Leslie Newlife

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.

Are Condos a Good Investment After Retirement in 2022?

If you are going towards retirement age, you should think about having a future plan. Some things that come to mind are whether you should move across the country or stay in your hometown. In recent times, condos are becoming more and more popular for retirees. But, are condos a good investment after retirement in 2022 or not? Read this article to find out! 

Are condos a good investment?

There can be many questions  (such as what is the amount you should invest, where should you invest, and many more) that come into your mind when you are investing as a retiree. You can go through the retirement finance guide so that you can learn to be financially independent in your retirement days. Now, coming on to the main question: are condos worth the investment!

Condos are cheaper than single-family homes, you won’t have to pay a higher price  for the initial purchase. However, you will have to pay an HOA fee as the outdoors of most condos are handled by the homeowners association. Here are some of the advantages that you will have after owning a condo:

Flexible Living 

A condo offers flexible living as it is perfect for buyers who require to downsize or don’t want to spend a lot of time and money to maintain a home. A smaller space is best suited for people who travel around and enjoy the city rather than staying at home. 

Affordable As Compared To Single-Family Houses 

In bigger cities, a condo is more affordable compared to single-family houses. To your surprise, in many cities, having a condo is cheaper than renting an apartment or purchasing a townhouse. 

Insurance Is Cheap 

When buying home insurance for a condo, your policy will cover structural damages within your private unit. However, building defects would be covered by the HOA and you won’t need a separate policy for that. The homeowner’s insurance covers protection for personal belongings and structural damages caused because of natural disasters, thefts, and more. 

Communal Spaces 

Most condos come with proper communal spaces like patios or rooftops, where you can get to know the other people living there. It is one of the many benefits of taking up a condo after retirement, as you can meet new people without leaving the condo community. Additionally, these communities have fun events where you can participate and socialize with your neighbors. 

Community Amenities 

Many condos include community amenities such as a pool and fitness centers which you can easily use at any time of the day. Some condos even include tennis courts or spas. However, keep in mind that you will have to pay more homeowners association fees for better amenities. 

Included Appliances 

While purchasing a home, you will also have to buy major appliances, but many condos come with pre-furnished household items such as kitchen appliances.

“Home Warranty is one of the assets that you can add to your condo”, said Krupesh Bhat, founder of HomeWarrantyReviews. Home warranty helps a homeowner in case your home appliance or system breaks down because of a normal wear and tear in return of a nominal premium.

Proper Security 

Most condo buildings include proper entrances and surveillance cameras to help protect the homeowners. Also, some even appoint a security guard or door-men to keep an eye on the condo. So, having proper security will help you to stay tension-free at any time of the day or night. 

Conclusion 

Condos are potentially a good investment if you do your research properly before buying one. When they are properly maintained and taken care of, you won’t have to undergo any problems in the future. Also, it is a great investment for your retirement and  an affordable option compared to standalone buildings with no/minimum security.

3 Ways to Improve Quality of Life for Loved Ones with Late-Stage Dementia

Many family caregivers can find themselves feeling stressed when they are taking care of a loved one with late-stage Alzheimer’s disease or other type of dementia. It can be difficult to know what to expect during advanced stages of the disease, and family members may feel like they are not prepared to handle the challenges that come with caring for a person with dementia.

However, there are ways that caregivers can ease the stress of the situation, and provide help to their loved ones.

What to Expect

Knowing what to expect in late-stage dementia can help you be better prepared to deal with the changes that your loved one may experience.

As a person reaches the later stages of dementia, their cognitive abilities decline significantly. This can lead to a number of different changes in behavior, body function, and physical abilities. Older adults living with dementia may become less able to communicate, both verbally and non-verbally. They may also experience changes in their sleep patterns, becoming more prone to insomnia or sleeping during the day. Additionally, they may lose interest in personal hygiene, withdraw from social activities, develop incontinence, and become more agitated or aggressive.

While these changes can be difficult for both the individual themselves and their loved ones, there are ways to manage them. With the help of a care team, the person can receive the support they need to maintain their quality of life, even during the late stage of dementia.

How to Improve Quality of Life

When a loved one is living with late-stage dementia, there are steps you can take to help them feel more comfortable, supported, and able to experience joy and happiness.

