, and lima), Fortified cereals, Green, leafy vegetables (spinach and romaine lettuce), Lentils, Oranges and orange juice, Peanut butter, Wheat germ. Niacin (vitamin B3): Avocado, Eggs, Enriched breads and fortified cereals, Fish (tuna and salt-water fish), Lean meats, Legumes, Nuts, Potato, Poultry. Pantothenic acid: Avocado, Broccoli, kale, and other vegetables in the cabbage family, Eggs, Legumes and lentils, Milk, Mushroom, Organ meats, Poultry, White, and sweet potatoes, Whole-grain cereals. Thiamine (vitamin B1): Dried milk, Egg, Enriched bread and flour, Lean meats, Legumes (dried beans), Nuts and seeds, Organ meats, Peas, Whole grains. Pyridoxine (vitamin B6): Avocado, Banana, Legumes (dried beans), Meat, Nuts, Poultry, and Whole grains (milling and processing remove a lot of this vitamin). Vitamin B12: Meat, Eggs, Fortified foods such as soymilk, Milk and milk products, Organ meats (liver and kidney), Poultry, Shellfish. NOTE: Animal sources of vitamin B12 are absorbed much better by the body than plant sources. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Citrus fruits, Potatoes, Spinach, Strawberries, Tomatoes and tomato juice. FAT-SOLUBLE VITAMINS Vitamins A, D, E, and K, topping the list above, are vitamins that can build up in the body and if taken in excess, can be dangerous. Unlike water-soluble vitamins that the excess gets passed through the body in urine, these are vitamins that the body absorbs. It is important that you maintain the proper levels of these vitamins because too little can be almost as harmful as too much. Side Effects Many people think that if some is good, a lot is better. This is not always the case. High doses of certain vitamins can be toxic. Ask your healthcare provider what is best for you. Recommendations The Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for vitamins reflect how much of each vitamin most people should get each day. The RDA for vitamins may be used as a goal for each person. How much of each vitamin you need depends on your age and sex. Other factors, such as pregnancy and your health conditions, are also important. If you take supplements, do not take more than 100% of the RDA unless you are under a provider's supervision. There are many over-the-counter options that you can use to test your vitamin levels. Of course the best method of finding out what deficiencies you may have is through a blood test performed by your healthcare provider. Regardless of how you test be sure you don't exceed the RDA recommendations. The best way to get all the daily vitamins you need is to eat a balanced diet that contains a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, fortified dairy foods, legumes (dried beans), lentils, and whole grains. Dietary supplements are another way to get the vitamins you need if the food you eat is not supplying enough vitamins. Supplements can be helpful during pregnancy and for special medical problems but always consult your doctor before starting or stopping the use of supplements. The above information was sourced from Med Line Plus. Page last updated: 12 January 2022. ~~~~~~~~~ Vitamin and mineral supplements are manufactured by companies that are selling them because of the money they can make. Some companies maximize their profits by using cheap ingredients while others truly care about the quality of the contents of their products. Remember the old saying; 'you get what you pay for!' Not all products are created equal and you should do your own research to determine what is best for you, or if you even need them. Most of us will find some deficiency in our Vitamin and mineral intake and consider supplements as a way of correcting the problem. Make sure you find the right product for you by first knowing exactly which vitamins you are missing in your diet. Then find a company that cares enough to use only the best quality ingredients and don't worry about the price. After all, you're taking these because you care about your body and what you put in it, right? This is the only body you have and you can't get another one; doesn't it deserve the best? A special thank you to Rob Harris for contributing this article. Content Marketing Offers the Highest Return On Investment Online, or content marketing and advertising, is currently the second-highest method of promoting businesses following only Television which, for now, remains in the number one position. Experts have predicted that digital ads will surpass TV by 2025 and not look back. For cost-effectiveness, and the ability to directly target your audience, nothing matches the ROI of digital marketing. Learn More Digital Marketing Offers Three Opportunities To Reach Your Audience Studies show that the majority of people will use their phones to search for content that addresses their current needs and then switch to their computer for more in-depth research before making final decisions or purchases. With three different platforms, computers, tablets, and phones, it is important to make sure your audience can follow your content and ads on any device. The upside to this is you have three opportunities to reach them. All of our Websites are developed to work flawlessly on all three platforms. Learn More
0 Plan for Tomorrow to Enjoy Today: Tips for Seniors
