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The free time afforded by retirement means that travel is a high priority for older adults. Many adventures that were not possible in younger years due to job and family obligations are no longer on hold as an older adult.

Travel is on the rise again for older adults as COVID-19 restrictions ease, as well. According to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), 67% of adults age 50 and above plan to travel in 2022. 1

Changes that are a part of aging, like managing medical conditions or reduced mobility, don’t have to threaten travel plans. With planning, your next trip can go smoothly and your time can be spent focusing on fun and memories.

Choosing and planning a destination

Before you book your itinerary, there are a few things to consider. You can avoid becoming overextended by carefully choosing your destination to match any needs and limitations you may have. You should also plan your lodging with the same factors in mind.

Limitations due to health or mobility

If you experience any chronic health conditions, it can be helpful to have a conversation with your doctor before planning a trip. Are there any restrictions to your activity? Do they recommend you stay within a certain distance of any specific medical services?

For those who need assistance with mobility, ensuring that the destination is accommodating is important. Underdeveloped areas with uneven streets may be hazardous or impassable for someone who needs to use assistive devices like a wheelchair, cane, or walker. Are there a lot of stairs where you’re going, or are elevators available? Disability accommodations are not available in every country outside the US.

Planning for extra rest breaks may also be necessary. You may wish to consider a central location for your hotel stay– within a short distance of the sights you’re hoping to see. This way excursions are shorter, and you can return to your hotel easily to rest.

Choose your lodging based on needs

It’s easy to take for granted the comforts of home, where everything you use is likely set up for your needs. Whether you stay in a hotel, a rental home, or other lodgings, there are some questions you may want to find the answers to before you book:

• Will an elevator be needed to access the ground floor, and how close is it to the room?

• Is the bathroom large enough for a wheelchair?

• Are there grab bars in the shower? What about a walk-in shower?

• How many steps are there into and out of the building? What about between living areas like the bedroom and kitchen?

• Are there any hills to walk up to access where you’ll be staying?

• Is parking guaranteed close to the door?

• How high is the bed?

Consider the weather

Extremes in climate can be harder on older adults, especially if there are underlying medical concerns. Spending too much time in the heat, for example, can be dangerous. Consider the weather local to your destination, and plan your trip at a time of year that allows access to outdoor destinations comfortably and safely.

The basics: what to bring

You’ve picked your destination and arranged your travel plans. What should you be sure to pack for the trip? You will need to consider whether any special requirements apply due to your needs, and plan ahead. Once you’re at your destination, some important items may be hard to replace if you don’t have them with you.

Plan ahead for medications

This could easily be number one on your list. You don’t want to be in a situation where important medications aren’t available for the duration of your travel! Some medication tips for traveling:

1. Find out if any of your medications are prohibited at your destination

Certain medications are banned in some countries, or even considered illegal to carry. Common examples include controlled substances like pain medication or ADHD treatments. You can start with your airline to make sure flying with your medications isn’t restricted. At your destination, if it is outside the US, the US embassy may be able to help you answer this question

2. Be sure you have enough to last your trip

Getting a refill while on the road may be difficult. If you are limited on refills and will need to fill your medication while on vacation, be sure you know where a pharmacy is that could fill it, and what steps need to be taken ahead of time if any.

Within the US, it may be as simple as visiting another location within the same chain you already use. Or you may need to have your doctor call in a refill to a new pharmacy after you arrive.

If you’re traveling outside the US, you may need to check with your insurance to see how certain medications are covered and filled in these situations. You may need to coordinate with your doctor to make sure your prescription is written for enough doses to last through a long trip. Specialty drugs can have especially strict requirements that need pre-approval for extra refills.

Finally, certain controlled substances often cannot be refilled within a set number of days. Or, they may have limits on the number of pills that you can fill within a window of time based on your doctor’s prescription.

For example, if you’ve just filled a 30-day supply of your narcotic pain medication, and accidentally leave it at home, you may not be able to fill it again– at least not in a quantity to last the trip. Always double-check your bag to make sure you have all your medications.

3. Plan for any special medication handling needs

Liquid medications, syringes, and cold medications can require special handling for travel. Always check with any airline ahead of time to make sure you’re following any rules they have for traveling with these kinds of medications.

For medications that need to stay cold, be sure you have cold packs or cold storage options that will keep them at the correct temperature for however long you’ll be away from a refrigerator. (On that note, be sure your destination has access to refrigeration for your medications as well.)

4. Be sure to carry your medications with you

Don’t risk getting separated from your medication. Pack them in a carry-on bag, in their individual containers, and clearly labeled. Include a list of all your medications and what you take them for. Include any documentation from your doctor if required by your airline or destination.

Bring any assistive devices for mobility

Canes, walkers, wheelchairs, and even electric scooters are allowed on airplanes. Smaller items like canes can accompany you to the seating area; if you need a wheelchair to get to your seat, the airline can provide you with one that fits down the aisle. They’ll even bring your larger equipment from the cargo area to help you exit the plane on landing if you request it.

Think about ways to pack light

The more you have to carry, the more difficult it is to get to your destination, especially if you have mobility challenges. Check ahead to see if where you will be staying offers a washer and dryer- if it does, you can pack fewer outfits. Consider whether one multi-purpose pair of comfortable walking shoes can be used instead of multiple options.

An e-reader saves space compared to more than one book. A passport holder that you can wear around your neck keeps IDs, credit cards, and cash safe and eliminates a purse if you normally carry one. Small travel-sized toiletries take up less space in a bag.

