For many reasons, ranging from mobility challenges to a lack of transportation, seniors are at increased risk for becoming isolated. While the mental health challenges this can present are obvious, isolation is also linked to a variety of physical conditions. So much so that medical professionals classify isolation as a health risk for seniors.

Health Risks Linked to Isolation Among Seniors

Depression is common among older adults, especially those who live alone. Other health conditions linked to isolation among seniors include:

Isolated elders are even more likely to have shorter life spans than peers who are actively engaged with their families and communities.

If you are a senior who lives or spends a lot of time alone, we have a few suggestions for avoiding isolation. Here’s what you can do to stay connected as you grow older, from volunteering for a charitable organization to exploring local transportation services.

5 Tips for Staying Connected After Retiring

One leading reason older adults become isolated is a lack of transportation. If you’ve given up or cut back on driving, you might find yourself spending a lot of time at home alone. Fortunately, most local communities have transportation options available. Call your local agency on aging to request a list of transportation providers. You may find that they have funding available to help pay for transportation if you meet certain financial qualifications.

One of the best ways to stay engaged in your community is to volunteer. You can help a great nonprofit while also giving your mind and spirit a boost. Use this database to locate and call your local United Way. They may be able to connect you with a cause you believe in. You can also try online sites such as VolunteerMatch or Points of Light.

Most cities and towns have senior groups and organizations that older adults can join. Take a little time to research where those are and which ones you might be interested in joining. It could be a senior center, a group at your church or synagogue, or even a special program. These can be a great way to meet new people and connect with peers. Most centers offer a range of activities, such as chair yoga, art classes, euchre tournaments, movie nights, and more. Some even offer transportation for members.

Staying in touch with friends and family by video chat is the next best thing to being there in person. Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime are free and easy ways for doing so. Download the app to your smartphone or tablet so you can enjoy near face-to-face conversations from your favorite chair.

One final suggestion that might give you peace of mind when you live or travel alone is to purchase an emergency call system. In the event of an emergency, a mobile monitoring unit allows you to call for help from wherever you are. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more today!

Isolation is linked to a variety of health conditions in older adults. These tips can help keep you from becoming isolated during retirement.

Growing herbs and vegetables in containers is an easy way to enjoy your favorite fresh foods all summer long. It allows you to make the most of limited space, whether you’re in an apartment or just want to maximize your outdoor area. Having your own edible garden can also be friendlier on the budget.

Container gardening is generally safer for people with disabilities or seniors who might struggle with mobility. Growing produce in containers also offers flexibility and portability. You can move your little gardens around to make the most of the sunshine and to be near water spigots.

Here’s a quick guide to help you get started this summer.

It all starts with selecting the right containers. When it comes to vegetables and herbs, size does matter. Bigger containers hold more soil, which means more nutrients and better water retention. For most vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, or lettuce, it’s best to choose containers that are at least 12 to 18 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep. Herbs like basil, thyme, and mint will thrive in smaller pots but still need a reasonable amount of space to allow for root growth.

Plastic, clay, and fabric pots are all great options. Plastic pots are lightweight and retain moisture well, while clay pots are more aesthetically pleasing but tend to dry out faster. Fabric pots (or grow bags) are breathable, which encourages better root health, but they may require more frequent watering. Be sure to choose containers with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

The next step is to research which plants are the best choices for the space you have available. Some vegetables and herbs do better in containers than others, so it’s essential to consider their growing needs. Here are some herbs and vegetables that thrive in containers:

Herbs: Basil, rosemary, thyme, parsley, chives, cilantro, and mint are all ideal candidates for container gardening. Mint can be invasive, so it’s best to keep it in its own container to prevent it from overtaking other plants.

Vegetables: Leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, and arugula do well in containers because they don’t need deep soil. Tomatoes, peppers, and beans can also be successfully grown in containers, provided they have enough space and support.

