Falls among older adults continue to be a national public health concern. Fall-related injuries are the most common reason for visits to the Emergency Department by adults 65 and older. Falls remain the leading cause of injury or death for older Americans.
It is Falls Prevention Awareness Week, a nationwide observance sponsored annually by the National Council on Aging in partnership with the Administration on Community Living. Their objectives are to raise awareness on preventing falls, reducing the risk of falls, and helping older adults live without fear of falling.
This year’s theme is From Awareness to Action. …
“Allow nature’s peace to flow into you as sunshine flows into trees.” ~John Muir
In the Pacific Northwest, we relish our weather and enjoy an abundance of accessible, free parks, green spaces, beaches, and vistas. Rain doesn’t stop us from enjoying nature and being outdoors. We know the value of good rain gear, as there’s no bad weather, just inappropriate clothing!
At Aging Wisdom, through our care management practice and creative engagement program, we understand the many benefits and the value of nature-based activities. The documented, evidence-based health benefits are abundant, especially for older adults. Planning outdoor activities and time to connect with nature with our clients is common.
Our work is rooted in helping others live well, care well, and age well. …
Biophilia*: The Benefits of Connecting with NatureRead More »
There are many advantages to having a housemate: Defraying expenses. Sharing household chores. Help with transportation. Companionship. Increased safety. Peace of mind. In a survey of older adults who shared their homes, 50% said that since gaining a housemate, they are happier, sleep better, are getting out more, and they call upon their families less for help. Homesharing is a viable option for aging in place. …
Being proactive by giving serious consideration to long-term care planning provides peace of mind and frees you to fulfill goals as you grow older. Why is this planning important? …
3 Questions You Should Ask about Long-Term Care PlanningRead More »
“I was greatly elated by the discovery that there is a physiologic basis for the ancient theory that laughter is good medicine,” wrote Norman Cousins. …
Unexpected health changes that require long-term care can occur at any age, though the likelihood increases with age. Someone turning age 65 today has a 70% chance of needing long-term care services and supports as they grow older, according to the U.S. Administration on Aging.
I’m sure you know someone who has assisted an aging parent navigate a health challenge. It was likely a stressful situation because their parents had not made plans for long-term care, refused help, and left their adult children to pick up the pieces during a crisis.
This scenario is all too common and why long-term care planning is essential, so your family is not burdened by your potential health, memory, or mobility changes.
Now is the perfect time to make sure you are well set for the future. Planning doesn’t have to be onerous; it will bring peace of mind and allow you to focus on what matters most.
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Once you’ve decided it’s unwise to give or lend money to adult children—or grandchildren—think through how you want to communicate your decision.
Money is often equated with love. Even if this is a loving decision (e.g., you’ve determined that giving or lending them money is encouraging something unhealthy), how and when you decline is important for the future of your relationship. …
Safety, emergency planning, and disaster preparedness are always in the forefront of our minds as Aging Life Care Professionals.
Summers in the Pacific Northwest have us alert to the possibility of wildfires. We are always cognizant of potential earthquakes. During rainy seasons, we consider the prospects of flooding and landslides. In coastal areas, tsunamis are also a consideration.
Then there are the day-to-day emergencies: a fall or stroke resulting in a hospitalization, a car accident, a house fire. …
“It’s always smart to have an emergency plan, spelling out what you would do and who you would turn to for help when that inevitable crisis happens,” says Herb ConsumerMan Weisbaum.
In his many years of consumer journalism, Herb has learned a thing or two about being proactive, making smart decisions, and being prepared ahead of an emergency. “This is especially important for older adults who are living alone, caring for a spouse or partner, or without family nearby.” …
How to prepare for a medical emergency in your homeRead More »
Weather alerts and advisories in other parts of the country should serve as a bellwether of what we can expect and should prepare for this summer. Higher than average temperatures have persisted in California, Oregon, and across the Southwest and Southeast. We’ve even experienced unusually hot days here in western Washington state.
Excessive heat and humidity can be dangerous for all of us. Older adults and individuals living with chronic health conditions are especially vulnerable and at a higher risk of developing heat-related illnesses. The effects of some medications can contribute to making it difficult to regulate body temperature or to sweat. …