In last month’s column I began to address reasons why seniors need to “keep physically fit.” I quoted from a recent study that “regular physical activity and exercise are important to the physical and mental health of almost everyone, including older adults. Staying physically active and exercising regularly can produce long-term health benefits and even improve health for some older people who already have diseases and disabilities. That’s why health experts say that older adults should aim to be as active as possible.”
So the question is … what are some practical actions and preparations a senior and their family can take to lessen the impact when death occurs?
For many older adults the holidays can be highly stressful, confusing or even depressing
I was recently reminded just how precious a long-term friendship is, and how it can bring joy and great memories to life.
So what can we do to protect ourselves, and still enjoy these wonderful summer and fall days? Here are a few tips
It’s important to understand that Social Security cost-of-living increases are tied to the Consumer Price Index
Carl R. Johnson, community relations director for Kitsap Alliance of Resources for Elders shares his thoughts on healthy living.
During the next couple of months, I want to devote this column to talking about the importance of healthy living and successful aging.
As a senior, I want to be able to live in my own home, and enjoy the freedom that comes with good health and a sound body.
If you’re fortunate enough to have one or both parents still living, you may have noticed a role reversal taking place in your relationship. Remember the days when mom shuttled you to the doctor whenever you were sick? Now, it may be you who’s driving her to her medical appointments.
During the past several months I’ve tried to focus this column on issues that impact seniors and their families, and this month is certainly no exception.
In last month’s column I focused on the subject of How to Deal with Depression, and primarily addressed the warning signs and causes of this malaise, as well as suggested some “tips” for overcoming depression.
Although my wife is a wonderful cook, and frequently prepares absolutely marvelous meals for us to eat at home, nevertheless, as we’ve grown older, we really enjoy going out to eat.
For more than 20 years the residents of Central Kitsap have been blessed to have one of the most scenic and enjoyable walking (and running) trails available in this part of the Puget Sound.
Recently my wife and I participated in what we thought would be an easy, non-controversial exercise in choosing a name for a new senior’s ministry at the church we attend.
You may recall I ended my column last month by focusing on one of the biggest and growing challenges of our day: grandparents raising grandchildren.
As I conclude my four-part series on the “Importance of getting a good night’s sleep,” I want to focus on two considerations: (1) establishing good nighttime habits, which include our sleep environment, and (2) keeping a regular bedtime routine.
The fact is that poor sleep habits, including a poor sleep environment and poor “daytime” habits, can be the main causes of low-quality sleep in seniors. In many cases, we develop poor sleep habits over a lifetime, but as people get older, they find they create more and more problems. Fortunately, I believe there are some practical things seniors can do to improve sleep habits.
Some change in your sleep patterns are natural as you age. Your body produces lower levels of growth hormone, so you’ll likely experience a decrease in deep sleep, and less melatonin often means more fragmented sleep (more rapid sleep cycles) and more awakenings between sleep cycles.
I find myself waking up at 4:30 a.m., when my alarm goes off, and immediately thinking how wonderful it would be if I could somehow squeeze a nap into my day.
As strange as it might seem, for many today there is a very real fear of retiring. It’s not a fear of the unknown, but rather what is known. That is … a fear that I’m not prepared financially to face the prospect of living on a fixed income, especially if I find myself (or my spouse) with health problems.
Last month I concluded my article by sharing that I wanted to address some of the issues that typically cause conflict among family members, and why we need to confront these issues head-on.
Perhaps one of the most difficult and painful aspects of working with seniors and their families are those times when I hear a senior share about their “broken” family relationships. The hurt that is expressed is often heart wrenching, and especially when an older person realizes that time is running out if there’s going be any chance of healing and reconciliation.
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