If you do have to check a bag at the airport and mobility is a concern, be sure to let your airline know that you’ll need assistance to get to baggage claim once the flight lands.

General travel tips

There are a few basic things you’ll want to keep in mind for any type of travel, along with the suggestions mentioned above.

• Be sure you have travel insurance- most Medicare policies do not cover health care outside of the US, so emergency medical coverage for travel is a must if you’re traveling internationally. 2 The right kind of travel insurance can also help cover expensive non-refundable fees if you’re unable to complete part or all of your trip for any reason.

• Look into a personal aide- if you need assistance with personal care and daily tasks and will not be traveling with family or a friend who can help, some paid personal care aides will travel with you. If you’re already using a care service, you can ask if this is something they offer.

• Consider a guided tour- tours can take the guesswork and hassle out of finding your way around popular locations and can help you with planning ahead for considerations like how long you’ll be out and where to stop for food. There are even tours that are specifically geared for older adults. Wheelchair-bound? You can check out WheelchairTravel.org for suggestions.

• Explore cruise options- a cruise can be a great choice if you want to sightsee and relax without a lot of walking. Not only is your room close by for resting whenever you choose, but there are usually plenty of fun activities to pick from. If you do choose shore excursions, be sure they are accessible if you have mobility limitations.

• Plan your time wisely- remember that rest breaks are important and consider your endurance level before filling the whole day with activities. Navigating unfamiliar areas to find accessible bathrooms, elevators, etc. can take extra time, too. Try to pick shorter excursions and activities if you’re limited by health or mobility concerns.

Air travel tips

There are some basics to keep in mind about air travel, especially if getting around and waiting in long lines is difficult for you. Keep these tips in mind:

• Checking in ahead of time online saves time

• For security screening ease, you can apply ahead of time for TSA PreCheck, which means you won’t have to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets and reduces your wait time to an average of less than 5 minutes. 3

• Expedited boarding is available for passengers that need extra help due to mobility challenges- check with your airline for how this is handled.

• If you have a connecting flight, you can request assistance getting between gates if you need help due to mobility challenges.

• Talk to your doctor ahead of air travel about the risk for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a type of blood clot that can form during air travel or when seated for long periods. 4 They may recommend extra precautions for the trip, such as blood thinners or compression stockings.

Road travel trips

While road travel can be more flexible in some ways than air travel, there are still some things you’ll want to keep in mind while in the car:

• Long rides can be hard on your spine and hips. Make sure to take a break every 2 hours or so, and get out and stretch and move around.

• Taking breaks and moving will also help reduce the risk of DVT on car trips. You can also stretch, gently pedal, and flex your legs in the car frequently while riding.

• Pack healthy snacks to reduce the need to stop for convenience and fast foods, which can be loaded with excess sodium- something that doesn’t go well with many health conditions.

• Be sure to bring enough water to stay hydrated, too.

• Make sure you have roadside emergency essentials with you like a flashlight, jumper cables, and in cold weather, extra blankets.

• If you’re driving alone, be sure your family knows your route, planned stops, and when you intend to arrive at your destination.

By planning ahead, you can fully enjoy your travel

As you can see, there are some important steps to take to plan ahead for a safe and healthy trip. By making sure you’ve prepared for your needs, you can enjoy your travel adventures without worry.

If having a professional caregiver with you for your trip would help you maintain your independence and take full advantage of your travel plans, Caresify’s home care services include assistance with travel. You can learn more about how caregiver services can meet your daily needs by reading about Caresify here, or by calling 888-799-5007.

References

1. https://www.aarp.org/research/topics/life/info-2022/2022-travel-trends.html
2. https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/travel-outside-the-u.s.
3. https://www.tsa.gov/precheck
4. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/dvt

For seniors with long-term care needs, the cost of care can be a source of stress and worry. What type of care is needed and the cost associated with it will vary from person to person.

There are many options you can use to help you cover the cost of this care, depending on where you live, your income level, and other factors. Learning about these options can help you get the care you need.

In this guide, we’ll look at several approaches to paying for care, and then share resources you can use to help you find out more information about these options.

What kind of costs can I expect?

According to Genworth Financial, an insurance company specializing in the financial challenges of aging, these were the median annual expenses related to senior care in 2021: 1

• In-home care: $61,776
• Nursing home (private room): $108,405
• Assisted living facility: $54,000

It’s projected that 52% of seniors 65 and older will need long-term care services for 2 years or less, and 1 in 7 may need care for more than 5 years. 2 It’s easy to see how these costs can quickly add up.

Financing care on your own: paying for expenses out of pocket

If you’ve saved toward your long-term care expenses as a senior, this may be the first option you reach for, especially if you encounter barriers to long-term care insurance coverage. It is estimated that 1 in 6 seniors will pay $100,000 out of pocket towards long-term care costs. 3

To offset this, many seniors will rely on close friends and family to meet care needs. Each year, 53 million unpaid caregivers provide care to family or friends, 17% of which care for an adult 50 years of age or older. 4

Care needs can often increase with time, however, and some form of paid caregiving often has to be added to meet that demand. Adult day care centers, in-home care providers, and assisted living facilities are some options used in these situations.

Private financing options to cover gaps

If existing savings aren’t enough to cover the cost of care, there are a few options seniors can use to privately finance these expenses. As with any financial decision, it’s always best to consult with a financial advisor before choosing one of these options.

1. Long-term care insurance

It’s best to put this choice in place before chronic or serious health problems develop. It can be purchased individually or as part of group long-term care insurance, such as through an employer.

