New Surgical Methods for Problem Hearts

Heart repair methods are changing with technology, and you or someone you love may benefit from one of these new treatments.

If you experience fatigue, shortness of breath, a rapid heartbeat and lightheadedness, it could be due to mitral valve regurgitation (MVR). This condition stems from the failure of the heart’s mitral valve to close completely, allowing blood to flow backward into the heart. If MVR is significant, blood can’t efficiently move through the heart or to the rest of the body.  

How to Lower Your Risk of a Heart Attack Are you among the mere 3 percent of Americans who follow the four recommendations, below, for preventing a heart attack? Don’t smoke. Get your body mass index below 25. Eat at least five fruits and vegetables a day. Exercise vigorously at least 150 minutes a week. Watch this video to get more tips from the Mayo Clinic on heart attack prevention:

Mild regurgitation can generally be left untreated, but more severe cases can lead to heart failure or arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms). Your doctor may prescribe drugs or recommend replacing or clipping shut the valve. While the clipping procedure isn’t new, it used to take place in an operating room under general anesthesia.

Now, a new type of mitral valve clip can be inserted via a catheter. “This procedure is appropriate for high-surgical-risk MVR patients,” Tabrizchi says. “It may involve a short hospital stay to assess the effectiveness of the procedure. Patients tend to feel better right away and have an improved quality of life.”

Atrial Fibrillation

Warning Signs of a Woman’s Heart Attack Women do not experience heart attacks like their male counterparts. Women may not have chest pressure, but instead may experience “shortness of breath, pressure or pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen, dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting, upper back pressure or extreme fatigue,” according to Nieca Goldberg, M.D. and medical director for the Joan H. Tisch Center for Women’s Health at NYU’s Langone Medical Center. “Although men and women can experience chest pressure that feels like an elephant sitting across the chest, women can experience a heart attack without chest pressure.” That may be because a woman’s heart attack may be triggered by a temporary coronary artery spasm or minor blood clot. Either can stop blood flow to the heart. The signs of a woman’s heart attack may be subtle. Although heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the U.S., women may attribute their symptoms to acid reflux, the flu or normal aging. But in the event of a heart attack, you need help right away. If you or someone you love experiences any of the following symptoms, dial 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room immediately: Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back. Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort. Breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness. As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain.

Nine percent of Americans over age 65 have arrhythmia, according to the CDC. The most common type is atrial fibrillation (AFib).

“AFib is an irregular beating of the upper heart chambers, which causes clots to form within those chambers,” says Tabrizchi. “The clots can leave the heart and become lodged anywhere in the body, but the primary risk is to the brain, which results in ischemic strokes.”

Ischemic strokes are responsible in about 87 percent of stroke cases, according to the American Heart Association, and the risk of stroke increases with age.

Treatment for AFib usually includes anticoagulants to prevent clots. However, such blood thinners involve risk. “Some patients tend to have significant bleeding as an adverse effect of these medicines to the point where they require blood transfusions,” Tabizchi says. “People with severe arthritis who have to take anti-inflammatory medication, for example, are at a very high risk for bleeding.”

That bleeding can happen anywhere in the body, but if it's in the brain, it causes a hemorrhagic stroke.

Catheters come to the rescue once again, delivering a safe alternative shown to reduce strokes in clinical trials. Dubbed the WATCHMAN device, this type of catheter resembles a tiny umbrella and is placed in the left atrial appendage, the pouch in the atrium where clots tend to form. The procedure is called left atrial appendage closure (LAAC).

The patient requires general anesthesia for doctors to insert a catheter into the upper leg and thread it up to the heart. The procedure takes an hour on average, and patients spend a day in the hospital. They also initially need anticoagulants, but these can usually be tapered off after about six months.

However, the procedure isn’t for everyone. “The WATCHMAN is very expensive,” admits Tabrizchi. “There are strict criteria in place regarding which patients are candidates for this procedure.”

People who don’t tolerate anticoagulants well are candidates, and so are people with a history of falling. “People who fall may hit their head or cause serious injury to other parts of the body that result in bleeding,” Tabrizchi clarifies.

Post-Procedure Heart Care

Any heart procedure requires special care afterward. Be sure to follow your doctor’s advice, and take good care of your heart muscle. Improving your diet and exercising (with your doctor’s approval) are the most common recommendations for pampering your heart and boosting your health

---

Sources

http://www.annalsthoracicsurgery.org/article/S0003-4975(17)31406-6/abstract

https://www.ericksonliving.com/tribune/articles/2018/02/new-surgical-solutions-old-heart-problems

https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/when-it-comes-to-heart-attacks-women-are-different-from-men/2017/02/17/b5d298e2-ea38-11e6-80c2-30e57e57e05d_story.html?utm_term=.e451cb1add18

http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/HeartAttack/WarningSignsofaHeartAttack/Heart-Attack-Symptoms-in-Women_UCM_436448_Article.jsp#.Wte0dy7waM8

https://newheartvalve.com/tavr-treatment/is-tavr-right-for-you/?gclid=CjwKCAjw2dvWBRBvEiwADllhn7Guej8IMrNVV2azdsdVKwqc3hPlAXDL0YDsPPcNQHgvXkjT1KRi7RoC324QAvD_BwE

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mitral-valve-regurgitation/symptoms-causes/syc-20350178

http://www.strokecenter.org/patients/about-stroke/ischemic-stroke/

https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/tc/coronary-artery-bypass-surgery-minimally-invasive-methods-topic-overview#1

https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/once-scary-heart-bypass-surgery-has-become-common-and-safer/2018/02/23/4b7459a4-157f-11e8-8b08-027a6ccb38eb_story.html?noredirect=on&utm_term=.7ee891f0eacf

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors
www.csa.us

Plant and Outdoor Therapy: Worth It for Seniors?

Many surprising research findings tout the advantages of plants and flowers in an older person’s life.

Whether it’s tending to a plant in their room, enjoying houseplants in communal residence areas or having exposure to greenery in the great outdoors (even through a window), seniors see undeniable benefits. And while you may agree from your own experience that you seem to feel better when Mother Nature is nearby, research proves that it’s affecting you in ways you probably never imagined.

Early Greeks and Romans were among the first to bring plants indoors. Louis XIV continued the tradition with the orangery at Versailles, and potted palms were in vogue during Victorian times. What were the 70s without some spider plants in macramé hangings?

We’ll avoid discussing the cannabis plants that might have also been lurking in a few homes, since they have distinctive medical properties and a federal drug designation. Common houseplants confer many surprising health benefits of their own, and they’re perfectly legal in all 50 states. In fact, after seeing the evidence, you may decide to run out and buy some for yourself!

Lower Your Risk for Getting Sick

Plant roots take up water, push it out to the leaves, and release some of it via evaporation. This process, called transpiration, accounts for about 10 percent of the moisture in the atmosphere. When you bring a living plant inside, the same process adds humidity to the air in your home.

Garden Indoors All Year Seniors have various alternatives for indoor gardening. The easiest, of course, is to set a potted plant in a south-facing window. But many older Americans don’t have a sunny window, or can’t bend down to tend to plants. For them, we look at systems that are compatible with older adult lifestyles. Eldergrow offers a unit that is accessible for anyone, including those using a wheelchair. The mobile unit can travel around a senior housing facility, with locking wheels to temporarily or permanently keep it in place. Eco-friendly grow lights are safe and energy efficient, while a 4-by-2-foot bed offers space for various plants. Founder Orla Concannon developed the startup to satisfy a graduate course requirement after a stint as marketing director for Aegis Senior Living, where she saw the disappointment and sadness of residents who missed gardens they had to leave behind. The company has been growing since a September 2015 launch, with a presence in six states. The company offers three ownership models: rent, buy or rent to own, the most popular option. In addition, Eldergrow can provide evidence-based horticulture therapy using a subscription-based curriculum. “It’s an all-inclusive horticulture therapy program,” Concannon says. “Our team of educators bring fresh energy into the community as well as expertise about the plants. We’re building relationships with the residents.” If you’re looking for a simpler system without the educational component, try Fresh Square Countertop Growing Units for easy indoor gardening. Each unit measures 20 inches wide by 14 inches deep and stands 20 inches tall to include grow lights. There’s no bending over, since the units sit on your counter, and their unique watering system allows you to go on vacation or even forget about plants for up to three weeks.

