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When maneuvering healthcare choices, especially for seniors and their families, advance care planning (ACP) is essential. On National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) on April 16, you can access valuable resources to initiate these important discussions. The Conversation Project and the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization provide guides and state-specific advance directive forms to help you articulate and document your care preferences. These resources guarantee your treatment wishes are respected and reduce stress for your family. By utilizing these tools, you can make informed decisions and align your care with your wishes, especially at the end of life. Continuing to explore these resources will help you make the best choices for your future healthcare.

Key Takeaways

• National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) Resources: April 16th is National Healthcare Decisions Day, offering resources to encourage advance care planning discussions and document wishes.
• Advance Directive Forms: Access free, state-specific advance directive forms online through organizations like the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the American Bar Association.
• Conversation Guides: Utilize guides from The Conversation Project and PREPARE for Your Care to initiate and facilitate discussions about future medical care preferences.
• Healthcare Agent Selection: Choose and discuss your healthcare agent’s role with them and other loved ones to ensure your wishes are respected if you cannot communicate.
• Local Support and Events: Engage with local healthcare organizations, Area Agencies on Aging, and community groups that host events and provide materials for advance care planning.

Understanding Advance Care Planning

Advance care planning is an essential process that helps you prepare for future healthcare decisions, especially when you may no longer be able to make those decisions yourself. This involves early and ongoing discussions with your healthcare professionals, family members, friends, and other designated decision-makers.

These conversations help guarantee that your treatment preferences are understood and respected if someone else needs to make decisions on your behalf.

Key components of advance care planning include completing an advance directive, such as a living will, and appointing a health care proxy (or durable power of attorney) to make decisions for you.

Documenting your care preferences and sharing them with loved ones can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and guarantee that the care you receive aligns with your wishes, particularly near the end of life.

Resources for Advance Care Planning

When considering your future healthcare, having the right resources at your fingertips can make a significant difference. For advance care planning, several tools and initiatives are available to help you and your loved ones make informed decisions.

National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) on April 16 is a pivotal event that provides numerous resources. The Conversation Project offers a “Your Conversation Starter Guide” and a “What Matters to Me Workbook” to help initiate discussions about healthcare wishes.

Additionally, the Roger and Flo Lipitz Center has developed resources such as personal communication letters, planning checklists, and patient portal support to facilitate conversations and involve family members in the planning process.

The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) also provides free downloadable state-specific Advance Directive forms and tips for discussing care wishes on their CaringInfo.org website.

These resources can help you articulate and document your care preferences, ensuring your wishes are respected.

Completing Advance Directives

As you consider your future healthcare, completing advance directives is an essential step in guaranteeing your wishes are respected.

Advance directives are legal documents that outline your preferences for medical care if you become unable to communicate. You can specify the type of care you want, such as life-sustaining treatments, palliative care, or hospice care, and appoint a healthcare agent to make decisions on your behalf.

When filling out an advance directive, you can be as general or explicit as you want. It’s important to discuss your wishes with your healthcare agent, family, and friends to guarantee everyone is aware of your preferences.

The document requires the signatures of two witnesses who aren’t named in the directive. Once completed, share it with your doctor, healthcare providers, and loved ones to guarantee it’s included in your medical records.

Support for Family Caregivers

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or senior centers for information on these services.

Additionally, programs like the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Caregiver Support Program and resources from organizations such as the Family Caregiver Alliance and the National Alliance for Caregiving can provide critical assistance, including counseling, support groups, and training.

These resources help you care for your loved ones while also taking care of yourself.

Utilizing National and Local Resources

How can you guarantee that your healthcare wishes are respected as you age? Utilizing national and local resources is a vital step.

National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) on April 16 serves as a reminder to engage in advance care planning. You can access free, state-specific Advance Directive forms and other resources through websites like NHPCO’s CaringInfo.org and NHDD.org. These tools help you document your healthcare wishes and appoint a Health Care Power of Attorney.

Locally, many healthcare organizations, community groups, and faith-based institutions host events and provide materials to support advance care planning. Resources like The Conversation Project and Five Wishes packets can guide you through conversations with your family and healthcare providers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Update My Advance Care Planning Documents?

Update your advance care planning documents at least once a year or after major life changes, such as a new decade of life, death of a loved one, divorce, serious diagnosis, or significant health decline.

What if My Family Disagrees With My Healthcare Wishes?

