The benefits of technology for aging adults and how to stay connected online

As we age, staying connected to friends, family, and the outside world can become increasingly difficult. However, with the advancement of technology, staying connected has become easier than ever before. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of technology for aging adults and offer some tips on how to stay connected online.

Benefits of Technology for Seniors

  1. Communication: Technology allows seniors to stay in touch with loved ones, no matter where they are in the world. Video chat platforms, such as Skype or Zoom, can help seniors see and hear their loved ones in real-time.
  2. Access to Information: The internet is a vast source of information on a wide range of topics, from health and wellness to news and current events. Seniors can access this information from the comfort of their own homes.
  3. Entertainment: Technology provides a variety of entertainment options for seniors, such as streaming services like Netflix or YouTube, e-books, and online games.
  4. Safety: Wearable technology, such as medical alert bracelets or fall detection devices, can provide an added layer of safety for seniors.
  5. Independence: Technology can help seniors maintain their independence by allowing them to complete tasks such as online shopping, banking, or paying bills from the comfort of their own homes.

Tips for Staying Connected Online

  1. Invest in the Right Equipment: Investing in the right equipment, such as a tablet or smartphone, can make it easier for seniors to stay connected online. Devices with larger screens or larger font sizes can also be helpful for seniors with vision impairments.
  2. Find the Right Platform: There are many different communication platforms available, and finding the right one can make a big difference. Consider using video chat platforms that allow seniors to see their loved ones, such as Skype or Zoom.
  3. Join Online Communities: There are many online communities and forums available for seniors, such as AARP’s community forum. These communities can provide a sense of connection and support.
  4. Take Classes: Many community centers and libraries offer classes on technology, such as how to use a smartphone or tablet. These classes can be a great way for seniors to learn new skills and stay connected.
  5. Stay Safe Online: It’s important to stay safe online by using strong passwords, avoiding scams, and being cautious about giving out personal information. Encourage seniors to ask for help if they’re unsure about something online.

Technology can provide many benefits for aging adults, from staying connected with loved ones to accessing information and entertainment. By investing in the right equipment, finding the right platform, and staying safe online, aging adults can stay connected and engaged with the world around them. As technology continues to advance, it’s important to embrace it as a tool to help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life.

Fun and Easy Hobby Ideas for Older Adults

As we age, many of us discover that we have a lot more free time. Many of us opt to work part-time or retire, which leaves us with endless hours to do anything we choose. It’s crucial for older folks to maintain their physical and social activity. This can lower your risk of acquiring a number of health issues in addition to preventing boredom and loneliness. The solution is to take up one or two new hobbies. To provide some inspiration, we have compiled a list of fun and easy hobby ideas for older adults.

 

Musical Instrument Playing

It’s never too late to pick up an instrument and start playing your favorite music again. When playing alone or with companions, musical instruments like the acoustic guitar, ukulele, and piano provide new options to improve your abilities and enjoy your favorite songs.

 

Bird Watching 

When you simply stop and observe the environment around you, you could be shocked by what you notice. Observing birds may be a lot of joy. You’ll be struck by their wit, intelligence, dexterity, and social skills. If you are unable to go around anymore, bird watching might be a fantastic new hobby to attempt. It is simple to perform from the convenience of a house window or while walking around the neighborhood. You will become familiar with the local birds and their characteristics as you observe them over time.

There are several strong reasons why birdwatching is swiftly rising to the top of the list of popular hobbies across the nation. It is easy, affordable, and it motivates us to spend time outside. Additionally, this pastime helps improve focus, attentiveness, and attention to detail. Older adults who learn the timing and pattern of the neighborhood birds’ arrivals and departures may find it relaxing.

 

Cooking

Active individuals can experiment in the kitchen with fresh ingredients to experience different cultures and cuisines from across the world. Cooking becomes a means to improve your favorite nostalgic foods, explore new recipes, and wow friends and family at dinner parties and holiday gatherings.

 

Crocheting

Because they provide projects for crafters of all skill levels, crocheting and related indoor hobbies like knitting and cross-stitching are excellent. Create blankets, dishcloths, headbands, scarves, adorable plush animals, and just about anything else you can think of by crocheting with vibrant yarn.

 

Final Thoughts On Older Adults 

Everyone has unique physical constraints and a different amount of free time for new interests. What might be fantastic for someone else might be too much work for someone else. Be careful not to take on more than you can handle while being aware of your schedule and talents.

Start by incorporating one or two of fun and easy hobby ideas for older adults into your daily routine and see how you feel. As long as you enjoy what you’re doing and it isn’t adding stress to your life, you can always change up some activities or add others.

Huge Benefits of Selling Your Home and Moving to an Independent Living Facility

Since home is where the heart is, selling your house is not only a difficult decision, but also an emotional one. Homes are filled with memories of family, Thanksgiving meals, late-night conversations on the porch, and so on. However, especially for older individuals, there comes a period when home is quieter and more lonely than before. After losing a loved one, many elderly live alone. Aside from the cost of renovations to make your house safe for your changing needs, aging in place can also be costly due to maintenance, taxes, and utility costs. What was once a happy location can eventually start to feel like a burden.

This is the time when downsizing to a independent living community enables you to live life to the fullest. Although moving into a senior living facility doesn’t require you to give up your well-earned independence, it is never simple to let go of what is familiar. In actuality, it unlocks a whole new world of stress-free life filled with joy, meaning, and company. Here are a few more significant advantages of transferring to a senior living community and the benefits of selling your home.

