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A COMMUNITY’S ROLE IN FIGHTING THE HOLIDAY BLUES

Friday, November 25, 2016

As one ages, life losses are related to health as well as to losses of job/sense of purpose; social contacts; and previous relationships and traditions. While some seniors are blessed with excellent health, others of similar age may not experience the same degree of health, thus reducing their normal pool of friends and supports. During their lives, they have possibly experienced the loss of spouses, friends, and family members.Even if family members remain alive, the older adult may experience reduced contact with them due to geography or the general busyness of life.The holidays often trigger memories of treasured times full of people, purpose and relationships, increasing the awareness of such losses.All of these factors place older adults at risk for what has been known as the holiday blues. ...Read the rest...

MORE THOUGHTFUL GIFTS FOR OLDER ADULTS

Thursday, November 24, 2016

As in any group of individuals, there is no one definition or set of characteristics that describe each and every member of the group. Seniors experiencing a greater degree of decline – either physically, cognitively, or both –will leave their homes less, or at least drive less, after dark. Therefore, all interactive gifts for this segment of older adults should keep mobility or driving issues in mind. To address the issue of those living at home who are reticent to drive, consider gifting an Uber or SilverRide if available in your area.In addition to transportation services, SilverRide provides the option of accompaniment as well. ...Read the rest...

ATTENTIVE GIFTS FOR THE OLDER ADULT

Thursday, November 17, 2016

As I prepare to purchase gifts for the older members of my family, I am again in a quandary as to what to give them.They never mention things they might want, and I have observed gifts from previous years still sitting around in the original gift box. Not only do I want my presents to be useful, I want them to indicate the thought I put into selecting them as a symbol of my love and respect. I am guessing I am not alone in this search for the illusive, thoughtful gift. ...Read the rest...

PREPARATION FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Thursday, November 10, 2016

Cooler temperatures and the changing colors of leaves in the fall kindle my thoughts about the holidays. Both Thanksgiving and Christmas are times when many families gather or reconnect with each other to celebrate.For an older adult, however, the holidays may be a time that is emotionally difficult, even a bit depressing. Sometimes, the holidays trigger thoughts and memories of happier days when the house was full of spouses and children. The traditions, meals and celebrations of yesteryear may no longer be a part of today’s experience and ruminating on those losses may create a sense of sadness or even depression in older adults. ...Read the rest...

THE VALUE OF WELLNESS TO STAFF MEMBERS

Tuesday, November 08, 2016

When utilized wisely a robust whole-person wellness program benefits the entire community - residents and staff alike.It all boils down to philosophy and the policies supporting that philosophy. If fitness creates wellbeing among residents, it also fosters wellbeing among staff – and happy staff members often are our best employees, resulting in happy residents and family members. Therefore, consider encouraging staff to be active participants in the wellness program by uplifting wellness as a value of the organization with policies that allow staff to participate. ...Read the rest...