Photo via Pixabay Plan for Tomorrow to Enjoy Today: Tips for Seniors If you're one of the 18 million seniors in the United States who need assistance with daily activities, it's likely you receive this help from friends and family. The vast majority of seniors who receive help reside in a community setting, either an assisted living or skilled nursing facility. But Medicare, although a valuable asset, doesn't even begin to cover the cost of long-term care. Independence For many, the idea of leaving home and submitting to the hands-on care of others isn't an option. If you're one of these people, there are ways to prolong your independence. This starts at home. There are many home improvements— mostly simple remodeling jobs— that can make aging in place a more viable option. For example, adding side-by-side appliances and touchless faucets can make cooking and cleaning the kitchen a possibility if you have arthritis. Additional accessibility modifications include widening doorways, adding easy-to-reach grab bars in the bathtub, ensuring stairways are covered with non-slip material are well-lit, and have rails on both sides. Aside from home modifications, volunteer and paid assistance can prolong your ability to live in your own home. You may need help with daily chores, medication administration, or hygiene. This isn't always enough, however. Assisted living When remaining alone is no longer feasible, assisted living is an option that has many benefits. There are usually assisted living centers located close to most metropolitan areas. These residences provide 24-hour supervision, healthy dining options, and enhanced privacy over having someone living in your home. Beating the costs We mentioned that Medicare was great for seniors, but it does not make provisions for long-term custodial care. Fortunately, there are a few ways to reduce your overall expenses and make assisted living or skilled nursing care more affordable. These include: Research - Don't assume that the lowest cost service provider/assisted-living facility is your best value. Working from home - There are several kinds of work you can do from home. This supplemental income can help offset other expenses. Ask for discounts or move-in incentives - The vast majority of facilities, especially those under a corporate umbrella have fixed rates. However, the centers may be able to waive move-in fees. Smaller, locally operated assisted living programs may be flexible, especially if they are new or have multiple vacancies. Invest in long-term care insurance - Long-term care insurance is a financial product available through many insurance providers. It helps cover the gap between Medicare, private insurance, and assisted living. Room share - Many assisted living facilities provide matching services that allow you to share a two-bedroom unit with another senior. This is often more cost-effective than living in a one-bedroom apartment or condominium on campus. This is not without its pros and cons, however, and is not a decision to be entered into lightly. Selling your home - If you're a homeowner, you can fund your long-term care by selling your house. Make sure you know the value of your home by getting an online home-value estimate. Paying for care In addition to long-term care insurance, AboutAssistedLiving.org notes that life insurance, VA benefits, a reverse mortgage, bridge loan, annuities, and selling real estate property are payment options that should be considered. Once personal assets have been exhausted, Medicaid may kick in to ensure you have a safe place to live out your golden years. The federal government spends more than $553 billion annually on Medicaid programs— more than 20 percent of this goes toward providing long-term care services. It's a cliché, but failing to plan really is the practice of planning to fail. And when it comes to your health and wellness needs, you can never begin planning soon enough. Do your research and know what options are available for your budget and personal needs. Not doing so may leave you scrambling to care for yourself in your hour of need. A special thank you to Dan Hall at dadschange.com for contributing this article. Content Marketing Offers the Highest Return On Investment Online, or content marketing and advertising, is currently the second-highest method of promoting businesses following only Television which, for now, remains in the number one position. Experts have predicted that digital ads will surpass TV by 2025 and not look back. For cost-effectiveness, and the ability to directly target your audience, nothing matches the ROI of digital marketing. Learn More Digital Marketing Offers Three Opportunities To Reach Your Audience Studies show that the majority of people will use their phones to search for content that addresses their current needs and then switch to their computer for more in-depth research before making final decisions or purchases. With three different platforms, computers, tablets, and phones, it is important to make sure your audience can follow your content and ads on any device. The upside to this is you have three opportunities to reach them. All of our Websites are developed to work flawlessly on all three platforms. Learn More
0 Planning Your Next Move: Tips for Seniors