In dry climates and winter months, this humidity reduces your risk of dry skin, colds, sore throats and dry coughs, according to a study at the Agricultural University of Norway. Other research has found that the flu virus prefers dry air for optimal survival and transmission, so lower your flu risk by growing plants indoors.

Breathe Easy

You may know that during the day, plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen. This makes them an asset for people, who do the opposite. Growing plants increase oxygen levels indoors.

But were you aware that photosynthesis, or the exchange of carbon dioxide and oxygen by plants, stops at night? Instead, plants switch modes to absorb oxygen and emit carbon dioxide. Keep this from happening in your bedroom at night by choosing plants from the few (including orchids, succulents and epiphytic bromeliads) that continue to emit oxygen in the dark.

Air Filtration

Experts at researching air in sealed environments, NASA found an unexpected air quality improvement.

“Both plant leaves and roots are utilized in removing trace levels of toxic vapors from inside tightly sealed buildings,” say NASA researchers. “Low levels of chemicals such as carbon monoxide and formaldehyde can be removed from indoor environments by plant leaves alone.” To be effective, NASA studies suggest one plant per 100 square feet of indoor space.

According to the space agency’s research, the top 10 plants to clean the air are: peace lily, golden pothos, English ivy, chrysanthemum, gerbera daisy, mother-in-law's tongue (also known as snake plant), bamboo palm, azalea, red-edge dracaena and spider plant. Check here for more air-cleaning plants and information regarding their culture and care.

Healing Power

Bringing a plant or flowers to someone recuperating from surgery may seem uninspired. However, one study at Kansas State University recommends them as an effective complementary medicine for surgical patients that has the added advantages of being noninvasive and inexpensive. Viewing plants during recovery, according to the study, produced significant improvement in physiologic responses, demonstrated by lower systolic blood pressure and patient reports of lower pain, anxiety and fatigue when compared to patients without plants or flowers in their rooms.

Patients with plants or flowers gave more positive feedback about their rooms and evaluated them with higher satisfaction ratings when compared to patients in similar rooms with no plants. Patients with plants also gave higher rankings to hospital caregivers.

Can caring for live plants replicate or boost these findings? When patients physically interacted with plants by caring for them, a Texas A&M study found, they showed a significantly reduced recovery time after medical procedures when compared to those who didn’t.

Better Memory and Attention Span

While few studies have looked at the effect of plants on indoor environments for seniors specifically, there is evidence from research in office and school settings that plants make a dramatic difference in memory retention, concentration and productivity. Being “under the influence of plants” increased memory retention up to 20 percent, according to one University of Michigan study.

Worker productivity increased when plants were added to an office space, a pair of Norwegian studies found. Not only were workers happier when desk plants were part of the workspace, but concentration levels improved “overwhelmingly.”

“Keeping ornamental plants in the home and in the workplace increases memory retention and concentration,” note researchers at Texas A&M. “Work performed under the natural influence of ornamental plants is normally of higher quality and completed with a much higher accuracy rate than work done in environments devoid of nature.”

Plants for Brown Thumbs If brown leaves and lifeless stalks haunt your memories of plant care, take heart. Some houseplants are a lot easier to grow than others. Here are some plants that are OK with a little neglect, plants that will restore your sense of self-esteem and accomplishment. We’re going to make it really simple and give you broad categories of easy-care greenery anyone can handle. Keep in mind that most commercially available plants have been treated with pesticide at the greenhouse. Often, it’s a systemic variety that is absorbed into the plant’s system and can remain there for months or longer. To avoid bringing a toxin into your home, ask for plants that have been grown organically. Succulents. This group is as varied as the desert landscape. They like good light and drying out between less frequent waterings than other plants. Their thick leaves store water, making them tough and hardy. Don’t let water sit in the tray underneath the pot of a succulent, or it’s likely to get root rot. Put stones or gravel in the tray to lift the pot and avoid overwatering altogether. Varieties to try include the popular snake plant, or even a cactus. Violets. Want something that will flower? Violets don’t require a lot of light or attention to produce blooms for months. The secret? Water violets from the bottom, never the top of the pot. Put water in the tray underneath and then set the pot in the water. Make sure the tray isn’t huge; violets like to be moist but not soggy. Put them in a north window in summer to avoid burning the leaves. Better yet, if you love your violet so much you’d like to have more, just cut off a leaf, dip it in root hormone (available at garden centers) and plant it in another pot. Wait a month or so for tiny leaves to push up near the stem. Pothos. It may not be the most interesting houseplant, but pothos will tolerate artificial lights, it can grow hanging or on a counter, and you can plant cuttings from the trailing stems to make more plants for you or your friends. Spice things up with gold or variegated (green plus another color) varieties.

Plants Enhance Sense of Control

The research above demonstrates that the mere presence of plants indoors is beneficial in various ways. But can the act of caring for a living thing, in this case a plant, bestow beneficial effects? One study seems to tell us it can.

Nursing home residents may feel a loss of control over many aspects of their lives. They may have little say over what they do, who they see and what they eat. Researchers split 91 subjects into three groups. The nursing home director gave the first group a speech about their responsibility for their own lives. He also gave these residents a choice of nights they could watch a movie. Finally, each resident in this first group received a plant and was told that they would be responsible for its care.

A second group listened to the same speech, but with all references to personal responsibility omitted. This group was assigned a movie night and told that a nurse would care for the plant. The last group had no speech and didn’t get a plant.

Results were dramatic. Residents in the first group became happier and their activity level increased. After 18 months, with no additional differentiation, only 15 percent of residents in the first group had died compared to 30 percent in the last two groups.

Horticultural Therapy and Outdoor Settings

Abundant studies have shown that garden settings provide numerous benefits, including a reduction in pain, stress, agitation, and falls; an improvement in attention, sleeping patterns, and vitamin D absorption; and a decrease in the need for antipsychotic and “take as needed” medication. Not only do these factors improve quality of life, but they may reduce costs in a residential setting.

Designed for dementia patients, wander gardens are a new take on an old concept. All plants in the garden are edible, the garden itself is enclosed to prevent straying, and all paths lead back to the residence. One study found that inappropriate behaviors of patients at a locked facility decreased substantially within 30 minutes of their finding the unlocked door to such a garden.

One company that started out designing therapy gardens for patients in hospital settings branched out to assisted-living communities. Designs for Generations owner Jack Carman, tipped off by his wife who works in geriatric management, studied how therapeutic gardens could affect mental behavior, especially among people with cognitive disorders.

“Good therapy for patients and their families notwithstanding, therapy gardens also provide a welcome change of pace for doctors, nurses and other caregivers, whose jobs are both demanding and often very stressful,” says Carman.

Seniors’ Outdoor Survey

With evidence pointing to the importance of plants in the environment, planners needed a measurement to determine how to best meet older adults’ needs for time spent outside while in residential home care. The Seniors’ Outdoor Survey (SOS) is an observational tool for assessing how well outdoor environments at long-term care settings support residents’ preferences and usage of the space.

Ratings are given in five categories: access to nature, outdoor comfort and safety, walking and outdoor activities, indoor-outdoor connection and connection to the world. A total of 60 items across the categories are ranked, giving institutional designers solid goals for spaces that enhance the resident experience.

