As the summer season arrives, it brings with it warm weather, longer days, and countless opportunities for outdoor activities. Seniors can enjoy the beauty of summer and make unforgettable memories. However, it's crucial to prioritize safety while engaging in these activities. In this blog post, we'll explore some fun and exciting summer activities for seniors while emphasizing the importance of staying safe.

Gardening: Gardening is a fantastic way to connect with nature. Tending to plants, planting flowers, or growing your own vegetables can be a rewarding and therapeutic activity.

Walking and Hiking: Take advantage of pleasant weather by going for leisurely walks or exploring nature trails. Choose well-maintained paths and consider walking with a friend for added safety.

Outdoor Yoga or Tai Chi: Many parks and community centers offer outdoor yoga or tai chi classes during the summer. These gentle exercises promote physical well-being, flexibility, and relaxation.

Swimming: Swimming provides an excellent low-impact workout for seniors. Find a local pool with designated senior swim times or consider joining a water aerobics class specifically designed for older adults.

Water Safety: If you plan on swimming in natural bodies of water like lakes or the ocean, be mindful of currents and always swim in designated areas. Additionally, ensure you have a swimming buddy and follow the advice of lifeguards.

Picnics and Barbecues: Gather with friends and family for outdoor picnics or barbecues. Enjoy the company, delicious food, and soak up the summer atmosphere. Remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

Senior Center Activities: Local senior centers often organize events, outings, and classes tailored for seniors. Explore their summer schedules for opportunities to socialize, learn new skills, and make new friends.

Day Trips: Plan day trips to nearby attractions, museums, or parks. It allows you to explore new places without the stress of long-distance travel.

Travel Safety: If you're planning a vacation or a more extended trip, make sure to have all necessary medications, medical information, and emergency contact numbers readily available. Inform a family member or friend about your travel plans and stay connected with them throughout the trip.

Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an appropriate SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Reapply as directed, especially after swimming or sweating.

Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even if you don't feel excessively thirsty. Avoid sugary beverages and alcohol, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Enhance your sense of security and tranquility by considering the purchase of a mobile monitoring unit. Whether you're at home, exploring nature, or on a trip with companions, these inconspicuous devices enable you to easily request emergency aid at the touch of a button.

Discover the perfect balance of summer fun and safety as a senior, embracing the joys of the season while taking necessary precautions for a memorable and secure experience.

Summer Fun and Safety for Seniors: Embrace the Season with Joy and Caution

With winter weather starting to arrive, a warm bowl of soup can make a healthy, delicious meal. It’s also convenient to make in batches to freeze and share with senior loved ones who might struggle with meal preparation. Depending on the recipe and the ingredients called for—from meats and legumes to vegetables and grains—soup can be packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Here are some tips to help you create a well-stocked freezer of healthy soups that will keep you nourished and satisfied.

The base of your soup sets the tone for both the flavor and the nutritional content. You can choose store-bought chicken, beef, or vegetable broth or cook your own. Bone broth made from leftover organic chicken or beef bones can be especially good for reducing inflammation in the body.

For a creamier texture to your soup, consider using pureed vegetables or adding a small amount of coconut milk or yogurt. If you’re aiming for a healthier option, look for low-sodium versions of any ingredients you add.

When reviewing soup recipes, opt for those with ingredients that are rich in nutrients. Leafy greens (like spinach or kale), beans, lentils, whole grains (like quinoa or brown rice), and colorful vegetables (like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini) can boost the nutritional profile of your soups.

Besides providing vitamins and minerals, these ingredients also contain plenty of fiber. It’s good for keeping blood sugar stable and promoting digestive health. And it helps you feel full longer, which can keep you from reaching for unhealthy snacks between meals.

Batch cooking is key to an efficient meal prep strategy. Dedicate a day or even just an afternoon to preparing multiple soups at once. This not only saves time but also allows you to take advantage of seasonal produce and bulk buys. By making a variety of soups, you ensure that you’ll have a range of flavors and textures to choose from when you’re ready to eat.

