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At TRN, we’re always looking for solutions to promote healthy lifestyles across all communities. Let's look at five simple ways we can contribute to the wellness and fulfillment of our elderly loved ones and neighbors.
1. Help Seniors Stay Active — Physically and Mentally
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthy seniors should continue participating in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. They should also focus on three dimensions of movement:
Aerobic - This could be as simple as a brisk walk or could delve into a variety of activities, from swimming to dance.
Strength - The focus here is more on working the major muscle groups and less on the amount of weight involved.
Balance - Recommended activities include walking backward or standing on one leg.
And don’t forget about cognitive health! In addition to sleep, exercise, and a nutritious diet, researchers also contend that older adults may benefit from “brain training” or actively working to improve memory and cognitive function. Consider adding some fun and stimulating games into your quality time or visits.
2. Encourage Interaction and Community
The National Council on Aging tells us that over 1 million senior citizens actively participate in and benefit from local senior and community centers. These centers serve as hubs for various activities and services—from social, recreational, and education programs to nutrition assistance and cybersecurity support.
Services like this are particularly beneficial to elderly residents who don’t have in-home support (about half of the nation’s current senior center members live alone). Help your loved one find a local community or senior center where they can socialize, develop a hobby, or receive needed services.
Overall, supporting senior wellness requires a holistic approach that addresses physical, emotional, and social needs.
3. Share New Experiences
Find ways to include elderly loved ones in your life and family activities. Multigenerational travel, in particular, is a concept that's picking up significant post-pandemic steam and allows families to plan rewarding experiences for multiple age groups.
4. Help Your Friends and Neighbors
Consider the elderly residents in your community who may not receive support from local family members. You could volunteer to visit the residents of a nursing home, deliver meals to homebound residents, or donate your skills by teaching an enrichment class at a local senior center. If you're short on time but still want to help, contact a nursing home and ask if they need any supplies. These facilities sometimes run short on blankets and toiletry items for their residents and would likely appreciate your contribution.
5. Stay on Top of New Developments
Thanks to rapid advancements in the field of elder care, our aging loved ones are gaining access to some of the most sophisticated support in the world. From convenient telehealth options to virtual reality-based rehabilitation and physical therapy, “AgeTech” is bringing accessible solutions right to their fingertips.
But you can also help by staying connected to the news and knowledge that may affect, enrich, or even extend the lives of those closest to you. NEXT: 5 Secrets to Finding the Right Health Insurance for Your Family
Want to be a guest blogger with the #TRN Team? We are looking for writers to contribute. Reach out to jo@trustedreferral.org to get started.
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