The tool aims to eliminate typical barriers to outdoor access such as inadequate shade and seating, unsafe walkways and self-locking doors. Researchers found that prior to the development of SOS, it was difficult to determine which environmental characteristics best supported the use of outdoor space.

---

Sources

“What Is the Evidence to Support the Use of Therapeutic Gardens for the Elderly?,” NIH.

“5 health benefits of houseplants,” Treehuger.

“5 Benefits of Houseplants,” Bayer.

“Ornamental indoor plants in hospital rooms enhanced health outcomes of patients recovering from surgery,” National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine.

“Ellison Chair in International Floriculture,” Texas A&M.

“The Benefit of Pets and Animal-Assisted Therapy to the Health of Older Individuals,” National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine.

“Studies Prove that Desk Plants Can Improve Worker Concentration and Productivity,” Inhabitat.

“Long-term effects of a control-relevant Intervention with the Institutionalized Aged,” Centre for Confidence and Well-being.

“The Seniors’ Outdoor Survey: An Observational Tool for Assessing Outdoor Environments at Long-Term Care Settings,” Oxford University Press.

“Wander gardens: Expanding the dementia treatment environment,” Research Gate.

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors
www.csa.us

Fashion Tips for Seniors

Looking great over 60 isn’t as hard as you think when you follow these expert fashion tips with a nod to your personal style.

What do you see when you open your closet? Is it full of clothes that make you feel good about yourself when you wear them? Or, like most of us, do you have an assortment of shapeless tops to cover up batwing arms and the fat that moved straight to your midsection when you turned 50?

The good news is that the basic rules for your wardrobe haven’t changed. Classic looks with a great fit are still the basis as we age. Putting together those looks is easy once you know the simple rules that can help you pick outfits that enhance your shape.

Will your choices be limited to frumpy or too-young? What can make fashion choices harder is a lack of age-appropriate images in print. If you want to see how aging actresses define their style with aplomb, check the photos here . However, there are plenty of ways to make your own look, and it’s not as hard as you might think.

The first step to a style makeover is putting aside the muumuus and mom jeans (or the too-small pants that give you muffin-top extreme). Embrace the body you have, and the rest is simple.

Love Your Curves

Where to go for Senior Fashion Maybe you already have your favorite store, but you’d like to branch out to push your style boundaries. Or you’re ready to change your look, but your budget says no. Here are some of the best places recommended by other older adults to find fashion that works. Fall in love with the looks at Sundance , but don’t buy unless you have a few thousand to toss away on a wardrobe. Sundance offers super-comfortable elastic waistbands in many pants, combined with interesting textures and a modern Western vibe. Identify styles you like, and see if you can replicate them with thrift store finds. If you have money to burn, Net a Porter sells designer looks online. One hot fashion tip is to spend a lot of money on a great pair of shoes and fancy purse to make your whole outfit look expensive. Other stores that get kudos from seniors includeZulily,Soft Surroundings,Chicos and‎ J.Jill. Hundreds more exist, and you can check them out online to get ideas for what’s trending, or what length top looks best with capris, for example. Then, you’re ready to go on the hunt. Thrift and consignment stores offer the most bang for your dollar anywhere. Here’s where you can get double-ply cashmere for under 10 dollars, or a silk blouse for half that. Be open about sizing, and search the racks for pieces put in the wrong place or that simply run large or small. If you love it, try it on. Hint: Natural fibers such as cotton, wool and cashmere can be stretched (as much as one size up) by immersing in water with a few capfuls of fabric softener or hair conditioner. Squeeze gently, then place on a towel to dry. Stretch the fabric by pulling firmly several times in the direction you want it to “grow.” ARC, Goodwill and Salvation Army stores offer racks of clothing that are a deal any day, but especially when they are cut to half price. (Check individual stores for half-price days.) You can also get a deal with a senior discount that varies by store and region. Ask if the chain has an upscale outlet such as Denver Goodwill’s Deja Blue where shoppers pick through designer brands in good condition. You might be able to get some shopping cash by consigning clothes in good shape that you no longer want. Check your area for consignment stores, but be sure to check what age and size they cater to. Consignment stores targeting working women will likely have basics that will work for you, and it’s always worth perusing accessories and handbags. Don’t forget eBay! Shopping is a 24/7 experience for new and used items on this giant mall-and-garage-sale in the cloud. This is a great spot to snag anything from a bright red purse to an art deco scarf, as the possibilities are truly endless. Remember to keep an eye on seller satisfaction ratings and return policies to avoid disappointment.

A common misconception is that you need to cover up unwanted curves, leading many women to hide in bulky sweaters or shapeless tops. But wearing clothing that’s too big for your frame can make your proportions look worse, not better. This is especially true if you are plus-size and petite.

To draw attention away from upper arms, wear bell sleeves or long flutter sleeves. Another flattering look features close -fitting sleeves that end just below the elbow. For cooler weather, choose shirts with long sleeves that you can roll up the forearm if the temperature warms. Add a kimono-style jacket over a knit top to give a pop of texture and color.

An easy mistake is purchasing outerwear that’s boxy in shape. Puffy down jackets are warm, but not the best look (unless you’re camping). Instead, choose a belted wool coat or a form-fitting long sweater. Browse designer Stephen Hadley’s Generous Fashions site to spark ideas for new looks.

Shape Up Your Wardrobe

Many older women gravitate toward baggy pants and maxi dresses with no waistline. This is a mistake, according to fashion blogger Catherine Brock. She recommends garments that have a defined shape. An A-line skirt looks good on almost any size frame, for example.

Choose sheath dresses that give your body a smooth silhouette. Throw on a jacket or kaftan if you’d like a little more cover, but watch the fit: A huge jacket can overwhelm a slimming dress.

Knowing the best style for your body type can help you feel confident about clothing choices.

If your body is pear-shaped, with great curves and a slender torso, choose clothing that draws attention to your shoulders. Embellished tops that clinch under the bust and flow out over hips work well. And don’t forget that a great necklace draws attention up toward your face and pairs well with a simple shirt and pair of jeans.

Apple-shaped bodies don’t need extra volume around the midsection. A long, floaty coat over a monochromatic base layer flatters this body type. You can also try a high-waisted flounce skirt to add some bulk down below for a balanced outline.

If your hips, waist and bust size are similar, you have what’s known as a banana shape. Flatter your figure with ruffles at the bust of a shirt or dress, or try some tapered pants that get slimmer at your ankles.

For more ideas on how to dovetail your personal style favorites with your body type, check out the Stitch Fix style guide on how to dress for your body shape. The trendy site can send outfits chosen just for you to your home, where you can try them on and decide to buy or return. Although not specifically for seniors, many of their styles are ageless, and they have an “ask an expert stylist” button for help with decisions.

Face Up to the Facts

Did you know the shape of your face influences what collar styles look best on you? For instance, if you have a long, thin face, a rounded collar is a better choice than a V-neck, which looks best on a wider face.

In fact, you should consider the shape of your face when choosing sunglasses, jewelry and even how to wear your hair. If this sounds confusing, use the lifehacker blog to decide which of six face types you have, and how to make the most of it. Men can check it out for flattering beard styles and shirt collars, too.

In the Swim

Sigh. Searching through the racks of bathing suits at many stores can be one of the most depressing acts known to older women. The sisterhood agrees that the mall does not have enough suits made for older figures. But take heart, there is an answer.

Online stores such as Swimsuits for All cater to those of us with less than bikini-ready bodies. Here, you can buy a top a size smaller than the bottom, or choose boy shorts instead of a French cut bikini bottom that exposes every inch of cellulite.