Root Vegetables: Carrots, radishes, and small potatoes can be grown in deeper containers. Ensure your container is at least 12 inches deep to allow the roots to grow comfortably.

For healthy, thriving plants, using the right soil is crucial. Opt for a high-quality potting mix designed for containers, as it will provide the right balance of drainage, aeration, and moisture retention. Avoid using garden soil, which can compact in containers and hinder root growth.

Since plants in containers have limited access to nutrients, they will need regular feeding. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or liquid feed every two weeks throughout the growing season. Over-fertilizing can harm plants, so always follow package directions. These tips from the experts at the Old Farmer’s Almanac can help you learn more.

Watering is one of the most important aspects of container gardening. Because containers dry out faster than in-ground beds, you’ll need to monitor your plants closely. Most herbs and vegetables need consistent moisture, but they don’t like to sit in water. Water thoroughly, ensuring the excess drains out of the bottom of the container. On hot summer days, you may need to water daily.

Check plants regularly for pests and diseases. Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies are common pests in container gardens. If you spot any, promptly treat the plants with an organic pesticide or wash them off with a strong jet of water.

Most herbs and vegetables require at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. Ensure your containers are placed in a sunny spot, such as a south- or west-facing patio or balcony. If you’re growing leafy greens or herbs like mint, some afternoon shade can keep them from wilting under the midday heat.

Working in the garden is a great activity for your physical and mental health. But it does pose some risks, especially for older adults, ranging from falls to heat-related illnesses. To give yourself greater peace of mind, invest in an emergency call device. The Life Protect 24/7 mobile unit can connect you to help with the press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 today to learn more!

Container gardening is a great activity for people of any age, but especially for seniors. Use these tips to help you start a vegetable or herb garden this summer.

Tips for Growing Herbs and Vegetables in Containers

When a loved one is a patient in a hospital or skilled nursing center or a resident of an assisted living community, advocating for their care is important. But these settings can be complex and intimidating. Navigating your way through all the decisions you need to make, from medical treatments to daily care and overall well-being, can feel overwhelming.

As a family member or caregiver, your involvement can ensure that your loved one receives the highest quality care and their needs are addressed effectively. Here are a few ways you can advocate for your loved one in these settings.

Understand Your Loved One’s Health Condition

The first step is to gain a solid understanding of your loved one’s situation. Whether they are in a hospital, a rehab center, or an assisted living community, it’s essential to know their diagnosis, care plan, and any specific medical needs. This knowledge will enable you to ask informed questions and confirm providers are addressing the correct issues.

Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask doctors, nurses, therapists, and other team members about your loved one’s condition, treatment options, and any changes in their health.

Keep track of symptoms: Document any changes in your loved one’s symptoms or behaviors. This information can be helpful when speaking with healthcare providers.

Clear communication is key when advocating for your loved one’s care. Whether you’re speaking with doctors, nurses, or other staff members, it’s important to express concerns, share observations, and ask for clarification when needed. Here are a few tips for communicating effectively:

Get organized: Write down questions, concerns, and important information before speaking with healthcare professionals. This helps ensure that nothing is overlooked during the conversation.

Request regular updates: Ask for regular updates on your loved one’s progress, treatment plan, and any changes in their care. It’s your right to stay informed about and involved in their treatment.

Be assertive, not aggressive: While advocating for your loved one, remain respectful yet assertive. If you disagree with a plan of care, state your concerns calmly and ask for alternatives.

Remain involved: One of the most important ways to advocate for your loved one is to be present. Visit them regularly and stay involved in their care as much as possible. Your presence can guarantee that they receive timely attention and their needs are met.

Every individual in a healthcare setting has rights, whether they are in a hospital, a rehabilitation center, or an assisted living community. Familiarize yourself with these rights to make certain that your loved one’s dignity and preferences are respected.

Patient rights: In a hospital or skilled rehab center, patients have the right to be informed about their care, to give consent for treatments, and to be involved in decision-making. They also have a right to be involved in developing their plan of care.