Planning Your Next Move: Tips for Seniors There are many good reasons to move in your golden years. Perhaps you want to live in a retirement community that fits your lifestyle or a facility that provides the care you need. Or maybe you simply want to live in a smaller home that's easier to take care of. Whatever the future holds for you, it's important to research all your options carefully and make a stress-free plan for moving. Enjoying Aging shares some tips! Housing Options: What's Out There? As a senior, you have numerous choices for your next home. Senior apartments, assisted living facilities, residential care homes, and continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) are just a few of your options. There's also the option of buying a new single-family house or condo that's more suited to your current lifestyle. For example, many older adults find it works well to buy a home with less square footage. Looking through listings will give you a better idea of what's out there to choose from in your preferred location and price range. Buying a smaller home is a good idea for a variety of reasons. To start, a smaller home usually has a more affordable mortgage, which is great if you're trying to watch your spending. Also, when you look at homes with less square footage, you're more likely to find single-story options. These homes are generally safer to live in because you don't need to deal with stairs or other hazards. Because they're safer and easier to maintain, having a smaller home might mean it's possible to live independently in your home for a longer time. Not only does this let you maintain close connections with your community; but it may also ease any worries you have about viruses and other health hazards in communal living facilities. Selling Your Old Home Deciding what type of home you want next is just part of the process. You'll also need a plan for selling your old place. Before putting your home on the market, it's helpful to speak to your real estate agent about home prices for other properties in the area. Knowing this information will help you price your home competitively. Browsing other home listings can also provide insight into the ways people are staging and presenting their homes these days. Deep cleaning is a must no matter what, but looking at listing photos can also provide ideas for arranging your furniture differently and other ways to showcase your space. Planning Your Move No matter what type of home you move to next, you'll want to spend some time downsizing your possessions to make the process easier on yourself. Decluttering before your move means that you have less stuff to pack up. By getting rid of a few items, you'll also feel less cramped in your new home. Even if you've pared down your items, packing is still a difficult task to do on your own. That's why you might want to hire a professional moving company. The cost of moving depends on factors such as the weight of your items and how far you're moving. However, the day of the week that you move can affect the price as well. Visit sites like Angi to research moving companies and learn about ratings. Finding a new home as a senior can be exciting, overwhelming, or a mix of both. By considering your health needs and lifestyle, it's easier to narrow down your options. Whether you buy a new, smaller home or transition into a senior community, be sure to research the best ways to get a good price for your old home. And when moving day comes along, you'll thank yourself for spending a little extra on a professional moving service. A special thank you to Dan Hall at dadschange.com for contributing this article. Content Marketing Offers the Highest Return On Investment Online, or content marketing and advertising, is currently the second-highest method of promoting businesses following only Television which, for now, remains in the number one position. Experts have predicted that digital ads will surpass TV by 2025 and not look back. For cost-effectiveness, and the ability to directly target your audience, nothing matches the ROI of digital marketing. Learn More Digital Marketing Offers Three Opportunities To Reach Your Audience Studies show that the majority of people will use their phones to search for content that addresses their current needs and then switch to their computer for more in-depth research before making final decisions or purchases. With three different platforms, computers, tablets, and phones, it is important to make sure your audience can follow your content and ads on any device. The upside to this is you have three opportunities to reach them. All of our Websites are developed to work flawlessly on all three platforms. Learn More
0 Easy Lifestyle Tips That Help Seniors Thrive