Encourage and Support Their Favorite Activities

As dementia progresses, patients often lose the ability to engage in complex activities. However, finding ways for your loved one to enjoy their favorite activities can help improve their quality of life. These activities can be as simple as listening to music or looking at photographs that stimulate joyful memories. For people who are able to walk safely, taking a supported stroll in their favorite park can also be beneficial. In addition to providing enjoyment, these activities can help to stimulate patients’ mental and emotional faculties. As a result, they can provide an important connection to the outside world, meaningful engagement, and help improve the quality of life for patients in the later stages of dementia.

Help Them Manage Health and Hygiene

When a loved one is in the later stages of dementia, they typically will need assistance with their daily personal care and hygiene routines. Although they may not be able to do everything on their own, these routines can provide a sense of structure and normalcy. In addition, they can help to promote physical and emotional well-being.

There are a few things to keep in mind when helping a loved one with dementia with their daily health and hygiene routines. First, it’s important to be patient and understand that they may not be able to do everything on their own. Second, it’s important to use simple language and offer clear instructions. Finally, it’s important to be patient, gentle and respectful of their personal space. By keeping these things in mind, you can help your loved one stay safe and comfortable while maintaining their dignity in the later stages of dementia.

There are a number of aids that can be used to help with daily hygiene routines. For example, shower chairs can help the care recipient feel safe and secure while bathing, and long-handled toothbrushes can make it easier to reach all areas of the mouth. It is also important to create a routine that is as relaxed and stress-free as possible. For instance, patients may feel more comfortable if they bathe at the same time each day, and if they have someone to assist them who they know and trust. By taking these steps, we can help make daily hygiene routines more manageable for patients with late-stage dementia.

Make Their Favorite Meals

As anyone who has watched a loved one go through the later stages of dementia knows, mealtime can be a difficult time of day. Many people with dementia lose their appetite or forget how to eat, and mealtime can become a source of anxiety and frustration.

However, there is evidence that preparing favorite foods can help to ease some of the difficulty associated with dementia. A study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition found that when participants were given their favorite foods, they displayed less agitation and anxiety.

The researcher behind the study suggested that favorite foods can provide a sense of comfort and connection for people with dementia, helping to ease some of the challenges of the disease. If you are caring for a loved one with dementia, making their favorite meals may help to make mealtime a more enjoyable experience.

Alternative Care Options

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be an extremely rewarding experience, but it can also be very challenging. As the disease progresses, many people will become increasingly agitated and confused, and they may require around-the-clock care.

While most families are able to provide this care for a period of time, there may come a point when it becomes too difficult to cope. For families who want to keep their loved one at home in a familiar environment, home care agencies can be an invaluable resource in these situations, providing both respite care and long-term solutions.

In-home caregivers are trained to deal with the unique challenges that come with supporting people living with dementia, and they can provide support and assistance with everything from personal care to medication management. In addition, home care agencies can help families create a customized care plan that meets the specific needs of their loved one.

When caring for a loved one with dementia, home care agencies can help ensure they receive the best possible care.

5 Ways to Help Seniors Rebuild Their Credit After Dealing with Bankruptcy

Experiencing bankruptcy can be one of the hardest journeys of your life. You must deal with lots of paperwork when filing for it, regularly monitor your credit score, and constantly doubt being unable to rebuild your credit. And, when elders are put in this challenging situation, it could bring them too much emotional stress.

If you’re a senior citizen, try not to look at being bankrupt as the end of the world. There are still various ways you could rebuild your credit. You can begin again and try your best to change the negative reports on your credit and improve them.

Here are some ways to improve and rebuild your credit after bankruptcy.

Check the Status of Your Filed Bankruptcy and Credit Report

You could request a free copy of your credit report to understand better what makes your credit score. Since unpaid debts could have effects on your credit report, make sure that you could thoroughly review every statement in your account to counter check any errors.

Are you wondering how long after bankruptcy can you get a credit card? It depends on the situation and the bankruptcy you file. For instance, if you file for Chapter 7, your debts will be wiped out upon approval of the court, and typically, it may take a few months. Ten years after filing, Chapter 7 bankruptcy automatically gets removed from a person’s credit report. Thus, your report does not need to initiate a bankruptcy removal.

On the other hand, filing for Chapter 13 is less advantageous because you still need to continue paying for your balances through a repayment plan as instructed by the court. Typically, it will take seven years for the bankruptcy to get removed from a person’s credit report.