If your family disagrees with your healthcare wishes, consider having open discussions ahead of time, involving a geriatric care manager or counselor, and guaranteeing you have advance directives and a health care power of attorney in place. This can help minimize conflicts and guarantee your wishes are respected.

Can I Change My Healthcare Proxy if Circumstances Change?

You can change your healthcare proxy if circumstances change by filling out a new form, which will revoke the existing one. Inform your healthcare agent, healthcare team, and family to avoid confusion.

How Do State Laws Affect Advance Care Planning Decisions?

State laws considerably impact your advance care planning decisions by requiring specific forms, witnesses, and notarization for advance directives, and by regulating the use of tools like POLST and reimbursing for advance care planning services differently.

What Role Do Healthcare Providers Play in Respecting Advance Directives?

Healthcare providers play an essential role in respecting advance directives by informing patients of their rights, documenting existing directives, and honoring these documents according to state laws, ensuring patients’ wishes are followed even when they cannot communicate themselves.

Conclusion

By participating in National Healthcare Decisions Day, you empower yourself and your loved ones to make informed healthcare choices. Completing Advance Directives and appointing a Health Care Power of Attorney guarantees your wishes are respected, even if you can’t communicate them. This proactive approach alleviates the burden on family and caregivers, providing them with clear guidance during critical moments. Take control of your healthcare decisions today to guarantee your voice is heard.

February is American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular health. For seniors, prioritizing heart health is essential for maintaining an active and fulfilling lifestyle. At Westchester Village of Lenexa, we encourage our residents to embrace wellness by focusing on heart-healthy habits, staying socially engaged, and enjoying life to the fullest.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of heart health, provide practical wellness tips, and explain how our senior living community supports a heart-conscious lifestyle.

Why Heart Health Matters for Seniors

Heart disease remains one of the leading health concerns for older adults. As we age, our heart and blood vessels undergo changes that can increase the risk of cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes. However, with the right lifestyle choices, many heart-related issues can be prevented or managed effectively.

Common Risk Factors for Heart Disease:

• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Often called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• High Cholesterol: Excess cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, restricting blood flow.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can weaken the heart muscle and contribute to obesity.
• Poor Diet: Diets high in saturated fats, processed foods, and sodium can negatively impact heart health.
• Smoking and Excess Alcohol Consumption: Both habits increase blood pressure and damage blood vessels.
• Stress and Mental Health: Chronic stress and depression can have direct effects on heart health.

Understanding these risk factors allows seniors to make proactive choices to protect their cardiovascular health.

Heart-Healthy Lifestyle Tips

A few simple lifestyle changes can make a significant impact on overall heart health. Here are some key habits that promote a strong and healthy heart:

1. Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet

A balanced diet is one of the most effective ways to support heart health. Consider incorporating:

• Fruits and Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Whole Grains: Oats, brown rice, and quinoa help lower cholesterol.
• Lean Proteins: Fish, skinless poultry, and plant-based proteins like beans and nuts.
• Healthy Fats: Avocados, olive oil, and nuts provide heart-boosting benefits.
• Low-Sodium Foods: Reducing salt intake helps manage blood pressure.

2. Stay Physically Active

Regular exercise strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and enhances overall well-being. Consider:

• Walking Clubs: A simple daily walk boosts heart function.
• Chair Yoga or Stretching: Gentle movement improves flexibility and circulation.
• Water Aerobics: Low-impact and great for joint health.
• Strength Training: Helps maintain muscle mass and bone health.

3. Manage Stress and Mental Well-Being

Chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure and other heart-related concerns. To manage stress:

• Practice Mindfulness: Deep breathing and meditation can promote relaxation.
• Engage in Hobbies: Gardening, painting, or playing music can bring joy and reduce stress.
• Socialize Regularly: Strong social connections improve emotional and physical well-being.

4. Get Regular Health Screenings

Routine check-ups help detect and manage health conditions early. Seniors should:

• Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Regular screenings help prevent complications.
• Discuss Medications with a Doctor: Ensure prescriptions support heart health.
• Stay Up to Date on Vaccines: Flu and pneumonia vaccines help prevent complications that can strain the heart.

How Westchester Village of Lenexa Supports Heart Health

At Westchester Village of Lenexa, we believe in promoting a heart-conscious lifestyle through engaging activities, nutritious dining options, and supportive wellness programs. Here’s how we help residents prioritize heart health:

Delicious and Nutritious Dining Options

Our culinary team prepares well-balanced meals with fresh ingredients to support cardiovascular wellness. We offer:

• Heart-healthy menu options with low-sodium and high-fiber choices.
• Dietitian-approved meals tailored to individual dietary needs.
• Cooking classes to educate residents about preparing nutritious meals.