Easy Lifestyle Tips That Help Seniors Thrive Getting older today is easier in many ways than it was in the past. Not only has healthcare improved vastly, but modern medicine has also given us a greater understanding of what we can do to counteract aging, prevent disease, and promote good health in our later years. These guidelines, courtesy of Enjoying Aging, cover scientifically proven steps that anyone can take to improve their performance, both physically and mentally. Maintain a Social Life A healthy social life staves off feelings of isolation and loneliness, which can contribute to serious mental health issues such as depression. Research from the National Institute on Aging has further shown that socially active individuals display lower levels of a protein known as Interleukin-6. This inflammatory agent is linked to a raft of age-related ailments, including Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Keep in touch with friends and family, whether it’s simply a matter of enjoying a cup of tea together or going for a walk. Take the time to video chat with those who live far away. Finally, if you find your own social network is insufficient, look to make new connections. Create a book club, join a community gardening initiative, or try volunteering locally. Additionally, studies show that volunteering may reduce stress. Make Exercise Fun As the body ages, strength, flexibility, and balance all naturally decrease. Maintaining a physically active lifestyle helps combat this decline. So, look for senior-friendly exercises that challenge you but are still safe. For instance, if you have weak knees due to arthritis, steer clear of high-impact exercises that stress joints like running. Instead, opt for senior-friendly activities like swimming, cycling, tai chi, or yoga. Group exercise courses are another wonderful option to promote healthy aging. Working out alongside other individuals will keep you motivated and can make breaking a sweat more fun. This also provides valuable social interaction, as discussed above, and can serve as yet another way to meet new people and expand your network. Adopt a healthy diet Your body needs food to fuel its day-to-day functioning — and not just any food. An appropriate balance of vitamins and minerals according to the recommended daily allowance is ideal. Unfortunately, the vast majority of Americans — 92 percent according to The Biostation — have a deficient dietary intake of key nutrients like vitamins A, D, C, and E. As such, seniors should incorporate vitamin-rich foods into their diets, including foods high in fiber, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids. If you still struggle to get the appropriate balance of vitamins and minerals in your diet, talk to your doctor about incorporating a nutrition-rich beverage into your daily routine. Your physician can run a simple blood test to see what nutrients are lacking. They can then make recommendations for an appropriate solution that will meet your needs. Stimulate your mind The concept of "if you don't use it, you lose it" doesn't just apply to your body. It's also applicable to your mind. Scientists believe that staying mentally active allows the mind to resist damage that may come with age, as Psychology Today explains. Continuing education programs for seniors have proven effective in slowing mental decline, for example. And if you did decide to take classes, signing up for and completing coursework has never been easier thanks to online offerings like the master’s degree programs from Phoenix University, through which more than 6,000 master’s degrees were awarded in 2019. You don't have to go back to school to keep your mind fit, however. Try crosswords, Sudoku, or puzzles. There are even brain-training apps you can download, like BrainHQ and CogniFit. The above tips can be adopted at any point in your life to encourage healthy aging for the future. The goal isn’t just to stay fit in mind and body but also to enjoy the actual process. When you’re having fun, you will start to feel more vibrant. In this way, you can truly make the most of your golden years. Photo Credit: Unsplash.com A special thank you to Dan Hall at dadschange.com for contributing this article. Content Marketing Offers the Highest Return On Investment Online, or content marketing and advertising, is currently the second-highest method of promoting businesses following only Television which, for now, remains in the number one position. Experts have predicted that digital ads will surpass TV by 2025 and not look back. For cost-effectiveness, and the ability to directly target your audience, nothing matches the ROI of digital marketing. Learn More Digital Marketing Offers Three Opportunities To Reach Your Audience Studies show that the majority of people will use their phones to search for content that addresses their current needs and then switch to their computer for more in-depth research before making final decisions or purchases. With three different platforms, computers, tablets, and phones, it is important to make sure your audience can follow your content and ads on any device. The upside to this is you have three opportunities to reach them. All of our Websites are developed to work flawlessly on all three platforms. Learn More