When a person has a long-term care policy, it can be accessed to pay for care when it is needed. If you already have health concerns and need long-term care insurance, it’s unlikely you will be approved for a policy.

2. Life insurance

As an alternative to long-term care insurance, a life insurance policy can be used to pay for long-term care. There are a couple of ways to do this. One option is to purchase a life insurance policy with a long-term care rider, also called hybrid life insurance. This may be easier to qualify for than long-term care insurance if you have a chronic health condition and may cover some of the cost of long-term care.

Another option is to cash out your current life insurance policy. This can involve taking an advance against the final payout your beneficiaries would receive at the time of your death (meaning their payout would be reduced). Or you can also consider selling it for its current value, especially if you are age 70 or above. 5 This is called a long-term care life settlement.

3. Reverse mortgages

This type of mortgage is designed to help older adults use the value of their home to finance whatever needs they may have, without repayment until they leave the home (or pass away). This can have fees and high costs tied to it. Because reverse mortgages can be complicated, you should always discuss this decision with a financial advisor.

4. Certain types of trusts

Personal assets can be placed in a trust, allowing a person to pass them to a beneficiary at the time of death. There are different legal ways to set these up, typically with assistance from an attorney. A Medicaid disability trust or a charitable remainder trust are two types of trusts that use assets to pay for long-term care.

5. Annuities

This is a type of investment that pays a set income on a regular schedule, based on the original amount invested. Special annuities for long-term care or with long-term care riders offer extra benefits to help pay for care.

6. Short-term care insurance

An option to potentially offset costs for a short time, usually a year or less. While this doesn’t offer the same degree of benefits as a long-term care policy, it may be better than no policy at all.

Alternatives to paying out of pocket

Along with paying long-term care costs from personal savings or through financing, there are several government options available to help cover the total cost. Most seniors find that they need some combination of these. It’s not unusual even after careful planning for someone to find they have underestimated their potential need for care, or how expensive it can be.

Let’s take a closer look at the available options:

Medicare

Because Medicare is insurance coverage for medical care for adults age 65 and older, it does not cover long-term care costs. It does cover short-term nursing home stays related to medical conditions, in-home healthcare (which does not include assistance with activities of daily living from a paid caregiver), and hospice care if a doctor has certified that a person likely has 6 months or less to live.

Medicaid

For people who fall below a certain income level, Medicaid is a state and federal program to help cover healthcare costs. It also may cover long-term care in certain situations. This coverage depends on the state in which you live.

Veterans Affairs benefits

If you are eligible for veteran’s benefits, the Department of Veterans Affairs offers coverage for long-term care including adult day care services, respite care, skilled home health care, home health aide services, and a geriatric evaluation to assess needs and develop a care plan. 6

Social Security programs

These programs can offer financial assistance to people with medical disabilities. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for people aged 65 and under, and Social Security Income (SSI) applies to those above the age of 65. Although getting approval for these benefits can take several months, there are some conditions like Alzheimer’s disease that qualify for Compassionate Allowances, which speed up the approval process.

Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)

Although this program is not available in every state, if you’re in an area that participates it can help cover expenses for care at home. The program was designed to help seniors stay in their own homes as long as possible.

PACE provides assistance with both medical care and home care services. This includes skilled nursing, personal care, chore services, meal preparation, and more. 7 To qualify, you must: 8

• Be 55 or older
• Live in an area serviced by a PACE organization
• Need a nursing home-level of care (as certified by your state)
• Be able to live safely in the community with PACE assistance

Resources you can use to find aid

As you can see, there are many ways to fund the cost of long-term care. Some of these may be a good fit for your situation, and others may not. To further sort out eligibility and which approaches can help you move forward with your care needs, there are several resources you can use:

1. The National Council on Aging (NCOA)

This private organization has a free service called BenefitsCheckup that can help you find federal and state programs that you may be eligible for. The various programs offer assistance with challenges like housing costs, medications, heating bills, meal programs, and more.

To learn more, you can go to the BenefitsCheckup website, or call 1-571-527-3900.

2. Government benefits programs

To find out more about the various programs offered at federal, state, and local levels, you can contact any one of these resources:

• The Benefits.gov website, or call 1-800-FED-INFO (1-800-333-4636)
• Medicare benefits: through the Medicare website or call 1-800-633-4227
• Medicaid benefits: through the Medicaid website or call 1-877-267-2323
• The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), offers both counseling and assistance to those on Medicare and Medicaid programs: through the SHIP website or at 1-877-839-2675
• The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): through their website, or at 1-877-222-8387. You can also read more on their Veterans Affairs Caregiver Support page.
• Social Security Administration Programs: online here, or call 1-800-772-1213
• PACE benefits: information is available at the PACE website, the Medicare PACE info page, or you can call 1-877-267-2323.

Planning for long-term care is important

Even if you don’t need long-term care now, it’s important to plan for the possibility. The more you know about the options discussed above and how you can use them, the better prepared you can be.

Most seniors- as many as 90% surveyed- would prefer to stay in their own homes as they age. 9 As previously mentioned, in-home care is a more affordable option than a private room in a nursing home. But to allow for this, saving ahead if possible and enrolling in long-term care insurance now (if you meet the criteria to do so) can help you to be able to choose in-home care when the need arises.

If you’re deciding now on in-home care services, the above programs can help you with affordability, so you can get the support you need. In-home professional care can also supplement unpaid caregiving provided by friends and family so that caregivers avoid burnout. It’s a win-win situation for many seniors and their families.