Engaging in Social and Mental Wellness Activities

We recognize that emotional well-being plays a crucial role in heart health. Our community offers:

• Group outings, social gatherings, and hobby clubs to foster connections.
• Relaxation sessions, meditation classes, and stress management workshops.
• Support groups and wellness talks with healthcare professionals.

Celebrate Heart Month with Us!

This February, we invite residents and families to join us in celebrating American Heart Month. Whether it’s participating in a heart-healthy cooking class, attending a fitness session, or simply sharing a laugh with friends, every small step contributes to a healthier heart and a happier life.

If you or a loved one are interested in learning more about our senior living community and the heart-focused wellness programs we offer, contact us today. We’d love to help you embrace a heart-healthy lifestyle with comfort, care, and community!

Stay healthy. Stay happy. Stay heart-strong. ❤️

As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time for seniors to focus on their wellness and set some achievable resolutions. This year, let’s prioritize holistic health, emphasizing not just physical fitness but also mental well-being and social connections. Here’s a guide to help you create a healthier, happier you in the coming year.

The Power of Social Connections

One of the most impactful resolutions you can make this year is to prioritize socialization. Research has consistently shown that maintaining strong social connections is crucial for seniors’ overall health and well-being.

Benefits of Staying Socially Active

1. Improved Cognitive Function: Regular social interactions can help keep your mind sharp and may even reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

2. Better Mental Health: Socializing can combat feelings of loneliness and depression, leading to improved mood and overall mental wellness.

3. Enhanced Physical Health: Seniors who maintain active social lives often engage in more physical activities, which can improve cardiovascular health and strengthen the immune system.

4. Increased Longevity: Studies have shown that socially active seniors tend to live longer, healthier lives.

Ways to Stay Connected

• Join local community centers or senior groups
• Participate in group exercise classes
• Volunteer for causes you care about
• Use technology to stay in touch with family and friends
• Attend cultural events or take up new hobbies with others

Remember, it’s not just about the quantity of social interactions, but also the quality. Focus on building meaningful connections that bring joy and support to your life.

Physical Wellness: Moving Towards Better Health

Physical activity remains a cornerstone of healthy aging. In 2025, let’s focus on creating sustainable fitness habits that cater to your individual needs and preferences.

Tailoring Your Fitness Routine

1. Strength Training: Incorporate resistance exercises to maintain muscle mass and bone density. This could be as simple as using light weights or resistance bands at home.

2. Cardiovascular Health: Engage in activities that get your heart pumping. Walking, swimming, or cycling are excellent low-impact options.

3. Flexibility and Balance: Include stretching and balance exercises to improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls. Yoga or tai chi classes designed for seniors can be particularly beneficial.

4. Personalized Approach: Consult with a healthcare provider or a certified fitness instructor to create a personalized fitness plan that takes into account your health conditions and goals.

Remember, the key is consistency. Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.

Nourishing Your Body and Mind

Nutrition for Seniors

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining health and vitality as we age. In 2025, focus on:

1. Balanced Diet: Ensure your meals include a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

2. Hydration: Make a conscious effort to drink enough water throughout the day.

3. Mindful Eating: Pay attention to portion sizes and eat slowly to enjoy your meals fully.

4. Supplement Wisely: Consult with your doctor about any necessary supplements, such as vitamin D or calcium.

Mental Wellness

Keeping your mind active and engaged is just as important as physical health. Consider these activities:

1. Learn Something New: Take up a new hobby or learn a new skill. This could be anything from painting to learning a new language.

2. Brain Training: Engage in puzzles, crosswords, or digital brain training games to keep your mind sharp.

3. Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practice meditation or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress and improve overall mental well-being.

4. Quality Sleep: Prioritize getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine to improve sleep quality.

Decluttering for a Fresh Start

The new year is an excellent time to declutter both your physical space and your mind. This can lead to reduced stress and a greater sense of control over your environment.

1. Start Small: Begin with one drawer or closet at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

2. Donate or Recycle: Consider donating items you no longer need to local charities.

3. Digital Declutter: Organize your digital files and unsubscribe from unnecessary emails.

4. Simplify Your Schedule: Review your commitments and prioritize activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

Embracing Holistic Wellness

As we embrace 2025, remember that true wellness encompasses all aspects of your life – physical, mental, and social. By setting realistic goals in each of these areas, you’re paving the way for a healthier, happier year ahead.

