Leslie Newlife

How Downsizing for Seniors Can Be a Win-Win

Downsizing to a smaller home is a common experience for seniors. The lump sum of money you often gain enables investment for the years ahead or helps other family members. But what about your reduction in living space? With careful planning, you can still have anything you need to hand, a more suitable home and fewer worries.

One thing downsizing seniors may welcome is the reduced cleaning duties! But more than that, moving always presents opportunities for reconsidering how you live. A smaller residence, renovated for senior living using money generated from the downsizing, can be made to be very efficient indeed, and there is also the possibility of new horizons that come along with your new lifestyle.

Downsizing Is an Opportunity to Make an Ideal Senior Space

Your new, smaller home can be considered a fresh start in your life as a senior! Now is the time to say goodbye to furniture and fixtures that might cause frustration in the years ahead. Get professionals to replace all the knobs and other opening mechanisms with levers that don’t require a lot of pressure to operate. In the bathroom, put up rails and consider installing new flooring with a non-slip surface.

Lighting may now be more important if your eyesight is a concern. Revamp your new home so all areas are as bright as can be, perhaps fixing pot lights to ceilings and strip lights in hazardous places such as stairways. You could even install larger windows to get more natural light — and maybe also a great view — and make sure to get them as thermally insulating as possible. All such renovations are more easily and cheaply done in a smaller residence.

Your Reduced Space Doesn’t Have to Be a Headache

While you are getting your new home ready, think about how you will live there going forward. It is likely you will not be able to easily fit everything in from your old home. Try creating extra storage space, perhaps under stairs or by putting up more shelves. However, accessibility to your things there might not be ideal, so plan well so you can have important possessions near to hand where you don’t have to bend or stretch too much.

Moving to a smaller home is also a good time to go through your belongings to see what you really need. Some furniture may be too bulky for the new place, but it can be donated to charities — who may also come and pick it up — or sold for a good price if it is antique. In this way, you can get new furniture that is more appropriate for your life going forward, and the same can be true for other household items such as kitchen appliances and electronics.

Rent Self Storage to Maximize Your Senior Lifestyle

Even with planning your new space well and letting go of some belongings, you may still have too much for your new home. However, you are not going to throw away treasured ornaments or the grandkids’ paintings! Fortunately, renting a nearby self storage unit can really help. A 10’x10’ storage unit, the most popular size, can hold a large array of items. And getting one with climate control would be ideal for keeping delicate items such as photographs and wooden furniture safe from extremes of temperature and humidity.

A self storage unit could also assist any new activity you fancy doing in retirement. There would be space for golf clubs, bicycles, or the materials and finished works from your new career as an artist! As downsizing generates variable amounts of money depending on where you move to and from, self storage costs also vary by region, though they are always much less than rent for residential space. So, for example, if you are moving to Colorado to take advantage of the great outdoors, consider renting a Denver self storage unit so you can pick up your gear on your way out.

Downsizing is more than just an excellent way to generate finances. With careful planning, living in a smaller space can mean you have a more suitable home and fewer worries as you enjoy your senior years, and you don’t have to give up too much. Plus, by renting a nearby self storage unit, you can not only ensure you don’t have to let go of favorite possessions but also that you can try some exciting new lifestyle options. Downsize with confidence and enjoy a win-win!

How to Make Sure Your Elderly Relatives Enjoy Christmas This Year and Why It Matters

The holiday season is nearly upon us, and that means the preparations for the festive period are now very much ongoing. Though Christmas is clearly a time to be thankful and to enjoy everything it has to offer, it’s also important to consider how it impacts upon those you love.

When it comes to elderly relatives, the time can prove problematic on a number of levels, and it’s during this season, you need to go that extra mile to make sure that they are doing well and healthy in both body and mind.

The festive season is incredibly important for families and especially so for the older members who may have an entirely different association with the period than perhaps the younger portions of your family unit.

It’s a time when you’ll want to make sure they feel part of the overall occasion, and this needs to be achieved without them feeling like a burden.

Making sure this can be accomplished will take planning, and here are some helpful tips as well as some key reasons why it matters so much.

Tough Time for the Elderly

Christmas can be a tough time for elderly relatives, especially those who live far away from their families, and you should do all you can to include them in any larger family gatherings.

We all try to make as much of an effort as possible when it comes to spending time with our older relatives, but sometimes life gets in the way. It may even be months or years since you’ve spent quality time with them, but when it comes to Christmas time, this is when you really need to go that extra mile, and we mean both literally and metaphorically.

