RetirementHomes.com - Health and Wellness

Attending Your Senior Loved Ones Doctor Appointments

aadmin — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 10:47:05 +0000

If you have a family member who is getting older, you know they’d rather stay as independent as they can. One way of staying independent may be going to doctor’s appointments alone—regardless of how much you want to accompany him or her.

So you have to do a little convincing before your elderly loved allows you to accompany him or her to doctor’s appointments. What’s the best strategy? It depends on the person you are talking to. You know everyone is different. However, there are some basic strategies you can use:

Offer a trial period. If you know your family member is a negotiator, make a deal. Just say that you’d like to accompany him or her for a short time. This gives your family member time to try the idea out before totally committing. The fact is, the idea is acceptable when he or she feels in control of the situation.

Show the worry. Maybe your loved one is a people pleaser. You want to tug at his or her heart strings. Many older individuals will refuse to let anyone accompany them regardless of the reason. For instance, your mother may be stubborn, but as soon as you talk about how worried you are about her health, she concedes.

Let your loved one prove you wrong. Your relative may be someone who loves to be right. In fact, he or she may be boasting about being healthy (even though that’s not the case). So let your relative “prove” to you that he or she is healthy by letting you go with them to the doctor’s visits.

Make a pact with him or her. This is for the negotiator in the family. Why not let him or her accompany you to your doctor’s visit? Of course, it must be a fair exchange. You must be allowed to go to his or her doctor’s appointments. You may want to explain the benefits like having a second set of ears to hear all the facts, another mouth to ask questions you may not have thought to ask, plus an additional outing afterwards of course!

Make a day of it. You may want to convince your family member to make it an eventful day. Doctor’s appointments are often dreadful experiences because it’s all about tests, procedures, personal questions and possible lectures from doctors. If you are allowed to their doctor’s visits, you’ll plan a fun day afterwards. For instance, going to a movie, lunch or a shopping trip.

You know your family member. He or she is deeply independent. So no amount of lecturing will convince him or her to let you go to doctor’s appointments. That’s why you have to get a little creative. Your approach depends on your loved one. However, using any one of the above tips might help.

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How to Know When it is Time for Home Care

aadmin — Wed, 19 Mar 2014 08:22:49 +0000

The baby boomer generation is aging, and with that comes concerns from their adult children. How do you know when your parents need some help? Here are some signs that might mean it's time to consider a home care service for your parent(s). If you see any of these signs, you'll also want to speak to your parent's physician, as some of them can indicate depression, dementia, or other health problems that need to be addressed.

Decline in Housekeeping

If your parents have always kept their home clean and neat, and you begin to see piles of newspapers, dirty laundry scattered around, signs of pest infestation, or just usual clutter, it could mean he/she is having trouble getting housework done and could use some help with everyday chores.

Decline in Grooming

Wearing dirty clothes, not washing hair, unbrushed teeth or other declines in personal grooming are a warning sign you should pay attention to. Many older adults are afraid of falling in the tub, others may be suffering from pain that makes daily self-care difficult, and still others may not be able to see or smell well enough to recognize poor grooming. All can indicate they may need some help.

You're Worried About Safety

Worrying about your parent's ability to perform everyday tasks safely is a major indicator that some help at home might be needed. Whether you're worried about slips and falls, safety while driving, ability to prepare meals without starting a fire, or ability to read prescription medication bottles, if you're at all worried about your mom or dad's safety, get in touch with a home care agency and your parent's physician.

Change in Diet

Old age can bring changes in diet, and those are not nessasirly a problem. If, however, you have a parent who has always prepared his or her own home-cooked meals and suddenly starts living off TV dinners or takeout, you'll want to find out why. It could be related to fears of forgetting something on the stove, age-related loss of taste and smell, or even depression. Some help with cooking can help ensure your mom and/or dad gets the nutrition they need.

Other Signs of Trouble

Finally, you'll want to watch for other signs of trouble. Scorched pots and pans, for example, could mean forgetting things on the stove. Loss of interest in previously-enjoyed activities can signal depression or other health problems, items piled around the home present fall risks, and "wall walking" or moving from one piece of furniture to another while walking could mean your parent feels unstable on his or her feet and might need an assistive device.

Final Thoughts

Talking to your parents about home care may not be easy, but these services can prevent severe injuries or even death due to falls or other easily-avoided issues. If you or a loved one needs help please give us a call. We would love to come and talk to your parents about our in-home care services that can help them maintain their independence and quality of life.