Medication Management Our aging population is the largest consumer of prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and vitamin and supplements in the US and a large percentage take more than one prescribed drug. It is no wonder then that they are more likely to get them mixed up and not manage them properly. A study performed by Uptodate.com, an evidence-based information resource for medical professionals, shows that 87% of seniors take one prescription drug, 36% take 5 or more, and 38% use over-the-counter medications. According to The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), medication mismanagement is one of the leading causes for older adults to be placed in a nursing home. They also state that around 30 percent of hospital admissions for older adults are drug-related and some 11 percent are due to nonadherence to medication instructions. In addition, 10–17 percent is caused by adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and this is not the worst of it. Older adults that are taking more than five drugs when released from the hospital are more likely to return to the emergency room and then be readmitted within six months of being discharged. When asked, most older adults confessed that their number one desire was to stay in their homes for as long as possible. Correctly administering your medications is an essential step to maintaining your health and wellbeing, but more importantly, it is a necessary part of staying independent. Following a few simple procedures is the key to keeping up with your medications and making sure you don’t fall into some bad habits. Below are some suggestions to help you manage your medications. Make a list of all medications you are taking and keep them in one location, preferably in a cool dry place, with the exception being drugs that might need refrigeration (your doctor should be able to provide this list for you but double-check it for accuracy). Organize them based on how often they are taken, if they are regular every day or taken as needed, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter, vitamin and supplements, etc. KEEP ALL DRUGS SAFELY STORED WHERE CHILDREN CANNOT REACH THEM! Use a pill organizer that allows for at least a week at a time and separates them from morning and evening doses. If you are required to take them more than twice a day find an organizer with more compartments so you can divide them based on hours each day rather than days. Find an alarm system that alerts you when it is time to take your medications. It can be a simple old-fashioned alarm clock, or if you are comfortable with modern technology, find a source that offers multiple alarms throughout the day. In most cases, your smartphone will work for this or a home monitor system like Alexa can be programmed to notify you when it is time to take your medications. The key is taking them at regular times each day no matter what you may be doing. The nurse at the hospital wakes you up to take your medications at designated times throughout the day and you should do the same, regardless of how ridiculous you may think that is. If your medication says to take it twice a day that means morning and evening, not two together at the same time. Some medications can be harmful or even fatal if taken too close together so make sure you take them at the proper times throughout the day. Your medications are designed to improve your health but that only works if you take them correctly. Most pharmacies will remind you of upcoming renewals on your medications but don’t take that for granted. Check and make sure there is a system in place to keep your medications current and ordered in time to replace any that may be running low. Adverse Drug Reactions or ADRs can be very serious and you should double-check with your pharmacist to make sure that what you are taking is compatible with other drugs. This includes all pills and liquid prescriptions along with any over-the-counter medications you are taking, but don’t forget to include all vitamins and supplements as well. These can be dangerous if taken with certain medications and you should make sure your doctors know if you are planning to include them in your daily regimen. If you decide to investigate your medications for ADRs yourself using an online resource and find a discrepancy do not make any changes without asking your doctor first. One of the biggest problems associated with medication management is remembering when to take them. If you are getting forgetful or losing track of day or night (some people who don’t leave their house for long periods of time may get confused and not know if it is day time or night time) it is probably time to consider getting help with managing your medications. Another concern with some older adults is denial. It is more common than you may think but many older adults don’t want to admit that they may not be thinking as clearly as they once did. Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson or general old age doesn’t hit like a thief in the night. This is a slow process that gradually takes root over extended periods of time and most don’t realize it or want to admit it, so they live in denial. This form of denial is the most dangerous because it can lead to very serious consequences. It is not just the danger, and possible death, from mismanaging medications, but what about operating dangerous tools or driving a motor vehicle? If you or someone you know has had success convincing an older relative or friend, that was previously living in denial, that it is time to allow someone to help we would love to hear how you were able to manage it. Please leave us a comment in the form below and share your method with us so we can share this with others. Thank you. Content Marketing Offers the Highest Return On Investment Online, or content marketing and advertising, is currently the second-highest method of promoting businesses following only Television which, for now, remains in the number one