Category: Independent Living

Preventing Winter Illness in Older Adults

Cold winter temperatures can cause an increased risk of health problems and weather-related injuries for older adults. Hypothermia, frost-bite, influenza and falls in the ice or snow can present major health concerns during the winter months. Because older adults lose body heat faster than compared to their younger years, staying warm enough during the winter can be a challenge. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults ages 65 and older are at a high risk of developing complications, such as pneumonia from the flu. Flu activity is the highest between December and February, and can last until the springtime. While the flu might seem like a nuisance for many people, it can cause serious health complications for older adults, especially for those with weakened immune systems.

Complications from Influenza

Influenza in older adults triples the risk of both heart attack and stroke within the first two weeks of infection. Pneumonia, which is an infection of the air sacs in one or both of the lungs, is characterized by severe cough, fever, chills and difficulty in breathing. Pneumonia often occurs as a complication of influenza and can cause serious health problems, including death, for older adults. If you have been ill with influenza and experience severe coughing with large amounts of mucus, trouble breathing, shortness of breath, severe chills or sweating, a fever higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit, and chest pains, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Tips for Preventing Winter Illness

Get the flu and pneumonia vaccine

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise older adults to get the flu vaccine each year starting in September. The vaccine is proven to be the best way to protect against influenza and its complications. Flu vaccines are updated each season and can reduce the severity and duration of the illness. Older adults should also consider getting the pneumonia vaccine, as the illness can cause severe problems.

Practice good hygiene

Germs from your hands can enter through your nose and mouth, causing you to become ill. Make sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water to disinfect any germs and prevent illnesses from entering your body. Use antibacterial hand sanitizer when on the go.

Wear a mask

Wearing a mask isn’t only preventative towards COVID-19. In fact, wearing a mask when in public can help prevent the spread of the flu and other wintertime illnesses. It’s also important to wear a mask when you are ill or feel an illness coming on to protect others from getting sick.

Eat a healthy diet

Eating a well-balanced diet of fruit and vegetables can help keep the immune system functioning and even reduce the risk of developing wintertime illnesses such as influenza and the common cold. Staying hydrated also helps the body fight off infections. Studies have shown that foods high in vitamin C such as citrus fruits, peppers and broccoli can help boost the immune system and prevent illness.

Avoid touching your face

You may touch your face more often than you think! However, during the flu season it’s important to keep your hands away from your nose and mouth, as germs can enter the body and cause us to get sick.

Clean high touch surfaces

It’s important to consistently disinfect common areas in your home such as the kitchen and bathroom. Germs can multiply even in your home and increase the risk of developing influenza and other illnesses. Keep disinfecting wipes easily accessible in high touch areas and use them on doorknobs, light switches and counters.

Staying Healthy at Maple Knoll Village

We know how dangerous the flu can be for our residents at Maple Knoll. That’s why our community provides the flu vaccine and healthy meal options which support an effective and strong immune system. How are you staying healthy this winter?

Healthy Eating for Seniors

Eating the right types of food can play an important role in healthy aging. However, proper nutrition can look differently as we age. Some older adults tend to lose muscle mass, making it important to consume higher amounts of protein, while others may find their bodies absorb certain nutrients at a slower rate. Eating what is right for our aging bodies can help us stay energized, maintain a healthy weight, lower the risk of developing chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. In addition, maintaining a healthy diet can also extend your quality of life and promote longevity. The first step to eating right is to learn about the ways age can affect our appetite.

How Aging Affects the Appetite

Medical issues and normal changes that come with aging can interfere with nutrition for older adults. It’s important to be able to recognize and identify these issues in order to address them in a timely manner. According to the National Institutes of Health, here are a few of the most common dietary changes older adults may experience:

Taste Disorders. Taste disorders can cause older adults to lose their appetites. As we age, it’s common to lose taste buds, causing food to taste differently than it did before. While it can be tempting to add sugar and salt to enhance the flavor of food, it’s recommended to flavor with herbs and spices instead.
Medications. Certain medications can affect how food tastes, which can cause a change in appetite. Medications can also interfere with how our bodies are able to absorb nutrients. If you’re taking a medication, you might consider asking your healthcare provider if there are any changes you need to make to your diet.
Oral Health. Problems with your teeth, such as loose fillings, uncomfortable dentures or missing teeth can make eating a painful experience. If you have any discomfort while eating, you might consider speaking with your dentist. Softer foods, such as soups and smoothies, can provide nutrients while also reducing the feeling of pain while eating.

Tips for Cooking for One or Two People

If you are used to cooking for a large family, learning how to prepare enough food just for yourself without wasting can be difficult. However, this doesn’t mean you have to forego cooking healthy meals completely. Instead of settling for frozen dinners or take-out, you might consider the following cooking tips provided by the Mayo Clinic:

Make a plan

You’re less likely to waste food when you plan out all of your meals in advance. Try jotting down meal ideas for the week and preparing a shopping list. This way, you’ll have everything on-hand when you are ready to cook your meal.

