Americans are no longer interested in buying mega-mansions but are opting for smaller properties, which cost less and require less upkeep. For seniors, downsizing to a more compact house has significant advantages. They can enjoy their retirement years without spending as much time on chores like yard work. They also have to spend less on maintenance costs, which is significant since money troubles can be an issue after retirement. Before you downsize, ask yourself these questions to figure out what you will do with your old property and ensure you have the money to purchase a new one.

Is Now a Good Time to Put Your House on the Market?

When you’re looking to unload your old home, the most obvious answer is to sell it. You can take the money you make and put it toward your new house. Before you list your house, however, get a sense of what it’s worth. Look specifically at homes in your neighborhood that are a similar size. If you do decide to go ahead and sell your home, put in the time and effort to make it as marketable as possible. For example, you should hire a professional photographer to take photos. Studies show that pictures make a huge difference in selling real estate, and can help a house sell faster and at a higher price.

Would You Prefer the Steady Income That Comes with Renting It Out?

If you find that the real estate market in your area isn’t great, hold off on selling. Property prices are projected to increase, so you may be able to close a better deal in a few years. Instead, consider renting out your property. This allows you to collect a monthly income, which you can use to put toward the mortgage payments on your new property.
If you want to maximize your rental income, keep the furnishings in the home: Furnished spaces command a higher monthly rent. Given that your new house will be smaller, you likely won’t be able to fit all your current furniture inside it. So, make sure you secure a reliable tenant who will pay on time with a thorough vetting process. This should include in-person interviews and a request for pay stubs to prove their income.

Could a Family Member Step In and Take Care of the Property for You?
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Perhaps the real estate market is bad or you don’t want to deal with the hassle of tenants. In this case, consider asking a trusted family member if they want to take over the property. You can have them live there rent-free or charge them rent, depending on your financial needs. With this arrangement, you can entrust them to take care of day-to-day maintenance and rest easy knowing you can visit the old home whenever you want. 
Since you probably won’t charge your loved ones the full rent that you would a stranger, this arrangement will not be the most lucrative financially. You thus have to make sure that you will still have the funds needed to afford the down payment on your new home. Take the time to calculate how large a down payment you need; about 20 percent of the property’s sale price is usually suggested. Then make sure that the monthly payments won't exceed 25 percent of your monthly income. Set your house shopping budget accordingly and stick to it.

Downsizing is a big decision, one that requires careful consideration, especially when it comes to financial planning. Take the time to go through the above questions thoroughly and be realistic about your money needs. You don’t want to join the ranks of stressed-out Americans who are worried about insufficient retirement funds. Follow the above guidelines and you will be able to come up with a solution that best suits your needs. 

Article author: Jim Vogel of Elderaction.org
For additional information, click on the link above for Elder Action.
Photo Credit: Pexels

Annuities are tax-free savings with minimal risks, that provide a reliable source of income for the rest of an investor's life. "Annuities provide income for you, insuring you against living longer than your retirement savings can support," writes Elaine Silvestrini, on annuity.org. 
Annuities are usually bought through insurance companies. Like most contracts they can be negotiated to fit the specific needs of the parties. 
To learn more, visit https://www.annuity.org/annuities/retirement/.

Everyone knows that physical activity goes a long way towards cultivating a healthy lifestyle. But, did you know that social activity may be just as important?

Socially isolated older adults have been found to have a higher risk of sickness and disability, as well as higher blood pressure, and an increased risk of early death.

Being socially engaged may actually help to avoid Alzheimer’s and dementia. According to a study published in the Journal of Biomedical Science in 2018, “Social isolation […] is considered the major source of mental and psychosocial stress,” which is a prominent factor in the high prevalence of neurological diseases.  

Being involved in social activities can not only make your life more interesting and engaging, but it can also help to keep many of the negative effects of aging away.
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A few ways to stay socially engaged include joining a club or church group; volunteering; visiting friends and family; and playing games like chess, checkers, bridge, and poker.
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We all know that getting too much sun can be harmful to your health. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun is a major risk factor for most skin cancers.
But if you’re an older adult, sunlight – in the right amount – may provide health benefits too, a recent study says.
Sunlight causes your body to produce vitamin D. Data is emerging that suggests sunlight — with its ability to produce vitamin D — may reduce the risk of hip fractures, high blood pressure and stroke or heart attack for older adults, the study says.
The researchers, who  reviewed information gathered from a variety of sources, call for more data to weigh the potential benefits of moderate UV radiation against potential harm specifically for older adults.
That’s because the familiar recommendations to avoid the sun are based on data from the entire population – children through older adults. The data may not take into account important distinctions for older adults, the researchers say.
For example, older adults get far less sunlight than others because they tend to stay indoors. In addition, because of changes associated with aging, their skin is less efficient at producing vitamin D from sun exposure.
If you are an older adult, you need vitamin D. Vitamin D bolsters your skeletal health and may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, hip fractures, and vascular events such as stroke or heart attack, the study says. So, despite the cancer risk, older adults still may benefit from some sunlight, the researchers say.
Sunlight has other hidden benefits. With its power to produce vitamin D, it protects against depression, insomnia and an overactive immune system, geriatrician Ronan Factora, MD, says.
“There are some links between sunlight exposure and improved muscle function, bone and cardiovascular health, improved mood — even improved cognitive function,” Dr. Factora says.
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​Dementia is not a specific disease. It's an overall term that describes a group of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills severe enough to reduce a person's ability to perform everyday activities. Alzheimer's disease accounts for 60 to 80 percent of cases. Vascular dementia, which occurs after a stroke, is the second most common dementia type. But there are many other conditions that can cause symptoms of dementia, including some that are reversible, such as thyroid problems and vitamin deficiencies.
Dementia is often incorrectly referred to as "senility" or "senile dementia," which reflects the formerly widespread but incorrect belief that serious mental decline is a normal part of aging.
While symptoms of dementia can vary great at least two of the following core mental functions must be significantly impaired to be considered dementia:

