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Happily Ever Aging
...a UMH Senior Living Blog
Everything you need to know about caring for your loved one - at home or at a senior living community.
Independent Senior Living | Senior Living Communities CT | aging well | assisted living | healthy living | independent living in ct | senior health | senior health tips
Having Tough Conversations: Suicide Awareness and Prevention in Seniors September is National Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, a time to examine and break down the stigma around depression and suicide, as well as educate ourselves on how to better support loved ones who face these common but serious illnesses. While people of any age can struggle with suicidal thoughts and actions, seniors are increasingly at risk. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), older adults accounted for 16.8% of the U.S. population but 22% of suicides in 2022. Additionally, research found that seniors tend to plan more carefully and choose more lethal methods. Per NCOA, “among people who attempt suicide, one in four older adults will succeed, compared to 1 in 200 youths.” Suicide attempts that fail are also more likely to cause severe harm to older adults, as they may have a harder time recovering than a younger person due to underlying health issues and increased frailty. It is important to remember that depression, while a common medical condition, is not a normal part of the aging process. Symptoms, such as a feeling of “emptiness” or a lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities, should be taken seriously. Not every person who experiences depression will also experience thoughts of suicide. However, depression left untreated can worsen over time. Risk Factors and Warning Signs Older adults face an assortment of risk factors that put them at higher risk of depression and suicide. One of the most widespread risk factors is loneliness. Some mental health experts assert that there is currently a “loneliness epidemic” and seniors are no exception. Being homebound, losing a spouse or other close loved ones, and lacking or being cut off from a social circle are all very real problems that can worsen feelings of loneliness for older adults. In addition to loneliness, many seniors experience grief over lost loved ones, loss of self-sufficiency, major changes in their lives, and more. Chronic illness and pain can also limit seniors’ abilities to do what they used to, which might further compound already existing loneliness or grief. Financial troubles and insurance barriers, such as providers opting out of billing Medicare, can prevent older loved ones from efficiently caring for their physical, emotional, and mental health. This can worsen previously existing mental illnesses like clinical depression and certain cognitive conditions like dementia, both of which can further increase seniors’ risk of suicide.
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Independent Senior Living | Senior Living Communities CT | aging well | assisted living | healthy living | independent living in ct | senior health | senior health tips
Every year, millions of Americans face high cholesterol. In fact, the CDC estimates that as many as 10% of all US adults age 20 or older had high cholesterol levels between 2017 and 2020. While high cholesterol can impact people of all ages, experts recommend that people over 65 get their cholesterol levels tested yearly
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Independent Senior Living | Senior Living Communities CT | aging well | assisted living | healthy living | independent living in ct | senior health | senior health tips
Weed It and Reap: A Gardening Guide for Seniors Whether you have never had a green thumb or dedicated your life to a multi-acre farm, gardening has something to offer everyone, especially older adults. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the many benefits gardening offers seniors, highlight important safety tips for creating an accessible garden, and share advice for getting your own garden started. Benefits of Gardening for Seniors Gardening offers a wealth of physical and emotional health benefits for seniors. Encouraging the older adult in your life to start and maintain a garden is a great way for them to incorporate exercise into their daily routine. What could be better than exercise that feels like fun! Getting your hands dirty and soaking up the sunshine can help lower blood pressure, strengthen immunity, and improve sleep cycles. The movements associated with gardening can also help promote and maintain sensory awareness and motor skills, as well as strengthen and increase dexterity. For emotional health, gardening can provide stress relief and reduce feelings of anxiety and agitation. Tending to plants grown with their own hands can give seniors a sense of purpose, an essential part of aging well. Additionally, a garden can also help to decrease isolation among older adults. Having a hobby to bond with encourages closer friendships and stronger community ties. Research has repeatedly linked better health outcomes to human connection in seniors. While gardening can certainly be a solo activity if you prefer, inviting friends and family into your green space and enjoying it together, or working in a community garden, can add an even greater return. Safety Tips for Senior Gardening Just like everything else in life, safety in the garden is crucial. It’s often wise to consult a primary care physician before tackling anything more than light exercise in the garden. Even if you are sticking to light exercise, take the time to warm up before getting started. It’s especially important to stretch your hands, since you will be using them a lot. If you experience seasonal allergies, take any needed medication or eye drops before going outside or consider wearing a face mask if allergies are severe. Once out in the garden, remember to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks. To make it easier to hydrate, have a water bottle on hand with you outside. Keep it in a cooler or a shady area or opt for an insulated option. Take breaks more often on warmer days and avoid gardening or being outside on very hot days.
