Posts in category: Senior Health & Wellbeing

Most of us have a specific idea of what a heart attack looks like: someone feels an abrupt, strong pain that causes them to stop in their tracks and clutch their chest. While some heart attacks do happen suddenly, many start slowly, with pain or discomfort. A person can have symptoms for hours before they even realize they’re having a heart attack.

More than 150,000 Canadians suffer from a heart attack each year.

Simple lifestyle changes can improve heart health. A number of enjoyable activities, like sharing healthy meals with loved ones, regular exercise and maintaining positive mental health can help those recovering from heart attack or trying to reduce the risk of developing issues.

Knowing what signs to look for can save critical time, and it’s important to be aware of the signs:

• Chest discomfort – The chest pain associated with a heart attack doesn’t feel the same for everyone. Some people experience squeezing, discomfort or a feeling of fullness.
• Pain or discomfort throughout the body – Heart attack pain isn’t limited to the chest area. Heart attack symptoms can include soreness in the neck, arms, jaw or back, or a combination of these. Women are more likely than men to experience jaw and back pain when suffering from a heart attack.
• Shortness of breath – Shortness of breath is a heart attack symptom that is not usually recognized as one. However, those vulnerable to heart problems should be aware of any sudden breathing problems, especially if combined with other symptoms
• Nausea – Lightheadedness, vomiting, cold sweats and nausea are also symptoms that are not often associated with a heart attack, but can signal the onset of one.

Types of heart attacks:

• NSTEMI – NSTEMI heart attacks happen when blood flow to the heart through a coronary artery is severely restricted but not entirely blocked.
• Demand Ischemia: Demand ischemia is another type of heart attack where blockages in the arteries may not be present. It happens when a patient’s heart needs more oxygen than is available in the body’s supply.
• Silent Heart Attacks:A heart attack does not always have obvious symptoms. In fact, a heart attack can happen without a person knowing it. These are often referred to as silent heart attacks.
• Coronary Artery Spasm: A coronary artery spasm is when the artery wall tightens and blood flow through the artery is restricted.
• Cardiac Arrest: Cardiac arrest is not a heart attack, but a term used when a person’s heart stops beating. It can be due to a heart attack or occur as a primary event.

Early detection of a heart attack can help prevent damage to the heart, brain and body. If you witness someone having these symptoms, or you feel them yourself, it’s important to call 911 and seek medical attention immediately.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

Heart health becomes more important as we get older, and the trusted care team at Comfort Keepers can help. Our caregivers can remind clients to take medication, provide transportation to scheduled appointments, and support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. Above all, our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References

American Heart Association. “About Heart Attacks.” Web. 2016.

WebMD. “Heart Attacks and Heart Disease.” Web.

Unity Point Health. “10 Surprising Facts About Heart Attacks (Infographic).” Web. 2014.

Government of Canada. “Heart disease in Canada: Highlights from the Canadian Chronic Disease Surveillance System” Web. 2017.

One in five adults suffer from arthritis, and the majority of these are seniors.

For those that live with arthritis every day, the symptoms can be a barrier to doing the hobbies they love. But with management strategies and lifestyle changes, many seniors find that they can continue the activities that bring them hope, purpose and joy.

For older adults to understand the stages of living with arthritis, it’s helpful to talk about how the disease is identified, diagnosed and managed.

Arthritis is not a diagnosis – it’s a general term that covers more than 100 diseases and conditions affecting the joints.

Signs and symptoms:

Generally, symptoms of arthritis can include any of the following: joint redness, swelling, pain, stiffness, warmth, or difficulty with movement. Many people are familiar with arthritis of the hands and feet, but they don’t always realize that it can affect any joint in the body. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should visit their physician.

Diagnosis:

When diagnosing arthritis, medical professionals will typically conduct a physical exam, and gather medical history and genetics information to help identify the type of arthritis. Blood tests and imaging may be necessary as well. While arthritis cannot be cured, it can be managed to limit the impact it has on seniors.

Strategies for arthritis management:

A physician can recommend arthritis management strategies and approve all plans to change or increase physical activity.