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Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke

aadmin — Tue, 18 Mar 2014 14:15:18 +0000

Every year, approximately 795,000 Americans suffer a stroke. It is the No. 4 cause of death in the United States and also one of the leading causes of long-term, severe disability. But, knowing the signs of a stroke and getting quick treatment can reduce the effects in many cases. Especially from ischemic stroke, which accounts for 87 percent of all stroke cases. Learning what to watch for and getting treatment fast is important. Those who take a clot-busting drug within three hours of the first stroke symptoms can reduce long-term disability from occurring.

Ischemic strokes, the most common, happen when an obstruction occurs within a blood vessel that provides blood to the brain. The obstruction is caused by the development of fatty deposits that line the walls of the blood vessel. This condition is called atherosclerosis and can cause two types of obstructions.

Cerebral thrombosis - this is a blood clot that develops at a clogged part of a blood vessel.

Cerebral embolism - this occurs when a blood clot breaks loose from another part of the body, usually the heart, and clogs a smaller vessel in the brain.

There are other, less common, types of strokes also. A hemorrhagic stroke can occur when a weakened blood vessel bursts and bleeds into the brain. A transient ischemic attack or TIA is a temporary blockage or “mini stroke”. While it does not cause any permanent brain damage, it shouldn’t be ignored as it is usually a sign of bigger problems and risks down the line.

The National Stroke Association recommends that you remember F.A.S.T. as an easy way to recognize the symptoms of a stroke. These stand for:

F - Face: Is there drooping of the face on one side? Ask the person to smile.
A - Arms: Weakness in one arm occurs. Ask the person to lift both arms. Does one arm drift?
S - Speech: Is their speech slurred or strange? Ask the person to say a simple phrase.
T - Time: If these signs are present, it’s time to call 911.

These are just three of the major symptoms that a stroke is happening. But these are not the only symptoms of a stroke. These other signs of stroke include:

Sudden weakness or numbness in your legs, arms, or face
Sudden confusion or trouble understanding things
Sudden trouble with sight of one or both eyes, blurring or double vision
Sudden trouble with walking, a loss of coordination or balance, and dizziness
Sudden severe headache with no known cause

While the symptoms of a stroke may not seem serious when they occur, they should not be ignored. Many people don’t want to be a bother and often brush off the symptoms as not serious. However, with time being of the essence in rapid treatment, it is important to act quickly to prevent serious damage or death.

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Seven Ways for Mature Adults to Find Fun in the Snow

aadmin — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 11:58:17 +0000

The torch has been passed to Sochi, Russia. The 2014 Winter Olympics opened on February 7 and will continue until the last event on February 23. Against the backdrop of the majestic Caucasus Mountains, countries from across the globe will be competing for the podium.

The Winter Olympics showcase talented athletes at peak performance. But the true story is the global spectator reach of the games to a world-wide audience. Millions of TV viewers will be glued to their sets. Couch surfing through winter sports abounds though health experts counsel against inactive lifestyles, especially for older and middle-aged adults, who are still able to engage in an easy-going Olympics. Here are some possibilities for an aging population with access to colder climes, the snow, and higher terrain.

1. Snowshoeing

It's a low-impact hiking alternative, less expensive than cross-country or downhill skiing, and a sound aerobic work-out with cardio-vascular benefits. Organizers can decide on a snowy path and let older participants compete for medals. On the other hand, athletic contests can be put aside for the outdoor fun of tramping through the snow.

2. Ice Fishing Derby

55+ enthusiasts can join in with experienced ice fishers, after finding a proper hand saw and an expert ice cutter with know-how. Equipment is minimal: a small, light fishing rod with brightly colored lures and bait such as worms or minnows. Fishing derbies are good fun and offer worthwhile competition. Alaska, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Vermont, New Hampshire, Ohio, New York and Canada are the major North American ice fishing areas. Participants need proper layered outerwear. Storytelling, jokes and conversation are recommended because ice fishing is a social and recreational event.

3. Curling
The Olympics feature curling as an event. Curling enthusiasts around North America can gear up as if they are Olympians. The United States Curling Association lists 13,000 curlers in the country and more than 135 curling clubs. Amateurs can watch for TV tips from Sochi and get back on the ice to compete in their communities.