No Landscaping or Home Upkeep

You can minimize your possessions and keep the things that are most important to you by selling your home. You also get to reduce the amount of housework you need to do. You can delegate to the maintenance team in an independent living community the chores of mowing the grass, cleaning the pool, and maintaining the cleanliness of the common areas.

Fresh Perspectives

You might feel sentimental after selling your home. You can anticipate fresh adventures, though you have many opportunities to create new memories on your own terms thanks to new acquaintances, planned activities, and a new place to call home.

Security and Safety

Communities for independent living offer security and safety. Compare the facilities and personnel for security in the communities you like. Some primarily rely on alarms and security cameras, while others employ guards to keep an eye on the site. Wide halls, grab bars in the walk-in showers, and open floor plans make it simple to get around, especially if you have mobility problems. Look for areas that place a strong emphasis on security and safety.

Take Action Now

There has never been a better moment or more benefits to selling your home! For older adults, now is the perfect time to move thanks to the real estate boom and the numerous benefits of senior living. Contact a seasoned real estate agent in your area to discuss the real estate market there and to set up a tour for Terrace Place  if you’re thinking about selling your house.

You can learn more about Terrace Place by contacting us today.

Older Adult Activities in Allison Park

Do you feel that the older you get, the more you fall into a daily rut? Older adults frequently fall into a daily routine that eventually exhausts their energy and has a negative impact on their physical and mental well-being. The good news is that Terrace Place offers many fun older adult activities in Allison Park

 

  1. Dog Park – As you may know, Terrace Place allows pets. Why not take your pet to the dog park? You can meet other people at the dog park and have puppy play dates! 

 

  1. Exercise by Walking –  We encourage our residents to engage in some form of physical activity to release endorphins. Going for walks around the trails of Terrace Place will help your mood and overall health! If you want a change in scenery, North Park is a great geographically close option. 

 

  1. North Park Swimming Pool –  On warm days, enjoy the North Park Swimming Pool! The pool is open daily from 11:30 am-7:30 pm  (weather and conditions permitting).

 

Have your own older adult activities in Allison Park that you love to do? Comment below! We would love to hear from you! 

Why are Older Adults More Susceptible to Heat Stress?

Older adults more susceptible to heat stress can develop severe reactions. Some people over the age of 65 may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses and require special care in hot weather. Living alone, chronic medical problems, and certain medications are all risk factors of potential heat stress.

Heat stress, also referred to as hyperthermia, occurs when the body’s ability to cool itself and maintain a healthy temperature is compromised. Sweating normally cools the body, but sweating isn’t always enough because the body temperature rises. Heat-related illnesses can range from mild conditions like a rash or cramps to serious and potentially fatal conditions like heatstroke.

Why are older adults more susceptible to heat stress?

  • When it comes to sudden temperature changes, older adults do not adjust as well as younger people.
  • They are more likely to have a chronic medical condition that alters normal body temperature responses.
  • They are more likely to use prescription medications that interfere with the body’s ability to regulate its temperature or sweat.

How to Prevent Heat Stress:

Dress Appropriately: Wear Lightweight, Light-Colored, Loose-Fitting Clothing.

  • Stay cool indoors: As much as possible, stay in an air-conditioned environment. All of our Terrace Place units have high-quality air conditioning.
  • Pace yourself: Limit your physical activity during the summer. If you’re not used to working or exercising in a hot environment, begin slowly and gradually increase your pace.
  • Wear sunscreen: Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and can dehydrate you. If you must go outside, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and applying SPF 15 or higher sunscreen 30 minutes before going out. Continue to reapply it as directed on the package.

What to do if Someone is Experiencing Heat Stress:

If you suspect someone is suffering from a heat-related illness, you should do the following:

  • Call 911 immediately.
  • Remove the person from the heat and place them in a shady, air-conditioned, or other cool location. Insist that they lie down.
  • Offer fluids such as water and fruit or vegetable juices if the person can swallow safely, but no alcohol or caffeine.
  • Wipe the wrists, neck, armpits, and groin with a cold, wet cloth. These are areas where blood flows close to the skin’s surface, and a cold cloth can help cool the blood.
  • If it is safe, encourage the person to shower, bathe, or sponge off with cool water.

Summer Cleaning for Independent Adults

There’s no such thing as a bad time to declutter and clean, but summer is a hot month for cleaning. Here are a few pointers on how to clean during the summer:

  1. Make a to-do list: Make a cleaning schedule for the summer. We don’t know about you, but crossing things off a to-do list makes us feel really successful. Make a list of all the things you want to get done around your space before you start cleaning. Sanitizing high-touch surfaces, rearranging closets, and cleaning the floors are just a few examples.
  2. Scheduling time to complete the task: With the summer heat you should schedule your list to include the outside or more excessive cleaning activities for when it is cooler in the day. Scheduling the hard chores during the morning when it’s cooler will make it easier to complete those tasks.
  3. Don’t be scared to get rid of things: There is a quick method to accomplish this. Make just “yes” or “no” piles; no “maybe I’ll wear this in the summer” or “maybe I’ll fit into this if I lose some weight” heaps. Be truthful to yourself. If you haven’t worn something in over six months, it’s time to get rid of it or give it away.
  4. Ask for help: Make a request for assistance. Having someone to assist you in cleaning can keep you motivated and may even make the task more enjoyable. The first thing your family member or friend should do when they arrive to assist is go over your checklist. Another set of eyes may always provide a fresh perspective and bring out details you may have overlooked.

Have additional tips to help keep your home clean this Summer? Comment below! Terrace Place would love to hear from you.