Fitness can be intimidating to many seniors. What’s safe? What’s effective? Where’s a good place to begin? The good news is you don’t need fancy gym equipment or a high-impact aerobics class to complete quality exercise that’s beneficial to your health. All you need is motivation and your own two feet.
Walking regularly is one of the safest and most effective forms of exercise available. You can proceed at your own pace and reap the benefits – including a healthier heart, lower stress and higher energy levels.
Okay, we KNOW it should be lamb, but very often, a person with hearing impairment may hear a similar word, but one that very much changes the meaning of the phrase. In the above example, familiarity with the phrase would help. But, what about this exchange?
“Hey, nice watch. What kind is it?”
“Oh, it’s 12:30.”
The most common complaint I hear from my patients is “I hear fine, I just don’t get the words.” This could very likely be because the ear is hearing SOME of the sounds within words normally, but is not picking up some of the softer sounding consonants….the “s”, the “f”, the “sh”, the “t”, for example. These consonants are the elements of words that give words MEANING!
We expect a lot from our feet. They get us to all the places we need to go, while providing the anchor and balance crucial to physical activity. As we age, foot problems can become common. From aches and pain to bunions and corns, our feet are prone to many conditions that can cause discomfort and impact mobility. This shouldn’t be surprising when you consider that the distance people walk in a lifetime would take them around the globe nearly six times. Yet, our feet are often neglected and foot pain is frequently written off as not a significant risk to health. Researchers have also neglected foot problems when it comes to learning how they can affect overall senior health.
This blog is part of a year-long series aimed at addressing some of the most frequently asked questions we hear from family and adult children on the topics most concerning them regarding their aging parents or loved one. In 2012 Hebrew SeniorLife published the eBook "You & Your Aging Parent: A Family Approach to Lifelong Health, Wellness & Care," a compilation of answers from HSL geriatric experts in response to the many of the most frequently asked questions. We're reposting some of the most popular Q&A posts from our original eBook which was downloaded over 2,000 times. We're also adding new Q&As throughout the series that address topics not originally included in our eBook. Sign up to receive the blog series and download our original eBook at www.hslindependentliving.org.
Our residential communities at Hebrew SeniorLife are filled with people living diverse lifestyles who requiring varying levels of support in their lives. I frequently witness active, healthy seniors, who are busy with social engagements and enjoying new interests. They are often experiencing a more carefree lifestyle without the responsibilities of home ownership. I observe others who are benefitting more from the support of health and wellness programs, while managing chronic diseases with regular physician visits. Some face more serious medical issues, requiring round-the-clock care that they receive in a stimulating and supportive environment.
Research shows that creativity can help reduce stress and improve physical functioning. As we age, it’s important to explore new activities and ways to express ourselves. While it can be tempting to get stuck in a routine rut, seniors can benefit from fostering a creative mind with new experiences and ideas. From art and music to creative writing, there are endless options.
Many seniors in our communities thrive when introduced to new creative opportunities, such as art classes or performing in a choral group. Sometimes, they are trying these things for the first time. Often, they are renewing old passions. Either way, the experiences are fulfilling and enjoyable. Here are some ways to find the perfect activities for the creative mind.
It may be tempting to choose shoes based on style or a good sale, but poorly fitting shoes can cause a number of painful foot problems. Unfortunately, some seniors suffering from bunions, corns, calluses and other disabling problems because they are not wearing shoes that fit properly.
The best shoes for seniors are supportive and conform to the shape of their feet. In fact, a study by the Institute for Aging Research of Hebrew SeniorLife has revealed that certain shoe types increase future risk of heel and ankle pain. Wearing sandals with poor support and high heels in the past were reported to have caused foot pain in 64 percent of women who participated in the study.
This blog is part of a year-long series aimed at addressing some of the most frequently asked questions we hear from family and adult children on the topics most concerning them regarding their aging parents or loved one. In 2012 Hebrew SeniorLife published the eBook "You & Your Aging Parent: A Family Approach to Lifelong Health, Wellness & Care," a compilation of answers from HSL geriatric experts in response to the many of the most frequently asked questions. We're reposting some of the most popular Q&A posts from our original eBook which was downloaded over 2,000 times. We're also adding new Q&As throughout the series that address topics not originally included in our eBook.
In 2011, Dr. Ruth Westheimer came to NewBridge on the Charles for Hebrew SeniorLife’s College of Retirement Living. During her visit, she met with Hebrew SeniorLife Dementia Research, Medical and Care Team and interviewed them for the book she was then writing “Dr. Ruth’s Guide for the Alzheimer’s Caregiver: How to Care for Your Loved One without Getting Overwhelmed…and Without Doing it All Yourself.” Dr. Ruth recognized the HSL team with a special thank you in the Acknowledgements section of the book.
In 2011, Dr. Ruth Westheimer came to NewBridge on the Charles for Hebrew SeniorLife’s College of Retirement Living. During her visit, she met with Hebrew SeniorLife Dementia Research, Medical and Care Team and interviewed them for the book she was then writing “Dr. Ruth’s Guide for the Alzheimer’s Caregiver: How to Care for Your Loved One without Getting Overwhelmed…and Without Doing it All Yourself.” Dr. Ruth recognized the HSL team with a special thank you in the Acknowledgements section of the book.