If you are hosting the family for the holidays, you should invite them to the proceedings. This may involve a certain amount of effort and could be problematic on many levels, but these are sacrifices you should be willing to make at this time of year.

Accessibility

If you do invite your older relatives, mothers, fathers, or grandparents, then you should make sure your house or residence is prepared for their arrival. That may mean collecting them from their homes or care facilities and making slight adjustments to your abode and, indeed, potential seating arrangements for the Christmas meal.

All of these preparations should be set in place way in advance. This is for two reasons, firstly so you can make sure you are prepared as possible and secondly so that your relatives feel less of an imposition.

Gifts

Though your elderly relatives may insist, politely, that they don’t want any gifts this year, that doesn’t mean you should take them at their word. Indeed, you may find out to your cost that doing so will upset them.

One good way to make the holiday season a special one is to make any such gift one that is very personal. For instance, consider a stylish mother-daughter necklace that would no doubt be very gratefully received and cherished for years to come.

Go Old School

With presents and Christmas in mind, why not go old school? If you do have elderly relatives over for the festivities, then you might want to dial back the technological aspects that we now rely heavily upon.

Get your children to make and write handmade Christmas cards for their grandparents, play pass the parcel, sing a carol, and do the things that you know they’ll appreciate and that will make them feel more a part of the activities rather than a third wheel that is getting in the way.

You, and your children, may actually learn to like the more ‘simple’ approach to Christmas, and keeping these traditions alive will mean a lot to the older members of your family.

Leave Past Problems Behind

Let’s be honest; Christmas can be a challenging time. Many of us will no doubt end up bickering with one another, and harsh words may end up being said, but that doesn’t lessen the importance of the event as a whole.

You may have fallen out with elements of your brood, and perhaps when it comes to elderly relatives, some ancient feuds and disagreements continue to haunt you. Maybe it’s time to leave these problems behind.

Being very plain and direct, those you may have had arguments and quarrels with may not be with us very much longer, and Christmas is genuinely the perfect occasion to let bygones be bygones.

Reminders of the Past

The elderly often struggle with the Christmas period as it does, in some way, accentuate the past and could be more closely associated with others who have passed away. Therefore it’s hugely important that you make more of an effort over the season.

If your ties with these elderly members of your family, perhaps your parents, aren’t particularly tight, that doesn’t mean you can’t make that extra effort. Sure, there are a million reasons to avoid it, and perhaps the issues you know might arise from the meeting could be painful, but on the whole, the positives far outweigh the negatives.

Christmas is all about spending time with the ones you love, taking stock, and appreciating what really matters in life. By encouraging your elderly relatives to be part of that will be hugely beneficial for everyone and will really help to make this Christmas a truly special one.

What Are Accendo Medicare Supplement Plans?

Medicare is a reputable health program offered by the federal government to make medical services available and affordable to all. The program, however, works in conjunction with insurance companies which further improves the services patients can enjoy through plans such as the Medicare Supplement, also referred to as Medigap. The supplement plans cover the gaps original Medicare leaves, ensuring patients are more comprehensively covered when needing medical attention.

Accendo is an insurance company and one that is gaining popularity with Medigap. It is a subsidiary of Aetna insurance, under which most people are covered. It is a newer company but is gaining popularity rapidly because of combining unique product benefits with the impeccable reputation of Aetna. The Medigap benefits under the insurance company are very competitive and attractive to beneficiaries.

Accendo offers 12 standardized plans under Medigap across the country. The company offers the top supplement plans and a few basic plans. The policies under the company offer:

  • Rate guaranteed of twelve months for every plan
  • Competitive premium prices
  • No waiting period for pre-existing conditions
  • Reliable in-house customer service

Medicare Supplement plans under Accendo

Medicare supplement plans were created to bridge the gaps between Original Medicare coverage and beneficiary costs. The plans help safeguard your finances because the amount you will be required to pay from your pocket is greatly reduced.

Accendo is a relatively new insurance company and distributor of the popular Medigap plans, and so the top picks under it are Plan N and Plan G supplements. The carrier does not offer Plan F considering its high annual rates and the fact that it is slowly being phased out. If you are considering getting a policy under Accendo, familiarize yourself with Plans G and N and decide which way to go.

Accendo supplement Plan G 

Supplement Plan G remains among the most popular under Medigap, especially for new beneficiaries. This is because the plan offers comprehensive coverage to eligible members, including all out-of-pocket costs left by Original Medicare. The only cost this plan does not cover is the Part B deductible. With Accendo as your carrier, the benefits under Plan G remain the same. This is because the government standardizes the plan benefits across all health insurers. The plan prices, however, do change or differ by location and carrier.