Stock your pantry

Having healthy food options on hand will make cooking and preparing food feel much easier. Keeping canned vegetables, beans and fruits stocked in your pantry will make fixing a healthy meal possible at any time. You may consider purchasing whole grain foods such as brown rice, quinoa, barley and pasta to make meals more satisfying.

Take advantage of your freezer

Buying foods in bulk can help keep your grocery costs down. You can always store extra ingredients in the freezer to keep them fresh for longer. You can freeze many foods including bread, meats, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Freezing is a great way to prevent food waste. Always make sure to write the date on whatever foods you are freezing.

Prepare one-dish meals

Dishes that serve as a whole meal are great options for those cooking just for themselves or one other person. These dishes usually include items from different food groups such as meats, whole grains, legumes and vegetables. One-dish meals might come in the form of stews, casseroles or chili. While one-dish meals might produce a lot of food, most make excellent freezer meals.

Cook once, but use twice

Plan your meals so that you can freeze extra into individual servings or eat throughout the week. For example, if you roast a chicken for dinner one night, you can use leftovers to make chicken soup or chicken salad and eat that for several meals.

Prioritize convenience

We all have days where we feel under the weather or run out of time to prepare a healthy meal. It’s best to plan ahead for these days! Low sodium canned soups and healthy frozen meals make great options for times like these.

Healthy Recipe Ideas for One

If you’re having trouble finding inspiration for your next meal, look no further. BBC Good Food has compiled a variety of recipes that are specifically designed to feed one person, but can be adapted to feed more. Here’s one to get you started:

Chicken Breast with Avocado Salad

Ingredients

1 skinless chicken breast
2 tsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika

For the salad:

½ small avocado, diced
1 tsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp flat leaf parsley, chopped
1 medium tomato, chopped
Half small red onion, thinly sliced

Step one:

In a skillet, heat 1 tsp of oil over medium heat. Rub chicken with paprika. Cook chicken on 4-5 minutes each side until cooked through.

Step two:

Mix the salad ingredients together, season and add the rest of the oil. Thickly slice the chicken and serve with salad.

Brain Exercises for Older Adults

As we age, our bodies undergo a number of physical changes. Just as our joints and muscles can stiffen up with age, so can our brains. In fact, according to the National Institute of Health, aging causes changes to the brain size, vasculature and cognition. The normal aging process can bring subtle changes in cognitive abilities that can impact our ability to learn something new, recall names, and cause us to occasionally forget appointments. However, we have the ability to slow down the aging process by instilling healthy habits that promote brain stimulation and sharpness.

Supporting a Healthy Brain

Our bodies and brains are interconnected and when we take care of one, we take care of the other. Implementing small, healthy changes into our daily routine can help protect our brains from cognitive decline and help prevent mood disorders such as depression. According to U.S. News, here are a few ways you can support brain health each day:

Exercise. Physical exercise isn’t only good for our bodies, but also for our brains. They work to control our muscles and coordination and help us slow down and speed up. Exercises such as ballroom dancing, yoga and biking require our brains to think about next steps and move sequences.

Stay socially engaged. Human interaction is proven to keep our brains sharp by reducing feelings of stress and promoting the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural feel-good hormone. Spending time with friends and family members can provide the mental stimulation needed to strengthen our cognitive skills and mental clarity.

Quit smoking. While smoking is bad for you for a number of health reasons, it can also severely impact brain function. Smoking just one cigarette a day for an extended period of time can actually reduce cognitive ability, thinking and memory. When you stop smoking, circulation can improve almost instantly.

Eat a healthy diet. Heart-healthy diets can support brain health, help maintain a healthy weight, and reduce the risk of developing chronic illnesses and cognitive issues. Gut health and cognitive function are closely linked. The more we focus on creating a healthy gut microbiome, the better our brains will be able to function.

Focus on good sleep. Sleep helps our bodies repair from both emotional and physical stress. When we don’t get enough quality sleep, it can disrupt our brain’s ability to perform certain biological changes.

Mental Exercises for Brain Sharpness

In addition to implementing healthy habits into your daily routine, there are other ways you can support brain health. Doing certain brain exercises can help boost your memory, improve concentration and focus. Improving brain health can make daily tasks, like remembering appointments or balancing your check book, feel easier. According to Healthline Magazine, here are a few evidence-based exercises that can help support brain health:

Jigsaw puzzles. Research has shown that puzzles require us to use multiple cognitive abilities including spatial awareness and problem-solving. Working on a jigsaw puzzle for just a few minutes a day can improve cognitive thinking and help keep your brain sharp.
Cards. Like puzzles, card games also ignite different areas of the brain and help improve memory and thinking skills. Card games such as solitaire, bridge, gin rummy, poker, hearts and crazy eights are entertaining and help support brain health.
Dancing. Certain types of dance can actually help increase your brain’s processing speed and memory. Salsa, tap dance, Zumba and ballroom dancing require you to anticipate next movements and remember a sequence of steps, all of which require the brain to work hard, improving cognitive function and memory skills.
Listen to music. Research has shown that happy, upbeat music can help generate creativity and brain power. This can help us with problem-solving and make learning new things feel easier.
Meditate. Daily meditation can promote calmness and reduce stress and anxiety. However, most people don’t know that meditation can also improve memory and increase our brain’s ability to process new information.
Practice tai chi. Regularly practicing tai chi can help reduce stress, enhance sleep quality and even improve our memory. Some studies suggest that long-term tai chi practice can even increase brain volume.