• Memory
• Communication and language
• Ability to focus and pay attention
• Reasoning and judgment
• Visual perception

People with dementia may have problems with short-term memory, keeping track of a purse or wallet, paying bills, planning and preparing meals, remembering appointments or traveling out of the neighborhood.
Many dementias are progressive, meaning symptoms start out slowly and gradually get worse. If you or someone you know is experiencing memory difficulties or other changes in thinking skills, don't ignore them. See a doctor soon to determine the cause. Professional evaluation may detect a treatable condition. And even if symptoms suggest dementia, early diagnosis allows a person to get the maximum benefit from available treatments and provides an opportunity to volunteer for clinical trials or studies. It also provides time to plan for the future.
Different types of dementia are associated with particular types of brain cell damage in particular regions of the brain. For example, in Alzheimer's disease, high levels of certain proteins inside and outside brain cells make it hard for brain cells to stay healthy and to communicate with each other. The brain region called the hippocampus is the center of learning and memory in the brain, and the brain cells in this region are often the first to be damaged. That's why memory loss is often one of the earliest symptoms of Alzheimer's.
While most changes in the brain that cause dementia are permanent and worsen over time, thinking and memory problems caused by the following conditions may improve when the condition is treated or addressed:

• Depression
• Medication side effects
• Excess use of alcohol
• Thyroid problems
• Vitamin deficiencies

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Once you’re living off your nest egg, it’s more important than ever to manage your money wisely. Unfortunately, many older adults head into retirement with a poor understanding of their financial needs and their ability to meet them. Make sure you don’t encounter any unwelcome surprises during retirement by making an informed financial plan.
Make a BudgetThe advice to save 70 to 80 percent of your pre-retirement income is a helpful rule of thumb, but now that you’re no longer working, it’s important to reassess your financial standing. While retirement comes with savings in many areas, like no dependent children, no payroll taxes and (hopefully) no mortgage, life can get expensive in other ways.
 
According to U.S. News, a couple retiring in 2017 will spend an average of $275,000 on health care throughout their retirement — and that number is predicted to rise. Although you’re healthy now, there’s no predicting the future. More than one third of the U.S. population will be diagnosed with cancer over the course of their lives, and more than one quarter of older adults fall each year. An increasing number of older adults are opting to purchase long-term care insurance to cover the gap between Medicare benefits and actual health care needs.
 
Because of these unexpected costs, it’s not enough to make a household budget and multiply by it by the years you expect to live. A retirement budget should take into account routine, capital and unexpected expenses. Kiplinger recommends setting aside 10 percent of retirement savings for unexpected expenses.
Assess Your FinancesNow that you have an ideal budget, it’s time to evaluate your retirement savings. While Social Security benefits help seniors get by, at an average monthly payment of $1,404 in 2018, it’s not enough to make ends meet. That means you’ll need to rely on pensions, 401(k) and IRA accounts and other savings to cover the remaining expenses. Sit down with your financial advisor to evaluate your assets and determine how much money you’ll have to live on.
Close the GapsSeniors who do the math and discover they don’t have enough savings to fund a comfortable retirement have a few options. If you own a home, an easy choice is use your home equity. Downsizing to a smaller house is a good move for older adults’ safety, and it also offers big benefits to their finances. A smaller home costs less to upkeep and the savings from the home sale can be used in retirement. If selling isn’t an option, a reverse mortgage allows seniors to continue living in their home while receiving tax-free payments based on the home’s equity. However, a reverse mortgage must be repaid when you move out of your home or die. Typically, that means selling the house.
 
Another option for adding to your nest egg is settling your life insurance policy. According to Mason Finance, there are a few reasons why a senior might want to settle their life insurance policy, such as if you no longer have a spouse or children to serve as beneficiary or you have a term policy and it’s approaching the expiration date. Settling an unneeded policy offers the benefit of no longer paying monthly premiums and receiving a payout greater than the policy’s cash surrender value.
 
Selling a home, applying for a reverse mortgage, and settling a life insurance policy are all big decisions, so talk to your financial advisor before making any changes. Depending on the gap between how much money you have and how much you need, it could be a matter of going back to work for a couple of years before retiring or living more frugally than you had hoped. The world of retirement finance is complex, but a good financial advisor can help you make smart choices confidently.
 
Image via Unsplash
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Photo via Unsplash

 
The maze of Medicare has a lot going on. With government and private companies offering different kinds of healthcare coverage, how are you supposed to know what to do? According to CNBC, 70 percent of soon-to-be retirees wish they had a better grasp of Medicare. Sadly, there is a lot of misunderstanding about what is covered by Medicare, what the program costs, and what other options are available to seniors. Hopefully, this quick guide can clear things up.
 
All of Medicare’s Parts 
First, it's important to understand the difference between Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D. In general, Part A covers medically necessary hospital expenses, including lab tests and surgeries. Part B covers outpatient care, such as doctor’s visits and physical therapy. Part C, known as Medicare Advantage, is additional coverage offered by private companies. Finally, Part D covers prescription drugs and is also available through private insurance. For a more detailed explanation, check out this article from the Balance.
 
