Leslie Newlife

Tips for Making Your Home More Accessible

Whether you are upgrading your home for retirement or for caregiving circumstances, upgrading your space with more accessible features provides numerous benefits. It equips you with a disability-friendly property, making it easier to navigate your space and minimizing health and safety risks. Here are three tips for making your home more accessible.

Invest in Remote Devices

Seniors and those with disabilities possess varying abilities. Some find certain tasks more challenging than others and vice versa, depending on the job at hand. Investing in remote-controlled devices and SMART technology equips your space with additional helping hands.

One example of a beneficial remote-controlled device is a mini split system. There are numerous parts that go into how a mini split with remote controls works, but essentially, they provide you with the ability to control your AC device remotely. Remote control technology gives you portable access and control to the unit’s system, eliminating the need to constantly get up and travel to the device. On top of supplying you with easier access to your tech, remote-controlled systems offer more advanced properties that further help you around the space. They allow you to set timers and self-operating mechanics, minimizing the amount of work one needs to do around the house.

Add Ramps and Handrails

When choosing an ideal assisted living community, many people look for places with ramps and handrails. Similarly, these features are beneficial for other living spaces. Adding ramps and handrails around your home makes it easier for those with disabilities to navigate your space safely.

Ramps allow wheelchair users to access multiple levels and provide a less intensive physical route than stairs for those with sensitive joints. Handrails provide balance and fall support around stairways, bathrooms, and other obstacle-ridden spaces.

Make Extra Space

Making extra space offers numerous benefits. Cluttered and tight spaces make it hard for wheelchairs and walkers to get around. They also create numerous tripping hazards and increase the danger of falling. Compared to slipping in a wide open space, falling in a crowded room heightens your chances of hitting your head (and other body parts) onto sharp corners and hard objects. When you fall in an empty space, it is less likely for a collision to occur, and you will likely suffer less extreme injuries.

Opening up your space also means widening access points, from doorways to shower entrances. Walkers and wheelchairs take up room and require additional leeway. Enlarging entryways allows walkers and wheelchairs to navigate the space easily, minimizing the dangers of getting stuck or snagging on corners. Larger doorways also decrease other health and safety risks, such as accidental head collisions against the frames and tripping hazards as one tries to squeeze through a tight gap.

Implementing these tips for making your home more accessible transforms your space into an optimized place for senior and assisted living or caregiving. Accessible homes enhance living situations for those with special needs and requirements, making them safer and easier to navigate. A space that welcomes and attends to all is more enjoyable and comforting to enjoy.

Living at Home: The Top Safety Concerns for Every Senior

Our loved ones deserve the best in their golden years. They want to stay in the house that has become their home. It’s only natural, especially if they have lived in the same space for many years. However, the passing of time may mean their living space is no longer safe.

While retirement communities offer great safety features, your parents may not be ready for that move. It’s important to learn the top safety concerns for every senior to keep your loved ones out of harm’s way at their current home.

Common Home Hazards

Unfortunately, injuries at home are more common for our aging parents than we’d like to think. What safety concern pops into your mind first? You may have thought of your loved one experiencing a fall—a worry at the top of the list for every senior.

One fall can turn your aging parent’s life upside down, setting them back considerably in terms of independence. Injuries from falls may require surgeries and extensive rehabilitation with physical and occupational therapists.

Common home hazards that can lead to a fall include:

  • A slip and fall in the bathroom
  • Tripping over a rug or cord in the living room
  • Walking around the house without a mobility aid
  • Tripping in a poorly lit area

Ways To Improve Safety

Thinking of these common hazards leads to worries about your aging parent’s safety. Fortunately, there are ways to make a home senior-friendly. Let’s go over some tactics to help remedy the fall hazards mentioned above.