Prioritizing Brain Health at Maple Knoll Village

At Maple Knoll Village, we know how important it is to preserve cognitive function well into our later years. That’s why many of our offerings, from meal options to activities, are designed to support brain health in a number of different ways. To learn more about these offerings or to schedule a tour, please contact us!

Skin Care Tips for Seniors

Sunlight exposure is essential for important bodily functions, such as maintaining circadian rhythm and producing vitamin D, which helps our muscular, skeletal and nervous systems work properly. However, too much sunlight can cause short and long-term skin damage such as sunburn, aging spots, wrinkles and even cancer. In fact, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and worldwide, with nearly 1 in 5 Americans diagnosed by the age of 70. As we age it’s important to pay special attention to how our skin changes and understand how to identify abnormal changes.

How Our Skin Changes as we Age

Just as our internal organs age, so does our skin. As we get older its common for our skin to become thinner, lose fat, and no longer look as smooth or firm as it did in our younger years. You might notice your veins becoming more noticeable or that scratches and cuts take longer to heal. According to the National Institute on Aging, here are some of the most common ways our skin changes as we age and what we can do to protect our skin:

Dry Skin and Itching

Many older adults experience dry skin patches as they age. It’s common to develop dry skin from not drinking enough liquids, spending too much time in the sun, living in a dry climate, smoking, feeling stress, or losing sweat and oil glands. However, dry skin can also be caused by various health problems like diabetes and kidney disease. Using moisturizers, taking fewer baths and bathing in warm, not hot water can help resolve these issues.

Bruises

It’s common for older adults to bruise more easily than younger people. Certain medications and illnesses can cause bruising and make the healing time longer. If you notice excessive bruising and do not know the cause, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider.

Wrinkles

As we age, it’s normal for our skin to wrinkle. Wrinkles can develop for a number of reasons including UV rays from the sun, diminished skin elasticity, and certain habits such as overexposure to the sun and smoking.

Age Spots and Skin Tags

Age spots, or flat brown spots caused by sun exposure, commonly show up on the face, hands, arms, back and feet. Skin tags, which are more common in women, can be found on eyelids, neck, armpit, chest and groin.

Skin Cancer

The main cause of skin cancer is the sun and can also be caused by sunlamps and tanning booths. There are three types of skins cancers including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, both of which grow slowly and rarely spread to other parts of the body. The third type of skin cancer, melanoma, can spread to other organs. Checking your skin for new growths, bleeding moles, and sores that don’t heal can help you identify signs of cancer and allow you to seek treatment sooner.

Tips for Healthy Skin

While too much sun can be damaging to our skin and negatively impact our health, some sun can be good for you! As you continue to enjoy the summer weather and do more activities outside, there are a few ways you can protect your skin:

Limit time in the sun. During the summer months, it’s important to try and avoid being out in the sun during times where the sun is the strongest, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Also keep in mind you can get sunburned even during cloudy and overcast days.
Wear protective clothing. If you have to be in the sun, you might consider wearing loose, lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants. A hat with a wide brim can protect your neck, ears, eyes and head.
Use sunscreen. According to AARP, a 2013 study found that daily use of sunscreen significantly slowed skin aging in healthy men and women. In addition to decreasing the risk of developing various types of skin cancer, sunscreen can also prevent wrinkling, coarser skin and age spots.

How to Effectively Use Sunscreen

Using sunscreen isn’t as straightforward as we might think. The overwhelming number of sunscreen options, levels of strength, and different brands can make choosing the right sunscreen feel daunting. However, there are a few tips you can keep in mind the next time you reach for a bottle of sunscreen:

Pay attention to the SPF. Manufactures can sell sunscreens with SPFs higher than 50, however, many researchers and dermatologists believe that the higher numbers may not make a difference. It’s important to choose a sunscreen that offers broad spectrum protection as it ensures protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Tanning can put you at risk. If you’re tanning in the sun, even while wearing sunscreen, you aren’t as protected as you might think. Once your skin begins to visibly darken, it’s a sign that UV rays have penetrated deeper into the skin. If you’ll be out in the sun for an extended period of time, it’s important to add hats and big sunglasses to your outfit.
Pay attention to moisturizers. Daily moisturizers with added SPF is a great option for days you plan on being outdoors, but not sweating. Perspiration can reduce the sun protection from moisturizers, making you more vulnerable to the effects of the sun. It’s important to reapply sunscreen often, especially if you are sweating.
Apply generously. Dermatologists and researchers both agree that a dab of sunscreen here and there is not enough. In fact, it’s recommended to use two tablespoons of sunscreen to cover your face and body, keeping in mind that this should be reapplied every two to three hours.
Avoid spray sunscreens. If you’re applying sunscreen to your face, be sure to avoid spray sunscreen as it can irritate the lungs. Sprays are also highly flammable, so be sure to avoid using them if you are grilling, sitting by a fire, or have plans to use fireworks.