Resident rights: In assisted living communities, residents have rights to privacy, to make their own choices about daily activities, and to be free from abuse or neglect.

Advocating for your loved one means defending their rights at all times.

Work With a Care Coordinator or Social Worker

Many healthcare settings have care coordinators, social workers, or patient advocates who can assist in navigating the system. These professionals are often a valuable resource for helping you understand the care process and ensuring that your loved one’s needs are met.

Utilize their expertise: Social workers and care coordinators can assist with coordinating services, advocating for care plans, and even helping with insurance or financial concerns.

Request help when needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out to these professionals if you feel your loved one’s needs are not being addressed.

Speak Up for Your Loved One’s Mental Health

Finally, don’t forget to look beyond your family member’s physical well-being. Advocacy isn’t just about medical care; it’s also about looking out for your loved one’s emotional and mental well-being. Being seriously ill or experiencing a decline in health can be tough. If your loved one seems isolated, anxious, or depressed, talk with their care team about solutions.

If you want to read more about supporting an aging family member’s health and wellness, How to Support a Senior’s Needs Without Taking Over may be of interest. It’s a great resource with tips on everything from encouraging your loved one’s independence to respecting their space.

Are you a caregiver for, or a family member of, a patient or resident at a healthcare facility? These tips can help you advocate for them.

How to Advocate for a Loved One in a Healthcare Setting

Being a caregiver for a loved one offers many rewards, as well as many challenges. Whether you’re caring for a spouse, parent, or friend, handling all the responsibilities alone can often feel overwhelming. This is especially true if you are one of the many Americans who work outside the home in addition to being a caregiver.

One of the most effective ways to manage the demands of this role while maintaining your own well-being is to build a strong support network. Having friends, family, healthcare professionals, and community resources who can provide emotional, physical, and informational support is invaluable. Here are a few tips for building a caregiver support network you can rely on.

Assembling a Network of Support When You Are a Caregiver

Before reaching out to others, it’s important to identify what kind of support you require. Caregiving responsibilities vary widely, depending on the needs of the person you’re caring for, so understanding your own needs is crucial. Consider the following:

Emotional support: Do you need someone to talk to when you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed?

Physical assistance: Could you use help with daily tasks like transportation, meal prep, or personal care?

Information: Are you looking for guidance on medical treatments, caregiving strategies, or legal matters?

Having a clear understanding of your needs will help you target the right individuals and resources.

Your immediate circle of family and friends is often the first place to turn for support. Openly communicate your needs with those around you, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Many people are willing to pitch in but may not know how unless you ask. Here’s how to approach them:

Be specific: Instead of saying “I need help,” try offering concrete tasks, such as “Could you help with grocery shopping this week?” or “Can you stay with Mom for a couple of hours on Saturday?”

Create a schedule: If multiple people are offering help, coordinate and create a schedule so everyone knows when and how they can contribute. One online tool you might find helpful is CaringBridge. It can make communication much easier.

Building a support network among family and friends helps spread out caregiving tasks so you’re not shouldering the responsibility alone.

In addition to family and friends, professionals can be a valuable part of your caregiving support network. Medical professionals like doctors, nurses, and therapists can offer guidance on managing your loved one’s health and provide practical advice for caregiving. Other professionals who can help include:

Home care aides: They can assist with personal care, like bathing and dressing. These tips can help you hire an in-home aide you feel confident in.

Counselors or social workers: They can provide emotional support and help navigate the complexities of caregiving, especially when it comes to managing stress or handling difficult emotions.

Legal and financial advisors: These experts can assist with legal documents, such as power of attorney, and guide you through financial decisions related to caregiving.

Local and national organizations are often a valuable resource for caregivers. Many community centers, churches, and senior service organizations offer programs like support groups, educational seminars, and respite care, which can provide both emotional and practical support:

Caregiver support groups: These groups allow you to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Sharing advice and stories can be comforting and help you feel less isolated.