4. Senior Hockey
Hockey may be a sport for young men or women with lots of checking and fast bursts of speed up and down the ice, but aging people can play within their limitations. USA Hockey or Hockey Canada can direct you to an appropriate league. Many community centers will provide hockey information and ice time for older players. It's never too late to form a team and play a loose game. Remember. No checking or heavy hitting. Hockey fights are a TV spectacle.

5. Adapted Nordic Skiing, Nordic Walking, and Adapted Downhill Skiing
Keep the fun aspect uppermost for 55+ people. Trails and slopes should be of reasonable difficulty. Forget about the Caucasus Mountains, Whistler, or the French Alps. Realistic ski runs exist near most North American metropolitan areas. Competition can be based on predicted times rather than on best results, wherein winning participants compete against themselves.

6. Adapted Speed Skating
The concept of predicted times holds true for speed skating for 55+. Winners can be those who calculate their finishing time rather than the actual fastest finishers.

7. Post activity rewards

Winter sports and recreation are good fun and exercise for older people, although they often like after-activity rewards, too, like good food and drink. Socializing is an important part of winter activities for the 55+ crowd who want to combine good cheer and bonhomie along with outdoor sporting experiences.

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Traditional and Alternative Oral Health Care for the Elderly

aadmin — Fri, 03 Jan 2014 09:00:35 +0000

Periodontal disease is cited as the number one cause of tooth loss after the age of 35.

According to Dr. Steve Bornfeld, DDS, from Brooklyn, NY, periodontal disease – often referred to as gum disease – is an oral condition characterized by inflammation of the supporting structures of the teeth: the gums, bone, and periodontal ligament.

The Bacterial Origin of Periodontal Disease

“It is bacterial in origin, but also depends on the immune reaction of the individual,” said Bornfeld. “Loss of teeth is related mostly to depletion of the bone surrounding the roots. The teeth loosen until they have to be removed or fall out on their own.”

Gum recession is characteristic of periodontal disease in the elderly. “The most common health effects are sensitivity and decay,” said Bornfeld. The root surface becomes exposed to gum recession. Root decay can be very difficult to control, especially in the presence of poor oral hygiene. Bornfeld recommended more frequent checkups for older adults with periodontal disease.

Alternative Treatments for Aging Teeth

Carrie Ibbetson, Registered Dental Hygienist, founder of Oralhealthcoaching.com and Natural Gumption seeks out alternative treatment and products for the care of aging teeth. The Orange County resident has contacted many nearby retirement facilities to assist them with residents’ oral health, especially plaque issues.

A specialist in homecare oral health, Ibbetson offers alternative dental products for older adults and caregivers. “Teaching older adults to take care of their teeth is more important than scaling to reduce plaque buildup.”

Home Remedies for Older Adults

Ibbetson has devised home remedies for elderly people with arthritic dexterity issues. She recommends cutting a hole in a tennis ball and inserting the brush into it for a bigger handle. Or wrap a wash cloth around a tooth brush to make a larger handle to get in between the teeth more effectively.

The California hygienist refers to the 2001 Guinness Book of World Records which recorded periodontal disease as the number one disease affecting mankind. Ibbetson said that the Surgeon General’s report shows that 23% of people aged 64 to 74 years-old have severe periodontal disease.

“As we get older we lose our thin saliva,” said Ibbetson. “Thicker acidic saliva replaces it and retains bacteria.”

The result is ‘dry mouth’ syndrome in older adults. “Eighty per cent of medications cause dry mouth,” she said, “and multiple medications in the elderly community lead to an increase of dry mouth.”

Report from the US Surgeon General

The US Surgeon General backs Ibbetson’s assertion, revealing that most older Americans take both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. The inhibition of salivary flow increases the risk for oral disease because saliva contains antimicrobial components as well as minerals that can help rebuild tooth enamel after attack by acid-producing, decay-causing bacteria. Individuals in long-term care facilities are prescribed an average of eight drugs. 1. The US Surgeon General National Call To Action To Promote Oral Health 2013.

“There is a huge deficit of oral health care in retirement communities,” agrees Ibbetson.

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Top Tips for Older Adults with Constipation

aadmin — Wed, 13 Nov 2013 10:01:26 +0000

Doctors and nurses specializing in gastrointestinal (GI) problems agree that constipation is a leading hardship for older adults.

Kris Mauk PhD – President of the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses (ARN) – outlined top tips for a healthy bowel program.