At these specialty sites, larger busts get maximum support. Mix and match for a fashion statement that flatters every body, such as combining a solid bottom and print top. Or, choose from one-piece creations with interesting cutouts, or darker side panels that boost the illusion of a slimmer shape.

Budget-friendly choices include using whatever you have and pairing it with a pair of solid shorts or Capri tights, perfectly acceptable at the beach or pool. If you’d like a little more coverage, choose a long, flowing cover-up like this one on sale at Venus .

For more tips to get you in the water, or at least at the shoreline, peruse this article on how to find a flattering suit .

Know Your Best Colors

Guys Can Dress Better, Too Older men have it easy at work. A suit and tie just don’t change much from age 20 to age 70. But what about leisure time and casual Friday? What’s in and what’s out? We can help! Perhaps the first thing to mention is a ban on socks with sandals. Don’t do it. Second piece of advice: no calf-length athletic socks pulled up high, period. You are looking 99 percent better already! Third: Solids and subtle patterns flatter everyone. Fourth: Whatever you wear, make sure it fits. Tight pants and a huge top do not hide a big belly. Just like the ladies, you need to flatter whatever size you are with a perfect fit. Men need to pay attention to general style trends, such as if pleated pants are out or in. Trouser leg widths change over time, just like tie width. But guys have it pretty easy in the color department, with khaki, navy, browns and greys the eternal wardrobe staples. However, men are more likely to be colorblind than women. If you can’t figure out whether to pair that coral polo with your black shorts or the maroon pair, it’s time to consult a fashion expert. Enter the Nordstrom Personal Stylist . This is your fashion angel who will set you off on the right track for every occasion. You don’t have to buy an entire new wardrobe, but your stylist can show you pieces that mix and match well (and those that don’t), guide you to current trends, and artfully steer you away from an overly youthful look. In sum, your stylist can make you look great. Click on the link above to make a free appointment so this wonderful person can trot to your dressing room with styling suggestions and pieces to try on for a whole new you. Not in the mood for a department store? Trendy StitchFix sends clothes to your door, and their personal stylist will work with you online. You can read up on fashion at their men’s style guide, which answers such pressing questions as, “How do I build a business casual wardrobe?” Take the tips you learn there to make better decisions wherever you buy your clothes. Hint: Natural fibers always look rich. Linen and cotton for summer, wool gabardines and sweaters for winter. Take them to the dry cleaner. You’ll look like a million bucks.

All of us have colors that complement our skin tone, hair and eyes. If you don’t know what your best colors are, have a friend help out as you hold different fabrics under your face. Or, try this http://www.colorenalysis.com/ online to get started.

Knowing your colors doesn’t mean that, say, yellow and pink work, but you should never wear blue. Rather, it’s understanding the shades of colors that are best. Pink, for example, can range anywhere from a deep orange tone (coral) to the lightest pastel rose. And while you may look fantastic in a salmon shade, it’s possible that something similar, such as bright orange, isn’t flattering.

You don’t have to discard clothes that aren’t in your color palette. But knowing shades that suit you best gives guidance for future purchases, such as when you love the fit of a blouse but can’t decide whether to buy it in red or turquoise.

Finally, you need basics (a black jacket or white cotton blouse, for example) that will pair with just about anything.

What Works for Everyone

There are some styles that suit older women across a wide range of body types and style preferences. Think of these as easy go-to pieces that you can dress up with a jacket or jewelry. Blazers and cardigan sweaters go great with V-neck tops, shift dresses and button-down shirts.

“In warmer months, V-neck tops with elbow-length sleeves are the new T-shirt for seniors,” says Brock.

She emphasizes the need for older women to have wardrobe staples like a black blazer, dark-wash jeans, straight-leg trousers and T-shirts in various colors with different sleeve lengths and necklines.

Personal Style

Dressing your best doesn’t mean looking like everyone else. If you love to travel, add a unique piece of jewelry from a trip. Maybe you love vintage pieces and can incorporate them into your personal look. It doesn’t have to be jewelry; a 1930s dress or retro beaded sweater can turn heads.

It’s never too late to get your own style, or change it up. Dig around in your jewelry box to find pieces you haven’t worn in years but still love. Or, bring a friend to a bead boutique and make your own personalized bracelet. Maybe you adore funky shoes that make a statement. Spend a bundle on a pair of awesome boots, and get the rest of your clothes from the thrift store.

Are you afraid to stand out and look different than everyone else? Take courage by watching Iris, a documentary about eclectic New York style icon Iris Apfel. At age 93, she sports glasses frames that dwarf her face and wears enough costume jewelry all at once to decorate five lesser women. Go big or go home!

Apfel chugs out in her wheelchair to bargain for accessories with a street vendor, or answers questions for adoring fans at a fashion retrospective featuring, of course, Apfel’s closet and sartorial style.

“I like to improvise,” she says, and so will you after seeing her flaunt a bevy of bold, wild selections.

---

Sources

“Embrace Your Curves! Why Covering Up Isn’t The Answer After 60,” Sixty and Me.

“The Budget Fashionista,” The Budget Fashionista.

“How To Find Flattering Bathing Suits For Older Women,” Sixty and Me.

“Fashion For Women Over 60 – Look Fabulous Without Trying To Look Younger,” Sixty and Me.

“The Complete Guide to Dressing for Your Body Type,” What to Wear.

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors
www.csa.us

Financial Tips for Low- to Mid-Income Seniors

Start the New Year right with this comprehensive financial help program that covers everything from how to get out of debt, tips for reducing costs, and how to boost your income--even if that’s just social security.

One-third of households headed by an older adult has no money left over at the end of the month or is in debt after meeting essential expenses, according to the Institute on Assets and Social Policy. If you’re one of these seniors, it may seem impossible to ever feel financially secure or to put away a nest egg for emergencies. But there is a simple way to start making steps toward these goals, and you won’t have to do it alone.

Savvy Saving Seniors Program

Savvy Saving Seniors is a program developed by the National Council on Aging. Savvy Saving Seniors covers those on the mid- to lower-end of the economic scale from about the age of 50 on up. Specifically aimed at older adults who may lack economic security, the program provides a three-step guide, or toolkit, to build a solid financial foundation.

Toolkit One features lots of free financial resources, Toolkit Two offers tips for avoiding scams that plague seniors, and Toolkit Three covers debit cards. The materials are presented as a training guide for a speaker to deliver to community members, but the guide is equally useful for an individual seeking advice.

Many Ways to Save

Seniors are asked to make a list of their expenses, including supplemental health insurance, life insurance, and prescription drug insurance. Check around to see if your insurance is the best deal for your current situation. Your State Health Insurance Assistance Program can help assess your current drug plan.

Savings, even on necessary expenses, abound. Medicare enrollees may be entitled to more than $100 back on their Social Security check by using Medicare Savings Programs. Hundreds or even thousands of dollars can come off your property tax bill with help from local abate, work-off, or circuit rider programs.

You may qualify for a free cell phone via a state program. If you need extra income, don’t overlook paid volunteer positions. The following organizations offer a stipend for older adults: Senior Corps, Retired Senior Volunteer Program, and Senior Community Service Employment Program.

If you’re a homeowner, a reverse mortgage may provide the financial means to keep you in your home. There are many pros and cons to consider before you sign on the dotted line. To gain a better understanding of reverse mortgages for condo owners, check out this Senior Spirit article.

Many stores, including thrift stores, offer discounts to seniors on certain days of the week. Try and shop only on those days to save extra money.

Federal and nationwide programs offer a range of benefits, depending on your income. Money to pay for food is available through SNAP. Find your local food bank on Feed America. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program offers free help with your return. The Low Income Energy Home Assistance Program subsidizes utility bills. The Weatherization Assistance Program can help defray the cost of weatherizing your home.