Don’t forget to celebrate your progress along the way, no matter how small. Every step towards better health is a victory worth acknowledging. Here’s to a new year filled with vitality, connection, and joy!

Thanksgiving is the perfect time for gratitude, togetherness, and celebration. It’s also an opportunity to connect with family and friends young and old. And sometimes, it’s fun to start new traditions too!

Here are ten Thanksgiving activities and ideas for anyone ages 1-100 that just might become new traditions in your family.

Thanksgiving Recipe Swap

Seniors have a lot of Thanksgivings under their belt, which means they have plenty of favorite holiday recipes. Share recipe collections that bring generations together.

Gratitude Jar

A gratitude jar is a simple way to reflect on the blessings of the past year. Seniors should write down what they’re grateful for throughout the year and place the notes in a decorated jar. Then they read them on Thanksgiving Day with family—bonus points if you can get everyone to do this!

Thanksgiving-Themed Crafting

Crafting brings joy and creativity, and there are plenty of Thanksgiving-themed crafts to try! Ideas include decorating pumpkins, making autumn wreaths, or creating homemade Thanksgiving cards for family and friends.

Classic Thanksgiving Movies and Shows

Watching Thanksgiving-themed films or parades from around the country is a great way for seniors to relax and feel part of the holiday spirit. Consider movies like A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving or watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Fall Nature Walks

For seniors who enjoy the outdoors, a peaceful fall walk can be refreshing. Whether they go with family or on their own, they can soak up the autumn colors and appreciate the season’s beauty.

Donate Harvest Baskets

If you or your older family members have a garden or get some extra produce from the grocery store or farmer’s market, assemble a harvest-themed basket with vegetables, fruits, nuts, and canned goods to donate to food pantries.

Thanksgiving Bingo

Bingo is a timeless game that can be customized for Thanksgiving. Bingo boards could feature images like pumpkins, pies, and turkeys to add a holiday twist.

Cook Dishes Together

Seniors who enjoy cooking can try classic Thanksgiving recipes, like pumpkin pie or stuffing (or dressing as Southerners like to say). For those who prefer a hands-off approach, they can support a local business and cater their Thanksgiving meals.

Share Thanksgiving Stories

Sharing stories from past Thanksgivings can bring back cherished memories and strengthen family bonds. Family members can take turns sharing memorable moments. This is especially great for seniors to share their stories with younger family members who don’t know what life was like decades ago.

Helping with Table Setting and Decorating

Setting the table can be a fulfilling activity for seniors because it gives them something to do and they feel helpful. Plus, it adds a festive touch to the celebration. They can arrange decorations, fold napkins, or place name cards, making the dining area special and festive for the holiday.

How Will You Incorporate New Traditions this Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is a unique opportunity to celebrate life, share stories, and appreciate the time we have together. Fill your holiday season with these senior-friendly activities. And however you choose to celebrate, we hope you have a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving.

Summer is in full swing, and nearly everyone is getting outside. Unfortunately, for some people, the summer is hard. Seniors can have a tough time staying active in the summer because it’s too hot and they don’t have the ability to always get in the shade or drink water. Here are seven enjoyable and accessible outdoor activities tailored for seniors, including those with disabilities.

1. Walking

Walking is a simple yet effective way to stay active. You can walk on sidewalks or at a local park with scenic trails.

• Health Benefits: Walking improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, enhances balance, and boosts mental health.
• Accessibility: It can be adjusted for pace and distance, suitable for those using walkers or canes.

2. Gardening

Gardening offers a therapeutic connection with nature. It’s a low-stress activity that can be done alone and in groups.

• Health Benefits: Encourages physical activity, reduces stress, improves hand strength and dexterity, and provides a sense of accomplishment.
• Accessibility: Raised gardening beds and adaptable tools and techniques for seniors with limited mobility or arthritis.

3. Chair Yoga

Sometimes, it’s just too hot outside. On these days, try chair yoga. You can do chair yoga outdoors, combining the benefits of gentle stretching with fresh air.

• Health Benefits: Enhances flexibility, improves balance, reduces anxiety, and promotes relaxation.
• Accessibility: Suitable for all mobility levels, can be done seated or standing with support.