Bathroom Safety

Ideally, it would be best if you made the bathroom as safe for seniors as possible. Here are some important considerations for their well-being:

  • Install grab bars so that they always have something to hold onto
  • Replace the bathtub for a walk-in shower, complete with a shower chair
    • Another alternative is a walk-in tub
  • Ensure there is a non-slip mat in the following locations:
    • In the shower or tub
    • Outside the shower or tub
    • Near the toilet and sink

Overall Home Safety

It’s important to also identify potential concerns that may be present in other areas of your parent’s house. For example, if they have a wood floor, ensure they always wear non-slip socks, slippers, or shoes when walking in their home. Socks on a wooden floor can result in a slip and fall.

Other best practices include having a well-lit home that’s free from tripping hazards. Mobility aids such as walkers and canes can be helpful for individuals who have become less balanced as they age. However, some seniors can be stubborn about making this switch, so be sure to discuss how these mobility aids can significantly reduce the risk of falls with your parent.

Returning Home After a Hospital Discharge

You should also consider improving a home’s safety after your parents return home from being in the hospital. You should familiarize yourself with tips to keep your loved one safe after a discharge. Consider using medical transport to bring your parent back home, as this will mitigate fall risks. You should also ensure their home is clean to prevent them from injuring themselves and being hospitalized again.

Your senior parents can still live at home, so long as it’s safe to do so. Take the time to identify potential hazards to reduce the chances of a fall.

5 Things That Can Lead to Anxiety or Depression in the Elderly

Depression and anxiety aren’t normal parts of aging. In fact, they can be caused by very specific events, and it should not be taken lightly if you or someone you love is experiencing a mental health decline. It’s a medical condition that needs to be treated and often can be treated if it’s recognized and diagnosed. Additionally, it helps to be aware of the different things that can cause issues.

These five things can lead to depression or anxiety in the elderly:

Physical Illness Can Lead to Depression or Anxiety

As people age, they may experience a multitude of health conditions. Degeneration of joints can make mobility difficult causing them to need to stay at home. Heart conditions can cause shortness of breath and make it hard to go places. Diabetes can leave some older folks feeling scared to eat the wrong thing because they don’t want to spike their blood sugars. Additionally, diseases like cancer can leave people in fear of dying. All of these can easily lead to chronic depression or anxiety. Getting the right help can make all the difference in the world. Finding a good counselor and sometimes getting on medication will help older folks overcome their mental health crises.

Financial Stress Can Cause Anxiety or Depression

Let’s face it, stress over money is hard. When you’re left trying to decide between paying the rent or buying food, it can be a scary place. This fear can lead many elderly people into a depressed or anxious state. Additionally, some people who are under 65 don’t realize that they might be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits if they have a qualifying disability. Applying for it is worth the hassle, and it’s important not to give up if the first answer is no. These benefits can help alleviate some of that financial stress and reduce anxiety or depression. It’s also important to leverage other charities and help in the area you live in. It’s okay to need help and no one will judge you for getting it when you need it the most.

Loneliness Can Lead to Depression

The feeling of loneliness can lead many elderly people to depression. A common misconception is that loneliness is merely the state of being alone, but it’s much more than that. In fact, loneliness is more defined by the quality of relationships. People with good relationships are less likely to experience loneliness than those who have poor relationships.

Loneliness can have a serious impact on your physical and mental health. The negative effects of loneliness include an increased risk for anxiety disorders, an increased risk for substance abuse problems, and even poor immune function. Getting regular visitors, enjoying hobbies with friends, and even going to events can help to alleviate feelings of loneliness and subsequently, depression, in the elderly.

Medications Can Cause Depression or Anxiety

Unfortunately, as people age, they are more likely to need medications regularly. Depression is a common side effect of some medications. Medications for high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other conditions can cause depression in the elderly. It’s important to let your doctor know if you are suddenly experiencing depression or anxiety when you’re on medication. They may be able to adjust your dosing, get you on a different medication for your health issues, or prescribe an anti-anxiety or antidepressant. It’s important to continue taking your medication until you get the green light from your doctor to back off of them or stop them altogether.

Retirement Can Cause Anxiety

Retirement can cause anxiety, even if you’re looking forward to it. You might be worried about how you’ll spend your time and whether or not you’ll be able to maintain the same level of activity that kept your mind sharp. You may also be concerned about losing social connections from work and other daily interactions. As more people retire, they lose the support system that includes their colleagues and supervisors—and this can lead to feelings of isolation during this time in life.