You may qualify for other benefits. Find out by visiting Benefits Checkup. This wonderful resource takes your zip code and displays assistance programs for food, health, housing, medications, utilities, veterans, tax relief and more available locally. It’s easy and quick. If you don’t do anything else, check out this tool!

Financial Literacy Homework

The essentials of making a budget are covered in Toolkit One. While homework is never fun, it’s a lot easier when you start working on it in a group, and you have a workbook to guide you. Budgeting introduces the concepts of fixed expenses, flexible expenses, monthly expenses, periodic expenses, and discretionary expenses.

The program stresses the need for an emergency fund, even for older adults who are in debt. The first step is to make a plan for getting out of debt, month by month. Think payday loans are the answer? The program discusses how much cheaper an overdrawn bank account is versus payday loan fees. How about setting up automatic payments for fixed expenses to avoid overdraft charges?

Do you know what your financial net worth is? Having a firm grasp of your fiscal situation provides the groundwork for setting goals and achieving them in the future. You’ll be encouraged to make an action plan with prioritized goals and time frames for achieving them.

Banking Explained

You may use a bank for checking, but did you what else it offers? A bank or credit union may hold the key to establishing credit, even after a bankruptcy. Interest rates vary, depending on the type of account your money is in and the going rate. You can set up an account just to save for emergencies or an annual expense. The Social Security Administration can automatically deposit your monthly check, ensuring timely and dependable arrival of funds.

Top Budget Busters

Why does it seem like your money disappears every month? It’s always tricky to stretch a dollar, but your money may be prey to your own bad habits. The good news is, habits can be broken. Check to see if any of your greenbacks are disappearing in ways you can prevent:

• ATM and bank fees
• Misusing balance transfers
• Credit card balances
• Late payments
• Handouts to family members or friends
• Getting scammed
• Poor credit rating
• Buying fast food

If you still have questions, or want to dig into financial literacy on a piecemeal basis, visit Bank of America’s Better Money Habits website. Developed in partnership with Khan Academy, the site is easy to navigate, and built to offer users as little, or as much, information as they want to consume in a sitting. While topics don’t target the senior community alone, most of them will apply to all ages. Information is presented in quick bites with accompanying graphics that make the site fun and engaging.

---

Sources

“Savvy Saving Seniors® Financial Education Tools,” NCOA: National Council on Aging.

“Savvy Saving Seniors: Becoming ResourceFULL Facilitator’s Guide,” NCOA: National Council on Aging.

“Saving & Budgeting,” Bank of America.

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors
www.csa.us

Transitioning to a Senior Care Facility

Ideas for helping older adults mentally and physically make the move from home to assisted living.

There are few changes in an older adult’s life as frightening and impactful as moving from home to a senior living situation. All of the old, familiar habits are suddenly obsolete, and waking up in a strange bedroom can be an alarming experience. Neighbors and friends are no longer nearby, and routines change abruptly.

How can family and caregivers make this difficult transition easier and smoother?

Use a Referral Specialist

A referral specialist, also known as a referral professional, can take much of the burden off the shoulders of family members navigating uncharted waters. This professional can often assist in evaluating the older adult’s need for services, including their safety at home, and give the family or caregiver options for addressing those needs.

A referral specialist should be able to point you to senior caregiving services that have a good reputation and solid licensure record with minimal care violations or citations, something that might be covered up by a lovely building and vivacious salesperson. The referral professional can evaluate your budget and give you options in your community that you can afford, whether for part-time help at home or for a move into assisted living, an adult family home, or a memory care community. The specialist is trained to anticipate future needs as well, and can discuss continuance of care for the duration of your life.

Additionally, a referral professional can point you to competent service people in the community who understand the needs of older adults and their family. You may require the services of a realtor, an elder law attorney (for a power of attorney or advanced directives), or even someone to manage downsizing or moving.

The referral company, often known as a placement agency, should employ personnel who hold accredited credentials, such as the Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® designation, to ensure they act in a capable and ethical manner. Ask if they have additional certifications with a state or local organization. How long have they been in business? Check online reviews, or ask for references.

Moving Out Before You Move On

Once the decision has been made to move out of the home, a lot of work has to be done. It won’t be easy. Fifty years of accumulations may require sorting and winnowing, sometimes quickly if Mom or Dad is moving out of state to be near a family member. Decisions about what to keep, what to give away, what to sell and what to take to the dump, can be wrenching.

Is It Time for Assisted Living? Making the decision to move out of your home is never an easy one. Your emotions may continue to tell you to stay long after other signs all point to leaving. To help you figure out what the right decision might be for you or a loved one, consider these questions: Are you eating well, or do you subsist on simple foods like soda crackers and chips? Are you tripping or falling and covering up the bruises when visitors come over? Are you able to bathe regularly, do the laundry and dress in clean clothes every day? Can you take care of the yard and house by yourself? Are you able to take your medications as prescribed, in the right dose? Can you operate all of the appliances safely, remembering to turn off the oven and stove? Does your home have grab bars and emergency response systems if needed? Is there a plan in place in case of an emergency? Is your driving up to snuff? Do you have an alternate way to get around? Are you paying your bills on time? Are your finances in order? Are friends still coming over, or have they largely left the neighborhood or passed away, making home seem more like solitary confinement than the happy place it once was? It may be time to seek out some help for an hour a day, or a day a week. But if you or your loved one is in danger of hurting yourself or others, a move may be in order.

Keep precious objects for their new home. Consult with the older adult about which furniture will fit in their new space, and what will be comfortable. Take cherished jewelry or memorabilia that will is filled with memories. Familiar artwork, kitchen tools and clothing all ease the move. For families, this is usually not the time to decorate in your own style, replace Mom’s outdated clothing or lay claim to her jewelry.

Expect your loved one to make negative comments. These may be about the decision to move, the way you pack, the new place or you. Take a deep breath and just listen. It could be that Mom or Dad simply needs to vent, or they may be trying to maintain decision-making power over some small thing when they feel they’ve lost it in bigger ways. Use this as an opportunity to make the situation better, if possible. Allow yourself some bad days.

Usually, transitions are smoother when you know what to expect and how to make your loved one feel more at home. We’ve compiled a list of tips and suggestions for making the move go smoothly.

Before Your Loved One Moves In

As a caregiver or family member, you can make a great deal of difference in how comfortable and personal your loved one’s new home is. Most facilities allow several visits before your loved one actually moves. Enjoy some meals together, and get to know some of the staff by name. Find the dining room, library, or game room. Show your parent the outdoor walking path, beauty salon, movie theater and anywhere else they may need to go. Many senior communities maintain an active online presence where you’ll find photos of residents enjoying daily activities.

Bring things your parent has made or collected to put in their room. Keep the feel of their old home using photographs, color scheme, furniture and paintings. Family photos and crafts are particularly welcome. Stimulate the senses with scented candles, soft fabrics and the use of color.

Seasonal reminders such as colorful leaves or a timely bouquet can make the room cheerful. Decorate for the holidays, preferably with the person’s own ornaments. Magazines, books or audio books, music and newspapers can be welcome additions.

The First Day in a Senior Care Facility

Expect your loved one to be tired and even short-tempered on moving day. Transition days are physically and emotionally taxing for everyone. Ask your loved one where they’d like furniture and artwork. Look for ways to say “yes” to requests such as putting artwork in odd places. This is their home, not yours.

Take time to sit and talk about a move they remember, an outing you two have planned or what’s on the menu for dinner. Walk your loved one from their room to the dining area, noting how to find the way back. Discuss the routine, including when meals are served. Write it down if necessary.

The First Week

It’s a good time to rally friends and family, especially if Mom or Dad has moved from out-of-state to be near you. Put some subtle pressure on siblings to get on a calling or visiting schedule, and let everyone know Grandma would welcome cards, letters, texts, emails, phone calls … whatever your loved one has access to. Encourage faraway friends to initiate contact as well.

