How we react emotionally to chronic stress can have a cascading effect on our physical health. But it doesn’t have to be that way. If left unchecked, the stress we feel may contribute to serious health problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and other physical illnesses. It also can lead to mental disorders such as depression and anxiety, according to information from the National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH). And [...]
Financial Independence is having enough income to pay for regular living expenses without working for the rest of their life. Assistance may be needed with the preparation of bills or taxes. As we grow older, one of the main stressors that will never leave is the burden of finances. Handling finances becomes increasingly difficult with age, not to mention the added stress of wondering how to pay for care as [...]
Maintaining Physical Independence Our cognition dwindles with age, but so does our body. In fact, our physical health often goes first. It can be hard to notice the small and gradual physical declines from day to day, which can make it difficult to know when we need to start asking for help. The relative rates at which our bodies start to give out are what separate us, and will ultimately [...]
Cognitive health allows us to make decisions and perform tasks through thought, experience, and the senses. Naturally, with age, our cognitive abilities will decline which impacts our ability to recall or remember, perform simple math, and the ability to reason or judge. When our cognition starts to diminish, the feeling of being overwhelmed may take over while we try to keep up with everything as if nothing has changed. As [...]
6 Ways to Support Independence at Home Many elders are vulnerable, isolated, alone and often feel afraid. Together we can keep them safe, encourage a sense of community, and quell their fears. We have put together a list of activities that your clients or family members can engage with to help them maintain their independence. Each activity supports a different area of independence: cognitive, physical, financial, emotional, social and purpose. [...]
Much has been written regarding “getting your affairs in order.” Too often planning is geared towards incapacity; a will, power of attorney, and advanced directives are created. What is overlooked is the importance of planning for what happens in the years prior to incapacity. There is a stage between independence and incapacity that require careful planning. The interdependent stage of aging is when the person can manage their life but [...]
September can arrive with a force. Suddenly the kids’ school activities, coupled with work responsibilities, become overwhelming. Add caring for an aging parent to the list and the squeeze tightens! Enter the Sandwich Generation. Caring for aging parents demands attention, time, and resources. Combine this with a career and raising kids and you have the perfect storm. Why is our society so squeezed? The answers: Older Americans are in a [...]
Aging alone is challenging and scary! “Solo Elders” is the term used to describe older individuals who have no partner or children. This can also include seniors with children who are estranged. Often, estate planning and long- term care are the biggest issues they face. They do not know who to leave their estate to and they are concerned about who will care for them. In addition, they face fears of isolation and loneliness. [...]
Most of us don't wake up one morning and realize we can no longer care for ourselves. The process of aging involves multiple stages; some of us will experience all of these while others go through a few. Each stage is unique. Understanding these stages will help you prepare for them so, whether aging alone or with a partner, you will be ready for whatever lies ahead. The stages include [...]
Holidays are about families coming together in celebration. This time of year also offers an opportunity to hold a family meeting to address the needs of aging parents. Bringing the family support network together is a crucial step in planning for the aging process or addressing immediate concerns. Just as you dedicate time and energy to planning holiday gatherings, you can apply similar efforts for family meetings. Here are family [...]