Communicate with Your Friends and Family

People find it embarrassing to tell their families that they have filed for bankruptcy because of the fear of being a burden to them. However, reaching out to your trusted family members and friends lessens the stress and problems you carry.

Going through bankruptcy and trying to work your way up in rebuilding your credit could be extra challenging for seniors, especially on their emotional health. The emotional stress you experience from filing for bankruptcy and finding ways to improve your situation may take a huge toll on your health.

Thus, do not hesitate to communicate with your friends and family so they can understand you better, given that you’re a senior too, and assistance is highly needed. Also, your friends and family could assist you in taking care of your financial reports on your behalf.

Improve Your Payment History

Getting new credit after bankruptcy would make it hard for your various applications to be accepted. So, begin rebuilding your credit using the most basic way, which is to be consistent in paying your debts to have a better repayment history. Keep in mind that this is one of the simplest and most effective ways you could build your credit score again despite being old.

Your payment history also affects your credit score, so paying your monthly payment dues is beneficial to improve the status of your credit score. Assess any past-due accounts that you have and settle them. To help you, try noting down your amounts due or set up reminders to help you keep track and remember the payments you need to make.

Work on Having Better Budgeting Strategies

Even if you’re already a senior, it’s not too late to start having a better budgeting plan to help you with your financial needs. People who file for bankruptcy undergo first pre-discharge credit counseling, where debtors get help exploring various options for solving their financial problems before filing for bankruptcy.

In this sense, the information you gather from the sessions could help you devise better budgeting ways. Don’t allow yourself to be under bankruptcy again, and start building better habits to help you financially. If you think you can’t handle your finances properly, don’t think twice about seeking help from a credit counseling agency to help you.

Look for Someone with Good Credit Score to Cosign for You

Given that your payment history before bankruptcy is negative, it would be hard for you to borrow from lenders. Qualifying for a loan or any installment plans could be problematic.

Lenders would be highly doubtful whether or not they should lend you money because of not having the assurance that you could pay it back. Fortunately, you could give the assurance lenders need by having someone cosign for you.

One of the top qualities you have to look for is that they have a good credit history and score. They can make your case strong and pay on your behalf if you fail to repay. You must communicate with your co-signer the risk that comes with it like their credit score will be at risk if you don’t pay your debt on time.

Final Thoughts

Rebuilding your credit score doesn’t happen easily. It takes discipline and patience to help you turn your negative credit reports into positive ones. Even though you’re already a senior, don’t lose hope that your credit status will not improve. Instead, consider trying the five ways stated above to help you rebuild your credit after dealing with bankruptcy.

3 Worthwhile Ways to Celebrate Your Retirement

Retiring after a life of hard work is a huge milestone that’s certainly worth celebrating. Once you retire, you have more free time on your hands, and there are so many ways that you can spend it. Here are three worthwhile ways to celebrate your retirement.

Throw a Party

Throwing a party is the first worthwhile way to celebrate your retirement. After spending years working hard, it’s a great idea to throw yourself a party so that you can commemorate all your accomplishments during your career. You can invite friends, family, and old co-workers together to enjoy a fun night of food, drinks, music, and storytelling. There are all kinds of helpful tips to help you plan a retirement party to ensure you don’t forget anything.

Go on Vacation

Going on a vacation is another fun and exciting way that you can celebrate retiring. Now that you’re retired and don’t have to follow a strict and busy work schedule, you have plenty of free time to spend however you’d like. That means you finally have enough time to plan that vacation you’ve always dreamed about but didn’t have the time before. You can visit a relaxing tropical beach destination, or you can go lounge in a luxurious ski resort in the snow. Wherever you decide to go, make sure to pack all the essentials, plan fun things to do, and take the time to relax.

Try Something New

The third way that you can enjoy your life as a newly retired individual is by trying something new. With all this extra time to spend now, you can try the things that you never used to have time to do. For example, you can take up a new hobby, like hiking, cooking, golfing, scrapbooking, kayaking, camping, knitting, photography, etc. If you live in a retirement community, you can surely find someone who practices these hobbies to help you get started.

Don’t be afraid to try something outside of your comfort zone. Be bold and brave with your choices, and don’t hold back. Your life is only as interesting as you choose to make it, so try something fun and exhilarating because it’s one of the best ways to boost morale in retirement.

Now that you know of these three exciting ways to celebrate retiring, you can use these ideas today. Make sure to take some much-needed time for yourself to relax and rejuvenate now that you are retired. You deserve it!