If you aren’t sure where to start the search for nutritious soup recipes, there are plenty online. Two good resources to help you get started are 35 Healthy Soup Recipes That Are Cozy and Comforting from the Food Network and 79 Flavor-Packed Healthy Soup Recipes from Taste of Home.

Herbs and spices can transform a simple soup into a flavorful dish. Fresh herbs, like basil, cilantro, and parsley, can be added just before serving to enhance flavor. Dried herbs, like thyme, oregano, and rosemary, are good to sprinkle in during the cooking process.

But don’t stick to just basic herbs and spices. Try out some you haven’t tested before, such as cumin, paprika, or turmeric. Each of these can add warmth and depth while providing additional health benefits.

Finally, choosing the right container for freezing your soup is essential for preserving flavor and texture—and for avoiding potential hazards or messes! Select airtight, freezer-safe containers made of glass or BPA-free plastic, which withstand low temperatures and prevent freezer burn.

Mason jars work well, but be sure to leave space at the top to allow for expansion. Alternatively, silicone freezer bags are flexible and can be laid flat for efficient storage. Avoid using regular plastic containers, which may crack in the freezer. Label each container with the soup type and date for easy identification.

Senior Safety Starts With Healthy Nutrition

If you are an adult child who is lending an aging parent a helping hand with meals and other household tasks, know that nutrition plays a key role in safety, too. People who have a poor diet are more likely to experience falls than their peers who consume a balanced diet.

Another way to help keep a senior loved one safe is by investing in a mobile monitoring unit. Should an emergency occur, these discreet devices allow the wearer to call for help from wherever they are. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more today!

Have you tried stocking your freezer with healthy soups to make mealtime easier? Here’s what you should know to get started.

Tips for Stocking Your Freezer With Healthy Homemade Soups

As the days become shorter and the temperatures start to drop, our thoughts often turn to the tasks we need to tackle before winter arrives. One of the most important is getting the annual influenza vaccine. While some may see it as an inconvenience or question whether it’s really necessary, there are compelling reasons why receiving a flu shot each year is crucial for individual and community health. And the older you are, the more essential it is to take this preventive step.

Let’s begin by talking a bit about influenza. Commonly referred to as the flu, it’s a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The viruses mutate rapidly, so different strains circulate every year. This means that last year’s flu vaccine more than likely won’t offer you much protection this year.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) monitor circulating flu viruses to determine which strains to include in the vaccine. This global cooperation increases the likelihood that the flu shot will be effective each year.

One reason to receive a flu shot every fall is to protect your overall immunity. The vaccine works by introducing inactivated or weakened parts of the virus into your body, prompting your immune system to produce antibodies. These antibodies help recognize and combat the flu virus if you are exposed to it later. However, immunity gained from the vaccine wanes over time. That’s why you need to get vaccinated annually to maintain strong protection.

While the flu might seem like just an annoyance to a younger adult with a strong immune system, influenza can be life threatening for some populations. The flu can lead to severe illness and trigger complications for children who are too young to receive the vaccine, as well as for older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions.

When you receive a flu shot, you protect not only yourself but also the community’s overall wellness. When a significant portion of the population is vaccinated, the spread of the virus is reduced. This helps safeguard those who cannot be vaccinated or whose immune systems may not respond effectively to the vaccine.

Flu outbreaks can place a substantial burden on healthcare systems, leading to increased hospitalizations and emergency room visits. During peak flu season, hospitals may experience a surge of patients suffering from flu-related complications, such as an exacerbation of chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD) or congestive heart failure (CHF). This can strain healthcare resources and delay care for people with other medical conditions.

By getting vaccinated, you help reduce the incidence of cases during flu season. This contributes to a healthier population and a more manageable load for healthcare systems during the fall and winter months.

The bottom line: A flu shot is an essential part of both your personal well-being and the overall public health strategy each fall. As peak flu season approaches, make it a priority to schedule your flu vaccination, and encourage others to do the same. By taking this simple step, you help reduce the impact of influenza for everyone.