If you’re interested in learning more about this type of care and how it could work for you with the resources provided above, the team at Caresify is happy to assist with the best possible personalized care. You can read more here, or call 888-799-5007.

References

1. https://www.genworth.com/aging-and-you/finances/cost-of-care/cost-of-care-trends-and-insights.html
2. https://aspe.hhs.gov/reports/long-term-services-supports-older-americans-risks-financing-research-brief-0
3. https://aspe.hhs.gov/reports/long-term-services-supports-older-americans-risks-financing-research-brief-0
4. https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/basics/info-2020/unpaid-family-caregivers-report.html
5. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/paying-care
6. https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/VA_Long_Term_Care_Services.asp
7. http://www.pace4you.org/pace%C2%AE-services
8. https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/pace
9. https://gero.usc.edu/students/current-students/careers-in-aging/the-value-of-aging-in-place/

From time to time, everyone experiences stress and worry. When coping with worries becomes overwhelming, these feelings can develop into more than just a passing concern– they can become an anxiety disorder. There are several types of anxiety disorders. How do you know if you have one, and what should you do if you struggle with more than temporary symptoms?

Knowing the answers to these questions is an important part of staying healthy both mentally and physically. Anxiety disorders are very common- the most common mental health concern in the US, touching the lives of 40 million adults every year, with only 36.9% of them seeking treatment.1

Let’s take a closer look at symptoms of anxiety and some tips for coping with it.

Not just occasional worrying

Especially in recent years, everyday stress and fear about concerns like the COVID-19 pandemic have caused many of us to worry. But anxiety is not just occasional worrying. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, anxiety involves persistent fears and worries that do not go away and may even get worse with time. 2

When a person has anxiety, they may notice these signs and symptoms:

• A constant feeling of dread
• Irritability
• Trouble sleeping (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep)
• Stomach upset
• Headaches
• Body aches/tension
• Difficulty concentrating
• Inability to control feelings of worry
• Feeling on edge, restless, or “wound up”
• Fatigue

In some cases, especially when anxiety leads to a panic attack, people can experience:

• Sweating profusely
• Trembling
• Rapid breathing and heart rate
• Chest pain
• Tingling sensation all over
• Feeling out of control

What causes anxiety?

Anxiety can be caused by several factors, but it’s important to know that anxiety is not caused by personal flaws or failings. Here are some possible reasons a person can develop anxiety:

• Medical causes- some diseases can lead to anxiety, like heart disease, diabetes, and thyroid problems

• Use of drugs and alcohol- alcohol, some classes of prescription medications, and illicit drugs can all lead to anxiety symptoms, especially if someone experiences withdrawal

• Medication side effects- ask your doctor if any of your medications could be causing anxiety symptoms, especially if symptoms appeared suddenly with a new medication

• Trauma and abuse- people who experience trauma or abuse are more likely to develop anxiety, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Chronic stress- living with stress, due to ongoing personal challenges or health conditions, for example, can eventually cause chronic anxiety

• Genetic predisposition- having close relatives with a history of anxiety can mean a higher risk of developing anxiety yourself

• Other mental health conditions- anxiety often occurs alongside problems like depression

Different forms of anxiety

Commonly, anxiety can be a chronic problem that is a general concern. Sometimes it can also be focused on one specific trigger, such as seen with phobias. Here are a few  types of anxiety to be familiar with:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)- ongoing anxiety, often lasting months or years, that interferes with daily life.

• Panic disorder- sudden episodes of anxiety that cause intense feelings of terror and panic. They last for several minutes or more before passing and can lead to worrying about the panic attack happening again.

• Social anxiety- feeling embarrassed or self-conscious in social situations to the point of avoiding social contact due to fear of being judged by others.

• Specific phobias- fear of specific situations or objects that often leads to panic attacks and a strong need to avoid those situations.

What to do if you think you have anxiety

Because anxiety can be treated just like any other medical condition, it’s important not to ignore the signs and symptoms when they happen. Any time symptoms of anxiety disrupt your ability to enjoy everyday life, there are ways you can seek help.

This is especially important if you have suicidal thoughts- this is a medical emergency and you should seek help right away. To reach the National Suicide Prevention Hotline you can call or text 988, or chat online at https://988lifeline.org/.

Here are some steps you can take if you think you have anxiety:

1. Talk to your doctor

Your doctor can review your symptoms with you and look for any medical causes of anxiety. You can also ask about your current medications and whether they could be causing or worsening anxiety. Once medical concerns have been ruled out, your doctor can make recommendations about how to treat the anxiety, including medications that can help.

2. Seek therapy

The most common form of therapy for treating anxiety is called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It is highly effective in reducing anxiety symptoms and can work in as little as 12-16 weeks. 3

A therapist can help you develop strategies for coping with the feelings caused by stress and anxiety. If you’re not sure where to start, your doctor can be a good source for a recommendation.

3. Try complementary and alternative treatment

Along with help from your primary healthcare provider and therapist, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) can help people with anxiety manage their symptoms. This can involve several approaches:

• Meditation
• Yoga
• Acupuncture
• Relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises

Always be sure to talk to your doctor or mental health professional first about whether these strategies are recommended for your situation.

4. Ask friends and family for support

If stress and challenges with your health and everyday care needs are leading to anxiety, it can help to let your loved ones know that you need help.

Anxiety is common in seniors and may develop in as many as 10-20% of older adults.4 Many seniors are embarrassed or afraid of being a burden to their loved ones and don’t talk about their challenges. Worries include affording medications, being afraid of falls, and concerns about living alone.