1. Implement a high fiber diet – 25 to 35 grams of fiber per day found in:

• Root vegetables
• Fruits
• Fruit Juices, especially prune and apple juice
• Legumes
• Nuts

2. Drink eight glasses of fluid per day – especially water.

3. Use the bathroom within the first 15 minutes after breakfast when the gastric colic reflex is the strongest. Food for breakfast stimulates the reflex of the beginning of a bowel movement.

4. Never suppress the urge to go.

5. Stay active, especially walking. A sedentary lifestyle of TV and eating leads to less active bowels.

6. If the natural approach fails, use a safe laxative to add extra fiber to the bowel. Pain medication used by older adults often slows down bowel function and can lead to prolonged periods of constipation.

Mauk’s recommendations can be found on SeniorCareCentral.

Types of Fiber

Dr. Ed Levine, a gastroenterologist from Bridgeport CT, said constipation in older adults develops from a reduction of metabolism. The muscle function of the colon decreases over time leading to difficulties in digestion and bowel discharge.

Dr. Levine believes too much focus has been placed on increasing fluid intake. “It’s more important to boost fiber intake in the diet.” He classified fiber as:

• Soluble Fiber – bran cereals and whole wheat grains
• Insoluble Fiber – Fruits, salads and vegetables

Levine recommended focusing on an uptake in insoluble fiber because it draws water from the intestinal tract. “That’s how fiber works,” he said. “It helps bulk up stool.” He agreed with Maun that laxatives are effective combined with a good diet.

Constipation for the Mature Traveler

Travel constipation can arise when older adults visit family over major holidays – Thanksgiving and Christmas. “One-half of the population is prone to constipation during travel,” he said. “Older people can experience even greater difficulties.”

Long drives or plane rides upset schedules and regular diets. Different settings and foods, dehydration, and rushing can disturb the gastrointestinal tract.

Levine recommends increasing water and insoluble fiber before prolonged travel. He and his wife have created GoodtoGo for mature travelers.

All Things in Moderation

Dr. Richard Desi, a specialist in digestive diseases at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, MD, considers the Western diet to be fiber-deficient – even traditional oatmeal. “Look at the package for fiber content” said Desi.

According to Desi, everyone has anecdotal information about foods that constipate them. “But there’s no trend. Medical science can’t point to any one food that constipates.” Some people can eat poorly with no gastro-intestinal complications. Others are very health conscience but are beset with GI problems.

Moderation for the festive season is Desi’s solution.

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How to Deal with the Dangers of Senior Gambling

aadmin — Mon, 21 Oct 2013 13:36:07 +0000

If I lose today, I can look forward to winning tomorrow, and if I win today, I can expect to lose tomorrow. A sure thing is no fun. Chico Marx

Seniors are at equal risk as other adults for gambling problems, but possess vulnerabilities that cannot be overlooked. Dr. Sandra Rasmussen, a family therapist at the Williamsville Wellness Treatment Center in Hanover, VA, said that bingo and casino gambling are marketed to seniors as social outlets.

Though most play responsibly, the entertainment value can be alluring. Local churches, American Legion chapters or senior centers can act as authentic gaming outlets. “It’s for a good cause,” Rasmussen acknowledged, “but I’ve treated many seniors who will live on tea and toast to play bingo or take trips to casinos.”

Rasmussen has seen the major signs of seniors with gambling problems. Concerned children call on behalf of their parents. The refrigerator is bare. There’s weight loss. Certain behaviors are suspicious – coming home late – lack of contact with children.

Signs of Problem Gambling

Christine Reilly, the Research Director at the National Center for Responsible Gaming (NCRG), highlighted that retired people should be aware of many mental health issues, including addictions. Retirement is a transitional period which can include loss of friends, death of a spouse, and lack of work structure, leading to depression and anxiety.

According to Reilly, seniors exhibit the same signs of gambling addiction as the general population, including: spending inordinate amounts of time playing games of chance; withdrawal symptoms when they try to cut back – like with drugs and alcohol; gambling for high stakes to achieve the desired mood; lying to family and friends.

“They experience difficulty admitting or even knowing they’re addicted,” said Reilly. “It creeps up on people. It doesn’t happen overnight.”

