Author: Aging Wisdom
The holidays are the perfect opportunity to choose gifts that bring comfort, delight, and joy to the older adults in your life. When selecting gifts, consider the interests, lifestyle, and any physical or cognitive changes the person you care about is experiencing.
Some appreciate practical gifts, while others may enjoy a more personal or experiential gift. If the recipient has specific needs, preferences, or health issues, choose gifts that accommodate those factors. For individuals with limited dexterity, I’ve made suggestions below that are easy to operate or use.
Here’s our gift guide to help you select something meaningful that is sure to bring joy and enhance their quality of life: …
Holiday gift guide for the older adults in your lifeRead More »
What is your role at Aging Wisdom?
What made you want to work in the field of aging? …
Multigenerational housing is a growing trend in the United States and perhaps something you’re considering. On the plus side, there’s increased time for bonding and for caring for elders or children as needed, as well as improved finances from sharing expenses. And there is peace of mind knowing you are surrounded by family. …
People over age 65 exhibit a vast range of abilities both mental and physical. Unfortunately, ageism (the negative stereotyping of older adults) links advancing years with decline in a manner that disregards individual capability. From degrading birthday cards to discrimination in the workplace, 82% of older adults report experiencing ageism in their everyday life.
Most insidious is internalized ageism, when we look down on ourselves, often without realizing it. Blaming age when we can’t remember a word (“a senior moment”). Feeling flattered when we’re told “You don’t look [your age]!” Not considering an interesting activity at the senior center because we “don’t want to be around all those old people.”
It turns out such negative age beliefs can significantly reduce life expectancy. Multiple studies across many years and many cultures have shown that people with negative beliefs about aging die as many as seven and a half years earlier than those with positive age beliefs. (The studies accounted for the influences of income, education, and health status.) …
As we transition from summer to fall, the seasonal change serves as a good reminder to brush up on Fall Prevention. Preventing and reducing the risk of falls, and helping older adults live without fear of falling is essential.
Falls remain the leading cause of injury and death for people age 65+. Implementing fall prevention steps can go a long way to improve safety and support independence.
Fortunately, most falls can be prevented. Understanding the common factors that cause or contribute to falls is a good place to start: …
Deciding how to divide assets among one’s children is often challenging. The challenges only multiply in a step- or blended family situation. Today, about one-quarter of all marriages include stepchildren. Among remarried couples, almost two-thirds involve children from a previous relationship.
Blended families can look like any other family, but the dynamics are very different, emotionally and legally. …
Are you reflecting on life and its lessons? With so many options for self-publishing, writing a memoir may appeal. The process generates a new perspective on the meaning of one’s life. The end result lets future generations learn about you and their forebears. Find writing kits and courses online, such as Writers.com.
One thought to consider: Creating a chronological review can be unwieldy. It suggests you’ll present things with accuracy. Besides, recounting dates, locations, and events is just not fun or inspirational! Plus, you may have concerns about offending someone in the way you tell your stories. That can leach the joy out of the project. …
Some physical, emotional, and cognitive changes are likely as we grow older. When these changes interfere with safety, self-care, and personal well-being, it may indicate a need for assistance.
Here are six common signs that reveal an older adult may need help: …
Signs an Older Person You Care About May Need HelpRead More »
A “screening” is a general test to look for signs of a problem. Because early detection makes a huge difference in your ability to recover from any disease or condition, Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans use screening tests for many health issues. Often these tests are 100% covered—no copayments. But you must fit eligibility criteria. The criteria usually involve age, symptoms, and/or a family history that puts you at risk. …
Do you feel defensive when your kids visit? Notice them exchanging knowing glances when you don’t recall a date or name?
Perhaps you feel reluctant to approach them when you do have concerns, because they overreact. So you keep your distance. That isn’t good, either.
It’s a fine line between feeling that your adult children love you and want to protect you, and feeling smothered or even invalidated by them in terms of your competence and self-sufficiency.
Noted geriatrician and author Atul Gawande, MD, observes that while adult children worry most about safety, older adults worry about autonomy and independence. Put another way: Adult children think in terms of “caring for.” Older adults prefer to be “cared about.”
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