Senior Living Blog by UMH | Aging & Caregiving (4)

Aging & Caregiving | Independent Senior Living | dependent senior living | senior living homes | senior living nutrition

12 Unique Hobbies That Are Unexpectedly Perfect for Seniors

By: Elizabeth Bemis July 17th, 2020

Many adults who are navigating the nuances of their golden years can experience a sense of loss in terms of engagement with activities that fill their days with purpose. What they may not be considering is that this stage in a person’s life is often the ideal time to take up a new hobby. From physical benefits to mental and emotional health advantages, engaging in an enjoyable hobby can offer seniors immense meaning and value. As you acknowledge this reality and begin to think about what hobbies pique your interest as well as meet your individual needs, you might defer to senior staples like gardening, knitting and painting. And while these are certainly excellent choices if they suit your particular fancy, there are also some lesser-known options you may never have considered before.

Safe Summertime Activities for Seniors Who Are Social Distancing

By: Elizabeth Bemis June 19th, 2020

As seniors look forward to summertime after the long, dreary months of winter’s chill, the idea of having to continue social distancing may feel incredibly disappointing. In the midst of a global pandemic, safety remains a primary concern for older adults who face increased risk in contracting the virus. But the cancellation of community gatherings and in-person events doesn’t have to be devastating. There is still a host of fun and energizing summertime activities for seniors to enjoy even as they remain safely socially distant. It’s more important than ever for older adults to stay physically and mentally healthy. The change of season is a perfect time to capitalize on the socially distant activities—both indoors and out—that put a swing back in your step, or that of an aging loved one.

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Aging & Caregiving | Independent Senior Living | dependent senior living | senior living homes | senior living nutrition

Self-Care for the Caregiver: Why and How to Prioritize Your Own Well-Being

By: Marissa Salvesen June 18th, 2020

Caregivers are called upon to do so much, continually giving of themselves in any number of ways. Many are sandwiched between the needs of their elderly, dependent parents and the responsibilities of tending to their children who haven’t yet left the nest. In the midst of balancing this complex family life with a potential career, there’s often very little time and energy devoted to caring for themselves. But when the caregiver neglects their own needs, they risk some highly detrimental outcomes, not the least of which is physical, mental and emotional burnout. According to the most recent Caregiving in the U.S. study, conducted by the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) and the AARP Public Policy Institute:

Social Isolation Series, P. 1: Identifying Triggers for Loneliness in Seniors

By: Marissa Salvesen April 10th, 2020

In this unprecedented time of concern that stems from a global health crisis, the need (and, in many cases, the mandate) to self-isolate and practice strict social distancing has taken a major toll on mental health for people in every category of age, gender, social status and geography. We’ve all been impacted by the pandemic in one way or another, and for many, the most prominent effect has been an overwhelming feeling of loneliness.

Best Holiday Movies for Seniors

By: Elizabeth Bemis December 11th, 2019

The calendar doesn’t need to be turned to December for you to enjoy holiday or winter-themed movies! These feel-good flicks are great to put on any time, especially for seniors in assisted living communities. A movie marathon is one of many great winter activities. Here’s our list of favorite holiday movies for seniors.

Staying Hydrated - Not Just a Summer Problem

By: Elizabeth Bemis September 24th, 2019

With warm weather and time in the sun, staying hydrated is challenging for everyone, especially seniors but many don’t realize they can become dehydrated at any time during the year. Dehydration is a common cause of hospitalization, especially in the summer months. Although the warm season is a time to be on guard for dehydration, this could be a potential risk at any time of the year. That’s why it’s so important to keep an eye out for signs of dehydration in yourself if you’re a senior, or in a parent or senior loved one, if you’re a caregiver.

Aging & Caregiving

Should My Loved One Be in a Memory Care Community?

By: Elizabeth Bemis September 24th, 2019

Are you wondering what type of senior living community is right for your loved one? The choice between memory care and assisted living is one that many families struggle to make. Is your loved one simply forgetful or do they have a greater need for memory care and assistance? There are many signs to look out for and questions to ask yourself to determine if a memory care community is a right decision for your loved one.

7 Fun and Affordable Activities for Seniors This Summer

By: Marissa Salvesen August 8th, 2019

Summer is a great season to spend time with family and friends, and there are plenty of fun and affordable activities seniors can enjoy. If you’re looking for fun ways to pass the time and make memories this summer, here are a few activities you should put on the calendar.

5 Best Ice Cream Shops for Seniors near Shelton, CT

By: Elizabeth Bemis August 8th, 2019

Summer is the perfect time to get some sun and have a tasty, frozen treat. Luckily, if you’re a senior living in the Shelton, Connecticut area, you have plenty of delicious ice cream spots to try! Here are five of the best ice cream shops seniors should visit in the Shelton, CT area.

6 Common Unexpected Expenses When Moving to a Senior Community

By: Marissa Salvesen July 10th, 2019

Cost is a major concern families consider when it’s time to move a senior loved one into assisted living. While you might be able to pinpoint upfront costs, like the monthly rent in a community, there are other costs that you may not anticipate. Here are some unexpected expenses your family should plan for before moving your senior loved one into an assisted living community.

4 Questions Families are Asking Assisted Living Experts Right Now

By: Elizabeth Bemis July 10th, 2019

Moving your loved one to assisted living is a huge transition that comes with a lot of questions. If this is your first time searching for senior living options, you might not even know where to start. Fortunately, staff members at assisted living communities work with families every single day to ensure their parent or senior loved one is in the right environment for their needs. And, it’s likely that some of the questions you have are pretty common. Here are a few of the most common questions senior living experts are commonly asked, along with the answers we’re happy to share.