Your Additional Coverage Options 
Due to all the confusion surrounding Medicare, many seniors don't look into their extra coverage options. Only one-third of eligible seniors are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, but most people can benefit from the additional coverage. Though Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private companies, they are still regulated by the government and must provide the same coverage as the federal plans. However, they often include an array of additional coverage benefits. For example, Humana Medicare Advantage plans provide vision, dental, and prescription drug coverage, as well as free gym memberships through Silver Sneakers.
 
What You Have to Pay 
Cost is another aspect of Medicare that is misunderstood. Many people are under the impression that the federal Medicare program (Part A and B) is free to seniors over the age of 65. While Part A is free for most Americans, everyone must pay a monthly premium for Part B. You will also have to pay out-of-pocket for about 20 percent of your medical expenses.
 
Where Medigap Comes In 
Medigap, like Medicare Advantage, is a private insurance option for seniors who are eligible for Medicare. Medigap insurance covers the out-of-pocket expenses that come with Original Medicare, essentially filling the gaps in coverage. Many Medigap plans also pay for services that are not covered by Original Medicare, such as foreign travel insurance. However, Medicare Advantage usually eliminates the need for Medigap.
 
Choosing the Right Plan for Your Needs 
You can’t have both Medicare Advantage and Medigap at the same time, so choosing a plan for your additional coverage can be tricky. Forbes recommends thinking of Medicare Advantage as an alternative form of Medicare that offers additional benefits on top of regular Medicare. Medigap is more like a coverage supplement, helping you pay your out-of-pocket expenses. Medicare Advantage plans replace Medicare, while Medigap plans are combined with Medicare.
 
Put careful thought into your Medicare decision because you can only switch your plan during the Medicare Open Enrollment Period near the end of each year. Consider what kinds of medical services you use. For example, if you require vision care, hearing aids, or prescription drugs, a Medicare Advantage plan might be your best option. Medicare Advantage plans tend to have lower premiums than Medigap plans, but you may be left paying more out-of-pocket for your services. Just make sure the plan you choose covers the doctors, clinics, pharmacies, and hospitals that you prefer. If you like to travel, you may also want to check that your plan will cover your medical costs in different states.
 
It will take some time to learn everything you need to know about Medicare. Don't rush the process. Consider your options carefully so you can take full advantage of this beneficial healthcare coverage. When you're covered properly, you'll be able to use all the health services you need to stay happy and healthy in retirement while minimizing your financial concerns.

*Written by Sharon Wagner

Most people see their sleep habits shift as they age, but a new review suggests that some seniors lose the ability to get deep, restorative rest.
And that can come with health consequences, said review author Bryce Mander, a sleep researcher at the University of California, Berkeley.
Sleep "fragmentation" has been linked to a number of medical conditions, including depression and dementia, Mander said. People with fragmented sleep wake up multiple times during the night and miss out on the deep stages of sleep.
It is true that medical conditions, or the treatments for them, can cause sleep problems, according to Mander.
Take dementia, for example. Research suggests there is a "bi-directional" link between sleep disruptions and the dementia process, said Joe Winer, another Berkeley researcher who worked on the review.
That is, dementia often causes sleep problems; poor sleep, in turn, may speed declines in memory and other mental skills. According to Winer, animal research suggests that deep sleep helps "clear" the brain of the amyloid-beta proteins that build up in people with dementia.
So there may be a "vicious cycle," Winer said, where dementia and poor sleep feed each other.
Similar vicious cycles may be at work with other diseases, too, Mander said. He also stressed, though, that some shifts in sleep habits may be perfectly normal.
Older people are famously prone to being "early to bed, early to rise." They may also sleep a little less than they used to in their younger days. And that may be fine, the researchers said.
"We don't want to create a panic that if you're sleeping a little less than you used to, you're going to develop dementia," Mander said.
But, he added, it is important to recognize sleep as one of the lifestyle factors critical to good health -- right along with exercise and a healthy diet.
In fact, Mander noted, one reason that regular exercise keeps us healthy is that it can support better-quality sleep.
"Why do some people age more 'successfully' than others?" he said. "We think sleep is one of the factors."
Dr. Sanjeev Kothare, a sleep specialist who was not involved in the study, said poor sleep "clearly" has health consequences.
Sleep apnea is a good example, said Kothare, of the NYU Langone Comprehensive Epilepsy-Sleep Center, in New York City.
Obstructive sleep apnea causes repeated stops and starts in breathing during the night, and it's linked to major diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. Research al stern University in Chicago. She said sleep quality is more important than "duration."
So if older people are sleeping a little less than they used to -- or wake up once at night then quickly fall back asleep -- that's probably not a red flag, according to Zee.
But, she said, older adults should talk to their doctor if they routinely sleep less than six hours a night, or lack long "consolidated" blocks of sleep.
In some cases, Zee said, sleep apnea may be to blame.
In other cases, people may need lifestyle adjustments that can improve their sleep. The good news, Zee said, is that "behavioral and environmental changes are powerful."
Older people can improve their sleep by fitting physical and social activity into their daily routine, Zee said. At night, she suggested they make sure the bedroom temperature is comfortable and limit exposure to artificial light -- especially the blue glow of computer and TV screens.
Zee also stressed the importance of getting enough daylight, in the morning and afternoon: That helps keep the body's circadian rhythms (the sleep-wake cycle) on track.
But people should not wait until old age to care about sleep. According to Mander's team, people often start losing the capacity for deep sleep in middle age, and that decline continues over the years.
What's not clear yet, Mander said, is whether good sleep habits earlier in life help protect people from sleep problems in old age.
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When a typical person gets up in the morning, they sit up and throw their feet over the edge of the bed. Then they stand and walk to the bathroom. They take care of toileting, then shower, brush their teeth and many other activities to prepare themselves for the day.
When it comes time to think about food, they plan a menu, shop for the foods they want to eat and prepare their meals. Next, they sit down to eat. After the meal, they clean up the kitchen and wash the dishes.
All these activities, and many others, are referred to as Activities of Daily Living.
What are Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)?
Activities of Daily Living or ADLs is a term used by healthcare professionals to refer to the basic self-care tasks an individual does on a day-to-day basis. These activities are fundamental in caring for oneself and maintaining independence. An individual's ability or inability to perform ADLs is often used by health professionals as a way of measuring an individual’s functional status, especially that of older adults or those with disabilities.
Basic ADLs, sometimes referred to as BADLs, are self-care activities routinely performed which include, but are not limited to:

• Functional mobility, which includes the ability to walk and transfer in and out of a chair or bed. Essentially, it's the ability to move from one place to another as a person goes through their daily routines.
• Personal hygiene, oral care and grooming, including skin and hair care
• Showering and/or bathing
• Toileting, which includes getting on/off toilet and cleaning oneself
• Dressing, which includes selecting appropriate attire and putting it on
• Self-feeding

One way to look at basic ADLs is to think of them as the activities a person does when they get up in the morning preparing to leave the house and those they do regularly day in and day out.
As a person ages, ADLs slowly become more difficult to accomplish independently and gradually take more time to complete. Certain health issues, such as a stroke, or accidents, such as a fall, also affect a person’s ability to accomplish ADLs, sometimes dramatically.
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living or IADLs are not essential for basic functioning; however, they enable a person to live independently within a community. They’re generally more complex than basic ADLs.
IADLs are made up of activities which include, but are not limited to:

• Housekeeping, laundry and other home care chores
• Money management
• Meal preparation
• Moving/changing residences
• Shopping for groceries and other necessities
• Medication management
• Using the telephone or computer

Being able to perform both ADLs and IADLs is important for seniors to be able to successfully and safely live independently.

How are the ADLs Used in Senior Care?
Together, ADLs and IADLs make up the skills a person generally needs to successfully and safely live independently.
Therefore, a person’s ability or inability to perform ADLs and IADLs is used to gauge their need for care and/or occupational or physical therapy. Most healthcare service models use evaluations such as the Katz ADL Index to determine and evaluate their patient’s proficiencies and to then develop appropriate care plans to ensure all care needs are met.
Physical therapists prescribe exercise to help patients gain and/or maintain their independence based on ADL proficiencies. Prescribed exercises are based on an individual’s problematic ADLs. For example, slow walking speed is associated with an increased risk for falls; therefore, exercises are prescribed to impact and improve ambulation (an ADL proficiency) to reduce fall risk. See our other featured articles by clicking  > VIDEOS  or Instagram, topics like fall risk and so on will be posted.
When completing patient assessments, occupational therapists often assess a patient's proficiency of IADLs. There are twelve types of IADLs that the American Occupational Therapy Association recognizes as necessary to live in co-occupation with others:

• Home establishment and maintenance
• Meal preparation, including clean-up
• Care of others, including being able to select and supervise caregivers
• Communication management, includes telephone and computer usage
• Financial management
• Management and maintenance of health and health-related issues
• Shopping
• Maintaining and observing religious practices
• Child rearing
• Community mobility
• Pet care
• Safety procedures and emergency responses

Physicians, geriatric social workers, rehabilitation specialists and others in senior care often evaluate a person’s ability to perform ADLs and IADLs as part of a functional assessment. Difficulties performing IADLs may signal early dementia and Alzheimer's. Evaluations of IADLs are used to make a diagnostic evaluation and influence decisions on the type of care an older adult may require.

A new study suggests brain plasticity in early dementia may be a cause for memory loss but that it can improve the function of other parts of the brain as well.
Learn more about the research and how you may be able to prevent dementia or delay the progression of the disease.
Brain Plasticity and MemoryA study published in the JAMA Psychiatry journal offers a new strategy to slow the loss of memory and prevent dementia – and it revolves around brain plasticity and memory.
Dementia is thought to begin in the part of the brain responsible for forming memories, the hippocampus. Large amounts of protein can build up, creating amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain. This buildup causes healthy brain cells to lose function and start to die. However, brain plasticity gives us hope.
Brain plasticity refers to the way the brain is able to change and rebuild. When the brain is able to change how it functions, damage to your working memory can be improved.
The JAMA study suggests that the lower brain plasticity in early dementia may be why there is a loss in working memory as the disease progresses.
The study also suggests that strong plasticity can improve the function of other parts of your brain, which will slow the progression of and/or prevent dementia.
3 Ways to Strengthen Your Memory to Prevent DementiaThe old adage “use it or lose it” again proves true. The more you use your brain, the stronger it stays.
The following recommendations on how to improve your memory are simple but can have an enormous impact on strengthening your memory and preventing dementia:
1. Build up your relationships.Scientists are not sure why close relationships and socialization improve your brain, but the evidence is clear. People who have these relationships and a larger social network have better memory as they age.
One of the hypotheses is that relationships cause you to regularly exercise your brain. You need to listen to the other person, think about how to respond and remember conversations from the past. Social interactions also force your brain to focus. This mental stimulation pulls your brain out of the daydream state.
Tip: Make an effort each day to build up your relationships. Call an old friend. Write a letter. Whatever you do on a regular basis is what your brain will become efficient at doing. Use your brain to improve your relationships and you are less likely to see memory loss.
2. Exercise your memory.A study by Torkel Klingberg, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that repeating working memory tasks that got gradually harder resulted in stronger working memory. Klingberg says that “As long as you have working memory problems and you have the ability to train, you can improve your abilities.” Continually challenging and learning helps your brain to form new connections. Klingberg states that interest and motivation also had a strong impact on improving memory.
A 2017 study in The British Journal of Psychiatry found that training on how to use “chunking” to remember information improved cognitive function in people with the disease. The training involved recalling a more difficult list of numbers each session.
Tip: Make a goal to learn something new about an activity, person or place that you are passionate about. Even if it is as simple as memorizing a new joke or telling a story. Remember to keep trying to add more information to what you already learned.
3. Use memory tricks.Your brain can only hold a set amount of information, even with a strong memory. That is where habits, rituals and routines are meant to free up mental energy.
Use a calendar, your notebook or phone to write down reminders so you can focus on learning and remembering new things. Always put your commonly misplaced items in the same place so it becomes automatic. Repeat new information out loud. If something is important to you, focus on that detail. Repeat it and think about it. Research has shown that you are more likely to remember new information if you continue to call it up.
Tip: Decide what is important to you and how you want to remember it. Think of what you felt, heard, saw and smelt at that time. Creating a full picture will make the memory stick. Use all your senses to create a strong memory.
Strengthening your memory not only improves your daily functioning now but can prevent dementia in the years to come.