Accendo supplement Plan N 

If what you are looking for is comprehensive medical coverage at low premiums, then the Medicare Supplement Plan N is what you need. It covers Part A deductible, coinsurance, 80% of foreign travel medical costs, and three pints of blood. It is important to remember that under this plan, you are responsible for Part B deductible and excess charges and copayments of up to $50. Excess charges do not apply to all states, and they become an issue when the doctor you have visited does not accept the Medicare assignment even in a state allowing the charges.

Accendo availability 

Accendo insurance company has a presence in 42 states in the US. It does not cover Maine, Minnesota, Hawaii, Alaska, Connecticut, Washington, Washington DC, and Massachusetts. Whereas this is the current situation, it could change at any given time as the insurance company continues to grow and expand. The company offers 14% household discounts for members living with other beneficiaries of Accendo Medigap plans in the same house. Both beneficiaries living together enjoy discounts on their monthly premiums every time.

However, if you live in North Dakota, the 14% discount does not apply, but you will get a 10% household discount. The discounts are also unavailable to those living in New Jersey, Florida, Idaho, and Vermont. It is also important to note that the discounts can change, and eligibility by state varies. The best you can do is talk with Accendo insurance to have all your concerns addressed before enrolling in the plans.

Accendo Medicare supplement plan reviews 

Accendo insurance company’s ratings as a carrier are high and impressive. Its financial strength is rated at A, and so is its issuer credit. Being an affiliate of Aetna, which has been offering good supplemental policies for Medicare for more than 50 years, Accendo passes the reliability test. The good reputation of Aetna puts Accendo in a very good place, and consumers are satisfied with the carrier even though it is new in the market.

The company has already gained a good reputation for paying claims efficiently and for its exceptional customer service. If you have been wondering if the company is a good choice as a Medicare carrier, you know you will be in safe hands getting a policy from the insurer.

Signing up for the Accendo Medicare supplement plan is easy for those in states with the company’s presence. Because the supplements are not designed to be permanent, you can always switch carriers, so joining Accendo should be easy for new enrollees and existing beneficiaries. Everyone is looking to gain more benefits at a reduced price, so if the carrier offers better rates than your current one, there should be no reason you can’t benefit. Accendo has licensed agents across the states, and you can find one near you to get more details and sign up for your desired policy.

Summary

A health care policy is of great importance for all, considering how expensive the services can be. And because there is no way you can predict what will happen to you in the future, it is good to have a cover in place even when in perfect health. Young people who start with insurance policies early stand to enjoy greater benefits, but even if you are a senior, it is never too late to enroll in a good plan. You will, in fact, find suitable policies to match the medical needs you might have.

Reviews for insurance companies and Medicare plans can be a good starting point for those enrolling as new beneficiaries. When you know exactly what every plan covers and does not cover or what premiums are offered by different companies for the different medical plans, you will be in a better position to make informed decisions bound to favor you in the end.

Caregivers: Tips to Enhance Your Relationship with Senior Patients

Caregivers play a critical role in the well-being of elderly patients, providing both physical and emotional support. Developing a strong bond with an elderly patients can help improve their quality of life and that of their family members. Here are some tips for caregivers on how to foster a positive relationship with an elderly patient:

Spend Quality Time Together

Quality time spent together is one of the best ways to create an emotional bond. Spend time talking with the patient and engaging in activities they enjoy, such as playing board games or going for walks.

Try to create a safe and comforting environment for elderly patients so they can express themselves without feeling self-conscious. Avoid passing judgment on their thoughts and emotions.

Listen With Empathy

When it comes to strengthening a bond, listening is more important than talking. Listen patiently to the elderly patient’s stories and experiences without trying to offer advice or solutions. Show compassion and empathy for the struggles they are facing and encourage them to share any concerns that they may have. You may record their feelings in a digital tools. This life story work for hospices incredibly well and can be helpful for both patients and caregivers.

Respect Their Feelings

It is essential to respect the feelings of elderly patients and listen to their concerns without judgment. Acknowledge their feelings and let them know that you understand what they’re going through and are there to support them.

Not everyone has been through easy situations in life, so try to be understanding and accommodating of any anxieties or fears.

Show Genuine Affection

Caregivers should show genuine affection by giving hugs, offering words of endearment, or simply just being present when the patient needs them. Small gestures like these can go a long way toward developing a stronger bond.

Keep a smile on your face, and let them know that you genuinely care about their well-being.

