Tag Archives: aging

Sep15

Early Fall OOTD Bloopers

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Early Fall OOTD Bloopers

Hello everyone and welcome to the blooper reel from my Early Fall OOTD! Similarly to the transition from spring to summer, dressing for early fall can be a head scratcher. Is it going to be chilly? Is it going to be blazing hot? Do I need a coat? Do I wear shorts? It can be a big fat question mark and I wanted to create a look that would be comfortable during crisp mornings and a warm afternoon. Let’s take a look at some of the shots that didn’t make my first, second, or third cut and discuss bellies. We all have them! Here we go:

Focused, flourishing, thriving.

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I LOOK GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Definitely was getting distracted by a dog being walked 🙂

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Luring you all in with my seductive gaze 😉

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Wait…….. what???

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Okay, seriously guys. WTF is this lol

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Who, me? 😉

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A conversation that I have frequently with my girlfriends is our changing bodies. Lol, weird but true and it makes sense. As all of my friends are in their late twenties/thirty somethings, we have noticed little things that we weren’t complaining about fresh out of high school. We feel tired constantly, our metabolism might have slowed, and areas that used to be toned are not the way it used to be. My “problem area” – my belly!

I will be the first to admit that when I wore this crop top, I was thinking a lot about “sucking it in”. Then, I remembered the advice that my girls and I always end our “body talks” with. Bodies change. Damnit, we are all almost or past thirty and our bodies simply aren’t going to look like they did in high school. They just aren’t and that’s okay. I also reminded myself of my golden rule when I briefly second guessed the top… Wear the clothes. Wear it, strut, and rock it. Am I going to have six pack abs? Hard no! That doesn’t mean I’m any less worthy of wearing a crop top than someone else.

As I get older, I feel more and more confident in myself than I ever did in my youth. In my early twenties, if I wasn’t wearing something that looked just so, you could forget about it. Now, I dress for me. I had a minor faltering when I put the crop top on and then I recalled sound advice from my friends and myself. Conclusion? Everyone has bellies. Everyone has butts. Everyone is not going to look the same and that’s a beautiful thing!

This Early Fall OOTD was made to teach everyone about styling a look for changes in weather. I like to think it did, but it also taught me a refresher on my golden rule and self confidence. What a win/win!!

How did your body change as you got older? What is something that you used to feel self conscious about? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Aug15

Smooth Solutions: The Science Of Wrinkle-Free Skin

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Smooth Solutions: The Science Of Wrinkle-Free Skin

Having smooth, wrinkle-free skin is a goal many of us aspire to achieve. Often, the fight against fine lines and wrinkles can seem like an uphill battle, but with a solid understanding of the science behind our skin’s aging process, we can equip ourselves with the knowledge and tools necessary to maintain youthful skin. Dive into this exploration of the biology of wrinkles and discover how you can keep your skin radiant and wrinkle-free:

The Fundamentals of Skin Structure:

At the core of understanding wrinkles is first understanding our skin. Our skin consists of three layers:

  • Epidermis: The outermost layer which acts as a protective barrier.
  • Dermis: Contains tough connective tissue, hair follicles, and sweat glands.
  • Subcutaneous tissue: Made of fat and connective tissue.

Collagen and elastin, primarily found in the dermis, are crucial proteins that provide our skin with strength and elasticity. As we age, these proteins naturally break down and the production of them decreases, leading to the formation of wrinkles.

Factors Affecting Skin Aging:

While age is an obvious factor in the development of wrinkles, it’s not the only culprit. Various external factors can speed up the aging process. UV radiation from the sun is a significant factor, causing what’s known as photoaging. This radiation damages the collagen and elastin fibers, leading to sagging and wrinkling. That’s why it’s imperative to use a good sunscreen every day, even when it’s cloudy. For a wide variety of skincare products tailored for sun protection and more, one might look into platforms like Oz Hair and Beauty.

Environmental pollutants, smoking, and even repetitive facial expressions can contribute to the breakdown of collagen and the formation of wrinkles.

Hydration: A Key to Plump Skin:

Maintaining hydration is essential to keeping skin looking plump and youthful. When the skin lacks moisture, it can look dull and fine lines may appear more pronounced. Drinking plenty of water and using moisturizers that lock in hydration can help keep your skin looking fresh and youthful. If you are suffering from especially dry skin or are feeling self conscious about signs of aging, there are a range of treatments that can help. Take the time to look up the services offered by a Med Spa in Jupiter Florida (or your local area) to see how the professionals can improve your problem areas. Don’t be afraid to book a few consultations at different locations to find the best fit and services for you.