As you continue to enjoy outdoor activities this summer, be sure to protect your skin. It’s never too late to start wearing sunscreen and taking other protective measures to ensure skin health.

Making Cardio a Part of Your Life

As we age, our bodies undergo physical changes that can impact our activity levels and the way we function day-to-day. However, research suggests that physical decline associated with aging is linked to increased inactivity, rather than aging itself. Starting a regular exercise program can help delay and reduce the effects of aging and even reverse some of the decline that’s occurred already. Cardiovascular exercise, while important at any age, is beneficial to older adults looking to start a fitness routine. In fact, cardiovascular exercise can help lower resting heart rate, reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and help lower the risk of heart disease. In addition, cardio can help with weight management, increase lung capacity, help strengthen bones, and decrease stress and anxiety. Implementing cardio into your daily life doesn’t have to be daunting. According to the American Heart Association, just 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, or 30 minutes for 5 days, can help improve overall cardiovascular health and provide many benefits.

Cardiovascular Exercises for Seniors

The most important element of any exercise routine is that you keep your body moving. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends staying as active as your body allows. This means sitting less and moving more. As you begin to implement cardiovascular exercises into your routine, it’s important to focus on low-impact forms of exercise, and tone down the intensity of your workouts until you build strength and stamina.

Walking is a safe and easy form of cardiovascular exercise that can be done pretty much anywhere. You don’t need to use equipment, however, walking on a treadmill gives you the ability to control difficulty level. Walking on an incline can help build muscle, strengthen the heart, and improve balance. The National Institute on Aging suggests walking in a mall for exercise to avoid environmental factors such as inclement weather and tripping hazards, such as uneven pavement.

Weight bearing cardio and strength training are both important elements of a cardiovascular exercise routine. Weight-bearing cardio exercises, like playing tennis and dancing, not only strengthen your heart and muscles, but also improve bone health, which is especially important for older adults. Strength training is linked to a decreased risk of disease, longer life expectancy and overall well-being. If you plan to add in strength training exercises to your routine, be sure to seek professional help, especially if you are a beginner. A personal trainer can show you effective exercises and proper form to help prevent injury.

Swimming is a low impact cardiovascular exercise that is great for individuals with joint pain and osteoporosis. Water aerobic exercises is also a safe option that allows you to reap the same benefits of other cardiovascular exercises. Group exercises led by an instructor can help keep you safe, accountable and motivated.

What is Intensity?

Cardiovascular exercises can be adapted to meet anyone’s physical ability, but it’s important to consider the frequency and intensity of an exercise before setting a routine. Aerobic or cardiovascular activities elevate the heart rate and strengthen the heart muscles by improving overall cardiorespiratory fitness. Intensity refers to how hard your body is working during a physical activity. As you get stronger, the intensity of a particular exercise can change.

To reap the health benefits of cardiovascular exercise, moderate to vigorous-intensity activities are recommended. Examples of moderate activities include water aerobics, tennis, biking, and brisk walking. These activities will increase your heart rate and cause you to breathe harder, but you should still be able to talk. Vigorous exercise will force you to work a little harder. Sweating and heavy breathing will occur, and you might find it more difficult to have a conversation. These activities include hiking uphill, swimming laps, heavy yardwork, and running. If you prefer vigorous exercise, the American Heart Association, recommends just 75 minutes of activity per week. Remember, it’s important to consult your doctor before adding in new exercises to your routine or preforming vigorous physical activities.

How Should I Get Started?

It’s never too late to improve your fitness level but having a plan in place can help you stay on track to achieve your goals. If you’re wondering make cardio a part of your life, here are a few suggestions to help you get started:

Know your limits

Before you start any new fitness routine, it’s important to get cleared by your healthcare provider. Scheduling an annual physical examination before trying any new exercises will help keep you safe and avoid injury. This would be a good time to ask if any medications you’re taking, especially for blood pressure and heart disease, will affect your ability to exercise. Ask your doctor to identify any symptoms to watch out for during exercise, such as chest tightness, irregular heart beat or joint pain.

Create a plan

If you have an exercise plan put into place, you’re more likely to see better results and stay motivated longer. When your motivation goes away, self-discipline is more likely to kick in if you have a set routine. As you create your action plan, identify which exercises you will do, the intensity level, the length of the workout, and the frequency. For example, you might start with 30 minutes of water aerobics for three days a week and 30-minute walks for the other two days. After four weeks or so, you may need to reexamine your fitness routine and change the level of intensity or add in weight-bearing exercises.