• Lifestyle changes: Seniors with arthritis may need to stop performing certain activities, or limit them. Depending on the area of the body affected, some hobbies may become more difficult. However, planning ahead can be helpful – for example, having a stool to sit on in the kitchen can help seniors that want to cook but have difficulty standing for long periods of time due to arthritis pain.
• Movement: For some types of arthritis, sitting or working in one position for too long can cause the condition to worsen. Moving, walking and stretching every 15 minutes can be helpful. For some, setting an alarm as a reminder to prompt movement can be helpful. A doctor should be consulted before seniors begin any exercise regimen.
• Weight – Maintaining a healthy weight can be helpful in managing arthritis. Excess weight can cause strain on joints, worsening the condition. Anyone concerned about this should consult their physician for exercise and diet recommendations.

Education and awareness are critical – seniors that may have arthritis, or have already been diagnosed, should engage their care team to develop management strategies.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

A care plan for arthritis can minimize the impact of the disease on a senior’s life, and Comfort Keepers can provide support for a management program. Our caregivers remind clients to take medication, provide transportation to scheduled appointments, and support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. As part of an individualized care plan, caregivers can also help with activities like cooking, cleaning and physical care. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References

Arthritis Foundation. “Understanding Arthritis.” Web.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “5 Proven Ways to Manage Arthritis.” Web. 2019.

Quest Diagnostics. “Helping you focus on patients with arthritis” Web.

Everyday Health. “May is Arthritis Awareness Month – Mark it with the ABCs.” Web. 2018.

The holidays can be a time of joy, togetherness and connection. For seniors that are isolated from family and friends, these happy feelings can be replaced with anxiety or depression once the festivities end.

Feeling blue after the holidays is not uncommon for older adults – especially for those that are isolated from loved ones, suffering from a physical illness or those with a less busy lifestyle.

Taking a proactive approach to combatting sadness following the holidays is critical. Depression can have long-lasting negative health impacts, and the effect of social isolation is also significant – it can have a negative health effect equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

There are many ways to keep the post-holiday blues away. Making plans, being active and continuing to connect with loved ones are some of the top ways to move forward into the new year with positive momentum and intentional action. Some specific ideas include:

• Plan travel and reunions: Booking a getaway, or making plans to see family and friends, can help those that live far from their loved ones. A trip or reunion doesn’t need to be expensive or elaborate – scheduling an outing or dinner with the family in the coming months can help lift spirits.
• Learn something new: For some seniors, anxiety and depression can be worse when they are idle. Taking up a hobby or learning a new skill can provide a challenge that is enjoyable, and activity can combat negative thinking.
• Relive the best moments: Collecting photos and memories from the latest holiday season, and looking at past year’s mementos, can bring back the joy felt while celebrating. And remembering the best times can help seniors feel gratitude and connection – even when the ones they love aren’t right there.
• Give back: Volunteering is a great way to ease post-holiday sadness. Helping others in need, whether it’s a short- or long-term commitment, can have a positive impact on everyone involved. And, there are volunteer opportunities available for those that are able to get out into the community as well as activities for those that have mobility issues or prefer to volunteer from their own home.
• Physical activity is good for the body and soul: Fitness centers often have discounts at the beginning of the year, and there are low-impact exercises that can be done at home or outside. And physical activity can improve both the body and the mind. Older adults should always consult with their doctor before starting a new exercise program.
• Dance and sing into the new year: Turning someone’s mood around can be as simple as listening to happy songs, playing an instrument or dancing the afternoon away. Seniors can ask family and friends for suggestions, make playlists of their favorite tunes or take time to rediscover an album they love.

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

Our goal is to provide uplifting in-home care that benefits seniors and their families. The individualized care plans we create for our clients that consider physical goals as well as non-physical mental health needs. Our caregivers can provide transportation to community events, support physician-prescribed exercise regimens, provide companionship and help families stay connected through technology. We strive to elevate the human spirit through quality, compassionate, joyful care.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References:

Health Resources & Services Administration. “The Loneliness Epidemic.” Web. 2019.

U.S. News. “Depression in Seniors: Why the Holidays Can Be Hard.” Web. 2018.

HelpGuide. “Depression in Older Adults: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment. Web. 2019.

WebMD. “Holiday Depression and Stress.” Web. 2018.

National Council on Aging. Mental Health this Holiday and Beyond: 4 Steps to Combat Lonliness in Seniors.” Web. 2016.

Nothing can put a halt to our daily routines and favorite activities like an illness. Staying well is especially critical for the physical and mental health of seniors, but sometimes illness is unavoidable.

The mortality rate for severe pneumonia is 20%.