Show Compassion

Showing compassion for an elderly patient is one of the most important things a caregiver can do. Be patient, kind, and attentive to their needs, letting them know that you care about their wellbeing.

They will take time to understand you, so be patient and kind as much as possible. Show empathy for their struggles and do your best to remain positive even if they are being difficult.

Encourage Independence

Help your patient to maintain as much independence as possible, even if that means providing assistance in small ways. This can help them to feel empowered and will give them a sense of accomplishment when they succeed at something on their own.

Don’t forget to appreciate them for their successes, as this will help to boost their self-confidence and strengthen your bond.

Be Positive

Maintaining a positive attitude is essential for building a strong bond with an elderly patient. Offer words of encouragement and be upbeat when spending time together, as this can help to boost their mood and energy levels.

No matter how difficult a situation may be, try to stay calm and keep an optimistic outlook.

Make it Fun and Enjoyable

Having fun together is one of the best ways to build a strong bond. This can be as simple as playing cards or finding activities that you both enjoy, like listening to music or going for walks around the neighborhood.

Try to be the person that brings a smile to their face, and make sure that you both enjoy your time together.

As caregivers, you are doing a great job in helping to improve the quality of life of your elderly patient. Just remember to be patient, listen with empathy, show genuine affection, and respect their feelings. Bonding with your patient will make your job easy, much more enjoyable, and rewarding.

Hope this article had some tips that you can use to better bond with your elderly patients. Good luck!

Thank you for reading! 🙂

How to Find the Best Care for Your Aging Parents

Whether you’re planning a trip or trying to take a deep breath at home, you need to know how to find the best care for your aging parents. In the United States, the number of older adults who need help with daily tasks is rising. About 27 percent of adults 65 and over receive ongoing support.

If you have aging parents at home, you may be experiencing anxiety right now. Can you trust the next place you find with your parents’ well-being? More importantly, how can you be sure?

Here’s how to find quality elder care, even when you and your family are far away.

Assess Your Parents’ Needs

The best way to find care for your aging parents is to start by doing your research. Talk to their doctor about what type of care they will need and what type of facility would be the best fit for them. Once you have a list of potential places, take the time to visit each one and see which one you and your parents feel the most comfortable with.

Be sure to ask lots of questions and get a feel for the staff and the level of care they provide. Ultimately, you want to find a place that will provide the best possible care for your parents and make them feel as comfortable and safe as possible.

Know Your Budget

The budget is one of the most important things to keep in mind when searching for care for your aging parents. You will need to know how much you can afford to spend on care monthly.

There are many different types of care available, so you will need to do some research to find the care that best meets your parent’s needs and budget. The care of your aging parents is a very important decision, so choose the best provider that you can afford.

Know Your Needs

As your parents age, you may find yourself in the position of needing to provide care for them. This can be a difficult and overwhelming task, but there are resources available to help you.

The first step is to think about your own needs and abilities. Are you able to provide the care your parents need? If not, you may need to consider hiring outside help.

There are many care options available, so take some time to research what will work best for your family. Find senior living near you so you can check on them as often as you want.

Talk to your parents about their wishes and needs, and involve them in the decision-making process as much as possible. With proper planning and support, you can provide the best care for your aging parents.

Making the Decision For Your Aging Parents

If you are struggling to care for your aging parents, know that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you find the best care for your loved ones.

Talk to your doctor, research care facilities, and talk to other families in similar situations. With some help, you can ensure that your parents receive the care they need and deserve.

Did you find the answers you were looking for? Looking for similar articles related to family life and lifestyle? Check out our latest posts.

How to Capture Those Memories Forever

Photographs help you save special moments and relive them whenever you desire. So it would be a pity to let memories of special moments and milestones such as births, weddings, and graduations disappear forever. While it’s true the memories will be long-lasting, creating special mementos add that sentimental element.  

The use of photography has long been a preferred way to capture said moments, be it from saving photographs in memory boxes, albums, digital scrapbooks, and journals to keep the sweetest memories of your life alive for as long as you live.

Create a Journal

Take plenty of videos and pictures of your special moments from various angles. Ensure that your photos and videos include all the special people in your life.

Create a journal whether the manual or online variety. Post a blog using the pictures and videos to help others visualize what you’re talking about. Photographs accompanied by write-ups keep memories alive in exciting ways.  Record special events in through words, noting your thoughts and feelings. It’s not only cathartic but will allow you to look back on such memories fondly. 

