As people age, they may find themselves with more time on their hands, and a desire to give back to their community in meaningful ways. Volunteering is a great way to do just that. Not only does it benefit the community, but it can also provide seniors with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of volunteering and highlight some volunteer opportunities in Pittsburgh.

Benefits of Volunteering as You Age

Volunteering can provide numerous benefits for seniors. Here are a few:

1. Enhanced Physical and Mental Health: Studies have shown that volunteering can improve physical health and increase longevity. It can also enhance mental health by reducing stress and depression.
2. Social Connections: Volunteering can help seniors establish social connections and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Seniors can form friendships and build relationships with others who share their values and interests.
3. Sense of Purpose: Volunteering can give seniors a sense of purpose and meaning, which can improve overall life satisfaction and happiness.
4. Skill Development: Volunteering can help seniors develop new skills or use existing skills in new ways. It can also provide opportunities for continued learning and personal growth.

Volunteer Opportunities in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities for seniors. Here are a few organizations and programs to consider:

1. Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank: The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank is a nonprofit organization that distributes food to individuals and families in need. Volunteers are needed to help with sorting and packing food donations, distributing food at pantries and mobile distributions, and assisting with administrative tasks.
2. Pittsburgh Cares: Pittsburgh Cares is a nonprofit organization that connects volunteers with meaningful opportunities to serve their community. They offer a wide range of volunteer opportunities, including environmental projects, youth mentoring, and working with seniors.
3. Shepherd’s Heart Veterans Home: The Shepherd’s Heart Veterans Home provides housing and supportive services to homeless veterans in the Pittsburgh area. Volunteers are needed to assist with meal preparation, transportation, and companionship.
4. Animal Friends: Animal Friends is a nonprofit organization that provides shelter, care, and adoption services for animals in the Pittsburgh area. Volunteers are needed to help with animal care, administrative tasks, and fundraising events.
5. Senior Corps RSVP: Senior Corps RSVP is a program that connects seniors with volunteer opportunities that match their skills and interests. Volunteers can choose from a variety of opportunities, including tutoring, mentoring, and serving in hospitals or senior centers.

Volunteering is a great way for seniors to give back to their community while also benefiting themselves. By volunteering, seniors can improve their physical and mental health, establish social connections, find a sense of purpose, and develop new skills. Pittsburgh offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities for seniors, from working with food banks to providing companionship to veterans. No matter what your interests or skills may be, there is a volunteer opportunity out there for you.

As people age, they may need to make changes to their living situation to accommodate their needs and ensure their safety and comfort. Independent living can be a great option for many aging adults, but it can also be challenging if not properly prepared for. Here are some tips on how to prepare for independent living as an aging adult.

1. Assess your physical and mental health: Before making any major changes, it’s important to assess your physical and mental health. Talk to your healthcare provider about any medical conditions or concerns and make sure that you have a plan in place to manage them.
2. Evaluate your living situation: Consider your current living situation and determine if it meets your needs. Take into account factors such as accessibility, safety, and maintenance requirements, and think about how your needs might change in the future.
3. Consider your finances: Make a budget and consider the cost of independent living, including housing, utilities, food, transportation, and healthcare expenses. Consider if you have enough savings to cover these expenses and if not, start planning for the future.
4. Research your options: Research different types of independent living options, such as apartments, condos, or 55+ communities. Ask friends and family for recommendations, visit different communities, and gather information about services and amenities that are important to you.
5. Plan for transportation: Consider how you will get around, whether it be by car, public transportation, or other means. Make sure that you have a plan for transportation that meets your needs and budget.
6. Make changes to your home: If you are staying in your current home, make any necessary changes to accommodate your needs. This may include installing grab bars, adding ramps, or making other modifications to ensure safety and accessibility.
7. Plan for support: Consider who you can turn to for help and support. This may include family, friends, or a caregiver. Make sure that you have a plan in place for who will provide care and support in case of an emergency.
8. Prepare for emergencies: Make sure that you have a plan in place for emergencies, such as fire or power outages. This may include having a backup generator, emergency supplies, and a list of emergency contacts.

In conclusion, preparing for independent living as an aging adult requires careful planning and consideration. By assessing your health and living situation, evaluating your finances, researching your options, and planning for transportation, support, and emergencies, you can ensure that you are ready for the challenges of independent living and enjoy a fulfilling and comfortable life.

Staying independent and healthy is essential for a fulfilling and enjoyable life. Whether you are aging, recovering from an injury, or dealing with a chronic condition, there are many tips and strategies that can help you maintain your independence and overall well-being. In this blog, we will share some tips on how to stay independent and healthy, and how to make the most of your life despite any challenges that you may face.