Final Thoughts

Depression can happen at any age, but there are resources available for elderly people with these conditions. It’s important that you find help if you are experiencing emotional distress. Start by talking to your primary care physician, a therapist or mental health professional, someone who has had experience with these issues in the past, or a community center near you that specializes in helping people with depression and anxiety disorders.

Alternative Pain Management Solutions for Seniors

Pain is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to control it. Pain management is one of the most important aspects of health and wellbeing, especially as we age. For seniors, traditional pain management solutions like prescription medications often come with unwanted side effects. 

Fortunately, there are many alternative pain management solutions that can provide relief without the drawbacks. Here are just a few examples.

Why Seek Alternative Methods for Pain Relief

As people age, they often find that traditional methods of pain relief, such as medication, are no longer as effective as they once were. This can be due to a number of factors, including changes in the way the body metabolizes medications and an increased sensitivity to side effects. 

Not only that, but over the past few years, there has been an increasing awareness of the dangers of opioid drugs. These powerful painkillers can be addictive and lead to overdose, and they are often prescribed for conditions that could be treated with other, less risky medications. 

For seniors, the risks of opioids are even greater. 

Older adults are more likely to have chronic health conditions that increase the risk of adverse reactions to opioids, and they are also more likely to be taking other medications that can interact with opioids. 

Acupuncture, chiropractic care, and massage therapy are all potential options that can help seniors find relief without medication. These therapies can also help to improve overall health and wellbeing. As our population continues to age, it’s important to be aware of the unique challenges that seniors face when it comes to pain management.

Fortunately, for seniors who are looking for alternative ways to relieve pain, there are a number of options available.

4 Alternatives for Pain Relief for Seniors

There are a number of alternative pain management solutions for seniors that can help them manage their pain without having to rely on prescription medications. These treatments can help improve the quality of life for seniors and allow them to live more comfortably.

1. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a safe and effective alternative for seniors who are looking for pain relief. This ancient Chinese practice involves placing thin needles into specific points on the body. This stimulation of the body’s natural energy can help to reduce pain, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. 

Acupuncture is often used to treat chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, headaches, and back pain. It can also be effective for treating acute pain such as postoperative pain and dental pain. If you are a senior who is looking for an alternative to traditional pain medication, acupuncture may be worth considering.

2. Exercise 

Exercise is not just for young people. Despite what you may think, it’s actually beneficial for seniors, too. Exercise can help to improve balance and flexibility, both of which can reduce the risk of falls. It can also help to increase muscle strength and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. 

In addition, exercise has been shown to be effective in reducing pain levels, especially for those with arthritis. There are a number of different exercises that can be beneficial for seniors, including walking, Tai Chi, and yoga. 

Talk to your doctor about which exercises are best for you and be sure to start slowly to avoid injuries. With a little bit of effort, you’ll soon be feeling the benefits of exercise.

3. Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a popular alternative for pain relief, offering a natural and non-invasive option for seniors. The use of essential oils can promote relaxation, ease anxiety and tension, and improve sleep quality. 

When used topically, essential oils can also provide relief from muscle aches and stiffness. In addition, aromatherapy can boost cognitive function and lift mood. For seniors who are struggling with chronic pain, aromatherapy can offer much-needed relief and improve quality of life.

4. Meditation

Meditation is a safe and effective alternative that can be used to manage pain. Meditation works by helping to calm the mind and body, which in turn can help to reduce pain. Additionally, meditation can help to improve sleep quality, increase energy levels, and reduce stress, making it a good way to maintain a pain-free lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

While opioid medications may be the most popular form of pain relief for seniors, the good news is that they are not the only option. There are a number of alternative pain management solutions that can provide relief without the risk of addiction or overdose. 

If you are looking for an alternative to opioids, talk to your doctor about these options. They may be able to help you find relief from your pain without putting your health at risk.