Active Ingredients in Anti-Aging Skincare:

Many skincare products on the market claim to work miracles on wrinkles. But what ingredients genuinely make a difference?

  • Retinoids: Derived from Vitamin A, retinoids are perhaps the most well-researched ingredients for combating wrinkles. They encourage cell turnover, stimulate collagen production, and help in the fading of age spots.
  • Hyaluronic Acid: This molecule holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It draws moisture into the skin, helping to plump it up and minimize the appearance of wrinkles.
  • Peptides: Small protein fragments that stimulate the production of collagen and other essential skin components.
  • Antioxidants: Ingredients like vitamins C and E help protect the skin from damage by free radicals and UV radiation.

Cosmetic Procedures: Beyond Skincare:

For those seeking more immediate or pronounced results, there are cosmetic procedures available:

  • Botox: A toxin that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes the muscles responsible for certain repetitive facial expressions, thus smoothing out expression lines. Botox is an incredibly popular cosmetic procedure and it is so important to get it done by a well reviewed practitioner. Take the time to browse websites like Botox London Professional Aesthetics (or similar practices in your local area) to research and read testimonials. It is also a good idea to schedule a few different consultations to find the best fit for you.
  • Dermal Fillers: These are substances injected into the skin to fill in wrinkles and restore volume. They can be made from a variety of materials, including collagen, hyaluronic acid, and calcium hydroxylapatite.
  • Laser Resurfacing: This procedure uses lasers to remove the outer layer of skin and heat the underlying skin, which stimulates collagen production.
  • Brow Lift: A brow lift helps rejuvenate the forehead, eyes, and brows to look younger and refreshed without looking like you got work done.

Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Choices:

Apart from products and procedures, certain lifestyle choices can promote youthful skin:

  • Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can help maintain skin health. Foods like berries, spinach, nuts, and fish are excellent choices.
  • Sleep: A good night’s rest promotes skin repair and regeneration. Aim for 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep.
  • Avoid Smoking: Smoking not only damages collagen and elastin but also constricts blood vessels, depriving the skin of oxygen and nutrients.
  • Limit Alcohol: Alcohol dehydrates the skin. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and ensure you hydrate adequately.

Achieving and maintaining wrinkle-free skin is a combination of understanding the science behind skin aging, making informed skincare choices, and leading a lifestyle that supports skin health. While genetics play a role in how our skin ages, armed with knowledge, quality products, and healthy habits, we can certainly give our skin the best fighting chance against wrinkles. Here’s to smooth solutions and radiant skin!

Jun16

Turning 29 – It’s Not So Bad!

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Turning 29 – It’s Not So Bad!

Hello!!! Although my Gemini Twin and I have been joking that we have been turning twenty-five for the past several years, I turned twenty-nine this past week. And, no, that running joke never gets old by the way! Lol, anyways, I cannot tell you the amount of people who have wished me a happy birthday along with the sentiments of “oh, you’ll be thirty next year, you’re getting old”, yada, yada, yada. And, yes, that is factual information. BUT, I have come to the realization that maybe, just maybe it’s not that old after all. 😉

I feel like once people reach their twenties, turning thirty is looming over their shoulders like a character in a horror movie. The big 3-0 seems to have become the death of youth so to speak and I am here to call bullshit. Believe you me, I had the exact same thoughts and a teeny tiny part of me still feels that way. However, turning twenty-nine has made me start making the mental flip in my head and adopting the old phrase of “you’re only as young as you feel”.

In 100% seriousness, I honestly forget how old I am constantly and my mind is blown when I remember my actual age. Yes, I’m an adult and am close to thirty, but I really don’t feel like it. Sure, when I’m working I feel like a grown up. When it comes to my downtime, though, my age comes as a surprise to me. I am a goofy, outgoing gal, and I love to have a good time. Johnny is five years my senior and he is the exact same way. So, when we’re hanging out together or we’re with our friends age truly feels like just a number.