position. Experts have predicted that digital ads will surpass TV by 2025 and not look back. For cost-effectiveness, and the ability to directly target your audience, nothing matches the ROI of digital marketing. Learn More Digital Marketing Offers Three Opportunities To Reach Your Audience Studies show that the majority of people will use their phones to search for content that addresses their current needs and then switch to their computer for more in-depth research before making final decisions or purchases. With three different platforms, computers, tablets, and phones, it is important to make sure your audience can follow your content and ads on any device. The upside to this is you have three opportunities to reach them. All of our Websites are developed to work flawlessly on all three platforms. Learn More
0 Staying Active In Retirement
Staying Active In Retirement Staying active involves more than physical activity. Keeping up with hobbies and activities you enjoy will help you stay mentally sharp. Some retirees even opt to start a business, often converting a hobby or skill set into a money-making venture! We've heard it too, 'it takes money to make money' and in many cases that's true. However, you may find that you already have most of what you need lying around the house. If it has been a hobby of yours for many years you may have accumulated everything necessary to get started. Generally, the expense of getting your business, or corporate documents, is not that high, or that difficult. If you decide to go this route, consider starting with the formation of a limited liability company or LLC. This designation protects you from some forms of liability, makes tax time easier, and gives you a professional image. You can hire a costly attorney to do the paperwork, do the legwork yourself, or utilize a formation company or tax accountant to handle the details. A good accountant can advise you on the type of corporation you should consider but LLCs are usually the best option for a small business. LLC formation regulations vary from state to state, so check that out before proceeding. More and more healthy retirees are fully enjoying their second and third acts of life by having fun, staying healthy, and embracing life to its fullest. Join their ranks now by starting a new business out of your favorite hobby. Remember, if it's fun, it's not work! Why wait any longer; your opportunities are endless and no one is stopping you but yourself. A special thank you to Mary Shannon at seniorsmeet.org for contributing to this article. Content Marketing Offers the Highest Return On Investment Online, or content marketing and advertising, is currently the second-highest method of promoting businesses following only Television which, for now, remains in the number one position. Experts have predicted that digital ads will surpass TV by 2025 and not look back. For cost-effectiveness, and the ability to directly target your audience, nothing matches the ROI of digital marketing. Learn More Digital Marketing Offers Three Opportunities To Reach Your Audience Studies show that the majority of people will use their phones to search for content that addresses their current needs and then switch to their computer for more in-depth research before making final decisions or purchases. With three different platforms, computers, tablets, and phones, it is important to make sure your audience can follow your content and ads on any device. The upside to this is you have three opportunities to reach them. All of our Websites are developed to work flawlessly on all three platforms. Learn More
Sleep Disorders We’ve all heard how getting a good night’s rest can make a world of difference in the way you think and feel. Generally, you know which category you fall into, restful or restless sleep, but whether you are aware of it or not the people around you are usually very aware of it. Family, friends, co-workers, pretty much everyone you come in contact with will know if you are getting enough sleep by the way you interact with them. Are you experiencing problems with your relationships? It very well could be sleep-related. Sleep Studies, also known as Polysomnography have become big business over the last few decades with many breakthroughs in diagnosis and cures. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHBLI) have provided an overview with some valuable information that can help you determine whether you should seek professional care. Sleep studies are painless, noninvasive tests that measure how well you sleep and how your body responds to sleep problems. (NIH) Sleep Studies have been known to diagnose a plethora of problems including: Sleep-related breathing disorders such as sleep apnea Sleep-related seizure disorders Sleep disorders that cause extreme daytime tiredness such as narcolepsy Sleep-related movement disorders Doctors are also able to use sleep studies to diagnose or rule out restless legs syndrome, PTSD, and even Parkinson’s disease. If left untreated, sleep disorders can increase your chances of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, depression and may lead to a higher risk for stroke or heart failure. Studies have also proven that Sleeplessness is a leading cause of auto accidents and personal injuries both at work and around the house. Sleep