If your family and friends don’t know that you need help, they can’t be involved in reducing your stress. And sometimes getting some extra support with everyday challenges can have a big impact. Combined with treatment from your doctor, this support can reduce anxiety levels significantly.

Don’t wait if anxiety is decreasing your quality of life

Taking care of your mental health has a big impact on not only quality of life, but quantity. Research shows that mental health disorders like anxiety actually age the body faster. 5

With this in mind, don’t wait if you are noticing symptoms of anxiety. Taking the steps discussed here can get you on the road to better mental and physical health.

Additionally, if you’re a senior who is experiencing stress and anxiety due to difficulty with meeting self-care needs at home, involving an in-home care service can be a good strategy to alleviate some worries. Along with daily help with care needs and increasing safety at home, knowing that you’re not alone in dealing with day-to-day challenges can reduce stress.

These coping strategies have helped many others find relief from struggles with anxiety and stress.

If you’d like to make caregiving help a part of your strategy to beat anxiety, Caresify’s expert and professional caregivers are available 24/7 to assist with any care needs. You can read more here, or call 888-799-5007.

References

1. https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/facts-statistics
2. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders
3. https://adaa.org/find-help/treatment-help/types-of-therapy
4. https://www.aagponline.org/index.php?src=gendocs&ref=anxiety
5. https://www.studyfinds.org/mental-illness-cut-life-20-years/

More and more of us are living longer and participating in healthy active lives into our senior years. If this sounds like you, or you are heading into your 50s, 60s, and beyond and want to stay as healthy as possible, it’s important to practice habits that support healthy aging.

In the US, the population of senior adults is projected to almost double from 52 million in 2018 to 95 million by 2060, and this could increase the number of older adults in nursing homes by more than 50%.1 But the majority of seniors would prefer to stay in their own homes for as long as possible, an important goal that can be achieved more easily if a person is in good health.

So what should you focus on to stay as healthy as possible for as long as possible? There are 3 important areas of health and well-being you need to pay special attention to. We’ll discuss them here.

Caring for your physical health

This is probably the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about healthy aging. There are some things about physical health that we can’t control, like genetics. But if we build healthy habits around the things we can control, it’s possible to reduce the risk of developing serious health problems and to manage any health problems that already exist.

See your doctor regularly

Making sure that you visit your doctor for routine checkups and any time you notice symptoms of a problem is a big part of being proactive about your physical health. Your doctor can work with you to screen for and treat health conditions that could be developing, like high blood pressure, heart disease, or anything you know might be a part of your family’s health history.

Practice healthy eating habits

A healthy diet is important at any stage of life, but as we age there are some particular dietary choices to pay attention to. Older adults tend to need fewer calories, but an increase in some other nutrients, compared to younger adults.2 For example, vitamin B12 absorption can sometimes decrease with age. Your doctor can check a simple blood test to see if your B12 level is high enough. Getting enough protein is also important. And calcium and vitamin D consumption affect bone health– for older adults, a bone disease called osteoporosis can lead to fractures.

Other healthy foods to focus on include:

• Low sodium choices
• Foods low in added sugar
• Fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Foods low in saturated fat
• Plenty of water

Make regular exercise a priority

Staying active has a long list of health benefits. It increases flexibility and balance, reduces the risk of falls, improves mental health, helps to manage chronic diseases, and more. The CDC recommends a goal of 150 minutes of moderate exercise like walking every week (or 22-30 minutes a day). It is also recommended to participate in a strength training activity twice a week. 3

Be sure to get enough sleep

Daily exercise also improves your chances of getting a good night’s sleep. Proper sleep not only helps you to function better during the day, but also reduces your risk for problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, obesity, stroke, and depression. 4 The National Institute on Aging recommends older adults get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. 5

Avoid tobacco and alcohol

It’s no secret that the use of substances like tobacco and alcohol can negatively impact your health. Smoking is known to reduce life expectancy by as much as 10 years. 6 And older adults are more sensitive to the effects of alcohol, with the result leading to problems like interactions with prescription medications, increased risk of falls, dehydration, and other health problems. 7

If you smoke, make quitting a priority. And if you drink, limit your alcohol consumption. Some resources to help you are the National Quit Smoking Hotline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Hotline at 1-800-662-HELP.

Caring for your mental health

Taking care of your mental health is as important as taking care of your physical health. Older adults affected by depression, anxiety, loneliness, and stress can develop age-related physical diseases and neurodegenerative problems and experience reduced life expectancy by as much as 20 years.8

Treat depression and anxiety

If you’re feeling down or anxious and it’s affecting your ability to function or enjoy life, it’s important to seek help. These are not problems that you can just “will away” or that are a sign of a personal flaw. They can be caused by chemical imbalances in the brain that can be treated with medications, and seeking regular therapy can help you manage the symptoms of problems like depression and anxiety.

Don’t ignore isolation and loneliness

Older adults who are no longer in the workforce, or whose children have moved away, can easily become isolated and lonely. This can be worsened even further if health problems limit a person’s ability to leave their home, and as close friends age and pass away.

Loneliness is a known risk factor for depression. It’s important to make regular social contact a part of your life, by taking steps to stay connected socially, such as volunteering, joining a class, and other activities.

Take steps to reduce stress

Another trigger of difficulties with mental health is stress. Along with causing depression and anxiety, stress can affect physical health, too. The CDC estimates that 75% of visits to the doctor are due to problems caused by stress. 9 Before stress has this kind of impact on your well-being, you can take steps to reduce its effects. Taking time for self-care, including many of the healthy habits discussed above, can help you cope with stress better.