Despite everyone’s obsession with youth, I find myself thinking if I would like to be in my early twenties again and it’s a hard NO from me, dawg. I was plagued with mental health issues, was in one shitty relationship after the next, and my businesses hadn’t blossomed to what they are today. Now, here I am at twenty-nine and my mental health is much more stable, I’m married to the best guy in the world, and I am a successful business owner of two. My personal style has developed into something amazing, I love the way I look, and I feel happy other than a loved one being in poor health. It just took some extra years on the old odometer to get there.

If you feel like an approaching landmark birthday is the end of the world, I can now confidently say that it isn’t. I’m staring at thirty dead on and, at this point, all I can say is “bring it on” because there’s nothing else I can do. Youth is a mindset so, yeah, I guess I always will be twenty-five! 😉

Did you freak out before turning a certain age? Do you feel like your age? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun7

Top Tips For Maintaining A Youthful Glow

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Top Tips For Maintaining A Youthful Glow

While there is beauty in growing older and wiser, many people are worried about the changes that getting older introduces to their appearance. For example, a recent study found that “28% of millennial women under 25 regularly worry about how aging takes a toll on their skin.” Getting a few wrinkles as we age is natural and often a sign of a life well-lived. But, there are specific steps you can take to reduce or prevent them.

With that in mind, here are some top tips that you can use to maintain a youthful glow and ensure that you always feel confident when you look in the mirror:

Drink plenty of water:

Drinking plenty of water (ideally 6-8 glasses a day) is one of the easiest ways to take care of your skin and prevent wrinkles. This is because good hydration can help to ‘plump’ skin cells, leaving your skin smooth and blemish free. However, as you grow older, “it is tougher for your body to retain water, so by inputting more water into your system, you are helping your body and your skin stay hydrated.” Dehydration can also lead to other skincare complaints, leaving your skin looking dull, dry, or tired.

Exercise regularly:

Believe it or not,  exercise can make you look younger. Regular exercise can help improve your blood circulation, which in turn, can help to keep your skin looking its best. By improving blood circulation, you ensure that your skin cells receive all of the necessary oxygen and nutrients to thrive and to remove toxins. It can also boost your body’s production of collagen, a protein which helps your skin maintain its natural elasticity.

Look into cosmetic surgery:

Cosmetic surgeries, such as mini-facelifts, can also be a great way to fall back in love with your reflection. This is because they are designed to help turn back the clock by addressing issues such as loose or sagging skin and excess soft tissue. It is so important to find a specialist surgeon with plenty of experience in the area. This way, you know you are working with someone you can trust. To find out more, click here.

If you are considering cosmetic surgery, more power to you! It’s a great idea to schedule a few different consultations with surgeons in your area to find the best fit for you. Take the time to research the websites of local surgeons like drbaker.com and pay close attention to patient testimonials. If you don’t feel one hundred percent confident in your selection, keep shopping around until you do. Your health and safety depend on it.

Be consistent with your skincare routine:

Developing a skincare routine is one of the easiest ways to care for your skin – but it’s crucial that you are consistent in your approach. You cannot expect to use a product once and immediately see the benefits. You must hold yourself accountable for completing your routine every morning and evening. In order to make this possible, try to keep your routine as simple as possible. You don’t need a million different products or tools – especially as this would require you to spend hours by the mirror!

An effective skincare routine usually follows these steps:

  1. Cleansing: Cleansers can remove dirt, oil, and other impurities from the surface of your skin.
  2. Toning: Toners help to tighten pores and can also balance your skin’s PH level.
  3. Moisturizing: Moisturizers nourish and hydrate your skin.
  4. SPF: SPF products help to protect your skin from the sun, even on cloudy days.

Get plenty of sleep:

While it may not always be possible to get a great night’s sleep, having a consistent sleep routine can also help protect your natural, youthful glow. As we sleep, our body (and, by extension, our skin) repairs itself. As a result, as you’re dreaming away, your body is producing more collagen to help maintain skin elasticity while also flushing away harmful toxins. The less sleep you get, the less your skin is healing and the more issues you may deal with as a result.

Always wear SPF:

As mentioned above, SPF products should always be incorporated into your skincare routine, even on days when the sun might not be shining. This is because photoaging (or sun damage) is one of the key causes of wrinkles. Exposure to UVA and UVB rays from the sun breaks down collagen and elastin fibers in the outer layers of your skin, which are otherwise responsible for ensuring your skin remains smooth and firm. The more damage they sustain, the more likely it is that you will deal with wrinkles and other signs of premature aging.