*Referenced from a place for mom

Nearly 15% of adults in the United States provide unpaid care to another adult. Recently, a study from the Pew Research Center and analysis of data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) evaluated the duties of caregivers and found that many caregivers felt their experiences were very meaningful.
Learn more about caregivers in the U.S. and how they find meaning in caring for their parents and senior loved ones.
A Day in the Life of a CaregiverThe BLS tracks how Americans spend their time in a given day. Recently, a study evaluated how caregivers spend their time, providing hands-on assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), financial planning, providing medical care and transportation.
The report found that adults caregivers in the U.S. spend nearly 80 minutes each day providing unpaid assistance, with 1 out of 5 caregivers spending less than 20 minutes per day caregiving and 11% spending more than three hours a day providing some type of care.
The study found that on average, the 15% of adult caregivers in the U.S. comprise their days of the following activities:

• 8 hours and 23 minutes on sleep
• 6 hours and 8 minutes on personal activities
• 2 hours and 57 minutes on errands and housework
• 2 hours and 35 minutes on paid work
• 30 minutes on childcare

The report then compared the days of caregivers to non-caregivers, finding that:

• Caregivers spend 79 minutes more per day on adult care than non-caregivers
• Caregivers spend 79 minutes less on paid work than non-caregivers
• Caregivers sleep 23 minutes less than non-caregivers
• Caregivers spend 17 minutes more on housework and errands than non-caregivers
• Caregivers spend 5 minutes less on childcare per day than non-caregivers
• Caregivers spend 1 minute more on personal activities than non-caregiver

How Caregivers Find Meaning in Caregiving The report also found that caregivers in the U.S. find their adult caregiving duties meaningful.
In fact, caregivers rated 47% of their caregiving experiences as “very meaningful.” Caregivers also reported being “very happy” during 32% of caregiving activities, but admitted to being “very tired” during 8% and “very stressed” during 5% of these activities.
The report also found that older caregivers found caregiving more meaningful than younger generations. Caregivers over the age of 75 said that 82% of their caregiving duties were meaningful while caregivers between the ages of 45-59 found 53% meaningful. However, older caregivers also found their caregiving responsibilities more burdensome, saying they felt “very tired” during 15% of their caregiving duties.

*Referenced from A place for mom 

                                                                                    Image courtesy of Pixabay
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​Looking for fun ways to expand your horizons?  Your golden years can be your prime time for learning and growing.  Thanks to the internet, opportunities abound with just the click of a mouse. 
 
Big benefits.  If you’re looking for ways to improve your health, stay socially engaged, and combat some of the effects of aging, lifelong learning via the internet can be a boon.  According to US News and World Report, the benefits of lifelong learning are plentiful and important.  At this stage in life, you not only have time to pursue interests that you put on hold during your career, learning new things can keep you engaged socially and mentally.  You can even grab some friends and learn as a group!
 
Here are some of the best opportunities to explore, whether you’re flying solo or in a gathering:
 
Exercise.  If you are among the many who believe exercise is best left for younger people, think again.  Some studies show seniors benefit from at least 150 minutes of moderate activity through the week to fight disease and remain mentally and physically fit.  That’s an average of just thirty minutes, five days per week.  Don’t let your age or even conditions hold you back!  As experts cited by The Telegraph explain, “Gyms, walking groups, gardening, cooking clubs, and volunteering have all been shown to improve the health and well-being of people at all ages with long term conditions.”  Thanks to the internet, there is a plethora of options available to you for building strength, flexibility, and aerobic fitness.  Interested in trying something gentle, such as yoga?  Some reviewers recommend “Actively Aging Energizing Chair Yoga.”  Or for some classic workout fun, Jane Fonda is still at it, doing cardio via the internet.  Both options are available on YouTube.com.  Of course at any age, it’s best for you to talk with your family physician before beginning a new workout program.  
 