1. Stay active: Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do to stay independent and healthy. Whether you prefer to walk, swim, or participate in an exercise class, find an activity that you enjoy and stick to it. Regular exercise can improve your balance, strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health, which are all important factors for maintaining your independence.
2. Eat a healthy diet: A well-balanced diet is also essential for maintaining your independence and health. Choose nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats, to fuel your body and support your overall well-being.
3. Manage your medications: If you are taking multiple medications, it’s important to keep track of when to take them and how they interact with each other. Keeping a medication schedule and communicating with your healthcare provider can help ensure that your medications are working as they should and prevent any negative interactions.
4. Stay social: Maintaining strong social connections is crucial for both physical and emotional well-being. Whether it’s through spending time with friends and family, participating in social activities, or volunteering, staying socially connected can help you maintain your independence and overall health.
5. Stay organized: Staying organized and having a routine can help you stay on top of your responsibilities and reduce stress. Make a daily plan that includes exercise, meal planning, and other important activities, and stick to it.
6. Plan for the future: Preparing for the future by creating a plan for your health care and financial needs can help ensure that you have the support you need to maintain your independence as you age.
7. Stay informed: Stay informed about your health and well-being by reading articles and books, attending educational workshops, or talking to your healthcare provider. The more you know about your health, the better equipped you will be to make informed decisions about your care.

In conclusion, staying independent and healthy is achievable with a few simple strategies. Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, managing medications, staying socially connected, staying organized, planning for the future, and staying informed are all important steps to maintain your independence and well-being. By following these tips, you can make the most of your life and enjoy a fulfilling and healthy future.

Getting a dog as a pet is something to think about in the long run. In your mid-to-late 50s, 60s, 70s, or beyond, this is especially true. Many older adults live alone, so it makes sense to get a canine friend to help with occasional feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Pets can improve our moods in the same way that a roommate or partner does, regardless of where we live. However, you will need to give quite a bit of care to your dog which can be a problem if you don’t have that time available to dedicate to your pet.

If you decide to get a dog, make sure that you take the time to carefully consider the several options of dog breeds and their characteristics before choosing your furry companion. Here is a list of some of the best older adults-friendly dog breeds.

• Papillon

The top dog for older adults on our list is Papillon. The name “papillon” refers to the characteristic butterfly-shaped ears and webbed feet of the breed. These lively dogs are little and really cute.

Their neck, shoulders, and large ears all have long, poofy hair that grows on them. They are extremely intelligent and simple to train. Papillons are excellent dogs for smaller homes or apartments because they are well-adjusted and don’t require a lot of walking, despite their high energy levels.

If you have grandchildren, you don’t have to be concerned about the young ones playing with your Papillon since they are excellent with children. Your adorable puppy will undoubtedly keep you happy and in good shape. Overall, Papillon dogs are excellent for anyone looking for a tiny, hypoallergenic, low-shedding pet. 

• Corgi

Corgis are well-liked but incredibly pricey to buy! Recognized for its intelligence and athleticism, the Corgi was initially developed to herd livestock and sheep in the Welsh mountains. The Welsh word “cawr” is where the term “corgi” comes from. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi, the Dachshund, and other terrier breeds were some of the Corgi’s predecessors.

Corgis make wonderful indoor dogs for homes or apartments and are great with kids. When left alone, Corgis have a tendency to bark a lot and require a lot of activity. They gain weight quickly if they don’t exercise every day. Additionally, they shed their hair at least twice a month, so plan on cleaning your house frequently.

• Pug

Pugs have been around for more than 400 years and were first developed in China. In the 1600s, Dutch traders brought them to Europe. In France, the breed gained popularity under the name “Dutch Pugs.”

Pugs have short hair, making it simple to maintain their grooming. They do not require a lot of exercise, but a Pug that does not receive enough exercise will tend to gain a lot of weight.

For older adults who don’t want to deal with the trouble of taking a dog for regular walks, we suggest pugs. As a result of being prone to upset stomachs and allergies, pugs should only be fed the right dog food, as advised by your veterinarian. These entertaining puppies will be a hit with your grandchildren! Pugs are also among the best lap dog breeds for older adults.

• West Highland White Terrier

Small terriers with enormous personalities are known as West Highland White Terriers or Westies. Their head and tail usually have black, brown, or tan markings on a white coat. They are renowned for having a thick, somewhat weather-resistant coat that is curly.  Additionally, Westies are hypoallergenic and require little grooming.

The Westie has long ears that stand up straight, almond-shaped eyes, and a long nose. These adorable white puppies are eager to please their owner and are well-mannered. West Highland White Terriers are amazing with other canines and kids due to their incredibly friendly temperament.

• Cairn Terrier

Scotsmen first developed the Cairn Terrier in the 19th century to hunt foxes, badgers, otters, and other small wildlife. Additionally, it served as a farm dog to deter rats from crops. They do have a tendency to chase small animals because they were developed to be hunting dogs. This should be taken into consideration if you are thinking of adopting a Canin Terrier.

We suggest getting a Cairn Terrier if you enjoy gardening and have a small yard. These beautiful dogs will keep rabbits out of your lettuce patch and pests out of your house.  These intelligent and lovable tiny dogs must have their long fur regularly brushed to prevent matting.

• Beagle

The beagle is a diminutive hound that stands between 12 and 14 inches high at the shoulder and weighs between 14 and 18 pounds. Beagles have long, floppy ears that are high on their heads and short hair. Their tail curls over their backside when they are joyful or excited.

Beagles need daily exercise and space to roam around in your house or backyard. They are also very obedient dogs who always want to please their owners, yet they can become obstinate if they don’t get what they want or need. If you are seeking a tiny dog breed that needs lots of walks, we suggest beagles.

Terrace Place is a pet-friendly independent living facility and we would love to welcome you and your furry companions into our facility. To learn more, contact us today!