The steps above are simple ways to keep your skin looking its best, no matter your age!

Featured Image By: Amanda Dalbjörn on Unsplash

Jan30

How To Keep Your Aging Loved One Happy & Healthy

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How To Keep Your Aging Loved One Happy & Healthy

When it comes to aging loved ones, they tend to be the ones that face the most loneliness. It’s quite sad, but there is something that you can do about it. More specifically, there are ways that you can keep your aging loved one happy and healthy throughout the rest of their life. It’s not nearly as challenging as you may think so here is everything you need to know:

Encourage physical activities:

If your aging loved one is not getting adequate exercise, you should encourage them to be more active. Exercise helps strengthen muscles, improves balance, and helps reduce the risk of diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It also promotes healthy aging. Many seniors are afraid of exercising, but they need to stay active to protect their health, as any cardiac surgeon will tell you. Encourage your senior loved one to keep up with their physical activity by showing them the benefits of doing so.

Set boundaries around your caregiving relationship:

It can be challenging having to take care of your aging loved ones and it is important to set boundaries. This can sometimes be easier said than done! Some people find it difficult to say no to their parents. They may feel guilty and want to say yes to everything. The most important thing to remember when setting boundaries is to be clear. You do not want to be perceived as being a doormat or rude. Instead, be thoughtful and respectful. If you want to ensure your aging loved ones are happy and doing well, then you need to know it starts with you and how you feel. Boundaries will help keep both parties happy.

Encourage meaningful conversations:

Having those heart-to-heart conversations means a lot. Seniors’ minds are often a source of wisdom and experience. Sharing memories can be a fun and uplifting way to connect with them. You can ask them how they’re feeling or even try to take a trip down memory lane with them. Overall, it’s just so important to engage in these sorts of conversations; they’re very powerful and can help combat loneliness.

Make them feel safe:

Using the latest upgrades to home safety, such as personal medical alarm technology and sensors to detect falls, can give seniors the peace of mind they deserve. Other less obvious solutions include installing an intelligent alarm system, putting a lock on the front door, and removing items in the home that could be considered hazardous. If they’re living in a nursing home, you’re going to want to ensure that they’re staying safe there too. In cases like this, inform them of a nearby  Nursing Home Abuse Center for additional help.

Remember that there’s no top-end age limit for when they should go into a residential community with more connections to their peers, so looking through 55 and older communities could be the best way to help them feel more satisfied in their comfortable living arrangements. This might feel like a step backwards for your loved one and their independence but it can really be a wonderful thing. These communities are just that – a community that can nurture new friendships, passions, and mental and physical wellness. When you research quality home like options, you will find all kinds of amenities like gyms, hobby classes, beauty salons, and so much more to create a meaningful and comfortable experience.

Find a hobby or activity that they may enjoy:

Some common hobbies for seniors include bird watching, art, music, or even genealogy. These activities can provide a relaxing way for your senior to connect with the outdoors and enjoy nature. You can also consider joining a book club. The books in a book club can range from serious to light-hearted, but the club’s goal is to bring people together to discuss a topic. Another idea for a new hobby for your senior is to look online. Many online gaming communities and websites exist to offer people a wide variety of games and activities. There are also a number of apps available to help you get started.

Form a care team:

A family member like yourself may need extra help taking care of an aging parent or loved one. You shouldn’t do it all alone, which is why you need to have a care team. The best way to find a good fit is to talk to your family. You want to know what your aging parent’s wants and needs are. Your own goals are also important. This includes keeping your loved one safe and comfortable and providing emotional support. If you have the means, you can even hire a financial planner to protect your loved one’s assets, as this tends to be needed too.

If the next step in your loved one’s care is moving to an assisted living facility or having staff come to the home, another excellent resource is enlisting the help of Senior Living Experts. They will be able to help narrow down options according to the best fit for your loved one so all that is left to do is make a decision. This can be especially beneficial if you are struggling to keep your head above water or feeling overwhelmed with choices. Overall, a care team and a large support system will definitely help out your aging loved one.