Get creative

Exercise is not supposed to a daunting task or something we dread to do each day. In fact, it’s important to look at exercise as a way of honoring of our bodies and all they do for us. While walking and swimming are great cardiovascular exercises, another way to stick to your plan is to do activities you love. Playing in the park with your grandkids, dancing, or even doing simple chair exercises while you watch your favorite TV show are great ways to get in some physical activity while also having fun.

Staying Active at Maple Knoll Communities

At Maple Knoll Communities, we offer a variety of ways to add cardiovascular exercises into your daily routine. Regularly scheduled exercise classes, water aerobics, and our wellness center are available to all residents, as well as personal trainers and coaches. To learn more about our offerings or to schedule a tour, please contact us.

The Many Benefits of Laughter for Older Adults

The use of laughter has been used in the medical space for centuries, but more recently experts have been interested in researching its medical benefits. While laughter can’t cure everything, research suggests that it can strengthen the immune system, boost mood, diminish pain and provide relief from stress. As researchers continue to collect data on laughter’s effect on overall health, current data confirms its many physical, mental, and social benefits.

Physical Benefits of Laughter

When a person laughs, their diaphragm stretches and sends oxygen into the body, stimulating the lungs and respiratory system. This basic act of laughing releases any built-up tension in our muscles and allows our bodies to relax and rest. In addition, genuine laughter can trigger the following physical benefits:

Stimulates organs. Laughter enhances your capacity to breathe in oxygen-rich air which stimulates the heart, lungs and muscles, while also increasing the release of endorphins, our body’s natural mood booster.
Boosts immunity. When we laugh, we often experience positive thinking and light-heartedness. Positive thoughts can actually help release neuropeptides that help fight stress and other serious illnesses.
Lowers stress hormones. Laughter reduces the level of stress hormones in our body and increases antibody producing cells which help combat stress and strengthen the immune system.
Decreases pain. Because laughter encourages the chemical release of endorphins, it has the ability to alleviate the symptoms of stress and depression. Endorphins also have the capacity to increase an individual’s ability to ignore and tolerate pain.
Prevents heart disease. Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow to the heart which can help prevent heart attacks and other cardiovascular conditions.
Improves sleep. Researchers have found that laughing causes the body to produce more melatonin which is the hormone released at the onset of sleep.

Mental Benefits of Laughter

Stress can take a toll on our bodies and our brains. In fact, according to the American Psychological Association, when stress becomes chronic, it can have serious effects on all systems of the body. Here’s how laughter works on stress and provides other mental benefits:

Physical release. Stress is usually stored in the body in different ways. You might notice yourself clenching your jaw or raising your shoulders in moments of stress. Laughter counteracts this tension by relaxing the muscles and encouraging both physical and emotional release.
Distraction. Laughter allows you to shift your focus from anger, guilt, stress and other negative emotions and focus on positivity and happiness instead.
Perspective. Humor can provide a different perspective, especially in times of illness, stress, and anxiety. Laughter can also help us view challenging times as opportunities instead of threats.

Social Benefits of Laughter

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, loneliness and social isolation in older adults are public health concerns. In fact, “social isolation can significantly increase a person’s risk of premature death from all causes, a risk that may rival those of smoking, obesity and physical inactivity.” Laughter can help combat these feelings of loneliness and isolation and help foster meaningful social relationships in the following ways:

Strengthens relationships. In addition to relieving physical tension, laughter can also help relieve tension in a relationship, especially during stressful situations. Research suggests that shared laughter between two people is closely correlated with relationship satisfaction.
Adds positivity. It can be helpful to use humor to navigate difficult situations, when used appropriately. In fact, some individuals might find that laughter removes emotional barriers and allows for better and more honest conversations.
Helps understand yourself and others. Humor gives us the ability to practice compassion and forgiveness and cope with anxiety, fear and grief.

Finding Laughter at Maple Knoll Village

At Maple Knoll Village, we know how important laughter is to overall wellness, that’s why we make it an everyday occurrence. Group activities such as book club, game night, and even exercise classes provide the opportunity to strengthen meaningful relationships and most importantly—have a laugh. To learn more about our offerings or to schedule a tour, please contact us.

How Much Do You Know About Your Parent’s Health?

Adult children with Parent at Maple Knoll Village

With nearly 10,000 baby boomers reaching retirement age every day, the demand for caregivers increases each year. According to a report from Families Caring for An Aging America, at least 17.7 million individuals in the U.S. are caring for an older adult with various health needs. For many families, this responsibility often falls on a family member, such as a spouse or an adult child. In fact, data suggests that more than half of older adults between the ages of 85 and 89 require a family member’s help because of health or other functional issues. However, many older adults require help much sooner than this. Other conditions which are common among older adults such as Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, heart-attack or heart-disease, and fall-related injuries can result in needing assistance with basic daily tasks. Sometimes the need for assistance is quite obvious and other times it can go unrecognized for long periods of time.

