Welcome to February and welcome to our brand-new web portal!
Growing up, my mom used to take photos of our close family members and create heart shaped frames out of construction paper and lacey white doilies. She had a gold-leaf “cupid” hanging on the wall, and she would string ribbons from it to each photo that was put up around it that she proudly displayed in our home for the month of February. Today it’s a precious memory that I think about that demonstrated her love for her family.
I remember when I took care of my mom in her aging years, I was so busy “doing” things for her that sometimes I forgot that I also needed to take the time to just be her daughter. I wish I would have spent more time in simply sharing quality moments with her. We get so busy “doing” we forget about “being.”
Valentine’s Day symbolizes the “heart” connection that we have toward those we love. It’s my hope this month that those who have a senior loved one in their lives will carve out time to spend some quality “heart” time. Just sit and have a conversation or share a special lunch or meal together.
Speaking of meals, this month our theme is all about Senior’s Health, and we will focus our radio show and web content that is relevant to helping seniors keep the highest and healthiest quality of life possible. Here you can read articles, listen to previous programs and podcasts, and meet our experts. Most importantly, you can join our brand new “Senior Advocate Network” for free which will give you access to expanded content and our Monthly Newsletter: Sage Advice.
I look forward to you reaching out to us and letting us know what you think of our site and our show! Just click on “Contact.” We want to hear from you!
Many of our experts have shared some incredibly valuable information about senior’s health, and I feel they are relevant to writing them here.
Did you know??
- Seniors need more hydration than those who are younger. Make sure they are always drinking water and staying hydrated!
- The majority of broken hips and bones don’t happen away, but at home. Make sure that the home has precautions in place so these things don’t happen! This means grab bars in the bathroom, pull up throw rugs, keep walkways clear, and make sure there is adequate lighting. Outside, make sure walkways are not slippery and are free of obstruction. In this case, an ounce of prevention can truly mean a pound of cure.
- Find ways to make eating healthy easy! Make a pot of healthy soup and freeze pouches of it in the freezer. Pre-cut fresh fruit in containers in the fridge. Purchase fresh juices or invest in a juicer. Be a vigilant watch dog in making sure that a senior’s diet is full of nutrients.
- Keep Active. Make sure that there is plenty of social activities to be involved in. The mind being active keeps it working and helps to prevent the onset of Dementia/Alzheimer’s.
- Exercise should be for everyone! If there are mobility issues, you can still avail in chair exercises. Keep moving as much as possible!
Now looking out into my back yard, I see the typical Pacific Northwest winter’s wind and rain, the slippery mud in the dirt walkways, and the fallen branches from a recent wind storm- all being factors that can provide hazards to senior’s falling and having an accident or chilling to promote getting sick. A great Valentine’s gift can be a new scarf, hat and/or gloves can keep a senior warmer outside, or a warm throw blanket can keep them warmer in their home.
Wishing each and every one of you many “heart” filled moments. Stay cozy and warm!
Suzanne