Help keep your loved one safe and happy with the tips above and continue to nurture your relationship every day!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Jan27

Help Your Aging Parents Stay Healthy With These Tips

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Help Your Aging Parents Stay Healthy With These Tips

As parents age, they may need more help with daily activities and health care. To ensure good health for aging parents, several options must be considered. From diet and exercise to mental health, here are five tips to help you support your aging parents as they transition into this new stage of their lives:

Pay Attention To Diet & Nutrition:

Eating a balanced diet is essential at any age, especially during the senior years. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help maintain energy levels and improve overall health. Reducing sugar intake and limiting red meat consumption are also essential, as these can increase cholesterol levels. Additionally, make sure your parents are taking any necessary vitamins or supplements that would benefit their health. If cost is an issue, many stores offer discounted vitamins specifically tailored to seniors’ needs. Sometimes, you might notice that the appetite of your loved one has decreased significantly. This can be very difficult so take the time to look at these tips for boosting appetite in older adults to get them back on track in a healthy way.

Encourage Them To Exercise:

Regular exercise plays an essential role in maintaining physical health for older adults. Exercise helps strengthen muscles and bones, improves endurance, boosts immunity, and increases the production of endorphins, which can positively affect mood. Be sure to consult with a doctor before beginning any new exercises or activities as there are some that may not be appropriate depending on your parent’s current state of health or mobility level.

Nurture Good Mental Health & Socialization:

Seniors often experience feelings of isolation due to reduced mobility or social outlets. It’s essential that they still feel connected to family members and friends and stay engaged in activities that bring them joy, such as reading books or watching movies online with family members who live far away! Check in regularly with your parents about how they’re feeling – not just physically but mentally and look out for signs of depression, such as changes in sleep patterns or lack of motivation which may require professional assistance from a counselor or therapist, if needed.

Another way to improve mental health and foster more socialization can come from some extra help. Home health care services also includes companion care and can get your loved one out and about when you aren’t able. A reliable caretaker can also give you some much needed down time. To begin researching different services, simply enter a search for “home health care agencies in philadelphia pa” (or your local area). You will be amazed by what a helping hand can do!

Consider A Nursing Home:

It’s important to talk openly with your parents about their senior professional care support preferences and discuss if a nursing home would be beneficial for them. Nursing homes can provide professional medical care, companionship, and help with activities of daily living that they may not be able to do on their own. Make sure you thoroughly research the facility before making any decisions, as some may not have the best reputation or offer adequate medical care to seniors. You don’t want to have to contact a Nursing Home Justice Center after discovering your parents are victims of nursing home abuse.

Safety Management:

As people age, their risk for falls increases due to weakened muscles and/or reduced vision. Safety measures should be put into place in order to prevent falls from occurring inside the home, such as adding grab bars in the bathroom or installing motion sensor lights throughout hallways/stairs if possible. Establishing a contact list of family members or close friends who can be called in case of an emergency is also recommended. Alternatively, you can consider investing in a medical alert system that will allow your parents access to 24-hour medical assistance if needed.

Aging is not easy, and your parents may need support to maintain their physical and mental health. Keep these five tips in mind as you help them navigate this new life stage!

Featured Image By: Yan Krukau

Oct4

You’re Never Too Old!

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You’re Never Too Old!

Hello!! As you all know, I am a HUGE lover of body modifications, fun hair, and fashion. I’m twenty-eight years old and I could never picture looking or dressing any differently than I do. In fact, I truly believe that I will have my five nose piercings in for all eternity and that’s fine by me!

When I’m out and about in a killer OOTD or just bumming it while running errands, a comment that I always seem to get is: “I wish I could dress or dye my hair like that but I’m too old.” To which I will always reply: “NO YOU’RE NOT!!” As sweet of a compliment as it is, it makes me sad because I am a firm believer in age being nothing but a number – even though I sometimes internally cry over approaching the big 3-0 *face palm*.

I also think that life is too short to be anything other than yourself. And if that means getting a tattoo or piercing at fifty or dying your hair pink at ninety, then I say go for it! What is the point in denying yourself something that would make you happy? Answer: There is no point.

During a trip to the zoo a few weekends ago, I wore this outfit:

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While exploring the Akron Zoo with my sister and nieces, I ran into one of my friends and her three daughters. The two older of the three told me that they wanted to dress like me when they grow up and it warmed my cold, bitter heart. They also said that they never see adults who look like me and it’s cool.