Emma Thake is the Director of Marketing & Media at Yinova. A graduate of Bard College, where she studied Cultural Anthropology, Emma is passionate about building the Yinova community and helping everyone associated with Yinova stay connected. She focuses her time on informing patients and press alike on the benefits of acupuncture and Chinese medicine and loves being able to empower people with information about their bodies and their health. 

Health Insurance for Seniors

Growing older certainly may come with its perks! You probably have more free time to spend on the things you were too busy with before, whether spending time with your loved ones or throwing yourself into time-consuming hobbies. It’s easy to get caught up in your new-found freedom and carefree lifestyle and forget about the not-so-fun stuff, like taking steps to make sure you can take care of your health.

If you’ve never had health insurance before, either because you couldn’t afford it or didn’t think you needed it, it may become necessary in your later years. The reality is as you get older, you are more likely to develop health problems, and having health insurance may help you with these issues to live more comfortably.

Or maybe you had health insurance through the company you worked for and were taken off the plan when you retired. Either way, it could be beneficial to have health insurance as a senior to ease some of the financial burdens that come with health issues you may face as you age.

There are a variety of health insurance policies offered by different insurance companies, so it’s helpful to spend some time comparing offerings and narrowing down the ones you think are a good fit for you.

When reviewing plans and trying to decide on one that suits you, there are some things you should consider.

Plan Type

It’s helpful to start by deciding the type of plan you should get. Health insurance is available in two primary categories: private and public.

The government funds public health insurance to make medical care accessible to people who can’t afford private health insurance. Low-income seniors under sixty-five may qualify for Medicaid, while those over sixty-five may join a Medicare plan.

Private health insurance may be more expensive, but it’s worth buying if you have the means. Your private health insurance typically pays for vaccines, tests, screenings, annual checks, and other preventative measures. These might be valuable benefits for seniors who may face a higher risk of developing medical problems that may be easier to manage if caught early.

Also, you can usually customize private health insurance plans to meet your individual medical needs.

Additional Coverage

Once you’ve decided on a plan type that suits you, you may want to consider buying additional coverage. It’s advisable to buy additional coverage like Medigap or Medicare Advantage plans. Like health insurance, there are options within these plans, so it’s helpful to shop around to find which plan best suits your needs.

For example, some Medigap plans may pay your deductible or co-payment, or your Medicare Advantage plan may cover the costs of your vision care.

Waiting Periods

Several health insurance companies impose waiting periods on patients who have pre-existing conditions. This means that they have a medical condition before joining the plan. Waiting periods can be anywhere between one to four years, depending on the policy, so if you were diagnosed with a pre-existing condition, you might have to pay any medical bills related to the condition during the waiting period.

Common health problems that may be subject to a waiting period include heart problems, diabetes, and respiratory issues. Often, the problems subject to waiting periods are serious, and you can’t put off seeking medical treatment for them. If you have one of these health issues, it’s advisable to look for a health insurance plan that doesn’t impose a waiting period for your condition or that comes with a shorter waiting period.

Healthcare Network

Some healthcare insurance plans may only pay for medical bills if you visit a healthcare provider in their network. When deciding on a plan, ensure that it covers doctors, hospitals, and healthcare providers that are convenient for you to visit.

If you plan on traveling, selecting a plan with a vast network of healthcare providers in the areas you plan on visiting could be a good idea. This way, if you need medical attention in an area that’s not your hometown, you are more likely to be covered.

While it could be cheaper to opt for a plan with a smaller network, it may be a risk. If you have a medical emergency and the closest healthcare providers are not part of your insurance plan’s network, you may be liable for the medical bills.

Added Benefits

Before buying health insurance, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with the additional perks and benefits they may offer. Many insurance companies provide added benefits to their policies to encourage you to be healthy.

Depending on the policy, you may be able to join a wellness program or gym at a discounted rate. Other benefits may include free transport to medical appointments or counseling services.

While these benefits are marketed as free, it’s worth choosing a plan that includes perks you are likely to use. This way, you get more for the money you spend on the policy. If you’re sure the added benefits are not for you, it may make sense to look for a cheaper plan without these added benefits.