For long-distance adult children, it can be difficult to know when a parent needs extra support. Many older adults either learn how to hide their condition or don’t want to burden their children with asking for help. It’s not uncommon for adult children to be surprised by their parent’s condition after going long periods of time without visiting, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s even more common for adult children to wonder why their parent isn’t asking for help when they need it.

Why isn’t your parent asking for help?

Whether your loved one is experiencing normal age-related forgetfulness or decreased mobility, it might come as a surprise when they don’t ask for help. However, there are a number of reasons why parents hesitate to ask their adult children for assistance:

Denial. As humans, we can rationalize any situation no matter its severity. Even if your loved one is experiencing changes in their memory or physical health, they may not have accepted these changes yet. Instead, your parent might be placing blame on others around them.
Cognitive decline. When adults develop Alzheimer’s or dementia, they may not realize that they are putting their safety at risk. In addition, it’s not uncommon for those with memory conditions to hide their symptoms from their loved ones.
Fear of losing autonomy. Oftentimes older adults worry that receiving more care and assistance results in a loss of independence. They might fear losing the ability to drive, take care of themselves, or live in their home independently.

Understanding the Warning Signs

Whether you’re already noticing signs of declining health in your loved one, or aren’t exactly sure what to look for, there are some common warning signs that can help you identify a problem. The Mayo Clinic has developed a list of signs and symptoms of various health conditions that should spark concern. The next time you visit your loved one, you may consider asking these questions:

Are your parents able to take care of themselves?

Failure to keep up with basic daily routines, such as bathing and brushing teeth, could be a sign of depression, dementia, or other physical impairments. The next time you’re with your parents, pay attention to their physical appearance. In addition, any changes in the way your parents do things around their home could also provide insight into their health. Are they paying the bills on time? Are the dishes clean? Neglecting housework or having problems buying groceries could also be signs of depression or dementia.

Are your parents experiencing memory loss?

It’s common for older adults to experience sporadic forgetfulness, however, there is a difference between these normal changes and memory loss that interferes with daily life. Warning signs of abnormal memory loss can include: asking the same questions repeatedly, getting lost in familiar places, not being able to follow instructions, and becoming confused about time, people and places.

Are your parents safe in their home?

Take a look around your parents’ home and look for anything out of the ordinary. Are they able to refill their medications and take them consistently? You may consider looking around for any fall hazards or signs they have recently fallen.

Are your parents safe on the road?

If your parents become confused while driving or you have concerns about their ability to drive—especially if you have noticed any new scratches or dings in their vehicle, it might be time to have a conversation about driving alternatives.

Have your parents lost weight?

Losing weight without trying could be a sign that something is wrong. Weight loss can be related to many different factors including difficulty cooking, loss of taste or smell, social issues and underlying conditions such as malnutrition, dementia, depression, or cancer.

Are your parents still social?

If your parent is neglecting their normal social activities, it could be a sign of depression or dementia. If you notice your parent withdrawing from their hobbies or avoiding their friends, it may be time to address your concerns.

Next Steps

If you’ve noticed any warning signs in your loved one, it can be difficult to know what to do next, especially if you live cross-country or far away. However, there are many steps you can take to ensure your parent is getting the support and care they need. Here are a few ways to get started:

Consider a CCRC. Continuing care retirement communities are great options for older adults who want access to different levels of care in one place. CCRCs offer independent living, assisted living and skilled care nursing. These are also great options for couples who prefer to age together, especially in situations where one spouse requires more care than the other.
Share your concerns. Talk to your parents about your concerns and ask them to visit their health care provider. If you are long-distance, you may ask a trusted friend or family member to accompany them.
Address immediate safety concerns. If you notice any threats to your parents’ health or safety, such as malnourishment or fall-hazards, it’s important to address these first. This might include hiring additional support, such as a personal care attendant, or installing grab bars around the home.
Contact your parent’s healthcare provider. If your parents dismiss your concerns, it may be time to seek help from their healthcare provider. Sharing your concerns with their doctor will help them look for warning signs at their next appointment or conduct assessments to diagnos memory loss or other conditions. You parent may be more open to hearing feedback from a trusted doctor or other healthcare provider.

At Maple Knoll Communities, our main priority is the health and safety of our residents in all levels of care. We work together with family members to provide support, address concerns, and offer peace of mind. If you’re interested in learning more about our offerings or to schedule a tour, please contact us.

Benefits of Virtual Reality for Older Adults

When we think of cutting-edge technology, senior citizens aren’t often the first to come to mind. However, a new technology has captivated both young and elderly audiences. Virtual Reality (VR) is a technology that simulates the experience of being in a different time and place, allowing its user to visualize and feel like they’re in a completely altered environment. Traditionally, technology has been intimidating for the baby boomer generation, 10,000 of which turn 65 each day. Virtual Reality has already entered into the senior living industry, being used within retirement communities to help reduce loneliness, improve medical care and provide adventure and stimulation for seniors.