I asked how old they thought I was because sometimes I have a hard time believing I’m an adult lol and one of them replied with “I don’t know… nineteen?” At this point, I thought my heart was going to explode and their minds were blown when I told them how old I am. I enlightened them on my philosophy about always being true to your own personal style and I think that it stuck!

No matter your age, there is nothing wrong with being the best version of yourself. If you are toying with the idea of changing your look up, then this is your sign to do it. You can thank me by telling me all about your transformation! ❤

What do you love about yourself? Do you have any plans for new hair, tattoos, etc? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Sep28

4 Considerations When Looking After Elderly Parents

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4 Considerations When Looking After Elderly Parents

It can be a difficult task to take care of your retired parents, but with careful planning and execution, it doesn’t have to be. There are four essential things that you need to consider when looking after them: their health, finances, living situation, and their social life. In this blog post, we will go over each of these considerations in detail and provide you with advice on how to manage them best:

Their health:

As your parents age, their health will inevitably decline. It’s important to be proactive about their health and get regular checkups with their doctor. You should also create a list of their medications as well as hospitals and doctors that their insurance covers and keep it in a safe place. In case of an emergency, you or another family member can quickly reference this list and ensure that your parents are getting the care they need. Of course, their needs may change over time, and there may come a time when they are seriously or terminally ill. Should this happen, resources online like Your guide to in-home palliative care can help you be proactive when it comes to managing your parents’ health and needs, whilst still making sure you are caring for yourself.

Their finances:

One of the most challenging conversations with elderly parents is about their financial situation. It can be hard to broach the topic, especially if they are reluctant to discuss it. However, it is vital to be aware of their financial situation for two reasons: 1) you need to know if they can support themselves and 2) you need to be on the lookout for signs of financial elder abuse.

If your parents are struggling financially, they have several options. For example, they may be eligible for government benefits or charity assistance. If they own their home, they may also be able to downsize or take out a reverse mortgage. Unfortunately, as far as financial elder abuse goes, this sadly is an all too real problem and can take form in many ways, so be sure to keep an eye on professionals dealing with your parent’s finances.

Their living situation:

Another important consideration is your parents’ living situation. If they can live independently, that’s great! But if they need some assistance, you’ll need to consider that. If they live in a retirement community, staff who can help with transportation or meals may be there. If they live in their own home, you’ll need to decide if it’s feasible for them to continue doing so. If not, you may need to help them find a new place to live.

Whatever their living situation, you’ll also need to consider how accessible it is. Can they get around safely? Do they have everything they need? Is it safe for them to be there? Speaking of safety, do you recognize the signs and know how to prove nursing home negligence? These are all critical things to consider when looking after your retired parents.

Their social life:

Finally, you’ll need to think about your parents’ social life. As people age, they often become more isolated and lose touch with their friends. Having a good support network and staying connected to the outside world will be especially beneficial to their mental health. There are a few ways you can do this:

  • Encourage them to join social clubs or groups
  • Make sure they see their friends regularly
  • Take them out for outings and activities

These are four essential considerations when looking after your retired parents or loved ones. If you can address these areas, you’ll be doing a great job of taking care of them!

Featured Image By: Andrea Piacquadio

Jul29

How To Help & Support Your Parents As They Age

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How To Help & Support Your Parents As They Age

Watching your parents age can be a challenging situation and transition. The roles are reversing and you may now find yourself taking care of them instead of the other way around. It’s best to accept the inevitable and to figure out ways to ensure it’s a smooth and positive experience for everyone involved. Learn more about how you can best help and support your parents as they age and sleep well at night knowing you’re doing all that’s in your power to make sure they’re happy and well.

Figure Out the Right Living Situation:

You can help and support your parents as they age by stepping in and figuring out the right living situation for them. For instance, it may be that you want to have caregivers come into their home each day or you believe they’d be better off and more comfortable in a retirement and senior living community such as the Catholic Care Center. Think about how much constant care they need and where they may be the happiest and then help get them settled.

Of course, life is totally unpredictable and sometimes necessity takes over and can mean that plans have to be altered. For example, should a parent develop dementia and need more frequent care and supervision that you are able to give, it may be time to look into places like this Senior living community in Draper, UT that have memory care facilities so that they can be supported around the clock.