Final Thoughts

Health insurance as a senior may be essential since it might lower the financial burdens of falling ill or developing a severe medical condition. Before buying a policy, it’s a good idea to review your options, consider your needs and lifestyle, and then select a plan that suits you.

 

References

 

How to Avoid Back Injuries When Caring for Seniors

Back injuries in seniors are a common problem for caregivers. Studies have shown that seniors are more likely to suffer back problems due to weakened bones and muscles. Also, they may have difficulty moving around and bending to help them with certain tasks. If caring for seniors, do not allow them to lift heavy items. Try to use lighter objects or get another person to help you carry the heavier items, and don’t forget to take breaks.

You may want to hire a caregiver to help you out. That is fine, but do not forget that the care person should be able to do all the tasks you need for your loved one. You do not want to hire someone who is not trained and experienced enough to handle the job and possibly hurt your parent. 

Proper Lifting Techniques

To lift a senior properly, start by standing close to the person you are lifting. Squat down, keeping your back straight. Place your hands under the person’s armpits and slowly stand up, using your legs to lift. Avoid twisting or jerking motions.

You must use a transfer technique if the person you are lifting cannot stand. First, place a sheet or blanket under the person’s hips and knees. Then, squat down and slide your hands under the person’s back and legs. Slowly stand up and lift the person onto a bed or chair. Again, avoid any twisting or jerking motions. The proper technique prevents you from putting strain on your back when caring for seniors.

The Importance of Good Posture

Maintaining good posture is important for people of all ages, but it becomes increasingly important as we age and are overcoming a disability. Poor posture can lead to back pain and injuries, making everyday activities more difficult.

Good posture involves keeping the spine in alignment, with the head held up and the shoulders relaxed. While it may not be possible to maintain perfect posture at all times, it’s important to be aware of your posture and correct it when necessary.

Exercises to Strengthen the Back

According to the National Institute on Aging, one in four Americans over 65 has a disability. With aging demographics, this number is anticipated to rise. Many of these disabilities are due to weakened muscles, including back muscles.

Several exercises can help strengthen back muscles and reduce the risk of injury. The “Superman” exercise involves lying on your stomach with your arms extended. Slowly lift your head, chest, and legs off the ground, holding this position for five seconds. Repeat 10 times.

Another exercise is the Bird Dog: Start on your hands and knees with your back straight. Raise one arm and the opposite leg until they align with your body. Hold for five seconds, then lower and repeat with the other arm and leg. Do three sets of 10 repetitions.

The Cat-Cow pose is a gentle, beginner-level yoga pose that can help to strengthen and lengthen the spine. This pose can also help to improve posture and relieve back pain. To perform this pose, begin by getting down on your hands and knees with your arms at your sides. As you breathe in, arch your back and lift your head to the ceiling. Exhale while arching your back and bringing your chin close to your chest. Repeat this sequence 10-15 times.

Conclusion

Back injuries can be debilitating and lead to long-term pain. In addition to helping seniors with regular exercise, it is important to implement the exercises and poses from this list. It can be a rewarding experience to take care of an elderly family member.

Retirement Gift Ideas Women Will Love

The moment of retirement is not only the beginning of a new stage of life where the person will be able to enjoy their time the way they want but also a celebration of the hard work they have put in throughout their life. That is why these people, who have worked so hard to reach their retirement day, deserve a gift to be remembered.

It’s understandable that the search for the perfect gift can be a difficult and arduous one, especially if the person to whom it is dedicated is an important woman in your life. But don’t stress too much. The perfect gift is out there somewhere. All you have to do is look. Whether you choose to buy her something online or opt to make custom shoes for her, the most important aspect is that the gift is something that your loved one will use fondly.

Below you will find a list of unique gifts to help you make a decision and to spark your creativity so that you may come up with a one-of-a-kind and personalized gift idea!

A Spa Day 

What could be more relaxing than a day at the spa? This gift is perfect for marking the transition from a rushed life in the workforce to the peace and quiet that comes with retirement. What’s more perfect than a relaxing day at the spa? It will show your loved one how good it feels to unwind carefreely and enjoy the free time they have earned.