VR Brings Retirement Community Tours to Life

Some retirement communities are turning to Virtual Reality to show prospective residents what their future homes will look and feel like. Instead of opting for in-person tours during COVID-19, some senior living communities have used VR to give tours of their living spaces to prospective residents and their families. VR tours can also be helpful for seniors who are preparing for a cross-country move and are unable to visit in person. By simulating the environment of a retirement community, VR can help eliminate the fear of change, help establish a memorable experience of the facility, and remove the fear of the unknown.

Improving Medical Care

In addition to using VR as a way to market to prospective residents, this cutting-edge technology is already being used to improve medical care within retirement communities. VR can ease physical pain by providing a distraction during medical procedures that might be uncomfortable or anxiety-inducing. Researchers have also suggested that this technology can be used to improve cognitive health in older adults. In fact, a study from the University of Maryland reported an 8.8 percent improvement in overall accuracy when using VR to learn new information. VR can also help older adults retrain their motor and cognitive skills, allowing them to build new motor and mental skills. In addition, another recent study has suggested that VR can also improve balance and strengthen the neural connectors that support our sensory, motor and cognitive skills.

Some researchers are using VR games to detect a decline in memory and spatial reasoning, both of which are linked to Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Doctors can more easily detect these health issues in VR games, where players have to orient themselves in different setting, when compared to clinical environments.

Confronting Social Isolation in the Elderly

A new report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine suggests that more than one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older have reported feeling socially isolated. In addition, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Older adults are at an increased risk for social isolation and loneliness because they are more likely to face factors such as living alone, the loss of family or friends, chronic illness and hearing loss.” Decline in hearing and low-vision can make interacting with others and enjoying new experiences feel difficult. When left untreated, long-term isolation can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

To combat social isolation, Alcove, a lab built by AARP Innovation Labs, has created an interactive and immersive VR environment that allows seniors and their families to explore VR spaces together, bridging the physical distance between family members, especially for those who live long-distance.

As baby boomers continue to enter into retirement, the adoption of Virtual Reality technologies will help bridge the gap in healthcare and ease the demand on care providers. Within the coming years, we can expect to see Virtual Reality become the new norm for the senior care industry.

lifestyle seniors

Power of Pets for Seniors

According to a 2018 AARP survey, nearly one in three Americans suffer from loneliness, a rate which is only expected to rise as more older adults choose to age in place, often living alone. When left untreated, chronic loneliness can lead to inflammation, excess weight gain, depression, and cognitive decline. In fact, loneliness increases the likelihood of mortality at the same rate of smoking 15 cigarettes per day and can increase the risk of developing dementia. To combat this public health concern, many older adults are finding reprieve in the comfort of pets. In addition to pacifying feelings of loneliness and depression-related symptoms, pets can also lower blood pressure and heart rate, reduce the stress hormone cortisol and increase the body’s natural mood booster, serotonin, in their owners.

Animals have a profound effect on the symptoms of depression, isolation and feelings of loneliness. Acting as constant companions, dogs and cats live in the moment and encourage older adults to be present, instead of dwelling on the future, which can be a frightening concept as we age. In addition, animals give their senior owners purpose and responsibility, which can lead to feelings of accomplishment, pride and a sense of security. The simple act of petting an animal releases serotonin, prolactin, and oxytocin all of which play a part in elevating moods.

For many older adults, having a pet provides motivation to move more than they would normally. The greatest health benefit comes to dog-walking owners whose extra activity throughout the day can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression; plus, the extra vitamin D is good for improving mood, bone health and promoting overall wellness. Researchers have also suggested that spending time with a pet can increase appetite and promote nutrition, which comes as benefit for the 30 percent of older adults who struggle with changes in diet and feelings of decreased hunger.

Alternatives to Pet Ownership

Pet ownership might not be a viable option for all senior citizens. However, there are a variety of ways to reap the benefits of having a pet without all of the commitment. One popular option, especially for those living with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia, is purchasing a robotic pet. Most robotic pets mimic the feel and look of real pets and can ease feelings of loneliness and depression without all of the responsibility.

Pet therapy is also a great alternative, especially for those who live in a residential senior living community. Many hospitals and long-term care communities invite volunteers with therapy animals to conduct regular visits with residents. While these visits are typically short, there is evidence that just 15 minutes of bonding with an animal can increase levels of serotonin, our body’s natural “feel good” hormone.

The cost of adopting and caring for a pet can be a deterrent for some older adults. However, organizations like Pets for the Elderly helps pay animal shelter fees for seniors who adopt a companion dog or cat. In addition, local human societies will often offer senior discounts to make adoption for more accessible for those who need companionship. At Maple Knoll Communities, our Outreach Services program offers low income seniors with access to pet food and other necessities.