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Independent Senior Living | Senior Living Communities CT | aging well | assisted living | healthy living | independent living in ct | senior health | senior health tips
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 14 million adults aged 65 and older report experiencing a fall each year. This staggering statistic means that 1 in 4 older adults fall in the United States per year, a number that unfortunately has been on the rise. Falls can be dangerous and expensive for seniors and are considered the leading cause of injury and injury-related deaths for adults aged 65 and older. Due to physical changes and conditions that typically accompany the aging process, the risk of experiencing a serious fall also tends to increase with age. While frightening, falls do not have to be inevitable. As the weather grows brisk and leaves begin to pile up, autumn is the perfect time to review important safety tips that can help protect your aging loved one from a serious stumble. In this article, we will cover some common risk factors for falls, steps to prevent falls, and what to do if a fall occurs. Common Risk Factors for Falls Although falls can happen to anyone at any age, there are a number of risk factors associated with aging that can increase both the likelihood and the severity of a fall. For example, changes in eyesight, hearing, and muscle strength can impact a person’s ability to maintain their balance. Similarly, changes to a person’s reflexes might negatively affect their ability to catch themselves when they trip. Certain medical conditions can heighten the risk of a fall. These conditions include diabetes, heart disease, blood vessel problems, Alzheimer’s and dementia, thyroid problems, vitamin D deficiency, nerve problems, muscle weakness or loss, difficulties with standing and walking, foot pain, and foot problems. Certain medications can also increase the risk of a fall by causing dizziness, confusion, and trouble with balance. Sedatives, tranquilizers, antidepressants, and even some over-the-counter medicines are all capable of producing these side effects. Sometimes, the risk of falling comes from external sources. Uneven steps, clutter on the floor, and other tripping hazards can quickly become a safety issue in the home.
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Independent Senior Living | Senior Living Communities CT | aging well | assisted living | healthy living | independent living in ct | senior health | senior health tips
Last year, a record number of Americans died as a result of heat-related illnesses. Heat-related illnesses and heat-related deaths are steadily on the rise as the planet warms and our population ages. Older adults are among the most vulnerable groups, with people over 65 several times more likely to develop heat-related health problems than younger adults. Hot temperatures can affect everyone, but seniors are particularly vulnerable because their bodies typically do not adjust as well to sudden temperature changes. Seniors are also more likely to have chronic medical conditions or medications that can affect how the body responds to temperature changes. It is not just important, but essential, for seniors and their caregivers to recognize and respond to signs of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Read on to learn how you can help keep your loved one safe during the hot summer months.
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Independent Senior Living | Senior Living Communities CT | aging well | assisted living | healthy living | independent living in ct | senior health | senior health tips
Did you know? July is Family Reunion Month! With the grandkids home from school, and grown children taking vacation time off from work, the months of summer are the perfect time for families to gather and visit older relatives. Read on for six great bonding opportunities for families to share with senior loved ones.
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Independent Senior Living | Senior Living Communities CT | aging well | assisted living | healthy living | independent living in ct | senior health | senior health tips
Beyond its religious connotations, Easter is also celebrated through various cultural traditions and customs. Many senior living communities embrace this diversity, honoring the rich tapestry of traditions that residents bring from different backgrounds and heritage, and creating inclusive environments where seniors can share and celebrate their cultural practices with one another.
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Independent Senior Living | Senior Living Communities CT | aging well | assisted living | healthy living | independent living in ct | senior health | senior health tips
As technology continues to evolve rapidly, social media has become an indispensable tool for connecting people across generations. Seniors, a group once perceived as technologically hesitant, have begun embracing social platforms and leveraging them to bridge the gap with grandkids, reconnect with old friends and explore a world of possibilities. This newfound digital connection has the potential to not only enhance seniors’ social lives, but also contribute significantly to their overall well-being.
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Independent Senior Living | Senior Living Communities CT | aging well | assisted living | healthy living | independent living in ct | senior health | senior health tips
Valentine's Day is a celebration of love. And in the journey of life, the golden years should be no exception to the enchanting symphony of heartfelt connections. Contrary to some preconceived notions, seniors can be just as involved in the pursuit of love and companionship as any other generation. For adults residing in senior living communities, this quest remains vibrant and hopeful. In fact, these communities offer a rich tapestry of social connections and opportunities for seniors to celebrate this heartfelt holiday with warmth and joy. As the crimson hues of Valentine's Day approach, and the atmosphere resonates with a feeling of love and connection, we’re delving into the myriad ways through which residents in senior living communities can experience the magic of Valentine's Day. Join us as we explore the avenues of community events, family visits, virtual connections and other heartwarming channels that can make this time of year so special for seniors.
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Independent Senior Living | Senior Living Communities CT | aging well | assisted living | healthy living | independent living in ct | senior health | senior health tips
When the clock struck midnight on January 1, people across the globe ushered in a new year with festive flair and celebration. For many seniors, this moment marked an exciting opportunity to embrace fresh beginnings and renewed aspirations. In 2024, a number of older adults have committed to taking a proactive approach to their health and happiness, setting realistic resolutions that reflect a focus on overall well-being. Let’s explore why these intentions are so powerful and how seniors can navigate the path to a healthier, happier life in the year ahead.
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Independent Senior Living | Senior Living Communities CT | aging well | assisted living | healthy living | independent living in ct | senior health | senior health tips
As seniors step into a new year, the importance of adopting accessible exercise plans becomes increasingly important. For older adults, prioritizing health and well-being through tailored exercise routines is not just a resolution; it's a commitment to an improved quality of life. Embracing practical, manageable (and fun!) exercise plans designed specifically for seniors is a major key to maintaining physical vitality, mental acuity and emotional well-being.
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