Looking for more tips to help you dodge influenza this year? How to Shoo the Flu During Influenza Season shares some best practices, from avoiding crowds to washing your hands, to help you stay healthy and safe.

Wondering why you need an annual flu shot? This article explains the benefits, from avoiding a hospital stay to improving community health.

The Health Benefits of an Annual Flu Shot

When a parent, spouse, or other senior loved one needs to move to assisted living or memory care, family members may feel overwhelmed by the process. It can be difficult to determine what type of care meets the senior’s needs and what community would be the best fit. If you’ve spent time searching online, you may have interacted with a senior living referral service. But oftentimes, families aren’t even aware that this kind of service exists.

So, what is a referral service, and is it a good option? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of working with one of these agencies.

What Is a Senior Living Referral Service?

A senior living referral service assists people in finding housing options that align with their needs and preferences. These services typically educate clients on the various types of senior living, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and nursing homes.

The companies also offer guidance in navigating the complexities of senior housing. Team members are skilled at taking into consideration factors such as location, amenities, healthcare services, and affordability. By understanding each client’s unique situation, referral services hope to help families make decisions that promote comfort, safety, and quality of life for loved ones making this transition.

Pros and Cons of Working With a Referral Service

While some companies are regional and others have a national service area, they all have in common certain advantages and disadvantages that families should be aware of.

Con: Referrals may be limited to the company’s network

An attractive feature of the majority of senior living referral services is that they are free for older adults and their families. The company receives payment from the senior living community the client moves to. While some companies say they will refer to communities that aren’t part of their paid network, whether that is actually the case is open to doubt. If you decide to work with a referral service, keep in mind there may be additional options in your area that haven’t been presented to you.

Con: Costs may be passed on to you by the community

Another factor to keep in mind is that while the referral company doesn’t charge you for help, the community may pass those fees along to you. Some do that by increasing your monthly fee until the cost charged by the referral company is paid in full. Because these companies typically charge one to two months’ rent, that can add up to much higher monthly fees, at least temporarily.

Con: Your information might be shared with many communities

In an effort to find a community for you before another referral service does, or you find one on your own, a company might send your contact information indiscriminately to all potential solutions. That’s because many referral services state in their contract that they will be compensated if they are the first company to make contact with the family and send the referral. The result can be an overwhelming number of phone calls and emails for families.

Pro: Senior care advisors can save you time

Depending on the referral service you choose, a senior care advisor will typically be assigned to you. Before entering into an agreement of any kind, you’ll want to ask if the advisor is local to your area. That helps ensure they understand the market and have insider knowledge of the communities. It can help you save time sorting through communities that might not have the level of care you need, don’t have any current openings, or are too expensive. This can be especially useful when adult children who live far away are trying to help their parent find housing.

Pro: Reduces stress associated with the search

While some seniors move to a community before a crisis occurs, many do not. Family members might be dealing with the stress of a loved one’s health emergency. The older adult’s physician may have indicated the senior isn’t safe to return home. Trying to conduct a search on your own while coping with the seriousness of a family member’s injury or illness can be difficult.

Pro: Company may have connections to help with the transition

Deciding what community to move to is only the first step. The real work includes downsizing the older adult’s home, hosting an estate sale, lining up movers, and more. Local senior living advisors often have a network of professionals, such as senior move managers, estate sale companies, and seniors real estate specialists, who can guide you through this process.

One last resource you might find useful is Tips for Touring a Senior Living Community for a Loved One. In this article you will find suggestions for how to make the most of your visits to senior living communities.

Finding a senior living community that is a good fit for your loved one and then making the move is rarely a quick process. If you are concerned for their safety while you plan for this transition, a mobile monitoring unit might give both of you peace of mind. These discreet devices allow the user to summon help with a simple press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!

Are you starting the search for a senior living community for a loved one? Here’s what you should know about referral services.

Are Referral Companies a Good Option for Finding a Senior Community?