Convert Your Photos into Wall Tiles

The power of capturing memories through photos has been something people have enjoyed doing since photography was invented back in the 19th century. Of course, both time and technological advancements have made creating and sharing memories so much easier and accessible. Not only that, with so many different avenues to explore, it’s also affordable. So whether you’re looking for that perfect gift for a loved one, or simply want to personalize your living room, StoryBoards has the answers.

Storyboards can convert all your favorite photos into wall tiles that stick and re-stick like magic. If you’re going to choose a brand which is as accessible as it is affordable, with a mission to help people share beautiful memories in unique ways, then Storyboards is it! 

Create a Scrapbook

Scrapbooking is an effective way to keep memories of special events alive, thanks to the availability of traditional and digital scrapbooks. In addition to pasting photos in your scrapbook, add souvenirs, ticket stubs, autographs, and other items that will help you remember and re-experience a special event. 

Digital scrapbooks are easy to create, use, and share. Traditional scrapbooks require time, but there’s no denying it – creating them is fun! Check out one of the several online scrapbooking tutorials if you’re unsure about how to go about it.  

Many of us are busy with our daily routines and have no time to create scrapbooks. In this case, memory boxes are simpler alternatives to scrapbooks and just as effective. Store all your memories in a shoebox or any other box, including photographs, cherished items, tickets to events, and more. Decorate it creatively to distinguish it from the other boxes in your house.  

Frame Your Pictures or Create a Photo Album

Using our smartphones to take pictures and store them on cloud is the easiest thing to do these days, but nothing can beat the experience of taking out an old photo album and checking out the photos. 

Printing your favorite photos and framing them is time-consuming and expensive, but a framed picture hanging on the wall fills your home with positivity and enhances its aesthetics. Framed prints also make excellent gifts for someone you love and strengthen the bond you share with them.  

Alternatively, you can print several photos, create a photo album and pull it out whenever you want to enjoy those special moments all over again. 

Choose the Method That Works Best for You

As can be seen from the above suggestions, there are several innovative ways to capture the best moments in life and celebrate them. Choosing the preferred one all depends on preference. But, so long as you pick the best method that works for you, you’ll be re-experiencing those special moments which would have otherwise simply been stored in your memory!

Feeling Concerned About Your Elderly Relatives? Here Are a Few Ways to Make Sure They Are Safe

It can be difficult to accept that your relatives are getting to an age where they may not always be able to take care of themselves. You may feel uneasy and stressed about their safety and well-being. This is especially true if they are ill.

But there are ways you can make sure your elderly relatives are well taken care of. In this post, we will provide tips on how you can ease your stress by taking steps to ensure the safety of your senior relatives.

Background Checks on Caregivers

Do you have senior family members who are disabled or need daily medication? If you can’t look after them yourself, you will most likely need a caregiver. The duty of a caregiver is to:

  • Ensure your elderly loved ones attend medical appointments
  • Take care of their transportation needs
  • Help with housekeeping
  • Assist with toilet breaks
  • Make sure they eat regular meals
  • Assist them with medication and dosages
  • Ensure proper safety in the home

But hiring a caregiver means you have to let a stranger into your elderly relative’s home. Even though caregivers are trained, you’ll want to make sure they can be trusted. You can do background checks on anyone who comes into contact with your senior loved ones through Truthfinder.

Through a background checker, you can ensure you’re hiring a reliable and trustworthy caregiver to look after your family member.

Take Care of Home Safety Basics

As people reach their 70s or 80s, they start to become frail. A simple trip or a fall can be fatal to an elderly living alone. To put your mind at ease, ensure you take care of your loved one’s home safety basics.

Start by installing fall detectors in the home so that your senior relative can get immediate assistance in the event of an accident. Install panic buttons around the house in case of a break-in.

Furthermore, you’ll want to ensure pathways, passages, and stairs are well-lit and clear of objects that could trip your senior relative. Remove all rugs around the house, especially if your elderly family member uses a walker.

Lastly, cover sharp corners on counters or tables with rubber caps. Install banisters and railings by staircases and place rubber flooring in bathrooms and showers.

Go With Them for Regular Checkups

Some seniors need assistance with transportation because they are unable to drive or take public transport. Accompany your elderly relative whenever they need to go for a checkup at the doctor. You can then ensure they arrive at their appointment safely.

Additionally, going with your senior family member to the doctor provides them with moral support. You’ll also get first-hand information on their current health status and the type of medication and dosages they need to take.

Phone Them Often to Ensure They’re OK

Your elderly relatives are always a phone call away. So if you’re feeling stressed about their well-being, you can always call to see how they’re doing. Find out what they might need and how you can assist them in making their lives easier.