Respite care services: These programs offer temporary relief for caregivers by providing trained professionals to care for your loved one, giving you a chance to rest and recharge.

Investigate local resources before you need them so you are prepared for the unexpected bumps that caregivers often encounter.

Building a strong support network is crucial, as is identifying the caregiving tasks that cause you the most stress. For many, worries about safety head the list, particularly if their loved one has dementia.

A tool that can give you peace of mind is a mobile monitoring unit. These discreet devices can be slipped into your loved one’s pocket. In the event of an emergency, they can simply press a button to connect with someone who can help. Call 1-844-203-5617 for more details!

Are you a caregiver for a friend or family member? Putting together a caregiver support network should be a priority. Here’s how to do it.

The spring season brings beautiful weather, blooming flowers, and longer days to most parts of the country. For many seniors, however, it also marks the return of seasonal allergies. These allergies, which are triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and flowers, can make life uncomfortable.

Symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, runny noses, and congestion are common, and they can be especially challenging for older adults, due to changes in their immune system and other health factors. Let’s explore the most common causes of spring allergies and go over some tips to help older adults find relief.

What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Spring Allergies?

Spring allergies are primarily caused by allergens in the air, such as pollen, mold spores, and dust mites. The onset of warmer weather triggers the release of pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. When these particles are inhaled or come into contact with the skin, the immune system can overreact, causing allergy symptoms.

Common spring allergy symptoms in seniors include:

Seniors often are more sensitive to allergens and experience more serious side effects for a variety of reasons, including:

Weakened immune system: As people age, their immune system tends to weaken. This can make it more difficult for the body to effectively deal with allergens.

Preexisting health conditions: Many older adults have underlying health conditions like asthma, chronic respiratory diseases, or heart problems. Allergies can worsen the symptoms of these conditions.

Medications: Some medications commonly taken to treat allergy symptoms can have side effects such as drowsiness. Another challenge to be aware of is that allergy medicines can interact with medications that are often prescribed to older adults for other medical issues.

Tips to Help Seniors Manage Spring Allergies

If you or a loved one are struggling to keep symptoms under control this spring, here are a few suggestions you might find helpful:

Monitor pollen levels: While this number can vary by location, researchers say pollen count tends to rise throughout the morning and peak at midday. Many weather websites/apps and local news stations provide daily pollen forecasts. This allows you to plan outdoor activities around expected times of higher and lower pollen counts. For example, if you like to run or walk, doing so at dusk or after dark might be kinder on your system. And there are steps you can take to stay safe while running or walking after dark.

Create an allergy-free zone: Creating a safe indoor environment can be one of the most effective ways to manage allergies. Seniors should keep windows and doors closed during peak pollen times, particularly in the spring. Using air purifiers with HEPA filters can also help reduce airborne allergens. In addition, washing bedding and changing clothes after being outside can help lessen pollen exposure indoors.

Use allergy medications wisely: Over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, or nasal sprays can be effective in managing allergy symptoms. However, older adults should be cautious and consult their doctor before taking any of these medications to ensure they don’t interfere with other prescriptions or medical conditions.

Practice good hygiene: After spending time outside, seniors should wash their hands and shower to remove any pollen that may have accumulated on their skin and hair. This will help reduce the chances of transferring allergens to the face and eyes. Throwing your clothes in the washer when you come inside can also help prevent pollen from being scattered around the house.

Stay hydrated and rested: Make sure to stay hydrated—drinking plenty of fluids helps thin mucus, easing nasal congestion. Getting enough rest is important, too, as both allergy symptoms and medications can cause fatigue. Good sleep supports the immune system in managing allergic reactions.

Consider allergy shots: Despite your best efforts, you may not be able to manage spring allergies on your own. For seniors whose symptoms don’t respond to medications, allergy shots (immunotherapy) might be a viable option. This treatment involves regular injections of allergens to gradually desensitize the immune system, providing long-term relief.