As we age, maintaining a healthy diet becomes increasingly important. In fact, experts believe eating well is one of the best things you can do to protect your overall well-being. For seniors who live alone, preparing nutritious meals can be challenging. This might be due to limited mobility, poor vision, or low energy, or sometimes a lack of motivation to cook for just one person.

In this situation, preparing healthy meals in batches and freezing them can be incredibly beneficial. Not only is it convenient and cost effective, but it also helps ensure that seniors have access to nutritious food options without the hassle of daily cooking.

Freezer meals offer convenience for seniors. They can prepare a batch of meals at one time and then simply freeze individual portions for later use. This eliminates the need to cook every day and allows them to enjoy a variety of meals without much effort. For seniors with limited mobility or those who find it difficult to stand for long periods, having pre-prepared freezer meals can be a game-changer.

Ensuring that you or an older adult in your family have easy access to good nutrition is crucial for maintaining health and quality of life. Freezer meals can be specifically designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of seniors. That includes balanced portions of proteins, vegetables, and whole grains. Tufts University’s MyPlate for Older Adults is a good resource to help you learn more about senior nutrition.

Cooking in bulk and freezing meals can also be cost effective for seniors on a budget. Buying ingredients in larger quantities often translates to a lower cost per serving. By taking advantage of seasonal produce and sales, older adults can stretch their food budget even further. Additionally, having freezer meals on hand reduces the temptation to order takeout or buy pre-packaged convenience foods, which tend to be more expensive and less nutritious.

One of the challenges many seniors face is food waste, especially when cooking for one. Freezer meals allow people to portion out exactly what they need and freeze the rest for later use. That minimizes the amount of uneaten food that gets thrown away. This not only saves money but also promotes sustainability by reducing overall food waste.

When planning freezer meals for seniors, focus on nutrient-dense ingredients that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Include plenty of vegetables, lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, or fish, and whole grains like brown rice or quinoa. Avoid excessive use of salt and processed ingredients. Instead, opt for herbs, spices, and healthy fats like olive or avocado oil.

Seniors often have specific dietary needs based on their age and health conditions. When preparing meals for future use, consider portion sizes that are appropriate for one person. Use individual containers or freezer-safe bags to divide up meals before freezing. This makes it easier to thaw and reheat exactly what is needed.

Proper labeling is essential for freezer meals. Clearly mark each container or bag with the name of the dish, date of preparation, and how many servings are in the bag or container. This makes it easier to identify what’s inside and know how long each meal has been frozen. Some people also find it helpful to keep a list on a whiteboard on the door of the freezer. You can add or erase meals as you use them or create more.

It’s also helpful to attach simple reheating instructions to each freezer meal. That allows seniors to enjoy their meals without having to shuffle through cookbooks or search online for directions. Whether reheating in the microwave or oven, or on the stovetop, make sure you include clear guidance on time and temperature.

Chicken and vegetable stir-fry: This is such a simple meal, but one that is often overlooked. Sauté precooked chicken breast strips with mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas) in a light soy sauce, garlic, and ginger sauce. Serve with brown rice.

Vegetarian chili: A hearty mix of beans, tomatoes, onions, and spices makes for a healthy meal on a cold winter day. Freeze in individual portions for a quick and nutritious meal option.

Sweet potato and turkey shepherd’s pie: This casserole features lean ground turkey and vegetables topped with mashed sweet potatoes or cauliflower. Bake until golden brown and freeze in single-serving portions.

Vegetable lasagna: Another freezer meal option is to take a favorite lasagna recipe and substitute ingredients to make it a little healthier. For example, use whole wheat noodles instead of traditional lasagna noodles. Adding steamed spinach that is carefully drained also improves the nutritional value of the dish. Cut and freeze individual slices for easy reheating.

Finally, as you are creating menus, keep in mind the role food can play in inflammation and how that impacts healthy aging. Best and Worst Anti-Inflammatory Food Choices has information you might find helpful.

Cooking and freezing meals in batches can be a great way for seniors to eat healthy. Here’s what you should know to get started.