Your loved one may express a desire to go home. Your reply could be, “I know, Mom. I wish you could, too. What’s hard for you today?” Listen, then listen some more. Listening is a powerful solution of its own. Offer comfort and hugs. Later, you could say something such as, “I think we make a great team. Let’s go get some coffee together.”

You might wonder if you’re visiting too much. Call and visit as often as you want to. Especially while your loved one hasn’t yet made friends or developed a routine, it can be soothing to you both. Set up a comforting routine, or call your loved one ahead of time to let her know you’re coming. Avoid meal times, nap time, and therapy or other treatment time. Check with staff if your loved one isn’t sure about the schedule, and let other visitors know what works too.

Knock on the door before entering your loved one’s room. Think about what activities your parent enjoys. Are there favorite movies, games or music? Would your loved one enjoy telling you family stories while you take a video or write them down? Elicit stories by asking about past events or milestones.

Take advantage of opportunities to keep your loved one involved with your family. Sharing photos, FaceTime, Skype or home videos can spark memories and make new ones. Record events such as graduation ceremonies, sports games and school plays and concerts, then share the footage.

Your loved one may enjoy a manicure or pedicure, or help writing a letter. Bring a board game, deck of cards, puzzle or bakery treat. Take a leisurely stroll. Don’t be afraid to bring children. Youngsters rarely react negatively, and teens can be an asset if they understand the assisted living environment. But do remove tired children or unwilling teens.

If you have young children, bring simple games like tic-tac-toe or dominoes, or some coloring materials. Ask your parent about games they played in their childhood. Bring a small gift for the child to open or present. Start new family traditions with a shared treat or holiday celebration. Have children create a living history by asking about firsthand experiences.

The First Month

In some ways, this time will go by in a blur, and in other ways, it may drag. You may second-guess your decision many times, and other days you’ll feel confident you did the right thing.

Evaluate the number, length and quality of your visits. Does your loved one have a steady flow of visitors that still allows time for them to become involved in the community? Are you happy about how your role has changed?

Outings can give you and your loved one a chance to connect. Get an ice cream cone, go out to a show, take a walk in a park or find an event at your local library. Your parent may enjoy going to happy hour, visiting a microbrewery, attending a religious service or taking a short shopping trip. Bring your loved one home and cook dinner, or show them the garden.

If negative comments continue, remember to pay attention to your loved one’s opinions. Treat them as an equal in the conversation. They may be using negative comments to voice uncertainty or fear. If you are concerned there is a problem with the staff or facility, make an appointment to speak with an approachable staff member or the administration. Follow the facility’s complaint procedure. Dissatisfaction may be expressed as depression, anxiety, hostility, withdrawal or unresponsiveness. If you’re not satisfied with the response, each state has an ombudsman program to help family members resolve complaints.

Many assisted living facilities report that it can take between one and three months for a new resident to become comfortable. Don’t expect immediate results, especially if your loved one is getting over the death of a spouse or adjusting to a health issue. However, time and love are the key ingredients for helping anyone adjust to life in a senior care facility.

---

Sources

“Signs That Tell You It's Time for Assisted Living,” AgingCare.com.

“Helping Elderly Parents Transition to Assisted Living,” AgingCare.com.

“Transition to Care,” American Health Care Association.

“Making The Transition to Senior Living: One Family’s Story,” A Place for Mom, Inc.

“5 Ways to Help Your Loved One Transition to Senior Living,” Christian Care Communities.

“11/10/2017 Interview with Steve Steve Garrett, CSA on Transitioning to a Senior Care Facility,” CarePatrol Pacific Northwest.

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors
www.csa.us

De-stress the Holidays for Caregivers and Seniors

Unexpected ideas, as well as the tried-and-true, put smiles on caregivers and older adults during the holiday season.

Are you one of those people who shudder involuntarily when you think about the holidays, wishing that you could embrace the joy of the season instead? Caregivers contemplate the extra demands on their limited time and wonder how they will fit in another thing when they are already juggling family, work, volunteer activities and a social life. Older adults may dread reminders of loved ones who are no longer here, the difficulty of going nonstop on family holiday outings, or trying to afford presents on a fixed income.

It doesn’t have to be that way. Stress is often the result of unrealistic expectations that you can manage. Take a mental look at which specific issues cause you worry around the holidays, and write them down. Then peruse our comprehensive list of ideas for getting those issues under control, and jot down an action plan. We’ve included solutions for caregiver worries, as well as concerns that often crop up for older adults around this time of year. Just having a plan will make you feel better, but acting on it will put you back in control and on your way to a joyous holiday season.

1. Give yourself permission to change your holiday routine. Just because you usually decorate a full-size fir with three boxes of ornaments, cook a complete holiday meal for 24 with all the fixings, and wrap every present for 59 extended family members doesn’t mean that you can’t let it all go. Maybe your tree will be two feet tall this year: still lovely, but decked out in a quarter of the time. Perhaps you’ll cook the main dish and go potluck for the rest of the meal. Amazon may supply your presents. Pick and choose what truly gives you joy, and what you can reasonably accomplish.


2. Simplify meals. If you love making your grandmother’s favorite recipe but feel stressed at the thought of cooking the entire dinner, you have options. Potluck is the new normal at family gatherings, even if faraway relatives need to cook at your place or have something shipped in. Do you really need five side dishes and three desserts? If so, make some of them ahead and stick them in the freezer. Use Chinet paper plates with faux silver (plastic) utensils, and reserve the family china for serving pieces to cut down on clean-up.


3. Set aside a quiet room. Ban the kids from one downstairs area that you or other adults can use for some R&R. Escaping to a quiet spot for a rejuvenating nap can make all the difference. Add a little aromatherapy to help make the mood relaxing. Lavender and citrus are a good mix to sprinkle on linens or in a saucer.


4. Don’t do it all alone. When your teens whine that you didn’t get a tree this year, smile wanly and tell them how proud you are they are old enough to decorate one all by themselves if they’d like to get one. Hubby wants a full four-course meal? Remind him about the restaurant that is serving holiday meals and suggest a reservation. Or let him know his barbeque skills would come in handy this year and you’ll coach him on dessert. Communicate your needs early, and let everyone know their help is appreciated. Include older adults in your planning, with tasks that are appropriate to their ability. Mom may not be able to whip up her peach cobbler anymore, but if she stirs the crumble and pats the peaches into place, she’ll feel useful. Leave a few ornaments at eye level for her to put on the tree, or have her tie the ribbon on a Hanukkah gift or two.



Three Great December Trips for Caregivers and Seniors Skip the hassle of the holidays this year and take a trip instead. It’s a wonderful way to avoid the shopping, cooking and relatives (shhhhh!). Cruising is a classic way to travel with an older adult. Pack and unpack just once, stay onboard the whole time if you like, never cook and have activities available at all times. Remain in the United States with a river trip on American Cruise Lines that will take you down the Mississippi to stay warm over the holidays, or check out one of their themed cruises, such as Lewis and Clark, Nashville Country and Blues, or Food and Wine. Travel the world on a budget with Road Scholar, which specializes in educational trips at a minimal price. You can explore our border with Mexico at Big Bend, take one of 222 national park trips, or fly to Cuba for a history lesson and a cigar. Thousands of offerings guarantee something that will interest you both. How about a trip to Costa Rica with ElderTreks, the Canadian travel company that caters to the 50-and-over crowd with exotic adventures in small groups? They make all the arrangements and you have all the fun after choosing from destinations worldwide. Do all of these sound far too expensive for your budget? Consider booking with a major cruise line, which often lowers prices if ships aren’t full a couple of weeks before departure. Caribbean destinations are among the most affordable for Americans. If that’s still absurdly expensive, how about dinner and a stay at a posh hotel? Remain in town or take a short drive with Mom or Dad to enjoy a modern staycation together. Even one night away makes memories that last a lifetime.