Be Available:

Another way to help your parents as they age is to be available. Check-in often with phone calls, emails, or texts and see how they’re doing. If you live close by, then you may want to pick a few days out of the week to stop in and visit with them in person. It’ll help you identify any potential problems and their needs. You should also think about being available to go to their doctor and medical appointments with them to advocate on their behalf and ensure they’re getting the best treatment possible.

It’s also important to be there for conversations on the continued well being of your loved ones. This could be helping them learn about assisted living benefits, discussions on medication management, and safety advice for around the home. Being in their corner is always one of the best things you can do.

Encourage Them to Stay Active & Engaged:

As your parents age, encourage them to be active so they can live their best life. It’s important for their mental health and well-being that they get out of the house to socialize, follow a daily schedule, and challenge themselves physically. Maybe you could go for a walk when you visit or let them know what activities and events are happening within the community so they can attend.

A senior living community like Starhaven Villas offers resort style amenities to help keep your loved ones active too. Golfing, pickle ball, bocce ball, and a clubhouse are just naming a few that Starhaven Villas has on their property. If you are going the community living route, one with a plentiful schedule of activities will help to keep your parents or grandparents happy and engaged.

Empathize & Be Compassionate:

What’s most important is that you remain level-headed through all of these changes and don’t let your stress or emotions get the best of you. Instead, empathize with your parents and show compassion toward their situation and life. Sit down and have conversations with them to let them know you love and care for them and want to help them with what they need as they age. Consider how you’d feel under their circumstances and be patient as you all adjust to this new way of living and being.

You now have a better idea of some of the ways you can be of help to your parents as they get older. Also, be sure to maintain a daily self-care routine for yourself so you don’t let your health slide as you offer assistance and support to your aging parents.

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jun9

3 Things You Should Do To Take Care Of Yourself Today

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3 Things You Should Do To Take Care Of Yourself Today

Whether you want it to or not, time keeps moving forward. Why not embrace it instead of dread the march? By achieving a proactive mindset, you can care for your body and mind to stay healthy and age with grace. Here are three proactive steps you can make today to better care for yourself:

Make An Appointment With Your Healthcare Provider:

Everyone looks into a mirror multiple times each day. As you do, you will notice changes in your face and body, and perhaps things that you may want to change. One thing that many people hone in on are their eyes. If you observe that one or both of your eyelids are drooping, make an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your options. They may diagnose you with ptosis, which is the medical term for drooping eyelids. Your provider can prescribe FDA-approved ptosis eyedrops to treat the drooping eyelid. Any further treatment or issues can be brought up at this visit.

Be sure to add any other issues to the visit to maximize efficiency. Have your annual physical, well-check, and mole check at the same time. Talk with your provider about any aches or pains you are experiencing. Go over all medications and vitamins to determine efficacy and potential interactions. This is a great opportunity to ensure you are receiving the proper dosages. As time passes, your body will change. Keep your provider up-to-date on anything you need.

Another important thing to discuss with your provider is any cosmetic procedures you might be interested in. This could be something small like lip filler or a more major surgery like blepharoplasty houston (or your local area). Your GP can assist in recommending top surgeons so you can get a head start on finding the best fit for you.

Check In With Your Mental Health Professional:

After living through different stages of the pandemic, you have likely experienced some sense of helplessness, isolation, or frustration. You may have lost your job or even your home. Differing outlooks on politics and science have led family relations and friendships to areas of strain. Whether any of these topics impacted your life or not, taking care of your mental health is an imperative step towards overall well-being.

Contact your insurance company regarding available mental health providers in your area. Another option is telehealth or virtual visits. Insurance may cover these or you can find licensed professionals online that offer reasonable fees. Do your due diligence and research before you engage to ensure you are getting the best services for your needs.

Meditation is a useful tool in the practice of mental health self-care. Here is a relaxing ten minute video to enjoy:

Create Or Maintain An Exercise Routine:

No matter what your current stage in life, exercise will benefit your general health. (Always consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise program or if you have any concerns.) You can start slowly with leisurely walks and then build up to more intense sessions. If you like strenuous workouts, consider signing up for a local 5K and begin training. You can get personal bonus points by finding a run that benefits a charity that you support. If you enjoy human interaction and as gyms reopen, sign up or reactivate your membership. Another option for you if you appreciate alone time is to sign up for a fitness streaming service to get fit in your own home.

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Take time out of your busy schedule to take care of your body and mind. The steps you take will benefit you both now and in the future.

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