4. Bird Watching

Bird watching is a peaceful and engaging activity that can be enjoyed in backyards, parks, or nature reserves. It’s also a great activity for seniors to connect with their young grandchildren.

• Health Benefits: Encourages mindfulness, reduces stress, and provides light physical activity through walking or sitting in nature.
• Accessibility: Requires minimal physical exertion, can be done with binoculars from a seated position.

5. Picnics

Get seniors socializing and enjoying great food with a picnic. Try themed picnics, like BBQs or 1950’s diner style.

• Health Benefits: Promotes social interaction, which is crucial for mental health, and encourages healthy eating.
• Accessibility: Can be set up in easily accessible areas with picnic tables or benches.

6. Fishing

Fishing is a relaxing activity that offers the opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy quiet contemplation.

• Health Benefits: Reduces stress, improves focus and concentration, and provides gentle physical activity.
• Accessibility: Accessible fishing piers and adaptive equipment make it possible for seniors with limited mobility.

7. Outdoor Art Classes

Hosting art classes in a garden or park can be a creative and fulfilling way for seniors to spend time.

• Health Benefits: Stimulates creativity, enhances cognitive function, and promotes relaxation.
• Accessibility: Adaptable for various physical abilities, with activities like painting, drawing, or crafting.

How Will Your Senior Spend Their Summer?

Summer is an important time of year to get outside and soak in the good weather. With the right activities, your senior can maintain their physical health, mental well-being, and social connections. Try these seven activities for a happier, healthier lifestyle.

Moms are the best. They take care of you when you’re sick, they drive you to school, and they’re your biggest cheerleader on the sidelines at school and in life. They’re pretty special.

That’s why we put together this list of creative gift ideas for your senior mom. After a life of giving and loving, surprise your mom with a thoughtful gift.

Here are four of our favorite gift ideas for this Mother’s Day!

Skylight Frame

Whether you live down the road or across the country, your family always wants to see photos! The Skylight Frame is a great way to share precious memories with your mom, no matter how far away you live.

The Skylight Frame is a digital photo frame… but it’s not like those other ones that need an SD card. You can constantly update the Skylight Frame with new photos directly from the app or by email. Now, after Johnny’s baseball game or Suzie’s swim meet, you can surprise their grandmother with new photos from their competition in a minute.

Take a Class Together

Sometimes “Time” is the greatest gift you can give someone. Instead of giving a physical gift this year for Mother’s Day, gift an experience, like taking a class together. 

Does your mom love to cook or garden? Go to a cooking or gardening class with her!

Maybe your mom prefers a wine and cheese tasting. Take her to a local vineyard.

Or better yet, your mom loves to burn up the dance floor! Find a local samba or ballroom dancing class.

Taking a class together is a great gift because it creates lasting memories and gets you doing something your mother loves.

Live Music Performance

Music is a great way to liven the mood—that’s why so many restaurants use it in the background. So what better way to really make Mother’s Day special than to buy her tickets to a live music performance? Bonus points if the performance is on Mother’s Day.

Listening to live music is such a fun experience and great for the whole family to do. Try to find tickets for a local cover band or one of your mom’s favorite singers still on tour to really excite her and make her day.

Restock Hobby Supplies

Is your mom into crafting or some other hobby? Chances are she needs some supply refills or to upgrade her set! Restock or replace her hobby supplies this Mother’s Day to show you care about her passions and creativity.

Although hobbies are a lot of fun, sometimes the cost to maintain one can add up. Restocking your mom’s hobby supplies helps her stay active doing things she loves.

What Will You Get Your Mom This Mother’s Day?

Mother’s Day isn’t very far away. Don’t wait too long to make the most of this special day. Surprise your mom with one of these creative gifts. If we sparked an idea with this list, go for it! Your mom deserves it.

Tending a garden is just as much a reward for the heart as it is for the stomach. Eating food from your backyard fills you with pride and excitement. And the best part about gardening is that anyone can do it! Here’s what you need to know to start and maintain your garden and a list of easy-to-maintain plants.

Setting Up Your Garden

Before you start hopping along and planting everything you’ve ever wanted in your garden, here are a few things every senior should do to set their garden up for success.