Reilly encourages prevention strategies:

Have a budget
Keep it fun
Gambling is not a way to make money or escape from problems
The odds are always with the house
Evaluate views of superstition and luck
Gamble with friends, not in isolation

Holly Wetzel, the Vice President of Communications for the American Gaming Association (AGA), attributes education as a key to assisting seniors with gambling problems. Her organization partners with the treatment community to direct people in need of support. "Gamble within your limits for losses," she said. “Don’t borrow money to gamble, and understand how the games work and their odds."

Rasmussen, a treatment specialist, has seen that addiction can defy accepted logic. “Seniors need to identify high-risk situations,” she said. “Like check days. What’s the plan when the social security check or pension check arrives?”

If there’s an identifiable addiction problem, seniors can work with wellness centers and their children to pinpoint urges or cravings. “They need alternatives to gambling. A phone list of recovering seniors to call is critical.” She recommended that adult children pay bills directly rather than giving money to parents with gambling problems.

“Gambling is meeting a need for addicted seniors,” said Rasmussen. “Identify the need – boredom – loneliness. Maybe the family isn’t visiting enough.”

The Need for Accountability

She pinpointed the need for accountability. Seniors with gambling problems need to be shown the consequences of their actions, the dangers to their savings. “We try to show them that they’re responsible for their problem – their loss of money – but they’re also responsible for their recovery.” The shift is away from negativity especially when depression is involved. She agrees with Reilly, from NCRG. Overall health concerns need to be addressed.

Reilly stressed the requirement to deal with the mental health issues underlying gambling disorders. She emphasized the cues to problem gambling – avoiding casinos or lottery vendors – finding replacement activities that provide enjoyment.

All sources agreed that gambling can provide a responsible social outlet with proper monitoring.

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Do you want to live to 109?

aadmin — Tue, 27 Aug 2013 16:00:31 +0000

A few weeks ago my grandfather, Sam Baker, passed away at the age of 109. He spent most of his life toiling in the prairies of Western Canada as described in this Winnipeg Free Press article. I and other family members, believe that he was much older (my estimate 113) but the official record is 109. So how did he do it? What was it like to be a alive during the last century?

Here’s a sample list of accomplishments that my grandfather witnessed:

Creation of Commercial Air flight
Introduction of Household appliances – refrigerator, electric stove/oven, can opener, microwave, etc.
Invention of the automobile and the development of the Interstate Highway
Adoption of Indoor Plumbing
Eradication of Polio, Measles and Smallpox
Prohibition
The Great Depression
World War I and II
Construction of the Indoor Mall
Onset of Computers and the Internet

After surviving the “dirty-30s” as a farm equipment dealer in Hamiota, Manitoba, (population of less than 1,000), he bought and successfully operated a chain of women’s clothing stores in and around Brandon, Manitoba. He married late in life (36 – the same age I was when I married), settled into a modest house in Brandon, and raised two daughters and a son.

At 85, he retired from the store, and travelled extensively with my grandmother (who predeceased him 11 years ago). After her death, he spent the balance of his life reading the newspaper in Winnipeg and frequenting the Winnipeg Senior scene.

My uncle stated at the funeral, he was what actuaries call the “Omega Man”, the last of his generation. A man of quiet dignity, he wore a jacket and tie every day, and walked almost 3 miles daily (to the bank and to the coffee shop) well into his 100s. An infrequent speaker, he was prepared to offer his opinion on a variety of matters when provoked. I spent a few days each year with my grandfather at his office in Brandon, cottage at Clear Lake or home in Winnipeg. On most of these family visits, I acted like a rambunctious toddler or teenager, unappreciative of his experiences.

In the last few years I listened intently and asked him questions about his life. On my last visit, several weeks before his death, all there was to say was “I Love You.” We had said it all. We knew the end was near, so I hugged him one last time. My daughter Orli kissed him and we left.

So what does it take to live to 109?

Based on my decades of discussions with my grandfather here’s what I know:

Speak only when you have something important to say
Treat your family better than your friends
Stay away from gossip and idle talk
Never argue with your wife, she’s always right
Lead by example, not with words
Enjoy the simple pleasures in life

Speak when you have something important to say

There is too much chatter in today’s Twitter society. My grandfather engaged in friendly conversation on a regular basis and loved interacting with people, but he rarely spoke in public. When he did speak, he did so with meaning and purpose. He hardly spoke at family gatherings, but when he did, people stopped their idle talking and listened. Later in my life, his personal conversations with me were so packed with value, it required that I decompress and ponder for a few days. These most private conversations possessed important messages he imparted to me.