Custom Items

Perhaps among the most thoughtful gifts are the personalized ones. They show how well you know the person and their interests and that you have put time and effort into creating their gift. You can opt for a personalized tote bag that will be perfect for shopping, customized shoes which are ideal for evening strolls, or a young retiree t-shirt!

You certainly won’t go wrong with such a gift, and you don’t have to worry that someone else will get them something identical or that they already have something like this.

A Gardening Set

With retirement comes plenty of free time, which your loved ones can occupy at their leisure. Perhaps they have hobbies that they haven’t had time to pursue due to their busy schedule, or maybe they’re ready to discover the beauty of new activities. That’s why a gardening set is perfect for a young retiree who likes to spend time in nature. Not to mention all the benefits gardening has to offer, from reducing anxiety to giving a sense of purpose to life now devoid of commitments.

A Wooden Bath Tray

With retirement comes the time for well-deserved relaxation. With retirement comes the time for well-deserved relaxation. Surely the person you are seeking a gift for has worked hard all their life and now finds it hard to give up the fast pace of life. Take the first step and show her that now is the time to enjoy the fruits of her labor and get her a wooden bath tray. This is the perfect way to unwind in the bathroom over a good book, some wine, and a couple of perfumed candles. 

A Make-up Set

With the age of retirement, women may feel old and think that they no longer have the same beauty as before. A make-up kit can restore their self-confidence and love of elegance. There’s nothing a little blush can’t fix.

Tips and Tricks for Preserving Your Family History

Every person will wonder about their family history at some point in their life. Too often, there’s either no one to ask, or not many physical reminders left from the past. Check out these tips and tricks for preserving your family history so future generations will always know their roots.

Interview Family Members

There’s something incredibly precious about having someone’s life story told in their own words. Ask family members to write down their memories and collect them into a book of family history.

If your family members are unable to write, you can always ask them to tell their stories while you record them. This can also be an amazing tool for preserving records of people speaking endangered languages.

Make a Family Cookbook

Too many Americans have little to no understanding of their cultural origins. Thankfully, food can sometimes provide necessary clues. Gather all the favorite family recipes and record them in one place, including the dates they were in use and the names of the people who created them. You can even print copies to give to your family members as a gift.

With all your family recipes in one place, why not make some of them? Cooking is one of many fun hobbies to do in retirement, and you can invite your family members to join!

Digitize Old Photos and Videos

If you have a bunch of old photos and tapes stashed away in the basement, there’s a good chance they’re starting to deteriorate. While the physical items might fade over time, you can ensure the memories survive by digitizing your photos and videos. Just remember to follow the basic dos and don’ts of photo preservation.

Visit an Important Family Site

There are plenty of places that could be important to your family, such as previous homes, ports of entry, and cemeteries. For that matter, entire towns might be full of places that were important to your ancestors. You can experience some of the history yourself by visiting and taking new photos and videos of these locations and adding them to your digitization project.

DNA Testing

While some people worry about the risks of giving their DNA to a private genealogy business, it can be a useful way to gain information when you don’t have other options. Genealogy companies also have extensive networks of users, which makes the process of figuring out your ancestry easier. Just remember that DNA tests can sometimes reveal family secrets some people may find upsetting, like affairs and adoptions.

We hope you enjoy these tips and tricks for preserving your family history. Remember, it’s always better to get the information now instead of waiting until it’s too late.

7 Ways for Seniors to Deal with Anxiety or Depression

Nearly half of the people who are diagnosed with anxiety also suffer from depression or vice versa. This is because people with a primary mental ailment can worsen the symptoms and make recovery difficult, making it essential for both disorders to be treated simultaneously.

It is estimated that about 20% of those aged 55 years and above in the US experience some sort of mental health concern, among which the most common conditions are anxiety and mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder.

Unfortunately, depressive and anxiety disorders are under-recognized and often left untreated and more than two-thirds of seniors do not get the treatment they need. Additionally, the stigma attached to mental health issues is more powerful in the elderly, as it prevents them from openly admitting their symptoms.