1. Location, location, location: The location of your garden is the first criterion for success. Plants need lots of sunlight to fully grow, so keep track of which part of your yard gets the most sun. The last thing you want is to plant tomatoes in the shade!
2. Good things come in small packages: If this is the first time you’re gardening, start small. Find a few pots or planters to grow your first garden. Starting with a small garden builds your confidence over the years and is easier to maintain.
3. Keep water nearby: When you pick out your location for your garden, check to see how far it is from your water supply. It may not seem like a big deal when it’s 60℉ outside to carry water to and from your garden hose, but once it’s 90℉, the situation becomes a lot more dangerous and tiresome. If the garden hose can’t reach on its own, consider an extension or moving your garden closer to the hose.

Three Types of Plants for Seniors to Grow in Their Garden

With thousands of options available, what should you grow in your garden? Do you want to eat fruits and vegetables or go to a flower garden? If you’re limited on space, should you grow vertically?

Regardless of what you choose and your situation, here are three types of plants you can grow in your garden that are easy to maintain.

1.   Herbs

No matter how much space you have, herbs are easy to grow, don’t require a lot of room, and smell wonderful. Plus, the options are endless. We highly recommend you grow herbs and spices you typically eat and cook with to save precious space.

2.   Flowers

A flower garden is less effort than growing produce, and it’s just as beautiful! Consider annuals, perennials, and leafy vines to add character and charm to your garden during the year.

3.   Vines and Bushes

Make the most of limited gardening space by growing vines and bushy plants in a vertical garden. You can grow peas, peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and even some melons (with some extra support) in a vertical garden.

Make the Most of Your Garden

Gardening might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right setup, you and your garden can thrive this year. Spend some time setting your garden up for success with the right location, water supply, and plant selection. Happy gardening, friends!

Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, so you know what that means… early spring! Or at least that’s what we’ve been told. Whether or not you believe the world-famous groundhog, spring will definitely arrive, so it’s time to start thinking about spring cleaning!

Although it can be a bit of work, spring cleaning is a great time to declutter and get some movement after being cooped up all winter. Here are some practical tips for seniors to follow over the next few weeks.

1. Make a List (And Check It Twice)

Spring cleaning can be overwhelming, especially for seniors. Start by making a list of every room they need to clean. Then, write down what needs to happen in each room. It might look like this:

Bedroom

• Vacuum
• Wipe down dresser and mirror
• Clean blinds
• Clean ceiling fan
• Change blanket/quilt/duvet/comforter

Bathroom

• Sweep/mop floors
• Wipe counters and mirror
• Clean toilet
• Clean tub
• Restock garbage bags

Kitchen

• Wipe counters
• Clean appliances
• Clean out cabinets
• Get rid of unused kitchen tools and appliances

Once your senior has a list made, they can start cleaning! Remember, a list is supposed to guide them, not overwhelm them or stress them out. It doesn’t have to all get done in one weekend.

2. Declutter with Purpose

Decluttering can be exhausting—physically and emotionally. They may have to get rid of things that have a story and bring back memories. Let them take their time to avoid exhaustion.

As your senior starts to declutter, it’s best to have a system to help them stay on top of things. There are a lot of cleaning hacks out there, but a tried and true one is to categorize things by the last time they used it.

Haven’t used a set of mixing bowls because they prefer another set? Get rid of the first one!

Haven’t worn a shirt or pants in 6-8 months? Donate it or try to resell it!

Take this opportunity to declutter their belongings. Start with items they no longer use or need. Consider donating, recycling, or disposing of them responsibly.

3. Get Some Help

Cleaning a home is a tall task for anyone, especially seniors. The last thing any elderly person should do is attempt to clean by themselves. There’s just too much risk when you account for slipping, navigating around obstacles, and climbing ladders to clean hard-to-reach places.

That’s why it’s time for children and grandchildren to help out. And if the family isn’t nearby, see if some neighbors or people from church and the community center can help. There are also some great companies that can assist with decluttering and/or cleaning.

Happy Cleaning!

Spring cleaning is a great way to start the year fresh and create some space. And for seniors, it can really help them set the tone for the year and start on a high note. It’s an opportunity to refresh their living spaces and promote a sense of well-being. Give these tips a try in the coming weeks.

February is American Heart Month, a time when the American Heart Association designated a time of year for everyone to pay attention to their hearts and cardiovascular health.

Heart-healthy recipes don’t have to break the bank or be hard to cook. Here are some of our tips for finding foods that promote heart health and favorite recipes that every senior can cook and enjoy.

Understanding Heart-Healthy Eating

While there isn’t anything wrong with the occasional treat, we want our diets to mainly consist of foods that nourish our bodies and taste good.