Even though pneumonia is a serious illness, it can often be successfully treated at home. Seniors, however, specifically, those with compromised immune systems or other health issues, may require hospitalization.

For those that do need to monitored and treated in a medical facility, being discharged from the hospital does not mean that recovery is complete. Pneumonia is particularly taxing on the body, resulting in a feeling of tiredness. It may take a while for an older adult to regain strength and feel good again.

The home recovery period can be crucial for pneumonia patients. In order to fully recover, it is important to follow the health care provider’s directions. Seniors should be aware of their body and take note of changes they feel so they can contact their doctor at any sign of the illness coming back.

Home recovery can include continuation of an antibiotic, prescription medication, or a nebulizer for breathing treatments. Medicine, including every dose, should be taken for as long as it has been prescribed. Failure to do so may allow levels of bacteria to remain, grow and possibly cause a relapse. Drinking plenty of water can help and eating nutritious food to regain strength has an impact too. Additionally, cool mist humidifiers or vaporizers help keep the air moist inside the home and may make breathing easier and ease lingering coughs.

Seniors can expect a cough and general fatigue to last for some time after pneumonia subsides. It is essential for them to get ample sleep as well as proper nourishment during this time. Rest helps the body’s healing process just as maintaining a healthy diet can boost the immune system. It is important that the senior not smoke and avoid spending time outdoors if there is smoke from a fire. This type of air pollution can hinder the breathing process and cause infection in the lungs. Alcohol consumption should also be avoided as it can inhibit the effectiveness of antibiotics.

Above all, seniors should remember to ask for help. Pneumonia recovery at home can be difficult to manage alone, and a helping hand from family, friends, or a professional caregiver can be critical for a successful recovery. For seniors and their loved ones, the goal is to get them back to good health so they can do the things they love – and sometimes, a helping hand can make all the difference.

References
Mayo Clinic. Pneumonia. Web. 2018.

National Center for Biotechnology. “Severe pneumonia in the elderly: a multivariate analysis of risk factors.” Web. 2015.

Drugs.com. “Pneumonia.” Web. 2018.

WebMD. “6 Serious Complications of Pneumonia You Should Know.” Web. 2018.

Many things change as we get older. Something that we don’t necessarily expect to change is how we sleep. In fact, 46% of adults 65 and older have trouble falling asleep and sleeping well through the night on a regular basis.

Insomnia is the most common sleep problem in adults 60 and older.

Adults over the age of 65 should be getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night. But getting quality sleep at night can be difficult for seniors.

• As we age, our bodies make less of the chemicals and hormones that help us sleep well.
• Some seniors develop sensitivity to environmental factors affecting sleep, including noise and temperature.
• The parts of the brain that control sleep are affected by conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or stroke.
• Arthritis and other conditions can also play a role in sleep quality due to chronic pain.

In addition, seniors may fall asleep earlier than usual, wake up in the middle of the night, or suffer from insomnia – all of which can negatively impact quality of daily life. In addition to affecting mood, lack of sleep can lead to issues with memory and an increased risk of falling

• Inadequate rest affects mood– Not getting a full night of sleep can cause irritability, stress, problems with concentration, and mood swings. Long-term sleep deprivation can lead to cognitive issues and depression.
• When seniors don’t sleep, their bodies suffer– Headaches, body aches and weakness can sometimes be attributed to lack of sleep.
• Being tired can contribute to illness – When tired, an older adult’s immune system doesn’t perform as well, opening the door to illness and infection. Some studies have shown that lack of sleep can lead to heart problems, diabetes and it has even been associated with an increase in risk of breast cancer.

Seniors that are having a hard time sleeping can get help from their doctor. However, there are a few things they can try at home to help ensure a restful night’s sleep:

• Having a sleep schedule– going to bed at the same time every night, and getting up at the same time every morning, helps a person adjust to a natural sleep rhythm.
• Being mindful about eating habits– Alcohol, spicy foods, caffeine and a diet high in sugar can all cause sleep issues. Eating and drinking close to bedtime can also be a problem for some – rather than having a full meal before bed, it’s better to have a light snack or warm milk.
• Creating an individualized sleep plan– Changing nighttime routines, and daily activities, can have an impact on sleep. It’s important for people to find out what works for them and create a schedule that they stick to – consistency is key! Some people find that more physical activity during the day helps them sleep better. Others find that napping during the day makes it harder to sleep at night, while some aren’t affected. Meditation before bed, a warm bath or reading time at night can all be part of a sleep plan, if they help.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help
For seniors that want to change their daily routine and create a schedule for better sleep, the quality caregivers with Comfort Keepers can help. They can assist with scheduling and routine, increased activity during the day, physician-prescribed exercise and diet plans and can provide transportation to scheduled appointments. Better sleep leads to more happiness during the day, and our goal is to help every client live a joyful life, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References
Washington Post. “Sleep patterns can change with aging. Does that mean health troubles ahead?” Web. 2019.
Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. “Get Enough Sleep.” Web.
Health Magazine. “11 Surprising Health Benefits of Sleep.” Web. 2018.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, more commonly referred to as COPD, is one of the most significant health problems facing adults in the U.S. COPD is a leading cause of death, falling just behind heart disease, cancer, and accidents.

Approximately 500,000 Canadians have  been diagnosed with COPD, and it is estimated that an almost equal number of Canadians may also have COPD, but are not aware of it.

COPD represents a group of lung diseases, with the two most common being emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD is a progressive disease that becomes increasingly severe with age.

Symptoms of COPD include:

• Constant coughing
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing up mucus
• Tightness in the chest

Because of its progressive nature and with increased age as a leading factor, there is a greater prevalence of COPD in adults 65 years of age or older. The good news is that many adults can easily reduce their risk of COPD through lifestyle management.

According to the Canadian Lung Association smoking is the number one cause of COPD. Unsurprisingly, secondhand smoke is a significant risk factor as well. Research also suggests that there may be a link between poor air quality and COPD.

Seniors should take the following steps to reduce their risk of COPD:

• Older adults that smoke should get support from a primary care physician and take steps to quit. There are many programs, services, and products that can help.
• Seniors should avoid contact with secondhand smoke whenever possible.
• Reducing exposure to air pollution can help reduce symptoms. Many cities issue poor air quality warnings – when these warnings are in effect, seniors should limit outside activities.
• Seniors should avoid airborne irritants (chemicals, fumes, etc.) in the home.
• A healthy diet and exercise plan, with direction from a physician, can improve lung function and overall health.
• Older adults should understand the impact of aging on their respiratory system and how to reduce their risk of any related diseases, illnesses, or conditions.
• Doctors may recommend getting vaccinations for both influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia in order to guard against further breathing complications.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help
As part of a healthcare team, an in-home caregiver can assist with activities that slow progression of the disease, or reduce the risk for those with respiratory issues. Comfort Keepers caregivers can help by supporting physician-recommended health programs, preparing meals, encouraging prescribed physical activity, reminding seniors to take medications and providing transportation to scheduled appointments. Call your local office today to discuss our available services.

References:

Healthline. “Everything You Need to Know About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).” Web. 2018.
Everyday Health. “5 Best Ways to Prevent COPD” by Chris Iliades, MD. Web. 2018.
Aging Care. “An Overview of COPD” by National Institutes of Health. Web. 2017.
Unity Point Health. “The Top 8 Respiratory Illnesses and Diseases.” Web. 2014.
Canadian Lung Association. “COPD.” Web. 2019.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Chronic Respiratory Disease.” Web. 2017.

No matter what age we are, living a life of purpose, connection and joy is critical for our physical and mental wellbeing. For older adults, a variety of obstacles like vision loss, social isolation, mobility problems and memory issues can make enjoying life more difficult.

More than 1.8 million Canadians over 60 years of age are living with a mental health problem or illness.

Why is it important for seniors to focus on their mental health?

• Socially isolated seniors have a 59% greater risk of mental and physical decline than those who do not experience social isolation (Forbes).
• The health effects of social isolation and loneliness on seniors is equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes per day (AARP.org).
• Depression in the elderly is associated with increased risk of cardiac diseases and risk of death from illness (WebMD).

Signs of depression in seniors can include change in attitude, self-isolation, weight loss, fatigue or lack of interest in once enjoyable activities.

For older adults that want to improve their quality of life through enhanced mental health, there are a few things they can do to kick off their healthy habits.