You can also teach your senior relatives how to use facetime on their phones. When you see your loved one through a video chat, it will give you peace of mind because you’ll know that they’re OK.

Spend More Time with Elderly Relatives

Since your elderly relatives are growing older with each passing year, you may have limited time to spend with them. Seniors also tend to feel lonesome at times which can increase their anxiety, stress, and depression.

To put your mind at ease and to make your elderly family members feel supported and loved, you should spend more time with them. You can:

  • Host family lunches or dinners
  • Invite them to go on holiday with you
  • Take them out for a cup of coffee
  • Check up on them after work
  • Invite them to all special occasions such as birthdays or Christmases

Spending more time with your elderly family members allows you to keep an eye on them. You can also give your loved ones the emotional support they need through their journey.

Ensure Communication is Easily Accessible

There will be times when your senior family members will want to contact you either to invite you over or if they need help. Ensure they can contact you easily by making any means of communication accessible.

Provide them with a cell phone and add your number on speed dial. Make sure the cellphone is easy to use. You can also install a house telephone for your relative and place it somewhere that’s easy to get to.

Lastly, provide your relative with wearable medical alert devices in case of an emergency or accident. When your family member presses the button, you’ll immediately be alerted.

Final Thoughts

Some seniors don’t like to be fussed over. So the best way to ensure your elderly relatives are well taken care of is by spending time with them. You can also ask them what they need and how you can assist them. Or use the tips in this article to guide you.

Five Things to Invest in as You Get Older

As we age, we need different things. There are different priorities and areas of life that we need to focus on. Not only do you need to protect yourself physically as we grow older, we also need to take the finances into account. Retirement funds are dynamic. The amount of money you have in the bank will change your lifestyle. Your insurances are vital to relieving stress from our loved ones. Whether you are aging or are implored to start changing the way you do things, below are five things you should invest in as you get older.

Property

If you are getting older and don’t yet own property, it might be time to invest. Whether you are relocating for retirement or want to own the home you spend the rest of your life in, investing in a home or some land will benefit you and your family. Depending on the time in your life, putting some money into a piece of property will greatly change your life and perspective. Investing in property can be a game changer. Selling property can propel you into retirement. Selling a house and investing in a condo can also be a great option. If you haven’t bought property yet and have the opportunity, what’s holding you back?

Health Insurance

Health insurance isn’t cheap, but what is more expensive? Doctor bills. When we get older, it’s a good idea to invest in your health insurance. It gets more expensive as time goes on and we age, but when you have the insurance, you need to get treatment, a surgery, or some medication, it will pay off. You might incur extra benefits and subsidies from the government at your age. You don’t want to rely on your loved ones to pay for your bills. Instead, invest some money in health insurance and you will be glad that you did.

Life Insurance

Life insurance represents the amount of money that your friends and family will receive when you are no longer with them. Essentially, it is what your assets are worth when you die. As you get older or sicker, life insurance is more expensive. Most people don’t want to leave your family and friends with the bill. As you age, investing in life insurance is important. You will be doing the right thing. It’s not fun to pay for life insurance, but if you do in the end, it will be more effective.

Car Insurance

Car insurance is a mainstay of modern life; it’s required in a lot of places. As you get older, you may qualify for reduced insurance; so it’s important to spend time reading shopping for car insurance tips online. There are plenty of ways that you can decrease your premium and still get the coverage you need should you get in an accident. With the right car insurance policy, you won’t have to stress if you are in an accident. Furthermore, when you need medical attention after an accident the right insurance provider and plan will have your back.

Stocks

Finally, as you get older, the common investment rule of thumb is 100 minus your age. This means that if you are 65 years old, you should have 35 percent of your assets in stocks. This is, obviously, applicable to the people who have money. If you have worked your whole life and have a decent living, there’s no reason you shouldn’t invest in stocks. Nowadays, there are so many resources to help you invest. When you’re savvy enough to download an app, you can successfully invest money in a business or cryptocurrency stock.

No matter how old you are, as you age you need to make proper investments. When you invest in insurance, property, or stocks, you will be able to keep bringing in money or saving it as you grow old. You don’t need to spend your whole life’s savings on these things, but you should keep in mind that our money doesn’t go with us in the end. Of course, you want your children to be comfortable and happy, but you can also contribute to that by taking care of your own affairs.

Getting older is never easy, but there’s no reason to make it hard on yourself. Planning ahead matters. Whether your goal is to keep money coming in or to avoid huge bills when you need medical attention, the five above areas can prove to be quite significant in your life as you get older.