Treat your family better than your friends

Sadly, most people treat their friends better than their family. As the youngest son in a family of five brothers and two (younger) sisters, my grandfather ensured that the family stayed together. Throughout his life, even when his brothers and their children lived far apart from each other, he made sure that disagreements amongst individual family members were dealt with and not left to fester.

Stay away from gossip

My grandfather enjoyed the routine banter of life, but he was not one to engage in gossip or act in a mean spirited way with his words. On occasion, he did not disclose things that he wanted to say to other people. My grandfather never told my uncle that he appreciated the care and assistance he had provided to him in the last decade of his life, but he confided this information to me several times. After my grandfather’s death I realized how much this “omission” had affected my uncle.

Never argue with your wife

As a person who’s been married for over eight years, it’s easy to say this, much harder to live it. My grandparents had a special relationship, sharing many hardships and heartaches. Given their circumstances, they were able to live their lives to the fullest. My grandparents never argued in front of me. There was never any tension in their home. My grandfather took it upon himself to be the peacemaker in the relationship. I can only hope that my relationship with my wife survives their 60+ years.

Lead by example

My grandfather lived a modest life and made sure that we understood the difference between right and wrong. He didn’t tell us what to do, he lived it. He took care of his possessions, ensuring his 1985 Lincoln was tuned and cleaned after each lengthy road trip or 5,000 km (whichever came first). He treated friends, family and associates with dignity and compassion. While he was a tough negotiator, he respected those with whom he worked.

Enjoy the simple pleasures of life

My grandfather was not tremendously wealthy, but he took advantage of opportunities when they arose. Without fail, he would have a cocktail shortly before dinner (usually scotch & water, but also white rum and Sprite). He loved spending time with his grandchildren (at least initially) and his friends, and going for long walks along Winnipeg‘s Wellington Crescent and the River Heights area.

Lessons from my grandfather

In modern day business language, we ask: what are the key take-aways that we can learn from Sam Baker. However, I prefer to look at his life lessons to be lived every day.

Treat people with respect. He had his own version of the “golden rule”. He didn’t like everyone, but he treated them with respect. I’m going to ensure that that I’m respectful of those that I interact with on a regular basis.

Show appreciation. My grandfather grew up in a time when fathers were hard on their children and some of that rubbed off on him. Later in his life he used to tell me that he loved me. He appreciated my uncle’s efforts as primary caregiver, though he rarely said anything. I’m going to tell and show people that I appreciate them and their effort s more than before.

Watch your tongue. I’m a bit of an introvert and so I don’t really like mixing in large crowds of people. When I do talk to people, I’m going to be more conscious of what and how I say things.

Communicate more. Because of my introverted nature, this one is going to be hard for me. I don’t really like to talk, so it means that when I speak, I’ll make my comments more meaningful and less superfluous. Also, I will be writing a lot more than in the past.

Enjoy life with all it has to offer. My wife constantly reminds me about how to stop and appreciate what we have been given (four amazing daughters, and her, an amazing wife), and I am forever reminding her to slow down. Somewhere we’ll find a happy medium, but I’ll be sure to have a glass of whisky or beer after 5 pm in my grandfather’s honor almost every day.

I will miss the visits with my grandfather (including the famous cocktail hours) but I'm certain that these lessons he inculcated in me will stay with me and my children forever.

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One doesn't live to eat, but eats to live.

aadmin — Fri, 19 Jul 2013 09:11:36 +0000

“Freedom from Want” Norman Rockwell’s 1943 painting is the Iconic American Dinner with Family centered around an abundance of food in a typical American dining room with smiles, engagement and life.

For most seniors this is what dinner is supposed to be. Moving to assisted living changes everything with family missing & being replaced by strangers, the dining room turned into the restaurant and food that is meant for nourishment versus to be enjoyed.

By definition Food means a substance that can be ingested in order to maintain life and grow. By this definition this could be anything that helps keep you alive but adds no value to your life.

Eating by definition means to take into the body by mouth or absorption. The act of eating in itself does not offer pleasure, connection or satisfaction.

In order to understand the smiles in the Norman Rockwell painting you need to feel the warmth of the setting, hear the conversations and smell the turkey and pie. “Freedom from Want” the title of the painting is what senior living supply’s at a minimum but I believe the title misleads us into thinking that having food equates to the happiness in the painting. I propose that the Italians understand the concept better and we would be wise to follow their lead.