Some key facts 

  • Due to the aging of the population, the number of seniors with mental disorders like anxiety and depression is set to double by 2030.
  • Depression is the most common ailment among seniors in the US
  • People aged 85 years and above have the highest suicide rate of any age group.
  • Mental health services for seniors are limited in most countries, including America.

Treatment options for older adults

Many helpful treatments for both anxiety and depression are available to reduce the symptoms and shorten the period of the ailment to last. Like hypertension or diabetes, depression too is a treatable condition and not a normal part of aging, though in older adults the risk of experiencing depression is higher.

While families and friends can offer support in finding treatment, it is best left to a qualified physician to investigate this mental condition. That said a few things close relatives and friends could do are:

  • Encourage the person to take medical help
  • Help set up appointments and/or accompany the patient to the doctor’s clinic
  • Encourage the person to take part in physical activities which are great for boosting mood

Some common forms of treatment include:

  • Psychotherapy: Counseling or talk therapy can be of immense help in helping a person to identify troubling emotions, thoughts and behaviors. Psychotherapy is especially of benefit to those who have undergone major life stresses like loss of family members or home relocations. The treatment can be accessed with a licensed clinical social worker, a psychiatrist or any other accredited mental health care professional. It is also helpful for those who cannot take drugs because of the side effects or their interaction with other medicines. If considering this treatment for older adults, it is recommended to augment with a second-generation antidepressant.
  • Medications: APAs Clinical Practice Guideline suggests antidepressants for the treatment of depression in older adults. Second-generation antidepressants like serotonin, are often prescribed to balance the hormones that affect the mood. Some other commonly used medications for older adults are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Celexa or Paxil or serotonin modulators and stimulators like Wellbutrin and Remeron. A primary care physician can help in prescribing and monitoring the medications for potential side effects. Note that antidepressants may take longer in showing positive results with older people than they do with younger people, as the elderly are more sensitive to medicines.
  • Electroconvulsive therapy: This process also known as ECT, involves placing of electrodes on the head of the patient to enable a safe and mild electric current to pass through the brain. However, this type of treatment is only used as a last resort when all other types of treatment have failed or when the illness is very severe and interferes with daily functioning. Even then, ECT plays an important part in treating depression in seniors who cannot take traditional medicine.
  • Online counseling and therapy: Online therapy works well on anxiety and depression as it addresses the root causes rather than only the symptoms. Online Therapy allows you to work through the stressful life changes arising from loss or bereavement by changing the negative thinking patterns. The two main forms of psychotherapy are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy.
  • Anti-anxiety drugs: Anxiolytics, such as Buspirone are anti-anxiety drugs that have proved effective for older adults. These are normally prescribed when a short-term or quick acting medication is deemed necessary. Another effective drug called Benzodiazepines is beneficial but should be prescribed with caution in older adults because of risk of memory impairment and falls. Hence this drug is usually performed for a short period.
  • Other measures: There are other steps that one can take to relieve anxiety and depression:# acknowledge your worries and fears. For example, if you are depressed due to financial reasons, consult a financial planner.# Adopt stress management techniques like meditation, prayer and deep breathing exercises # Exercise # Avoid things that can aggravate the symptoms like caffeine, nicotine, drugs, cold over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, alcohol, illegal drugs and limit social media.
  • Natural remedies: A few natural ways to overcome anxiety or depression are: Stress control can be managed by taking time off from professional responsibilities and keeping an eye on demands and commitments. Calming techniques can be of great help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety. You can substitute negative thinking with positive thoughts by making a list of the ideas to be replaced. Support groups are also effective as you interact with like-minded people or a mentor. Finally, physical exercise and a healthy lifestyle will enhance self-image and release the chemicals from the brain that promote positive emotions.

Takeaway

Treatment, especially a combination of medications and psychotherapy has proved their effectiveness in older adults. Having said that, not all therapies are right for everyone and treatment choice differs from person to person and sometimes multiple treatments may be tried to shortlist one which works.

