A lovely client of ours, who we helped to find senior living for her mother and father, shared the most charming video with us at Accent on Seniors.
This adorable elderly couple walked into the lobby of the Mayo Clinic for a checkup and spotted a piano. They’ve been married for 62 years and he’ll be 90 this year. Check out this impromptu performance. We are only as old as we feel, it’s all attitude. Enjoy! They certainly do!
The need for senior living for our aging in place seniors is only going to increase! It is starting to get very crowded in the age 100+ age group, the Centenarians. The worldwide population in this age group is more than 340,000 people. In the U.S., by 2050, this age group is expected to increase from 75,000 to more than 600,000.
According to a recent study reported by CNN, by the year 2050, a 93-year old woman and an 86-year man will represent the average life expectancy. These statistics were compiled by analyzing 2007 data. Today, the average life expectancy, as reported by the Center of Disease Control is 78 years old.
The United States ranks #50 out of 224 countries in life expectancy, despite spending more money than any other country on health care. Obesity plays a factor in decreasing longevity and the increase of obesity in the United States has accounted for a lower life span. Japan is the leader at present with an average life span of 83 years, followed by Australia, Iceland, Italy, San Marino, and Switzerland at 82 years. Conversely, Sierra Leone at 41 years and Afghanistan at 42 years, and then followed by other African nations present the lowest life span.
07 Feb
Posted by Lori Solomon as All, Assisted living, Senior Living
01 Feb
Posted by Lori Solomon as All, Senior Living
Avoid a fiasco or an unnecessary remark when people see “Mom”, after a long time has passed. Whether it is for a special occasion, holiday time or just simply an upcoming visit, be sure to inform others about behavior and condition changes since they last saw her. Otherwise they may be shocked, as they compare with their most recent memories. Perhaps suggest they arrange a visit beforehand. Or make suggestions to them on how to communicate, especially if her speech is not intact. However you assess the situation, come up with strategies that will lead to the most successful approach and a pleasant visit.
It is that time of year, where families are stymied as to what to buy their elderly loved ones. There are a number of gift ideas, many of which are for their comfort in mind, not necessarily the latest in gadgets. Home adaptation equipment, such as handheld shower devices, large button telephones and safety objects. Consider entertainment items, such as their favorite music from the past, photograph albums filled with family pictures, videos, large print books or large piece puzzles. Clothing items are appreciated, with easy on/off elastic or Velcro closures. Warm and comfy items are favorites. Gift certificates for grooming, massages, manicures and haircuts are always a hit. Memory aids are useful, such as calendars, message boards or handheld tape recorders. And the best gift of all is companionship …. spending time with your elderly loved ones. Here is an article I wrote that can provide you with more suggestions on how to give gifts that will make this year’s holiday one to remember.
13 Dec
Posted by Lori Solomon as All, Assisted living, Senior Living
If you have older relatives and friends and you just don’t know what to give them, don’t despair… you are not alone! Many seniors have made or are in the midst of life changes, downsizing to smaller living quarters or perhaps have moved to a retirement, assisted living or skilled nursing facility. As a result, most seniors do not want to receive more “things”. Their adult children and friends are faced with a tough question of what to get someone who is trying to “unclutter” at this stage.
There are countless gift giving suggestions that will be appreciated. Instead of giving traditional gifts like a necktie or another doodad to dust – try giving creative, easily consumed gifts or services, to make their lives easier. Use your knowledge about the person to tailor gifts that will be helpful to them. Telephone cards, transportation tickets, coupon books for discount services or a donation to their favorite charity are appreciated. For those with health challenges such as poor eyesight or hearing, arthritis or other physical limitations, there are myriad items that will be welcomed. Gifts such as amplified big button telephones, talking room thermometers, voice activated light switches and specially adapted utensils with large grip handles are helpful suggestions. Personalized memory books, a framed picture of a loved one or themed gift baskets designed with the senior’s special interests in mind are hits! Subscriptions for magazine, large print novels, decks of cards and a stash of favored snacks are sure pleasers. With so many seniors striving to maintain their health, the “gift of health” goes a long way. Pampering services, such as a certificate for a manicure, massage or facial are surely welcomed. Keep in mind that Santa may be a distant memory, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t experience pleasure in unwrapping a gift!
For seniors living in assisted living or nursing homes, the holidays can be a depressing, lonely time. They may have memories of better times in their past, especially for those who have lost a spouse, have family members afar or are estranged from their families. Bring an old photograph album to refresh memories from long ago. Importantly, while visiting “mom” don’t forget her roommate or neighbors. Perhaps “adopt” a senior, to help ease their “holiday blues”. These individuals not only need recognition and a friendly visitor, but can always use personal care items or small pleasures and a friendly visit. Be prepared to listen, listen and listen!
Invite your senior to a holiday gathering, so that they still feel that they are a vital part of a celebration. Offer to bring wrapping paper and lend a hand in shopping for them to buy the holidays gifts they may have in mind. Most importantly, remember the caregivers and staff at senior communities, faithfully caring for your aging loved one. They deserve to be applauded for the hard work that they do!
High on the wish list for many seniors is something that can’t be bought in a store, the one thing their families may find in short supply – time. Plan ahead, make the time, involve the senior and above all don’t let their limitations interfere with an enjoyable visit!
01 Dec
Posted by Lori Solomon as All, Senior Living
I visited China recently, spending a week in Beijing and Shanghai. It was quite amazing to see how active the seniors were and how committed to exercise the people were at all ages to maintain health and well being. Exercise is their lifestyle, not requiring a membership to a fancy gym or the latest in exercise equipment. The local parks are a sight to see…with the look of an Olympics training grounds, though with a flair…. woman dancing with scarves in graceful movement, and other creative types of exercise. A report in their newspaper “China Daily” on November 1st, 2009 reported that more than 50% of centenarians in Hainan province are fit enough to take care of themselves, according to a local government survey. The country’s second largest island, known as the “home of longevity” has 1,163 registered centenarians, 173 of which are men and 990 are women. There are 9 centenarian couples where both husband and wife have passed the 100-year mark! Us Americans need to adopt the Chinese exercise regimen.