There are several Italian sayings that apply to the idea of eating and happiness:

Chi mangia e non invita, possa strozzarsi con ogni mollica. (He who eats alone and invites no one, will choke with every crumb.)

Chi mangia solo crepa solo. (He who eats alone dies alone.)

But the best is:

Non si vive per mangiare ma si mangia per vivere.
One doesn't live to eat, but eats to live.

The play on words is critical. It is about living life to its fullest not sustaining oneself.

Connection is critical to the Italian meal. If you happen to be sitting alone at a table in Italy it won’t be too long before you are asked to join another table.

While eating is seen differently in most cultures, everyone agrees when you break bread with others it creates a bond that is otherwise difficult to create.

Couple these facts with the understanding that today’s seniors were not part of the fast food generation. Per Harvard Magazine May-June 2013 The Way We Eat Now by Craig Lambert “The 1950s were also an era in which the kitchen—not the television room—was the heart of the home.”

Careful consideration needs to be taken in providing multiple dining options as the Breakfast nook or table was different for most seniors than the dinner table. Lunch could mean either place depending on the formality and who was invited. Yet most senior living still offers one space for dining that looks more like a restaurant than a home.

Couple the change in environment for meals with the change in menu per environment and add fantastic food that you would want to eat at daily and we transform “Freedom from want” into “One doesn't live to eat, but eats to live.”

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Senior Living Professionals

Boomer Fitness - Fountain of Youth or River of Denial?

aadmin — Fri, 19 Jul 2013 05:51:02 +0000

The summer sun beckons. Baby Boomers yearn to look healthy and vibrant, to slim down and tone up.

Overzealous at the gym, or on an adventure trip, many discover too late that they've overdone it, and have ended up injured.

The Frontrunner of Boomeritis

Dr. Nicholas A. DiNubile, an orthopedic surgeon from Haverford, PA coined the term ‘Boomeritis’ to draw attention to an aging generation prone to sports and exercise injuries.

The co-specialist in sport medicine began warning his 55 Plus cohorts about musculoskeletal injuries – tendinitis, bursitis, and arthritis – when active members of his generation presented their ailments to him, during personal fitness routines and in private practice.

Bending the Curve of the Aging Process

“The Baby Boomers are the first generation to realize that they possessed a degree of control over the aging process,” said DiNubile. “Certain lifestyles can bend the curve and slow down the aging process.” In response, Baby Boomers hit the fitness/exercise trend in droves.

DiNubile noted the physical and psychological benefits of staying active, but warned of Boomers’ tendency to overdo it. “Eighty percent of the adult population needs some modification to their fitness routines to stay out of trouble.” DiNubile recommended that Boomers focus on core work.

Boomers need to do a lot of research to locate capable personal trainers, because many employ exercise routines that aggravate existing conditions. “Personal trainers tend to be younger than Boomer clients and need to consider that they’re dealing with aging bodies. One-size-fits-all programs are dangerous,” warned DiNubile.

The Fountain of Youth

Despite set-backs to the Boomer fitness movement, the orthopedic/sports medicine specialist deeply believes in its virtues. “Always find a reason to exercise. It’s the closest thing to the fountain of youth.”

The key outcomes are a longer, healthier and more vibrant life. “You’re adding life to your years more so than years to your life,” said DiNubile. “Exercise and a healthy lifestyle enables you to reach your genetic potential and maybe beyond.”

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The Miles Nadal JCC Fitness Centre in downtown Toronto is a year-round hub of activity for health and exercise. Colin Blayney, Active 55 Plus Coordinator, has developed many programs for middle-aged and older adults.

The River of Denial

Blayney believes Baby Boomers’ lack of acceptance of aging is a form of denial.

“I call it self-ageism,” said the medical-exercise specialist, “when aging people are unable to admit they have become older.” Blayney believes it’s more than an exercise problem. “It’s a life problem.”

Blayney is a 43-years-old Gen Xer. His maturity has led him to an understanding of 55+ clients. Aware of his own personal limits, he’s learned to stay within them. A post rehab professional, Blayney helps clients make the transition into appropriate exercise for better daily functioning.

“All people should exercise, but specifically this age group,” said Blayney.

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Boomers stand on the precipice of anti-aging and Boomeritis. There’s an art and a science to finding the middle path.

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