At a time when seniors wish to remain independent – and in their own homes – for as long as possible, establishing a support system is essential. The act of caregiving often falls on relatives or close friends, but these caregivers are not always local and long-distance caregiving is on the rise. But how can…
DetailsIf you live an hour or more away from a parent or relative who relies on you for some form of care, you are considered a long-distance caregiver. Managing long-distance caregiving is no easy task. It is stressful and time-consuming and difficult to accomplish without additional help. Being far from your loved one when they…
DetailsGreen tea is well-known for helping induce a calm, alert mental state, but did you know it could also deliver cognitive support? Scientists believe this is due to the unique nutritional aspects of green tea, including high levels of the amino acid Theanine. This is great news for anyone who would like an extra boost to be…
DetailsMuch as in the general population, senior mental health is of equal importance to physical health. In fact, the two play off each other. In 1999, the U.S. surgeon general defined mental health as “the successful performance of mental function, resulting in productive activities, fulfilling relationships with other people, and providing the ability to adapt to change and…
DetailsWouldn’t you be confused if a near-stranger patted your head and called you “sweetie”, or if a nurse shouted instructions despite your excellent hearing? These behaviors are confusing and elicit irritation, but, for seniors, they are becoming more and more common. Ageism, elderspeak, and bias are an unfortunate reality for many seniors in long-term care.…
DetailsImagine if studies on the effects of eating dog food looked only at its effects on cats. While it sounds outrageous, that is the logic currently employed by many medical researchers studying treatments for a vast array of chronic illnesses. Chronic illnesses affect older people at a higher rate than younger people. At the same time,…
DetailsTaking care of ill or elderly relatives is a complicated and stressful situation. That stress is compounded in the case of long-distance caregiving. As more and more adult children care for their elderly parents, this issue is becoming more common. According to a survey conducted by the MetLife Mature Market Institute and the National Alliance…
DetailsAs we have discussed many times, seniors need exercise just as much as the younger generation. It’s so important that they find routines that meet their needs. Water-based activities are some of the best workouts seniors can experience. Aquatic activities for seniors are in high demand because they provide an excellent low-impact, low-risk exercise for seniors.…
DetailsYoga is the preferred form of movement for many people. Meditation might be a luxury for others. However, for the aging community, regular practice of these mindful activities should be taken more seriously. They provide quantifiable benefits for overall senior health. A gentle yoga class can help improve flexibility and circulation while simultaneously reducing heart…
DetailsSenior Exercise The aging process doesn’t mean you should give up on exercise. In reality, it is just as important to work toward fitness now, as it was in your teens. A study by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has found that too few people over 50 participate in regular physical activity. More than a quarter…
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