Healthy Freezer Meal Ideas for Older Single Adults

As older adults prepare for the return of winter, many start to dream of escaping the cold and snow. The idea of getting away to a warmer climate can be very appealing. Snowbirds—the term coined to describe people who relocate to warmer regions as the mercury drops—often look for cities that offer not just warmer weather but also a variety of activities and amenities. Whether you’re a first-time snowbird or a seasoned veteran, here are some cities across the country to consider for your winter retreat.

Whether you’re drawn to the arid deserts of the Southwest, the sun-drenched beaches of Florida, or the historic charm of the Southeast, the following cities can provide the perfect backdrop to enjoy a winter filled with warmth and sunshine. Each offers unique experiences likely to appeal to snowbirds, from outdoor adventures and cultural destinations to culinary delights and relaxation.

What’s not to like about a city that boasts over 300 days of sunshine a year? Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale is a prime destination for those seeking warm, dry winters. The city is renowned for its upscale resorts, world-class golf courses, and abundant outdoor activities. They include excursions such as hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and exploring the Desert Botanical Garden. Art enthusiasts will appreciate Scottsdale’s vibrant art scene, with numerous galleries and the Scottsdale Arts District offering a diverse range of exhibitions and events.

Nestled in the Coachella Valley, Palm Springs is a longtime favorite for older adults. It is celebrated for its mid-century modern architecture, hot springs, fabulous golf courses, and luxurious resorts. Snowbirds flock here year after year for the city’s reliably warm and sunny weather. The city also hosts a variety of cultural events, including the Palm Springs International Film Festival.

Located on the Gulf Coast, Naples entices snowbirds with its pristine beaches, upscale shopping districts, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. Known for its relaxed ambiance and high-end dining, the city offers a sophisticated yet laid-back retreat from winter’s chill. Nature lovers can explore the nearby Everglades National Park or take a sunset cruise along the coast. Art aficionados can stroll through the renowned Naples Art District to enjoy galleries and local crafts.

Surrounded by five mountain ranges and boasting a rich cultural heritage, Tucson is a combination of stunning natural beauty and a thriving arts scene. Snowbirds come here to enjoy the mild winter climate, explore the hiking trails of Saguaro National Park, or immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant Hispanic and Native American cultures. Tucson also offers excellent dining options. The variety of choices, ranging from Southwestern cuisine to international fare, ensures there’s a restaurant to satisfy every palate.

For snowbirds seeking a blend of history, charm, and mild winter weather, Charleston is an ideal choice. Known for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic plantations, the city offers a unique glimpse into America’s past. Seasonal visitors can spend their days exploring museums and art galleries, as well as indulging in Southern cuisine at local eateries. In recent years, Charleston has earned a reputation for being a popular getaway for foodies. The city’s temperate climate allows for outdoor activities year-round, such as boat tours to the nearby barrier islands.

San Antonio combines a rich cultural heritage with warm temperatures, making it a favorite winter destination for people looking for sunnier skies. Visitors can explore the historic sites of the Alamo and the Spanish colonial missions, stroll along the vibrant River Walk lined with shops and restaurants, or attend the city’s diverse festivals. San Antonio is also home to a lively arts scene, delicious Tex-Mex cuisine, and numerous parks and green spaces. It offers a welcoming retreat at reasonable prices.

Mobile Monitoring Units Offer Peace of Mind for Travelers

Whichever city you choose, embracing the snowbird lifestyle can be a great way to enjoy your retirement years. One way to increase your peace of mind as you are traveling is to invest in a mobile monitoring unit. These emergency call systems allow the user to press a button to be connected with help, no matter where they are. In the event of an emergency, that can be life-saving.

Call 1-844-203-5617 for more information!

Looking for some warm-weather destinations to escape to this winter? We have a few you might want to consider.

Warm Winter-Getaway Destinations for Snowbirds to Consider

Summer Fun and Safety for Seniors: Embrace the Season with Joy and Caution

Embrace the Great Outdoors:

Water Activities:

Socializing and Community Events:

Travel and Vacation:

Sun Protection and Hydration:

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