Caring for your cognitive health

Aging can sometimes have an impact on cognitive health, too. This is a part of brain health that affects how well someone can think, remember, and learn. Along with following all of the above tips for healthy aging to support your brain health, there are a few other lifestyle tips you can consider. By doing so, research has shown a potential to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by as much as 60%.10

Consider participating in the arts

Research has found that being involved in theater, music, dance and other art has a positive impact on well-being and cognitive function. 11

Learn something new

Evidence suggests that learning a new skill, and engaging in new complex tasks over a period of time, can have a positive effect on cognitive function.12

Exercise your brain

Crossword and jigsaw puzzles, card games, online games, chess, and similar cognitively challenging exercises can help keep your mind active and sharp, much like exercising a muscle. In a 2014 study, researchers found that participants in brain training exercises had benefits 10 years later. 13

Live a healthier, longer life thanks to healthy habits

By taking care of your physical, mental, and cognitive health, you can be sure you are well on your way to a healthier, longer life. Each of these healthy behaviors requires building habits if they aren’t already something you are doing. And it’s important to be patient with yourself– building a new habit can take time, sometimes months. 14

It can help to break these habits into smaller goals- if you are trying to eat healthier and stay better hydrated, tackle hydration first, for example. Or, if you’re trying to exercise more, spend 10 minutes a day exercising and slowly increase it.

It also helps to involve other people in your goals. Maybe a friend has a similar goal and you can work together on meeting it. Or, maybe you need a little extra support from family. This can be especially true if you are older with health challenges or limited mobility that restricts what you can do without physical help.

Even in this situation, you can still make sure your lifestyle supports healthy aging. One way you can do this is by enlisting the help of an in-home care service. By helping you with transportation, mobility, and daily self-care, a professional caregiver can give you the ability to do activities that will keep you healthy and as independent as possible for as long as possible.

If you are considering a professional caregiver, Caresify is available to help you explore assistance with your care needs at home. You can read more here, or call 888-799-5007.

References

1. https://www.prb.org/resources/fact-sheet-aging-in-the-united-states/
2. https://health.gov/news/202107/nutrition-we-age-healthy-eating-dietary-guidelines
3. https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/infographic/healthy-aging.htm
4. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep-deprivation
5. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/good-nights-sleep
6. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/data_statistics/fact_sheets/health_effects/tobacco_related_mortality/index.htm
7. https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/elderly
8. https://www.studyfinds.org/mental-illness-cut-life-20-years/
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3341916/#b7-mjms-15-4-009
10. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/cognitive-health-and-older-adults#mind
11. https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/participating-arts-creates-paths-healthy-aging
12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4154531/
13. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4055506/
14. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ejsp.674

If you are a caregiver for a family member or other loved one, you know what kind of commitment it can be. When someone’s mobility is affected by complications of conditions such as stroke or Parkinson’s disease and they become bedbound, caregiving tasks can be enormously complex and time-consuming.

This can be difficult for both the caregiver and the person that is bedbound. There are some common challenges people face in this situation. There are also special considerations when caring for a bedbound person. Without proper management of these challenges, there is a risk of many poor outcomes.

Common problems linked with being bedbound

The human body requires regular movement to stay healthy. Immobility means that a person does not have the benefit of changing positions, increasing circulation, taking deep breaths, and tending to personal care. Without these activities, a person can have several common complications:

• Respiratory infections such as pneumonia
• Pressure ulcers, also called bedsores, due to poor skin care and staying in the same position too long
• Isolation and depression
• Pain due to inability to change positions (especially back pain)
• Blood clots (also called a deep vein thrombosis or DVT), due to blood pooling in the lower extremities
• Sleep problems due to pain, lack of exercise, or trouble keeping a regular sleep schedule
• Decreased appetite due to lack of activity and/or depression
• Constipation caused by a lack of movement, which helps digestion
• Risk of injury or death in a home emergency such as a fire

With the right care, all of these problems can be prevented. Let’s take a closer look at six care tips for someone who is bedbound.

1. Hygiene is essential

A bedbound person must completely depend on others for their care, and personal hygiene is no exception. The inability to tend to personal hygiene can affect people physically and mentally. Routines should be started to manage the following hygiene concerns:

• Bathing- this often means a bed bath, using a tub of warm soapy water to wash the entire body and then rinsing and drying. Apply lotion as needed to moisturize dry skin and prevent irritation.

• Washing hair- there are dry shampoo options, but washing over a basin of water with shampoo at least weekly helps keep hair and scalp healthy.

• Brushing teeth- oral hygiene affects a person’s ability to eat and must be performed daily, ideally twice per day.

• Trimming nails- keeping nails clean and trimmed short reduces the risk of dirt and disease-causing bacteria building up under the nails.

• Changing bedding- bath time is a perfect opportunity to make sure all bedding is fresh and clean– or change anytime it is soiled.

• Peri-care- this involves keeping the genital area clean and dry. It must be tended to regularly, especially in the case of incontinent people.

2. Avoid skin damage

Along with keeping skin clean, avoiding damage due to prolonged moisture or pressure is a major concern for those who are bedbound. A pressure ulcer or bedsore can develop in as little as 2-6 hours.1 Here are some steps to take to avoid pressure injuries:

• Keep a regular turning schedule- help the person change position every 2 hours.2

• Use padding on bony/high-risk areas- the buttocks, tailbone, hips, heels, ankles, shoulder blades, knees, and back of the head are especially prone to developing pressure sores. Pillows, heel protectors, wheelchair and chair cushions, and specialty mattresses designed to relieve pressure can all reduce this risk.