Real estate.  Thinking of beginning a second career?  Maybe a little spending money would come in handy, or you would simply enjoy making good use of some of the talents and skills you developed during your first worklife.  The professionals at Redfin recommend becoming a part-time realtor.  Working as a real estate agent offers flexibility, and chances are your experiences both as a home buyer and from your previous employment will help you become successful.  What’s more, it’s an option that keeps you getting out and engaging socially.  You’ll need to research what the requirements are in your state; for information on requirements where you live, visit Kapre.com.  If you decide being a realtor is right for you, contact a brokerage to become either an employee or independent contractor.  Next you would take some coursework and pass an exam, then onward to your new career! 
 
Creativity.  Whether you’ve painted canvases all your life, knit baby blankets for kids and grandkids, or only drawn stick figures, some researchers say doing something creative helps you prosper in your golden years.  Your mental and perhaps even physical health may improve with some artistic explorations.  You may even discover a previously unknown talent!  Interested in painting?  Watercolors may be a good choice, with no odor and easy cleanup.  One reviewer suggests trying Stephanie Law’s videos on Youtube.com, or “The Mind of Watercolor”, also on YouTube.com.  Interested in something involving yarn instead of paper and paints?  Knitting may be right up your alley.  Some professionals recommend “Knitting Crash Course,” “Continental Knitting” or “The Knitting Channel,” all available through Udemy.com.
 
Learning and growing opportunities abound through the internet.  It’s a great way to enhance your retirement and your health.  Whether you decide to take classes alone or as a group, you can improve your life and have fun.  The internet is your golden opportunity to make the most of your golden years!

How do you know when you’ve found the right retirement community to call your forever home? There are many factors to look at and important guidelines that will clearly help you make the right decision. Finding a suitable independent, assisted living or memory care facility is incredibly important to you and your loved ones. The decision should not be taken lightly or without some research and planning. Here are a few things to keep in mind when looking for the right senior living solution.

1. How do you feel when you walk into the retirement community? If you feel comfortable right off the bat, that’s a good sign. Are you greeted with a warm smile from someone who works there? Take your initial instincts into consideration. The way the facility looks and feels should be an excellent indication of how you will feel while you are living there.
2. How much does it cost? This one should probably go without saying, but price can become a serious concern for many people who forget to add in all of the monthly expenses. Be sure to ask the property representative about water, gas, rent, parking and any other fees the tenant is responsible for. Double check that the final amount works with your budget.
3. Does the property offer community events? Make a note as to how often the property celebrates holidays as a group, takes trips to the grocery store and other events that could help you feel welcomed and entertained. The community should be a happy place to live! Ask the property to see their events calendar or where you can locate one online.
4. Are you allowed to have furry friend? Your pet is part of the family. Always remember to ask about the full pet policy before you sign on the dotted line. There are many questions to ask when researching your next home, don’t let this be the one you forget.
5. Find out what happens if your needs change and you need increased care. You might start out in an independent care facility, but find that after a few years you need more assistance. Talk to the community manager or employee about what they might do in a situation like this. Does the community offer increased care and would the transition to increased care go smoothly?

There are many questions to ask yourself and a community when looking for the right retirement, assisted living or memory care facility. Remember that no question is a bad one. Take a tour and get to know the people and location. Ask questions, research the community online, read reviews and call with any questions before making your final choice.

Works cited: Ridgewood Senior Living October 27, 2016

YAKIMA Wash. -- People, businesses and organizations all around the city of Yakima are spreading red sand on sidewalk cracks to help bring awareness to human trafficking.
Barbara Ziegler was a victim of human trafficking at a young age.
After she was able to escape, she became an advocate here in Yakima where she has dedicated her time to bring awareness to human trafficking.
“From kindergarten up I was underneath the radar of everybody and I think people knew something was wrong but they didn’t know what to do so I want to make sure people know that it’s there, that it's real and give them a call to action," said Ziegler.
Ziegler along with the Peach Tree Retirement Center brought a movement to Yakima that started in New York called the Red Sand Project.
Part of this project is to fill in cracks on the sidewalks with red sand to help bring awareness to people that are at risk of being trafficked.
“The red sand helps us remember those who fall through the metaphorical cracks. It’s the overlooked population such as refugees, immigrants, girls and boys who have vulnerabilities that could put them at risk of being trafficked," said Ziegler.
This is a five-step project and right now they are in step two where they are creating Call to Action Videos with organizations, businesses and even the Yakima Police Department.
Member at the Peach Tree Retirement Center Gale Rescorla says she supports Ziegler and this project because it is the right thing to do.
“The Red Sand Project is near and dear to many of us at Peach Tree because we know what Barbara went through throughout her earlier years and it’s just an important project to be a part of," said Rescorla.
Ziegler says she wants more people to get involved and be a part of the project so she’s inviting everyone to participate September 16.
Anyone can just head over to Peach Tree Retirement Center pick up one of these bags that has red sand in it and all they have to do is open it up find a sidewalk crack and fill it in.
Everyone participating is encouraged to take pictures spreading the sand and post it on their social media platform using the hashtag YakimaRedSandProject.
Now if you suspect of anything related to human trafficking you can call the national hotline number for human trafficking or contact our local police department.