How a Better Hydration Routine Could Change the Game for Alzheimer’s Sufferers

Staying well-hydrated is usually attributed to general health improvements, but the effects on our cognition and brain health is often overlooked. It’s common knowledge that around 60% of our bodies are made up of water; all of our body’s cells depend on water to effectively carry out essential functions, and this includes the cells in our brain. 

Some of the main causes of dehydration are difficulty in habituating regular fluid intake, and a dislike for drinking plain water. Our bodies do hydrate via a range of fluids, but, of course, plain water is best. Some people turn to infused water options to improve their hydration routines, but more on that later.

What does dehydration do to the brain?

Research has found that when dehydrated, an adult’s brain shows increased neuronal activation while undertaking cognitive tasks, indicating that dehydration requires our brains to work harder than usual when completing cognitively challenging activities.  

 In younger, healthy adults, this extra effort tends to present through mood changes and general fatigue, while the elderly and others with a reduced cognitive reserve are more likely to show signs of reduced cognitive performance. 

Furthermore, a meta-analysis covering 33 studies and over 400 participants found that dehydration was clearly associated with notable impairments in executive function, fine motor coordination, and attention capacity. 

Are men and women equally affected by dehydration?

Regardless of age, sensitivity to the effects of poor hydration is generally higher in females, although the elderly are particularly vulnerable. Research examining 2,506 adults over the age of 60 found that inadequately hydrated females perform more poorly on cognitive tasks that are related to processing speed and attention. Dehydrated males also showed a decline in cognitive performance but to a lesser extent. 

In younger women, the cognitive difficulties resulting from dehydration can be easily reversed by rehydrating, but in the elderly, the cellular stress caused by prolonged dehydration can lead to continued cognitive decline. 

Hydration and Alzheimer’s

Research has found that dehydrated individuals represent a higher risk for dementia, but equally, those with dementia are also at a higher risk for dementia. Our brains have a ‘thirst sensor’ that signals to us that we need to replenish fluids. However, our brains are less sensitive to this signal as we age, resulting in elderly people becoming less aware of their hydration status. Furthermore, studies indicate that being dehydrated can accelerate a dementia patient’s cognitive decline.

With less water present at a cellular level, a buildup of toxic proteins can occur in the brain, resulting from an inefficient capability to effectively flush them out. 

There is no doubt that dehydrated brain cells are associated with cognitive dysfunction; however, research continues, and as yet, there is no concrete evidence as to whether dehydration can directly cause dementia.

What is clearly understood is that the elderly are at greater risk of becoming dehydrated, and their brains are more vulnerable to the cognitive decline associated with dehydration. 

As we age and our bodies gain fat and lose muscle, the amount of water that our bodies can store declines. Muscle tissue is made up of almost 80% water, while fat cells hold a significantly lower average of 10% water. Given that women generally have a lower muscle mass percentage than men, it stands to reason that they have an increased vulnerability to the effects of dehydration; the same is true for the elderly.

Another risk factor for increased dehydration side effects in older people is due to our kidney functions changing as we age. Our bodies become less able to conserve water through the concentration of urine, which also makes it harder to maintain a healthy regulation of sodium levels in our body. 

Staying well-hydrated

To keep our brains adequately hydrated, researchers recommended that females consume between 8 to 11 cups per day, and males consume between 10 to 15 cups. These guidelines will vary depending on an individual’s level of activity, weight, the medications they use, and more. 

Once you establish the amount of fluids you need to consume each day, it can help to use a mobile tracking app to log the amount you drink as you go – most apps will also give you the option of receiving reminder alerts throughout the day to help keep you on track. Adding water-dense foods will also help you to stay well-hydrated, or if you don’t like the taste of water, opt for fruit infused water or flavored sparkling water. 

It is important to note that, while staying well-hydrated is vital for optimal health and cognition, too much fluid intake can cause impairments. Becoming over-hydrated can cause a drop in our body’s sodium levels, resulting in a range of neurological issues and even delirium. 

The bottom line

For sufferers of Alzheimer’s, maintaining adequate hydration is crucial to maintaining optimal cognition and general feelings of wellbeing and preventing an unnecessarily accelerated rate of cognitive decline. Dementia patients tend to struggle for a variety of reasons, so ensuring that your or your loved one has a system in place for maintaining optimal fluid intake throughout the day is essential for getting the maximum benefits possible.

How to Stay Healthy in Your Golden Years

If you have made it into your golden years – congratulations! Not everyone gets to live to see their senior years, and that is something you should be absolutely proud of.