If you suffer from spring allergies or another health condition, you may be restricting yourself from enjoying an active lifestyle because of safety concerns. One idea that may help you gain more confidence is to invest in an emergency response device. These units work off wireless technology that allow you to call for help from almost anywhere. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!

Wondering what causes spring allergies and how to minimize them, especially if you are an older adult? This information will be of interest.

Understanding Spring Allergies: Tips to Help Seniors Find Relief

Spring is a season when many people decide to tackle projects around the house, from decluttering and organizing to deep cleaning. While few among us get excited about spring cleaning, the end result is usually worth the time it takes. And you’ll likely find your mental health improves when your house is neater and cleaner.

It’s important to approach these tasks with a plan. If you're working with kids, remember that each group has unique abilities and limitations. Here’s how to make the process age-appropriate while keeping it fun, practical, and easy to do.

A good approach to take when you’re spring cleaning is to balance your available time with your long-term organizational needs. While you might want to dig into each and every closet or drawer, it’s important to set priorities that match how much time you can devote to this project.

Here are a few practical tips to get and keep your home organized and decluttered:

Tackle the worst rooms first: People often struggle to figure out where to start spring cleaning. One piece of advice is to begin in the places where things seem most out of control, such as the closets or drawers that bring you the most stress. Work your way through those, and then move on to whichever spots in the home you still have time to tackle.

Adopt the “one in, one out” rule: Professional organizers often recommend this practice to their clients. It’s a simple and effective way to avoid clutter. For every new item you purchase (whether it’s a new kitchen gadget, storage container, or pair of shoes), make sure to donate, recycle, or toss something you no longer use. This helps prevent unnecessary accumulation of items.

Invest in drawer and cabinet organizers: This tip not only makes it easier to find things but also reduces clutter in your drawers and cabinets. You can also use stackable bins in your pantry or under the bathroom sink to organize items. Drawer organizers can be used in kitchens and bathroom cabinets, as well as dressers.

Declutter the counters: Eliminating the clutter on kitchen and bathroom counters can reduce stress. Store appliances you don’t use daily, like the blender or toaster, and leave only the essentials out on the counter.

Establish a deep-cleaning schedule: To maintain an organized home, set aside time once a month for a deep-cleaning session. This includes cleaning behind appliances, wiping down the tops of cabinets, and sorting through your pantry for expired or unused items.

Fun Tips for Including Kids in Spring Cleaning

For kids, organizing and cleaning should feel like an enjoyable activity rather than a chore. Encouraging them to participate in spring cleaning can not only teach them important life skills but also keep them engaged and motivated.

Make it a game: Kids love games, so why not turn organizing and cleaning into one? Have them race against the clock to see how fast they can organize their snack drawer or sort out their sock drawer. Or challenge them to see how many plastic containers they can match with their lids. You can even reward them with a small treat or special activity once your list is completed.

Provide “kid-friendly” cleaning tools: Kids can use cleaning tools that are made specifically for them, such as small mops, sponges, or brushes that fit their hands. Encourage them to wipe down tables, counters, and even low shelves. Not only does it help them feel responsible, but it also allows them to take ownership of their space.

Encourage charitable behavior: This can also be a great time to begin teaching kids how to be charitable. Have them sort through their toy box to identify items to donate to a local shelter. Do the same with clothes closets and drawers.

If your to-do list also includes finding ways to keep a loved one safer at home, investing in a mobile monitoring unit might be a solution. Whether you have a teen who likes to run in a nearby park or an aging parent who lives alone, these discreet devices make it easy to call for help in the event of an emergency. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!

Need some ideas to help you start spring cleaning? You might be interested in these tips, including a few to get the kids involved.

Preventing Isolation During Retirement

Health Risks Linked to Isolation Among Seniors

5 Tips for Staying Connected After Retiring

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