Posts by Pam Stone , BSW, Certified Case Manager (CCM)
Four (4) Ways to Stay Connected as We Age
This article is addressed to seniors, those who interact with seniors, and those who will live long enough to become seniors themselves – in other words, all of us. It was inspired by a line in the new Matlock series with Kathy Bates that I will paraphrase: “Funny thing happens when people age. We can…
Read MoreSix (6) Exercises for Seniors to Start Improving Balance and Reduce Fall Risk
As we age we are at higher risk of falling. Causes can vary but can include diseases and conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, vision, thyroid, nerve, blood pressure, osteoporosis, foot pain, inner ear problems, dizziness and balance issues, along with loss of muscle mass and weak core issues and possible medicine side effects.…
Read MoreQuestions About Aging: Here Are Two (2) Missouri Resources
As we age our needs can change. Where do we go for answers in finding information and resources? A good place to start is to contact one of Missouri’s 10 Area Agencies on Aging, also referred to as AAAs. To find the agency in your area you can call the Missouri Senior Resource Line toll-free…
Read MoreThe 4 Stages of Sleep and Their Importance As We Age
Sleep is a part of our entire lives and is often taken for granted until sleep issues occur. All adults need the same amount of sleep (7-9 hours/night). However, as we age, falling asleep and/or staying asleep can become a nightly battle. Knowing what is actually occurring during sleep makes it even more important to…
Read MoreDementia Overview and Resources
As we age, most of us have many concerns about our futures. Perhaps no issue causes more fear than living with dementia. This is a valid concern as Alzheimer’s is the fifth-leading cause of death among those over 65. The occurrence is about twice as frequent in women than in men (1 in 5 vs.…
Read MoreLIFESAVING SAFETY TIPS FOR SENIORS
Planning is important at all ages to prevent life altering incidents. As we age, this planning becomes even more important as our abilities to react both physically and mentally lessen. The following are some basic safety suggestions. Fall Prevention – Over 7,000 seniors die as a result of falls each year. Follow directions on all…
Read MoreAge Related Balance Issues Can Be Improved
About 35% of adults over 40 experience some balance or dizziness issues. Logically, the percentage will increase as we age and the consequences of falling can be very serious- such as a broken hip or other bone or head injuries. As with most health matters, prevention is very important. If you are having changes in…
Read MoreTHE R.E.A.D.Y. PROGRAM MAY MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN AN EMERGENCY
It seems to be human nature to avoid planning or even thinking about unwanted events but on some level we all know that planning upfront can prevent the unthinkable or at least make things easier. A program has been brought to my attention that, with a little planning, can help in what may be a…
Read MoreENGAGING SENIORS IN HOLIDAY GATHERINGS
As we age, holidays can be bittersweet – bringing up memories of past holiday traditions and family and friends that are no longer here. While a family gathering can be fun for all, an older member may tire more quickly. If so, be sensitive to their need to rest. Large gatherings may be overwhelming, especially…
Read MoreDOES THE CHANGE IN SEASON SEEM TO AFFECT YOUR MOOD?
Often physical and personal problems increase with age and may lead to depression. HOWEVER, depression can often be caused by the change of seasons when shorter amounts of daylight hours can signal an increase in the sleep-regulating hormone melatonin. If you find that some of these feelings tend to begin as the seasons change, you…
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