As we age, we should be more aware of the potential health risks that are uniquely associated with both our age and the changing seasons. While people of all ages face specific health risks, seniors have particular health risks that need to be understood and monitored, especially in the heat of the summer. Here are 1o summer health tips for seniors as we head into the season:
10 Summer Health Tips for Seniors

1. Drink plenty of liquids. Drink eight or more 8-ounce glasses per day of water and/or fruit juices every day to stay hydrated.
2. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages. Alcohol, soda, coffee and even tea can leave you dehydrated quickly. If at all possible, try to reduce the amount of these beverages, especially during hot weather. Plain or flavored water is a good substitute.
3. Dress appropriately. Wear loose-fitting clothes in natural fabrics like cotton. Dress in light colors that will reflect the sun and heat instead of darker colors that will attract them.
4. Sunblock. When outdoors, protect your skin from damage by wearing hats, sunglasses and a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher.
5. Stay indoors during extreme heat. In extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature.
6. Air conditioning. If you do not have air conditioning in your home, go somewhere that does. A movie theater, the mall a friend or relative’s home or a community senior center are all good options.
7. Avoid extreme outdoor heat. If you need to get out of the house and don’t drive , call a taxi, a friend or a transportation service. Do NOT wait outside for the bus in extreme heat.
8. Take a cool shower or bath. If you are absolutely unable to leave the house and do not have air conditioning, take a cool bath or shower to lower your body temperature on extremely hot days.
9. Keep your home cool. Temperatures inside the home should not exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit for prolonged periods of time.
10. Signs of heat stroke. Know the signs of heat stroke (e.g. flushed face, high body temperature, headache, nausea, rapid pulse, dizziness and confusion) and take immediate action if you feel them coming on.

Who’s At Risk?Health and lifestyle may raise the threat of a heat-related illness, according to the National Institute of Aging. These health factors may increase the risk for seniors:

• Poor circulation, inefficient sweat glands, and changes in the skin caused by normal aging
• Heart, lung, and kidney diseases, as well as any illness that causes weakness or fever
• High blood pressure or other conditions that require changes in diet; for example, people on low-salt diets may face an added risk (but don’t use salt pills without asking your doctor)
• The inability to perspire caused by some drugs, including diuretics, sedatives, tranquilizers, and certain heart and blood pressure medicines
• Taking several drugs at once for various conditions; don’t just stop taking them: Talk with your doctor
• Being substantially overweight or underweight
• Drinking alcoholic beverages

Take time this summer to check on aging loved ones and seniors residing in your neighborhood. Invite him or her into air conditioning, offer to take them to the mall, a movie or another cool building. Spend time with a loved one by inviting them to be an overnight guest. Do anything you can to help seniors beat the heat this summer!

According to AARP, nearly 90% of people over age 65 want to stay at home for as long as possible. Living at home and staying in a familiar community may offer benefits to seniors’ emotional well-being — but research indicates that a staggering number of seniors who should be receiving assisted living careare still living at home — in many cases, alone.
To some of us, the answer may seem obvious: make the move to an assisted living community where social activity, health monitoring and medication management is all included. However, moving to senior living can be a difficult decision, particularly if your loved one is not keen on moving. For more information, read our guide to assisted living vs. in-home care.
The Administration on Aging reports that about 29%, or 11.3 million older adults lived alone in 2010. At the same time, it’s estimated that over 12% of seniors 65 and older — more than 5 million — need assistance with long-term care to perform activities of daily life.
Those seniors who are low-income or live in poverty are even more likely to live at home rather than in a facility, even if they require more care. The numbers for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia are, quite frankly, startling: of the 60-70% of seniors with dementia living in the community, 25% live alone, reports the Alzheimer’s Association.
Andrew Steptoe, a professor of psychology at University College London, says he was surprised by the results of the social isolation study:
“Both social isolation and loneliness appeared initially to be associated with a greater risk of dying,” he says. “But it was really the isolation which was more important.”
When Living Alone is Unsafe
If we want our loved ones to remain safe and healthy, it’s important to make sure their environment is appropriate to their physical needs—particularly if they’re showing early signs of cognitive impairment.
If you notice that your loved one needs help with daily activities such as eating, bathing and dressing, they may have decreased cognitive functioning associated with early or middle stage dementia. Even in their own home, the combination of poor eyesight and minor safety hazards can put seniors at risk for falls, broken hips and even death.
Keeping track of physical symptoms, mental health, and senior nutrition is of critical importance. Warning signs that living alone is no longer safe for an older adult include:

• Medication management issues
• Poor eyesight
• Social isolation
• Forgetting appointments
• Unable to keep up with daily chores and housekeeping
• Poor nutrition or malnutrition
• Home safety hazards such as poor lighting and loose carpeting
• Unable to pay bills on time

Article from A Place for Mom blog…

There are many reasons older adults move into senior living communities — but is finding love one of them?
​

Burdett Stilwell, Director of Sales and Marketing at Somerby of Mobile, has been working with seniors for many years and has had the pleasure of developing friendships with the residents who call Somerby Senior Living home. She’s up-to-date on who is dating whom and according to Stilwell, when it comes to relationships, the seniors she knows fall into two categories: those who are interested and those who have “been there, done that.”

How Senior Living Communities Bring Couples Together

While there’s a lot of data about couples who met in college or high school, not a lot has been done to apply the same framework to couples in senior living communities. “Over 90% of the older adults we help move into senior living are moving in alone,” says Ben Hanowell, Lead Senior Living Researcher and Data Scientist at A Place for Mom. “Once they move in, our organization unfortunately can’t track whether they are lucky in love!”
Though research is lacking, Stilwell says that senior living communities can bring couples together and that marriage is not unusual among residents.

“One couple grew up in the same county, but never knew each other. When they met here they had lots in common, so they got married and have been living with us for the past five years.”

She adds that three other couples were also married over the past three years at Somerby.
Tom Giuliana, ‎Operations and Business Development at Meridian Senior Living, echoes Stilwell’s sentiment, sharing a story about a couple who recently met at a Florida senior living community.
“Alex P. and Alice B. are a couple who met at the community about a year ago. He plays guitar for her every day, and they are always laughing and spending their time together.”
Alex P. and Alice B. — A couple who met at Meridian Senior Living.
This trend is also becoming more common at senior living communities across the country, according to U.S. News.