Studies are conducted either in a controlled environment at a sleep clinic or your doctor may determine that an in-home study with portable equipment will be sufficient. Regardless of what your study reveals you can ‘rest assured’ that you, your family, your friends, co-workers, and everyone you know will benefit from the results. A special thank you to Mary Shannon at seniorsmeet.org for contributing to this article. Content Marketing Offers the Highest Return On Investment Online, or content marketing and advertising, is currently the second-highest method of promoting businesses following only Television which, for now, remains in the number one position. Experts have predicted that digital ads will surpass TV by 2025 and not look back. For cost-effectiveness, and the ability to directly target your audience, nothing matches the ROI of digital marketing. Learn More Digital Marketing Offers Three Opportunities To Reach Your Audience Studies show that the majority of people will use their phones to search for content that addresses their current needs and then switch to their computer for more in-depth research before making final decisions or purchases. With three different platforms, computers, tablets, and phones, it is important to make sure your audience can follow your content and ads on any device. The upside to this is you have three opportunities to reach them. All of our Websites are developed to work flawlessly on all three platforms. Learn More
Mind Your Mental Health According to Psychology Today, anxiety and depression can manifest more prominently as we age, and if you're feeling unusually down or blue or worrying more than usual, ask for a consultation with a mental health care professional. There's no longer a stigma around seeking mental health treatment, and it is, in fact, a healthy way to ensure you're living your best life. You may be treated with medication, talk therapy, or even directed to take a more holistic approach by practicing meditation or other relaxation techniques. You may even just need some extra short-term TLC to get you through a rough patch. Being able to talk about your emotional and mental state will help you better identify the heart of the issue and be more proactive in addressing it. The older we get there is a greater chance of developing more serious conditions like Alzheimer's, Dementia, Parkinson's, etc., and the only way to know for sure is through tests. While anxiety and depression can have similar symptoms, only a mental health physician can tell if you are in the beginning stages of one of these diseases. They can also help you with getting your anxiety or depression under control and help you find the best remedies for either of these conditions. Knowing the symptoms is part of the cure and while this article is in no way considered an attempt to diagnose or offer a cure for any medical condition, seeing any of these signs is an indication that you should seek professional help. Signs of Anxiety Excessive and intrusive worrying that disrupts daily functioning, agitation, restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, tense muscles, and trouble sleeping. Signs of Depression Little interest or pleasure in doing things, feeling down, depressed, or hopeless, trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much, feeling tired or having little energy, poor appetite or overeating, feeling bad about yourself or that you are a failure or have let yourself or your family down, trouble concentrating on things, such as reading the newspaper or watching television. There is hope for those suffering from one of these debilitating diseases and a possible cure could be as simple as taking a pill once a day. Regardless of your diagnosis and treatment, the only way to know for certain is to visit a mental health care professional and see what test they recommend. It will be beneficial to you to take control of your mental health, but the true beneficiaries will be those around you. They show you how much they care by staying with you through these times; show them how much you care about them by seeking treatment. A special thank you to Mary Shannon at seniorsmeet.org for contributing to this article. Content Marketing Offers the Highest Return On Investment Online, or content marketing and advertising, is currently the second-highest method of promoting businesses following only Television which, for now, remains in the number one position. Experts have predicted that digital ads will surpass TV by 2025 and not look back. For cost-effectiveness, and the ability to directly target your audience, nothing matches the ROI of digital marketing. Learn More Digital Marketing Offers Three Opportunities To Reach Your Audience Studies show that the majority of people will use their phones to search for content that addresses their current needs and then switch to their computer for more in-depth research before making final decisions or purchases. With three different platforms, computers, tablets, and phones, it is important to make sure your audience can follow your content and ads on any device. The upside to this is you have three opportunities to reach them. All of our Websites are developed to work flawlessly on all three platforms. Learn More
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