• Exercise – Seniors should always consult with a physician before starting any physical activity or fitness program. Seniors that are able, and approved, to exercise may see increased physical and mental wellness. Exercise has been proven to have a positive effect on the brain.
• Connection – At any age, many people find joy in spending time with family and friends. Social isolation can be a problem for seniors that have mobility issues or aren’t able to drive, or who have loved ones that live far away. However, there are services that can help overcome these issues, including transportation help, in-home care assistance, technology that fosters connection and other outside sources of help.
• Volunteering – Sharing time and talents doing volunteer work can bring a sense or purpose and fulfillment. Many organizations have programs and volunteer opportunities specifically geared to older adults.
• Spending time on joyful activities – Everyone has a different interest or hobby that brings joy, whether that’s music, art, dance, gardening or games. Seniors should try to spend time doing something that brings them happiness on a daily basis to improve their quality of life.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

Our goal is to provide uplifting in-home care that benefits seniors and their families. The individualized care plans we create for our clients consider physical goals as well as non-physical mental health needs. Our caregivers can provide transportation to community events, support physician-prescribed exercise regimens, provide companionship and help families stay connected through technology. We strive to elevate the human spirit through quality, compassionate, joyful care.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References

Science Daily/McMaster University. “Working it Out: Researchers find exercise may help fight depression in seniors.” Web. 2019.

WebMD. “Depression in the Elderly.” Web.

Healthline. “Geriatric Depression (Depression in Older Adults).” Web.

Mental Health Commission of Canada.  “Seniors”.  Web.

As we age, our body’s natural defenses become less reliable. As a result, seniors are more susceptible to infection – including pneumonia.

For Canadian seniors, hospitalization for pneumonia has a greater risk of death compared to any of the other top 10 reasons for hospitalization.

Pneumonia is an infection that affects one or both lungs and can range from mild to severe. For some, pneumonia can be fatal. It is typically caused when bacteria, fungi, or viruses enter the lungs and cause inflammation.

Why Pneumonia is More Common in Seniors

• Changes to the lungs as we age. Seniors can’t always effectively clear secretions as well from their lungs. Those secretions can go down into bronchial tubes, causing the infection.
• Weakened immune systems. A senior’s immune system has a harder time fighting off infection, especially if they’ve gone through chemotherapy, had an organ or bone marrow transplant, or have taken certain medications for an extended period of time.
• Senior health conditions. Some conditions can put seniors at a higher risk. These include diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, HIV, cystic fibrosis, asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Surgery can also expose seniors to infections

Signs of Pneumonia

Symptoms can include coughing, fever, chills, shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, fatigue, and the sudden worsening of a cold or the flu.

Pneumonia Treatments

Typically, a physician will do a chest X-ray and/or blood test to determine if a senior has pneumonia. In addition to medication, doctors may give the patient fluids, oxygen, pain relief and medical support.

Reducing the Risk of Pneumonia in Seniors
Seniors should discuss pneumonia prevention with their physician to determine the best plan. Some options to help reduce the risk of pneumonia include:

• Get vaccinated. All people over age 65 should get an annual flu shot, as well as a pneumococcal vaccine, a one-time shot that protects against the pneumococcus, or pneumonia bacteria.
• Take steps to quit smoking. Smoking negatively impacts health in many ways, and the lungs receive a significant amount of damage. Those who smoke are at a greater overall risk of pneumonia because the lungs’ defense mechanisms become compromised.
• Practice a Healthy Lifestyle. Seniors should follow a physician-approved diet and exercise regimen. This will help bolster their immune system and reduce the risk of pneumonia.

Comfort Keepers® Can Help
Whether senior clients are recovering from pneumonia or looking to protect themselves, the trusted care team at Comfort Keepers® can help. Our caregivers remind clients to take medication, provide transportation to scheduled appointments, and support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. Above all, our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers office today.

References:

American Thoracic Society. “Top 20 Pneumonia Facts.” Web. 2018
Mayo Clinic. “Pneumonia -Symptoms and Causes”. Web.
Web MD. “What is Bacterial Pneumonia.” Web. 2016.
Aging.com. “What Causes Pneumonia in the Elderly?” Web. 2018.
American Lung Association. “Lung Health and Diseases: Learn About Pneumonia.” Web. 2018.
Everyday Health. “Pneumonia 101: What You Need to Know.” Web. 2019.

At any age, our health and wellbeing are enhanced by regularly participating in the events and activities that bring purpose, hope and joy. For seniors, taking part in these activities can be more difficult, but it’s also more important to find a way to participate as we get older. Elderly people who feel younger than their age show less brain aging, better memory and less depression.