It is therefore important to tell your mental care provider, whether your current plan is working for you or not, and to find something that does. The final option of the physician will depend on the type and severity of the ailment, past treatments and overall health among others.

Tips for First-Time Snowbirds

If you’re thinking of spending your winters in a warmer climate, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of people flock south to escape the cold. But if you’ve never been a snowbird before, what should you expect? Here are our top tips for first time snowbirds.

Find out what kind of transportation is available in the area

When winter comes and the snow starts to fly, many people head south to escape the cold. If you’re thinking of joining the ranks of the snowbirds, there are a few things you need to know before you go. One of the most important things to research is transportation. 

Depending on where you’re going, you may be able to get by without a car. In some areas, there are good public transportation systems, or you may be able to find a shuttle service that can take you where you need to go. 

However, in other areas, having your own car is essential and there are several car shipping companies that can be entrusted with your vehicle. Just be sure to do your homework before you head south so that you can make the most of your winter vacation.

Start by doing your research.

If you’re thinking of becoming a snowbird and spending your winters in a warmer climate, there are a few things you should know before you take the plunge. 

First of all, it’s important to do your research. Talk to friends and family who have done it before, read online forums and guides, and get a feel for what snowbirding is all about. 

Once you’ve decided that it’s right for you, start planning your trip. Choose your destination carefully – do you want to stay in the US or head south of the border? And book your accommodations well in advance, as prices can skyrocket during peak season. 

Finally, remember to budget for your travel costs and don’t forget to include insurance in case of any unforeseen medical emergencies. Snowbirding can be a great experience if you’re prepared and do your research beforehand. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

Look into the cost of living

If you’re thinking about spending part of the winter in a warmer climate, you’re not alone. Every year, hundreds of thousands of snowbirds flock to sunny destinations in search of warmth and relaxation. 

If you’re considering joining their ranks, there’s one important thing you need to do: research the cost of living at your destination. Just because it’s cheaper to heat a home in Florida than it is in Canada doesn’t mean that everything else will be less expensive. 

In fact, the cost of living can vary widely from one state to another, so it’s important to do your homework before making the move. Once you know what to expect, you can start planning your budget and enjoy your winter getaway without any financial surprises.

Consider your budget

If you’re a first time snowbird, one of the most important considerations is your budget. Make sure to factor in the cost of travel, accommodations, activities, and food. 

It’s also important to consider your income sources. Will you be able to generate enough income to cover your expenses? If not, you may need to find a part-time job or make some other adjustments. 

One of the best ways to save money as a snowbird is to find discounts and special offers. Check with your hotel or resort for any deals they may offer on food, activities, or transportation. You can also look for discounts on attractions and entertainment. With a little planning, you can enjoy an affordable winter getaway.

Don’t forget about your health insurance

As a snowbird, one of the things you have to think about that you may not have had to before is your health insurance. If you’re in Canada, your provincial health insurance won’t cover you if you’re out of the province for more than six months. If you’re on a U.S. Medicaid health plan that is specific to your state, you will need to notify your provider of your change in address and possibly apply for benefits in your new state. 

There are a few different options for snowbirds, and the best one for you will depend on your needs and budget. You can get travel insurance, which will cover you for emergency medical expenses while you’re away from home. You can also get extended health coverage through a private insurer, which will cover you for things like prescriptions and dental care. 

Or, if you’re in Canada, you can enroll in a snowbird health care plan, which is designed specifically for Canadians who spend part of the year in another country. Whichever option you choose, make sure you do your research and compare plans to find the one that’s right for you.

Plan ahead for communications.

If you’re going to be spending an extended period of time in another country, make sure you understand how you’ll stay in touch with friends and family back home. 

Will you need an international calling plan? Do you need a data plan? How much will it cost? Researching these things ahead of time will help avoid any nasty surprises later on.

Snowbirding can be a great way to escape the cold winter months and enjoy some time in a warmer climate. But if you’ve never done it before, there are a few things you should keep in mind. By doing your research, considering your budget, getting travel insurance, and planning ahead for communications, you’ll be well on your way to having a great experience as a first time snowbird.