While loneliness and depression continue to be a public health concern among older adults, pet ownership can provide benefits that allow seniors to live more joyful and healthy lives.

Time to Move? Why you should consider a CCRC

As we enter into our later years, most of us will need to decide where we want to spend the rest of our lives. Aging in place might seem like the most practical option, however, many older adults end up needing assistance as they age. In fact, according to an article published by Forbes Magazine, nearly 18 million older adults, or half of everyone aged 65 and older, report that they need some assistance with routine daily activities. Older adults have a wide variety of living options including low income or subsidized housing, senior apartments, and continuing care retirement communities, also known as CCRCs.

Continuing care retirement communities provide a wide range of care, services and activities all in one place. These facilities offer a spectrum of care including independent living, assisted living, and skilled care nursing. In addition, these communities usually offer additional services like housekeeping, social activities, medical care, meal plans, security and maintenance teams. CCRCs are ideal for older adults who want to age in one location without worrying about the future, and for spouses who require different levels of care.

Benefits of CCRCs

Some older adults are discouraged from looking into a continuing care retirement community because of the price tag. Out of the 2,000 CCRCs in the country, two-thirds charge an entry fee in addition to monthly fees. However, for many older adults, the benefits outweigh the cost. Here’s why a CCRC, like Maple Knoll Communities, is more than just a place to put your things:

All inclusive

One of the biggest draws to a CCRC is that everything is included, which is a great perk for adults who are aging alone or away from their families. Residents can enjoy meals, on-site maintenance, security, transportation, housekeeping, laundry and even some utilities. This removes the burden of completing every-day tasks and frees up time for hobbies, exercise and social activities.

Access to a large social network

Many CCRCs offer social activities and clubs, which provide an opportunity for residents to connect with one another. Isolation and loneliness are large concerns among the older adult population, and consistent interaction with peer groups can help reduce the risk of developing these issues. CCRC residents will enjoy the opportunity to participate in outings, educational speakers, organized travel, and interest-based clubs.

Health care services

Most CCRCs offer health care services within their communities, which allows residents to seek medical care when they need it and eliminates the need for transportation. Residents can also move through the continuum of care whenever they begin to need more support.

Peace of mind

Watching our loved ones age can be a difficult process, especially for adult children who live far away. However, CCRCs provide comfort to families knowing that their loved one is safe and will be cared for throughout the duration of their lives.

Improves quality of life

Older adults who live alone are more likely to develop feelings of loneliness and depression, which can cause major health concerns such as cognitive decline. At a CCRC, residents are consistently engaged, encouraged to socialize with others, and develop new skills and interests.

Provides relief for a caregiver

CCRCs can be attractive for couples who require different levels of care or if one spouse if the primary caregiver for the other. If needed, the spouse can receive extra care within the facility, where assistance is provided. In addition, many CCRCs offer respite care to give the caregiver time for themselves.

Financial Advantages of CCRCs

While the initial investment to move into a CCRC can seem like a lot when compared to other living accommodations, it isn’t unreasonable considering all that they offer. In fact, CCRCs are often a less expensive option over the long-term. If you’re considering a CCRC but are deterred by the cost, it’s important to consider the financial advantages.

Investing for the future. Retirement is an investment many people work towards most of their lives. So, it’s important that you invest in your own retirement wisely. If you move into a CCRC at an appropriate age, and amortize over a period of time, it’s often cheaper than you might expect. In addition, most CCRCs use entrance fees to fund long-term improvements within the facility, which you will directly benefit from throughout your life. And, most importantly a CCRC guarantees that you will have access to the care you need when you need it, making for a worry-free future.
Ensuring all meets will be met. If you choose the right CCRC, you will be taken care of for the rest of your life. Be sure to ask if a CCRC is a non-profit as you look at your living options. CCRCs that function as non-profits will almost always take care of you even if you outlive your assets for a number of different reasons.
All investments are protected. CCRC contracts should include policies regarding refunds and how much your loved ones will receive if your entrance fee outlives you. Most CCRCs will protect your assets and should be upfront with their contract model.

Questions to Consider

As you discern through your retirement options, it’s important to ask the right questions as you tour different communities. LeadingAge, a nationwide organization of nonprofit and government aging-services providers, recommends that prospective residents ask these 10 questions when considering a retirement community.

Are you a for-profit or not-for-profit, and what’s the financial strength of the retirement community?
What’s included in the monthly fee?
How do you help me to maintain my freedom and independence?
What kind of emergency response systems do you have?
How do you measure your residents’ satisfaction?
How many residents offer input and feedback?
What is the difference between independent and assisted living?
Can you remain in independent living when your needs change and how is aging in place supported?
What are the five most popular programs in your community and who decides what programs and events are scheduled?
Can I review your residency agreement?

At Maple Knoll Communities, we know how big of a decision it is to choose where to spend your retirement. We’re here to support you in each step of the way. You can find answers to these questions and more here. To learn more about our offerings, or to schedule a tour, please contact us!

513.782.2717