5. Allow older adults to stick to their schedule and dietary needs. If Dad normally has lunch at 11 and dinner at 4:30, try to keep it that way while he’s visiting. It’s difficult for older adults to adjust their bodies to a different timetable. Take note of any allergies Dad has, and ask if there are foods he can’t eat anymore. It could be that old favorites are no longer digestible, or perhaps even palatable. Dental issues might create a need for soft foods only. Talk to aging parents about dietary needs well in advance of holiday meals.


6. Take time for yourself. Set aside half an hour a day to rejuvenate. Whether it’s taking a hot bath, sipping cocoa while reading a book, or lighting a candle and meditating, you need some “me” time. Prioritize it just like you would for a family member. In the long run, it will help you to do a better job as a caregiver over the holidays.


7. Anticipate hot-button issues and work around them. Does Aunt Amy thrive on denigrating the political party that you support? Does your sister who lives out-of-state let you know that your caregiving is not up to par? You can take evasive action. Sit at the opposite end of the table, excuse yourself from the table, politely refuse to engage in certain conversations, start the dishes or take a long walk. Have an exit strategy planned, and act on it.


8. Focus on the positive. Fear, sadness and worry can invade your thoughts during the holidays. This is perfectly normal. But you can control many of your thoughts with mindful awareness. Focus on what your loved one can do, rather than what they can’t. Delight in the activities you’ll do this year, rather than those you can’t participate in. Appreciate the smallest bit of help you receive, instead of resenting others who are not supportive.


9. Remember to exercise. Whether you take a long walk outside, do jumping jacks while the cookies are baking or attend a Pilates session, exercise can boost your mood. Older adults who may not be steady on their feet or want to avoid snow and ice might enjoy making the rounds at your local mall, where holiday decorations can add to a festive mood.


10. End the gift machine already. A lot of holiday stress centers around gift giving: what to buy and how to pay for it. Older adults on a fixed income have every right to opt out of the process. Or you might limit gifts to one per person with a low price cap. You could also give the gift of time, especially welcome to seniors, without the expectation of a monetary gift in return. Expect to receive pushback from other family members, but keep in mind that you are in control of what you give.


11. Give to charity instead of individuals. Pick a charity as a family that everyone can donate to according to their resources. The benefits are many. The charity gets a nice chunk of change, no one is obligated to spend more than what is affordable, there is no awkward display of wealth or poverty since no one knows how much anyone else gave, and you can all feel a little better for supporting a common cause. If funds aren’t an issue, or family members prefer to support different institutions, then individuals can champion a personal favorite.


12. Use a support system. Whether it’s calling an old friend, getting together with your sister, or having a private laugh with your mom in the kitchen, use your connections. That private laugh may turn into a long cry, but you need someone to share with who will be supportive. Counselors and therapists can be vital allies to keep your mental health strong when it may be tested most.


13. Ask for help with your loved one. Caregiving responsibilities may overwhelm you at the holidays. It’s time to call on your family members to give you a break, dial a respite care center to give you some free time, or look for a paid caregiver. Many companies offer senior companions, or a neighborhood teen may be able to come over for a few hours and go through photographs with your loved one. Consider having a helper do some laundry, clean your house or run errands. Even if you normally don’t pay for help, hiring someone to assist you over the holidays can be well worth the sense of relief you’ll feel.


14. Start a new tradition. Instead of focusing on what you’re not doing, make a new tradition. You could invite the neighbors over for dinner, watch a holiday movie together or take your loved one on a drive to see the lights. Money isn’t the object; instead, spend time together. Enjoy some holiday music, light a holly berry candle or read a holiday book aloud to a parent or grandchildren. Have a long FaceTime or Skype chat with a loved one.


15. Do something for others. Nothing puts us in the holiday spirit like helping others in need. Call a soup kitchen or food bank to donate your time or that of your whole family. Shop for a local child through Toys for Tots, donate to the Salvation Army or support a faith-based charity. Find an organization that needs your help with disaster relief, become a volunteer at the local animal shelter or offer to help out in your school system. Check here for tips on how to avoid charity scam artists.


16. Take time to listen. It’s easy to skip over loved ones’ needs during this busy time of year. Depression and melancholy may make them quiet and easy to ignore with all the hustle and bustle, but they may need you more than ever. Ask them about childhood holidays, and don’t end the conversation if they get sad or angry. Your empathy is vital.


17. Help older adults connect with their friends. Holiday cards diminish as time goes on, and seniors can feel sad and alone. The cards they do receive may bring news of illness or death. Help your loved one write cards or make calls to stay in touch with old friends and faraway family members.


18. Thank older adults for what they’ve done for you. Take advantage of the holiday opportunity to thank your parent for teaching you how to cook, how to forgive or how to love. Tell them what a difference it’s made in your life. Acknowledge the sacrifices that person made for you. Look for ways to be grateful. A side benefit of gratitude is that it makes you happier.


19. Connect your parent with children. A local school holiday concert, an outing to the mall or a trip to story time at the library can lift a senior’s spirits. If your parent is in a home for seniors, see if their program director can find children to visit. Perhaps a local 4-H Club could bring in small animals for residents to pet, or a class of children could visit and write about the story they hear a senior tell. If your parent has grandchildren in the area, take your mom or dad to see the child’s choir concert or holiday production.


20. Decorate your parent’s room for the holidays. But not all at once. Bringing an ornament one day and a gift or treat on another stretches out the anticipation and surprise. Consider putting up a small tree or electric menorah in your parent’s room, or hanging a wreath on their door for other residents to see.


21. Throw a party in the residential facility. Distribute invitations to your loved one’s friends, and bring some traditional goodies for them to enjoy together. Use a small conference room or other space with plenty of seating.


22. Do not set a goal of perfection. So the turkey is burned. You’ll never forget the holiday you had to eat peanut butter sandwiches … but it will be a wonderful memory if everyone can laugh and talk about another dinner that didn’t go as planned. Approach “disasters” as opportunities to forgive (even if it’s yourself), laugh, and be grateful for what you have, and this really will be your best holiday ever.

---

Sources

“Tips to Ease Holiday Stress for Caregivers,” Huffington Post.

“Holidays,” caregiverstress.com.

“10 Tips for Caregivers During the Holidays,” AARP.

“5 Tips for helping seniors manage holiday stress,” sheknows.com.

“Reducing Loneliness in Elders around the Holidays,” agingcare.com.

“Help Seniors Overcome Holiday Stress: 4 Tips,” caregiverstress.com.

“Holiday Health for Seniors,” care.com.

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors
www.csa.us

Best Ways for Older Adults to Save for the Holidays

13 ways to make your holidays affordable and meaningful.

No matter how you celebrate the season, it can be a challenge to come up with money for gift-giving and seasonal festivities. Take a look below to find tricks to handle all those extra expenses for more joy over the holidays.

1. Stop spending for a month. It seems impossible, but if you really cut expenses to the bone, you can set aside some savings. Pack your lunch for road trips, ban restaurants (even the casual ones), and embrace potlucks and BYOB for entertaining. Let your hair grow a few extra weeks, use the library for entertainment and make all of your own coffee. Buy the store brand, eat up everything in your freezer and avoid temptation by not going to any retailers other than the grocery store.


2. Recycle electronics and earn rewards. Turn your old electronic devices, like cell phones, cameras, navigation units, computers, tablets and MP3 players, into cash or points you can use for gift cards. Check out MaxBack and RecycleBank for details. To top it off, the programs reuse and recycle your electronic equipment, reducing the 2 million tons that end up in landfills each year, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.