• Maintain clean and dry skin- moisture and irritation are leading causes of skin breakdown.

• Ensure good nutrition- a healthy, balanced diet helps any skin damage to heal properly.

3. Provide regular stimulation and entertainment

Imagine being unable to leave your bed or room without help, and how quickly you would feel listless and bored staring at the same four walls. Just because someone’s body is unable to be active doesn’t mean their mind is the same. Lack of stimulation and entertainment can contribute to the development of depression. There are many ways you can be sure someone has interesting ways to keep their mind occupied:

• Reading materials- books, magazines, and newspapers can help pass the time. Electronic readers can allow larger print and better lighting for people with visual difficulty.

• Television and movies- everyone has favorite TV shows! Watching movies can be a shared activity, too.

• Puzzles and games- crossword puzzles, solitaire, and shared games offer mental stimulation.

• Exercise in bed- even if a person can’t move very well themselves, helping them pedal their legs and stretch other muscles helps reduce the risk of blood clots and muscle contractures (where the muscles become so stiff they can’t move).

• Items to keep hands busy- for people with dementia, offering items that keep their hands busy can reduce restless behavior. Folding washcloths, playing with dolls, or using special blankets that are designed for people with dementia and have buttons, zippers, and other fasteners to interact with can help.

4. Offer companionship

Hours spent alone confined to bed are lonely and also contribute to depression. Routine personal care and hygiene allow for some interaction but may be less comforting than intentional, meaningful shared experiences. Consider these ways to offer companionship:

• Set aside time to join activities- is there a show the person enjoys watching? Do they enjoy a certain card game? Would they like to participate in shopping online for food and personal care items? Can you choose a book to read together daily?

• Facilitate visits- are there family and friends who would enjoy stopping by? If they are far away, you can set up virtual video visits to chat. This is a great way to bring church services to someone who misses them, too.

• Adopt a pet- a cat or dog can be great companionship for someone who is restricted to bed.

• Involve a home care service- a professional caregiver can not only help with hygiene, feeding, and personal care, but also offer regular companionship during times you can’t be available.

5. Involve your healthcare providers

Many health concerns caused by immobility can be helped with suggestions from doctors, nutritionists, and physical therapists. Talk to your regular physician about the following:

• Ways to reduce blood clots- a doctor may prescribe blood-thinning medication or recommend prescription compression stockings.

• Good nutrition- a person who has special dietary needs might benefit from a consultation with a nutritionist or from supplementation.

• How to avoid muscle, joint, and respiratory problems- talking with a physical therapist may offer tips for in-bed exercises to maintain flexibility. And breathing exercises or a device called an incentive spirometer can help reduce the risk of pneumonia.

• Any ongoing health concerns- pain, constipation, symptoms of depression, and sleep issues should all be reported to your doctor.

6. Have a safety plan

Being alone and trapped in an emergency is a scary idea for someone who is bedbound. It’s important to develop a safety plan and that anyone involved in the person’s care is aware of the plan. These are some things to consider:

• Establish emergency exits- what is the fastest and easiest way out of the home? It is helpful to move a bedbound individual to the first floor of a home whenever possible.

• Regularly test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors- the US Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends every home have working smoke detectors on every level of the house outside bedrooms and inside each bedroom. Carbon monoxide detectors should be on every level of the home (excluding attics and basements) and outside sleeping areas. 3

• Decide on a safe meetup zone outside the home- anyone who leaves the house should know where to meet everyone else in the home, so there is no confusion about who might be left behind.

• Know what transfer devices are available- someone who is bedbound must be transferred to a wheelchair or a device such as an inflatable or portable stretcher. Where is it kept?

• Plan an evacuation location- especially in areas that experience weather events like flooding and hurricanes, knowing where to evacuate ahead of time is important. This can be a hospital, the home of a family member, or other locations that allow the person to stay comfortable.

Total care doesn’t have to be overwhelming

Remember that a person’s needs can change, especially as their condition changes. They may have reduced mobility temporarily due to an illness they are recovering from. They may also have a progressive condition that increases their needs. It’s important to be flexible and to involve your loved one in decisions about their own care as much as possible.

Although a person with restricted mobility can require total care, managing the steps we’ve discussed doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Coordinating multiple caregivers means the responsibilities aren’t resting on one family member. Sometimes this can mean involving in-home care services, even just for respite care. If you’re caring for a bedbound family member at home and would benefit from extra helping hands, Caresify’s team can meet your needs. You can read more here or call 888-799-5007 for more information.

References

1. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/203224
2. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000426.htm
3. https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Carbon-Monoxide-Information-Center/CO-Alarms

With the introduction of COVID-19 to our vocabulary, most of us are familiar with the symptoms of respiratory problems. It can be hard to know sometimes, though, if symptoms are due to a respiratory infection, an existing health condition, or something else altogether. Especially with the ongoing pandemic, it is important to learn how to identify a respiratory infection, and when to seek medical care.

For seniors, respiratory infections can be a greater threat. This is due to changes in lung function with aging, underlying chronic medical conditions, and a weaker immune system in older adults. 1

What causes respiratory infections in seniors?

There are a few common causes of respiratory infections in seniors. The risk of catching one of these infections can increase especially for seniors living in group settings. The most common causes are:

• COVID-19
• Influenza (flu)
• RSV
• Pneumonia

It’s helpful to understand each one in more detail and the symptoms you might see.

COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has catapulted this highly contagious viral infection to the top of the list of causes of respiratory infections. Studies have shown that people hospitalized with COVID-19 are sicker than those with the flu.2 And adults aged 65 and older account for 74% of all COVID-19 deaths. 3

Symptoms of COVID-19 include:

• Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Fever and/or chills
• Headache
• Body or muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Loss of taste or smell

Influenza

A common viral illness, influenza (also called the flu), like COVID-19, can have serious implications for adults 65 and older. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that each year, adults in this age group account for 50-70% of flu-related hospitalizations and 70-85% of flu-related deaths.4 Although the flu does not affect only the respiratory system, it can lead to respiratory complications like pneumonia.

Symptoms of influenza include:

• Fever and/or chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Headache
• Body aches
• Fatigue
• Vomiting or diarrhea (less common in adults)

RSV

Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, affects the airway and lungs. Each year, 177,000 older adults are hospitalized with RSV, and 14,000 die. 5 People 65 and older who have heart and lung conditions are at even greater risk of complications.

This common virus usually causes mild cold-like symptoms, such as:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Fatigue
• Fever

If RSV becomes severe, it can lead to pneumonia. It can also worsen existing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or congestive heart failure (CHF).

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection that causes inflammation in the air sacs (called alveoli) in the lungs. It can be caused by a virus, such as COVID-19, influenza, or RSV. Pneumonia can also be caused by bacteria or fungi.

Symptoms of pneumonia include:

• Fever
• Cough (productive)
• Confusion (more common in the elderly)
• Shortness of breath and/or rapid breathing
• Chills
• Sweating
• Muscle aches
• Rapid heartbeat
• Decreased appetite
• Lips and/or fingernails turning blue
• Chest pain
• Weakness

A serious complication of respiratory infections: ARDS

Any of the above respiratory infections can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome or ARDS. As with other respiratory illnesses, age is a risk factor for developing ARDS. It also increases the risk of death, an outcome in 30-50% of people with the condition.6

In ARDS, the air sacs in the lungs fill with fluid. The body’s oxygen level becomes very low because of how this affects the lungs. This condition can take days to develop or it can happen very quickly. ARDS is a medical emergency. For most people, mechanical ventilation (where a machine is breathing for someone) is needed to treat ARDS.

If someone is sick with another respiratory infection, and their symptoms worsen, this can sometimes be a sign of ARDS. Symptoms include:

• Severe shortness of breath
• Blue lips and/or fingernails
• Low blood oxygen levels
• Rapid heartbeat
• Rapid breathing
• Confusion
• Severe fatigue
• Low blood pressure
• Fever

How do I know when to call the doctor or 911?

If you aren’t sure a respiratory illness is an emergency, it’s always best to call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. It’s better to find out that nothing serious is happening than to overlook a life-threatening problem. This is true whether symptoms are caused by an infection or another medical problem.

A doctor should address any respiratory illness for seniors, especially those with pre-existing health conditions such as congestive heart failure or COPD. If the symptoms are mild, such as a stuffy or runny nose and mild cough, you can call your doctor and ask for their recommendations. They may recommend treatment at home, or advise an office visit for further testing. Some infections like the flu or COVID-19 can be treated with prescription antiviral medication, but only if it’s in the first few days of the infection.

If you notice any of the following symptoms, don’t wait, call 911:

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• Confusion or decreased responsiveness
• Blue lips or fingernails
• Chest pain
• Low blood oxygen levels (the CDC recommends treatment below 90% 7)
• Rapid heartbeat

How can I prevent respiratory infections?

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve all been well-versed in the best ways to prevent the COVID-19 virus. The same rules apply to other respiratory infections as well. These include:

• Wash your hands frequently
• Don’t touch your eyes, mouth, and nose with unwashed hands
• Stay at least 6 feet away from others who are sick
• Don’t share items like drinks or utensils, especially if you know someone is sick
• Clean frequently used surfaces with disinfectant
• Avoid large crowds
• Wear a mask as recommended by your local health department or doctor
• Stay up to date on vaccines recommended by your doctor, including the flu vaccine, pneumonia vaccines, and COVID-19 vaccines

Some final thoughts on respiratory infections

There has been increased discussion since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic about the safety benefits of staying at home. This can be helpful in addition to the above preventative steps, especially during times of increased community infections. More than ever, services are available to seniors in their homes and remotely, allowing them to remain in their own homes longer.

Most seniors- as many as 90% in one survey- would prefer to stay in their own homes for as long as possible. 8 This is another way to reduce the risk of exposure to serious infections. It may be easier in your home to avoid others who are sick than in a group living situation.

If living alone is a challenge and you or a loved one need help with daily activities and care, an in-home caregiver can help you maintain as much independence as possible. For more information on expert caregivers through Caresify’s home care services, you can read more here, or call 888-799-5007.

References

1. https://www.atsjournals.org/doi/10.1513/pats.200508-081JS
2. https://www.thoracic.org/about/newsroom/press-releases/journal/2020/patients-hospitalized-with-severe-cases-of-flu-do-better-than-those-with-covid-19.php
3. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1191568/reported-deaths-from-covid-by-age-us/
4. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/65over.htm
5. https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/high-risk/older-adults.html
6. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmed.2020.589553/full
7. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/videos/oxygen-therapy-equipment/Equipment_for_Oxygen_Monitoring_and_Oxygen_Therapy_Transcript.pdf
8.  https://gero.usc.edu/students/current-students/careers-in-aging/the-value-of-aging-in-place/