By Barbara Haig Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings may croon about 100 days and 100 nights, but a growing number of people are singing a sweeter song – 100 years. According to United Nations estimates, the world was home to nearly half a million centenarians (people age 100 and older) in 2015, more than four times as many as in 1990. And projections say there will be … [Read more...] about At 100: Independent and going strong
Senior Living
Seven safety tips for senior travelers
You don’t have to stop traveling just because you’re getting older. If anything, it’s when you are older that travel means more; a lifetime of knowledge allows you to fully appreciate the new experiences you’re having. And, if not for travel, what did you work so hard for all those years? But being older does often mean that you can’t travel the way you used to. We’re not … [Read more...] about Seven safety tips for senior travelers
When facing stress or illnesses, seniors should stick to a protein-rich diet
Older adults need to eat more protein-rich foods when they're trying to lose weight, dealing with a chronic or acute illness, or facing a hospitalization, according to a growing consensus among scientists. During these stressful periods, aging bodies process protein less efficiently and need more of it to maintain muscle mass and strength, bone health, and other essential … [Read more...] about When facing stress or illnesses, seniors should stick to a protein-rich diet
Seven winter safety tips for seniors
Help older people prepare for power outages and more unique challenges of wintertime weather. During the winter months, ice, snow and cold temperatures can make life challenging for anyone. Slippery sidewalks and cold weather can cause a wide range of injuries and illnesses -- especially for seniors. Finding elderly care to assist your senior on a regular basis can help … [Read more...] about Seven winter safety tips for seniors
Earwax, of all things, poses unrecognized risk in long-term care of seniors
Of all the indignities that come with aging, excessive earwax may be the most insidious. Don’t laugh. That greasy, often gross, buildup occurs more often in older ears than those of the young, experts say. And when it goes unrecognized, it can pose serious problems, especially for the 2.2 million people who live in U.S. nursing homes and assisted living centers. “The … [Read more...] about Earwax, of all things, poses unrecognized risk in long-term care of seniors
Choosing the best assisted living facility for your loved one
With the array of assisted living facilities available throughout the United States, the sheer amount of choices can seem overwhelming; however, making the right choice is made easier when you start the search prepared. Think of the process in three steps: • Decide what you need • Find locations that match your needs • Evaluate locations using multiple resources • … [Read more...] about Choosing the best assisted living facility for your loved one
Autumn safety tips for seniors
As the air turns cooler and leaves drop from the trees, keeping in mind fall season safety tips help keep you and your family protected from seasonal dangers. Home heating • Make sure your home heating system is in good working order. • Have a professional evaluate the system and address any potential problems. • Have you chimneys inspected and cleaned. • Remember, if … [Read more...] about Autumn safety tips for seniors
Eight downsizing tips before you move into a senior living community
You’ve evaluated living options and found the ideal place to live out the next chapter of your life. Now what to do with all that stuff that’s accumulated over the years? Here are eight downsizing tips to help you downsize before your move. 1. Make a plan Downsizing is a process that involves different days of high productivity, with some space to reflect in between. … [Read more...] about Eight downsizing tips before you move into a senior living community
Milwaukee County Department on Aging offers advice for extreme summer heat
During the summer months, staying hydrated is more important than ever, especially during heat waves. The reason for this is simple: Dehydration diminishes your ability to regulate temperature, and thus, your risk of developing a heat illness rises dramatically. Heat illnesses are of special concern to senior citizens, because older adults are much more affected by summer … [Read more...] about Milwaukee County Department on Aging offers advice for extreme summer heat