Searching for Another Chance at Love

“Senior living communities are one place where dating has blossomed,” writes A Place for Mom’s Jeff Anderson. “Men and women who had once resigned themselves to isolation have been able to rebuild intimacy with a new companion, in a new place, and in new ways.”
For some widows and widowers, senior living communities offer a chance to experience love again, and the new lease on life that those feelings bring. Stilwell shared a story of one gentleman at Somerby who was a caring and kind caregiver dedicated to his wife.
Several months after she passed away, he had found a girlfriend, and staff saw him doing things they hadn’t seen him do before — having carefree fun and going out on excursions.

Single Ladies in Senior Living

Some older adults are interested in dating and marriage, but a long-term relationship is not always a priority in senior living. These serial daters are having fun, but there’s no doubt that it’s the older men who have the dating advantage in most senior living communities, simply because there are fewer of them. “Among older adults who move into senior living alone, there are over two-and-a-half times as many women as men,” says A Place for Mom Data Scientist Ben Hanowell, “and the gap is wider for older age groups.” For older adults age 65 to 70, there are 57% more women who move in alone than men. Compare that to ages 90 to 99, where over three times as many single women than men move into senior living.
Though some older adults are finding love, the majority of residents at Somerby are still single. That’s why they’re hosting a “no partner needed” Valentine’s Day dance this year. With a night of dancing planned, the single men will get lots of attention, Stilwell says.
She admits that she often sees many older women enjoying the single life, and has had new residents ask “Where are the men?” upon moving in. Stilwell also adds that when new single men move into the community, “everyone comes by to see who it is.”
What are these single ladies in senior living looking for? Certainly companionship and fun, but interestingly enough, qualities that are highly sought after when dating don’t change in our senior years.

One resident asked Stilwell to find her a man who “has a car, is a safe driver, and if he’s cute too, that’s a bonus.”

All humor aside, the point is that our desire for companionship doesn’t diminish as we age. Many residents are dating and finding love in senior living — so much so, that sexual education classes are frequently offered at communities, often at the request of residents.
“It all still goes on in senior living communities,” Stilwell says.

Written By: Kimberley Fowler
Website credit to: A Place for Mom

If you are in the market for a retirement community, it is important to choose a vibrant place with plenty of recreational opportunities. More Americans are staying active into their retirement years. A growing number of seniors are more health conscious and recognize that an active lifestyle could prolong their lives. That's why many search for communities that match their lifestyles and goals for relaxed living. Here are some aspects to consider before making a commitment to move to a senior living community.

Community Activities
Many seniors enjoy golf, tennis, swimming and walking. Any prospective retirement community should have easy access to such activities. Other seniors enjoy arts and crafts, board games, dancing and organized activities. Taking part in social events can provide opportunities to make new friends. Research what kinds of social events are organized within the retirement community. Also, find out if the community has ample opportunities for residents to travel to theaters, museums or shopping malls together. Parking is another important factor when choosing a retirement community. Most people enjoy having family and friends visit, so parking is a necessity.

Medical Care Facilities
Retirement communities should be easily accessible to emergency personnel. Know the location of the closest hospitals, doctors, ambulance services and other personnel. You may wish to restrict your search to communities located near your preferred physician or other service providers. Any prospective community should have a formal emergency plan in place. In addition, check to see if the retirement unit has custom safety features, such as railings in the bathrooms and entrance ways.
 
Pet Policies
Pet policies are another feature to consider when investigating potential retirement communities. Some facilities will allow you to bring your pet to live with you while others will not. So if you have a pet you don't want to leave behind, you may be able to bring it with you. Many communities now recognize the health benefits of having pets. Additionally, a park or nearby dog walking area will benefit you and your animal companion, particularly if you pet requires daily exercise. Taking a walk each day will benefit both of you. Peach Tree Retirement Center is pet friendly and we have 4 acres of land for you to walk them on.
 
Churches, Libraries and Schools
Consider how close the community is to schools, sports facilities, and other sites that produce a large amount of traffic volumes and noise levels. Many people prefer to live in less congested, quiet areas during their later years. Also think about where the nearest libraries and churches are located, as well as public transportation. Ask whether the community provides its own transportation for residents. Some facilities have their own fleet of minivans and buses. It is extremely helpful for seniors who no longer drive and need to do some routine personal shopping. Peach Tree Retirement Center has transportation to take you shopping and to doctor appointments.
 
The Community
Current residents will give you a feel for their level of satisfaction with the community. Talk to them about their experiences and seek candid reviews of the amenities and staff. After all, it is important you feel confident that you have selected a retirement community that fits your personal needs and lifestyles. By taking the time to research multiple facilities, you will undoubtedly find a warm, welcoming facility. You will be able to build lasting friendships and gain the support you need to have fun during your retirement.

Peach Tree Retirement Center has built lasting relationships with a variety of retirement homes, assisted living, memory care, elderly care, Harmon Senior Center and more.  We are only a couple of miles from Yakima Regional Medical & Cardiac Center and Virginia Mason Memorial Hospitals and close to many physicians, eye care and dental offices. 

We understand that making the change for you and/or your loved one can be overwhelming and that is why we want to help you find a place that fits the lifestyle that you are accustom to and deserve. For more information you can find us on Facebook; https://www.facebook.com/peachtreeretirementcenter/, YouTube or the  Yakima Herald News Paper.