After spending decades of a fulfilled life raising families, building careers, and working hard, it is time for you to reap the rewards of the fruits of your labor.

However, as mother nature has it, aging comes with some cognitive and physical health issues that can get in the way of enjoying your golden years.  Here are some tips on how to stay healthy and stave off those issues.

Tip #1 Maintain a Healthy Weight

The most crucial thing you can do to stay healthy is to maintain a healthy weight.  Obesity is the leading cause of many chronic illnesses that often accompany aging.  Maintaining a healthy weight will reduce your chances of developing chronic illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and even cognitive decline.

So, if you still need to get in a healthy weight range, take advantage of the time and resources you have earned in your retirement years to make weight management a primary goal.

See a nutritionist, hire a personal trainer/coach who has experience with senior citizen clients, and start your health and wellness journey.  Gather the necessary resources, equip yourself with the knowledge and research, and work on that motivation.

Tip #2 Exercise

Exercise is an excellent way to get yourself in the best shape and manage your weight. This is the time to take up good health habits to enrich your life and improve your quality of life.

Be sure to incorporate exercise on a daily basis. Some ways to stay active involve going for daily walks, biking for exercise, joining a swimming club, and taking up yoga.

Engage in some level of moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes a day.  You should also incorporate some form of strength training and cardio workout into your daily workout routine.

Regular exercise will also invigorate your cognitive abilities, boost your mood, and give you that sense of inner peace and well-being – which is essential in maintaining a healthful life regardless of age.

Tip #3 Clean Up Your Diet

Most nutritionist and health professionals agree that weight loss and weight management depends mostly on your diet. We don’t mean going on a diet here – rather, we mean what you consume on a daily basis in food intake.

Your diet is one of the most crucial factors in maintaining your overall health and wellness.  The old adage that you are what you eat rings true here in spades.

A clean, healthy, nutrient-dense diet has tremendous powers to prevent disease, fend off the effects of aging, and invigorate one’s health from the inside out.  This phenomenon is even more applicable as we age.

Therefore, it is essential to clean up your diet if you haven’t already done so.  For longevity of a healthy life span, you should look into following the “Blue Zone” diet.

Blue zones are those parts of the world that have produced the most centennials – according to a research study that has studied the lifestyles of these regions for decades. These zones include certain regions of Sardinia, Greece, Costa Rica, and Japan.

The diet they follow includes fresh simple natural ingredients that are minimally processed.  Their nutrition profile includes mostly seafood, vegetables, leafy greens, legumes, fruits, nuts, and seeds. The people of those regions rarely consume meats and dairy and only occasionally eat eggs.

In addition to this guideline, be sure to take sufficient minerals, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids in the form of supplements if your diet plan lacks the amount you should be eating to get sufficient levels of these essential micronutrients.

While on this topic, avoid overconsumption of alcohol as well.

Tip #4 Enrich Your Social Life

When it comes to staying healthy, one’s emotional health and well-being are just as essential.  The sad reality of aging is that we tend to live more solitary, isolated lives as we get older.  This is a by-product of working very long hours for decades and spending non-working hours raising a family and taking care of the house.

So, when we reach our golden years, we may find ourselves more isolated as the children fly the nest and work friends dwindle when we leave work.

Loneliness is a major contributor to disease and cognitive decay.  Therefore, it is essential to enrich your social life with new social contacts, activities, hobbies, and volunteering in the community.

This will give you the feeling of belonging and will give you a renewed purpose – which often suffers when one retires from their profession.

Join social clubs, walking clubs, and gym classes and increase your social contact.  For single seniors, don’t let your age stop you from pursuing new romantic relations either.

A rich social life will do wonders in fending off the declining nature of aging.

Tip #5 Exercise Your Mind

When it comes to aging, one of the other major concerns is our mental and cognitive abilities start to decline as we advance into our golden years.  The lack of work or purpose can exacerbate this problem.

So, it is essential to exercise your mind to increase the neuroplasticity of the brain to fend off diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Consider taking on new hobbies, new skill-building classes, book clubs, and learning a new language.  Many seniors also often use their free time and resources to take continuing education classes in nearby community colleges and universities to keep their minds sharp and active.

Conclusion

A holistic approach to health includes taking care of your body, mind, and soul.  Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, keep up your social contacts, and continue learning just like you used to in your younger years, and you will be well on your way to reversing or at least slowing down the effects of aging.

Remember, they call it the golden years for a reason – keep them golden!