Here are some simple pointers to eating a heart-healthy diet:

• Variety of fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Lean meats, like poultry and seafood
• Minimally processed foods
• Minimal sugar
• Minimal salt

A healthy diet is the foundation of a long life and healthy golden years. Seniors, even those with accessibility issues, can find unique ways to get the healthy food they need.

Whether your senior shops at Walmart, Costco, or their regional grocery store, they can find foods with the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check that lets them know the food they’re looking at is good for their heart.

One of the most important things to remember about heart-healthy eating is to remember that health is a journey, not a destination. Eating one unhealthy food doesn’t erase all your work. It’s about consistency.  

Our Favorite Recipes

Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there are plenty of heart-healthy options available. Here are some of our favorite recipes to get your senior started on the right foot.

Oatmeal with Fresh Berries

Oatmeal is one of those foods that are incredibly flexible and easy to make. Plus, oats are great for your heart and overall health. They have natural antioxidants, fiber, and minerals that can improve your cholesterol.

Spice up your plain oatmeal with yogurt or cottage cheese, fresh fruit, cinnamon and nutmeg, and different nuts. The options really are endless when you make oatmeal.

Grilled Salmon Salad

Salmon is a great fish that pairs well with a lot of fruits and vegetables. That’s why a salmon salad is a great way to improve heart health in seniors while ensuring they get all the other important vitamins and minerals they need.

Salmon is high in Omega-3 fatty acids, which has a lot of benefits, including:

• Improved brain function
• Decreased risk of cardiovascular problems
• Joint protection

Baked Chicken with Roasted Vegetables

If you’re looking for a protein that is flexible, easy to make, and gives seniors the nutrients they need, look no further than chicken. This lean protein source is technically a complete protein, which means that it has all 9 essential amino acids.

Try preparing your chicken with roasted vegetables to pull in fiber and other vitamins and minerals for a heart-healthy meal.

What Will You Make?

Heart-healthy foods are good for all of us, but especially for seniors to live the best life they can. Try out these recipes and let us know what you like!

It happens every year. The days get shorter. The temperature drops. And cold weather chills our very bones. Even though we know exactly when to expect winter, it seems to surprise us every year—maybe we’re willfully ignorant.

Change up your routine this year. Don’t let the cold weather keep you from having fun. There are plenty of fun indoor activities seniors can do during the cold winter months.

Why Should Seniors Participate in Activities in the Winter?

It’s hard for everyone to stay active during the colder months. But it’s even worse for seniors, especially those with limited mobility. Activities are great for keeping busy when you can’t go outside, but there’s so much more to it.

Seniors should participate in fun indoor activities in the winter to keep a sharp mind, improve their heart health, and better their mood. Plus, an active lifestyle in the winter means an active lifestyle in the spring and summer. And when seniors are active all year round, they’ll live longer, healthier lives.

Ten Activities for Seniors

Staying busy and having fun during the winter doesn’t need to be hard. In fact, it’s not with the right plan and a few friends. Whether your senior is living in a senior living community or at home, here are our recommendations for healthy activities they can do during the winter.

1. Book Club

Finding a group of people who love to read is the first step towards starting a book club. Best part is the group can meet regularly at a community or online and share their thoughts.

2. Painting

A picture is worth a thousand words. Help a senior get their creativity out with a beautiful painting of a sunset or their favorite pet.

3. Listen to a Podcast

Podcasts are great for helping a senior’s attention span and creativity. Help them find their favorite genres, like sports, politics, murder mysteries, or personal development.

4. Cards and Board Games

Cards and board games are a great way to bring people together and keep their mind sharp. We recommend Settlers of Catan, 42 (a domino game), and solitaire.

5. Watch Old Movies

Nothing brings back old memories like watching movies from your childhood.

6. Exercise

Exercise, solo or group, is a great way to get the blood flowing and muscle toned for a long, happy life.

7. Yoga

Yoga helps relieve stress, increases flexibility, and improves your mood—win-win-win for seniors!

8. Swimming

Need to take it easy on the joints? Try exercising in a pool or swimming.

9. Cooking

Cooking good food is a great way to maintain hand-eye coordination, memory, and a full belly!

10. Indoor Gardening

Get the herbs and small produce you need for cooking from an easy indoor garden.

What Will You Do This Winter?

Now is the perfect time to get productive and healthy. Any of these indoor activities are sure to bring a smile and some lasting memories.

Did we miss an activity you love? Share it with us!