Senior Living Blog by UMH | dependent senior living (3)

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.

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:

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Independent Senior Living | dependent senior living | senior living homes | senior living nutrition

Tech Review: 14 of the Best Free Apps for Seniors

By: Marissa Salvesen May 20th, 2020

It goes without saying that, on the whole, technology is more readily adopted and easily navigated by younger generations—those who were born into the computer age and grew up with smartphones at their fingertips. But it’s also true that, now more than ever, technology has emerged as essential to people spanning every age group, in one way or another. Thanks to ongoing advancements in mobile technology and user-friendly interfaces, seniors are quickly becoming a much larger demographic of users.

Social Isolation Series, Part 3: The Role of Technology in Supporting Lonely Seniors

By: Elizabeth Bemis May 20th, 2020

If you’ve been keeping up with our latest series on social isolation, you understand that the senior population faces increased risk to their physical, mental and, emotional well-being during our current global health crisis. Part 1 of this series introduced some of the triggers that can cause an unhealthy level of loneliness for you or the senior in your life, while Part 2 offered specific ideas for prevention and mitigation. In this final installment, we’re delving into the critical role technology plays in fighting the isolation felt by so many seniors throughout this time of social distancing.

Social Isolation Series, Part 2: Helping Seniors Stay Connected

By: Elizabeth Bemis April 10th, 2020

In our last post, Social Isolation Series, Part 1: Identifying Triggers for Loneliness in Seniors, we introduced the need to address some of the most pressing challenges facing seniors during the current global health crisis and widespread isolation measures. With acute loneliness endangering both the mental and physical health of older adults, it’s important to focus on getting the information you and your loved ones need to navigate this difficulty effectively.

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.

Senior Caregiver Burnout: Is the Burden Taking a Toll on You?

By: Marissa Salvesen March 12th, 2020

As a primary caregiver for an aging parent or loved one, it’s easy to get so caught up in meeting their needs and managing all of the responsibilities that you neglect your own mental and physical well-being. The demands of being a caregiver can become extremely overwhelming, taking a toll on your mind, body and emotional state. Without proper awareness and a balanced approach to this lifestyle, you may find yourself suffering the effects of caregiver burnout.

10 Stimulating Activities for the Elderly

By: Elizabeth Bemis March 12th, 2020

Feeling like the senior in your life has slowly slumped into a daily rut? It’s certainly common for elderly adults to develop a routine that eventually dulls their spirit and negatively impacts their physical and mental health. But there’s good news: You can introduce a whole host of stimulating activities to help improve your aging loved one’s quality of life.

What Every Senior Needs to Know about Heart Health

By: Elizabeth Bemis February 12th, 2020

People aged 65 and older are much more likely than younger people to suffer a heart attack, have a stroke or develop coronary heart disease and heart failure, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Institute on Aging (NIH). Heart disease is the number-one cause of death in the United States, and the NIH indicates that it’s a major cause of disability, which can limit activity and erode quality of life for millions of seniors.

Expert Insights for Seniors Battling the Winter Blues

By: Elizabeth Bemis February 12th, 2020

It is all too common for seniors to experience feelings of sadness and loneliness during the cold and dark winter months. If you or an aging loved one are finding it difficult to overcome the winter blues this season, you are certainly not alone. With less daylight, declining temperatures and the dangers associated with getting out during periods of snow and ice, it’s no wonder so many seniors undergo the effects of cabin fever and other mood-depleting factors.

Top Cognitive Games and Mental Exercises for Seniors

By: Elizabeth Bemis January 14th, 2020

It is never too late to help your aging loved one focus on their cognitive health and improve their brain function. While it’s certainly true that age plays a major role in the decline of memory and other cognitive abilities, studies show there are proven ways to work on maintaining and enhancing these capabilities at any age.