Studies show that staying engaged is important for a senior’s mental health, but avoiding social isolation and maintaining a sense of purpose can have physical effects too. Medical professionals recognize that social determinants of health, especially those that affect mental, social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing, impact health outcomes and quality of life.

It’s important for seniors to work with their families, caregivers and health professionals to develop a plan that allows them to take part in activities they love and maintain positive mental health through activity and connection. There are always opportunities for meaningful moments and joyful days with a little planning, conversation and intentional action.

Winter Activities

The holidays are filled with opportunities to enjoy music, celebrations with family and service.

• For some, holiday shopping is a nice way to spend time outside of the house and can be a good way to get in some walking for those that are following a physician-prescribed exercise program.
• Singing, dancing, playing instruments and listening to holiday carols are ways that seniors can enjoy music, even if they have mobility issues or have to stay home due to inclement weather. Streaming music services often have a wide selection, allowing seniors to pick their favorites to listen to through a phone, virtual assistant or computer.
• While there are ways that seniors can serve others year-round, volunteering can be even more meaningful around the holidays. Working at a soup kitchen, reading to children or participating in food and clothing drives can help spread holiday cheer and foster a sense of purpose.

Spring Activities

Spring brings warmer weather, holidays that encourage fun and an opportunity to start the new year right.

• For those that have been given approval from their physician to exercise, many gyms and fitness centers have discounts at the beginning of the year. This is a great chance to explore new exercise classes and facilities.
• Before the weather gets too warm, it’s good to consider a spring-cleaning project. And, a spring refresh doesn’t have to be a chore – seniors can make housework fun by playing upbeat music or using the time to look at photos and mementos with loved ones.
• Spring serves up holidays that are pure fun – seniors and their loved ones should make it a point to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, Cinco de Mayo, Mother’s Day, Easter and the first day of spring. Whether it’s making a special meal, dressing up or going to festivals or community events, spring offers lots of opportunities for connection.
• Many older adults find that gardening is a perfect spring activity for those that like to be outside, and can involve anyone that wants to help!

Summer Activities

Hot summer days and warm summer nights offer many opportunities for outdoor activities, as well as enjoyable things to do in the AC when it gets too steamy out.

• Because seniors are more sensitive to the sun, gyms and community centers often have pools that offer water aerobics classes in the cooler morning or evening hours. Seniors interested in these programs should discuss their exercise plans with a healthcare professional before signing up.
• For seniors looking to avoid the sun, there are a number of activities that take place in air-conditioned environments – this includes spending an afternoon at the movies, walking through an indoor mall or hosting friends and family for iced tea and card games.
• Picnics, BBQ’s, concerts in the park and stargazing are all summertime activities that can be enjoyed by people of any age, and are great for seniors and their families to do together. Many of these can be done out in the community or near the home.

Fall Activities

Fall activities tend to focus on connecting with loved ones, enjoying the turning season and spending time outside before the weather gets icy.

• Fall is a dream for seniors that enjoy football, baseball and hockey. And, many sports facilities are accessible for those with mobility issues. For those that don’t live near their favorite team, seniors and their loved ones have many opportunities for parties at home.
• Enjoying fall foliage is an activity in itself, and can be done sitting on the porch, going for a short walk or on a longer hike outside. Raking leaves can even be fun when done with loved ones.
• Eating is another activity that seems to be more fun in the fall – family dinners, baking projects and Halloween celebrations are all opportunities for seniors to participate in activities they enjoy while maintaining their nutrition goals.

Comfort Keepers^® can Help

At Comfort Keepers^®, we create individual care plans for every client. These plans include wellness goals that consider physical, mental and emotional health. Our caregivers can help support physician-prescribed diet and exercise plans, provide medication reminders, provide transportation to events and appointments and help seniors engage in the activities they love the most. And, our caregivers can help senior stay connected with loved ones through video chats, phone calls and care updates. We believe that every senior should experience the best in life. If you have questions about Comfort Keepers uplifting in-home care services, please contact us today.

References

AARP. “Keep Your Brain Active by Doing Things You Love.” Web (video).

Science Daily. “Feeling Young Could Mean Your Brain is Aging More Slowly.” Web. 2018.

Forbes. “The Risks of Social Isolation for Older Adults.” Web. 2017.

Lifehack. “19 Fun Activities for Seniors to Stay Active Physically and Mentally.” Web.