3. Give your skills for holiday gifts. If you can cook, sew, repair or build, you’ve got a skill that will make a great holiday present. Offer to embroider on a grandchild’s jeans (but let her pick the design, and refrain from criticism). Cook someone’s favorite dish, or a special request. Walk your friend’s dog, surprise a neighbor with a plate of cookies or a meal for their freezer, or watch their cat for free while they’re on vacation. Print out a homemade playdough recipe and make it with a grandchild. Give a handmade gift certificate for a few hours of handyman services. Build a treehouse for the grandkids and let them help. (If there’s snow on the ground, give them a card promising the job, and let them help you plan for June. The anticipation will only add to the fun.)


4. Reuse wrapping paper and gifts. Having a holiday spot in your hall closet, or in a plastic bin downstairs, will encourage you to save and reuse wrapping paper and ribbon. Include any gifts you received that didn’t suit you, and look through your stash before you buy anything next year.



Top Gifts for Older Adults Most seniors have all the stuff they need. What could be a better, more rewarding gift than another pair of slippers? Try a gift from the heart. Offer to take your loved one holiday shopping, whether that’s out to the mall or online. Carry on established cooking traditions, asking the senior to contribute where they are able. Arthritis could make gift wrapping painful. Schedule an afternoon, complete with hot chocolate and holiday music, to help get gifts ready to give. Many older adults have a hard time bending and reaching the stored holiday decorations, and putting them up can be next to impossible. Bring up the holiday box and let your loved one choose where things should go. String lights outside, and let the older adult know you’ll be happy to take them down when the holidays are over. Send out holiday greetings from your loved one, complete with a photo. A general email can serve the purpose well, although older friends may prefer a card in the mail. Reach out to those in need in your community. Your loved one could help in a soup kitchen or food bank, even if it’s to sit and sort. Whether or not an older adult has any religious affiliation, they may appreciate attending a service around the holidays. If you can afford it, hiring someone to help around the house or provide companionship is always most appreciated. It might be a neighborhood teen, an agency caregiver or a neighbor. They can sort through old photos together and take walks. A hired caregiver can do laundry, change the bed and complete other tasks that would otherwise take away from quality time you could spend with your loved one. Sources: "Holiday Gift Ideas for Seniors - What Seniors Need/Want for the Holidays," CaregiverStress.com "Gift Ideas for Seniors: Top 10 Holiday Requests Seniors Likely Want But Won’t Ask For," CaregiverStress.com

5. Move the holiday celebration. Retailers know you need to have presents when Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa rolls around. So celebrate a week later, and take advantage of all the sales. You can pick up a tree a few days before the holiday for half price, and stores save their biggest discounts for after the holidays have passed.


6. Use credit card rewards. If you have good credit and pay off your cards every month, it’s possible to use a money-back card for needed purchases during the year to earn gifts. Look for a card that offers the best deal, such as Capitol One’s Quicksilver that offers a signup bonus and 1.5 percent back. However, this only works if you pay off the card’s total amount on time every month. You can set up automatic payments from a bank account to avoid a penalty.


7. If past years have been problematic, pay cash. For some, a credit card is nothing but temptation. If that sounds like you, do a cash-only holiday. Set a limit, withdraw the cash, and when the money is gone, your holiday spending is over.


8. Plan far ahead. Running out for a last-minute gift can really cost you. Give yourself plenty of time and make a list of who is getting a gift, what it is and where you can find it cheapest. If you are ordering presents, do it in plenty of time to avoid costly expedited shipping fees. Start shopping for next year after the holidays, when many items are available at deep discounts, and look for gifts when they are out-of-season, such as buying a bird feeder in the fall.


9. Send e-cards instead of mailing paper cards. Send free e-cards, such as these from Blue Mountain. This saves the price of a card and envelope, plus postage, not to mention the time spent writing the address.


10. Remember that words and gestures mean more. Especially for adult friends, the last thing they may want is another thing to store. Give a poem, a small painting or a pair of dice (life’s a gamble, after all).


11. Find treasure at thrift stores. You can’t have a specific item in mind, but thrift stores can be a gift and decorating wonderland. Look for toys, coats, sweaters, jewelry and household goods. For bigger bargains, many have half-price days listed on the store’s online calendar. If you really enjoy the hunt, try Goodwill Outlet World locations, where items come out in huge bins and payment is by the pound.


12. Try eBay. If you’re in the market for a collectible, using eBay can get around the hassle of schlepping from thrift store to thrift store, looking for just the right purchase at just the right price. The iconic online retailer offers a vast array of new and used items, and makes shipping to out-of-town destinations a breeze.


13. Factor in shipping. When you’re shopping online, don’t forget to budget for shipping costs. If you have a list of items you’re looking for, you can often take advantage of free shipping over a certain amount by getting several items from one site.

---

Sources

“7 uncommon ways to save for the holidays,” Bankrate.com.

“14 ways to save money during the holidays,” Bankrate.com.

“How to keep your holiday spending on budget,” Better Money Habits, Bank of America.

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors
www.csa.us

Creating Support Systems for Seniors Dealing with Substance Abuse

When it comes to growing older, people who have healthy support systems fare better. They are generally happier, healthier and live longer. For seniors dealing with substance abuse issues, the right social support can be critical. When these systems are in place, treatment and recovery outcomes significantly improve.

What do I mean by support system? In general, individuals with support systems perceive themselves to be part of a group of sources, invested in their wellbeing, that are available to provide what they need. This includes encouragement, understanding, clarity, companionship, medical care, spiritual centeredness, education and financial assistance.

By helping to create these support systems and ensure they are in place, family members can extend a vital lifeline to their loved one with a drug or alcohol problem. This task, however, can also seem daunting.

Below I’ll discuss:

• How social support is important to recovery


• Characteristics of support systems


• Why 12-step groups are prime examples of support systems


• Tips for how to provide emotional support to seniors struggling with addiction, while also encouraging other sources of support in their lives


• Pointers on how to work with professional caregivers to ensure that they are part of the support solution to a senior’s drug or alcohol problem

The Link Between Social Support and Better Health Among Seniors

“Social support is a powerful predictor of living a long and healthy life” is the shared conclusion of multiple large studies that have turned up a strong link between social support and better health among seniors.

This concept of “social support” and its link to better mental and physical health has been around since at least the 1970s, when epidemiologists first began to use it to explain why people embedded in social networks are healthier mentally and physically.

How Social Support Improves Recovery Outcomes

Meanwhile, a whole other body of research into what works for treating addiction has made a similar discovery—that people with substance abuse issues, whatever their age, benefit immensely from a robust support system:

• A 1992 Iowa Health Services VA Medical Center study of recovering alcoholics found that those with higher levels of self-reported social support experienced lower rates of relapse.


• A Virginia Commonwealth University study in 2003 found that perceptions of low social support in women recovering from cocaine addiction predicted higher rates of relapse and of depression (a common relapse trigger).

These results, among others, reveal that family, friends and a larger recovery community can play a critical role in seniors’ recovery. This is particularly the case when they are older, and thus more vulnerable to social isolation.

Characteristics of Social Support and Social Support Networks

There are four different kinds of support systems, according to Health Behavior and Health Education by Susan J. Blalock (et al.), which can include friends, family, social groups, counselors, social workers, doctors, agencies and more:

• Emotional (expressing caring and offer a listening ear)


• Instrumental (providing tangible assistance or a service)


• Informational (offering advice, suggestions and educational guidance)


• Appraisal (reflecting back to the individual observations about themselves that are encouraging, such as, “Remember how strong you were your mother was sick—those same qualities can help you now.”)

It’s important to note, however, that there must be an exchange between the individual and the person or agency providing support. According to a study at Erasmus University Rotterdam, receiving care without a sense of exchange has been linked to poorer outcomes.

One important asset of belonging to a group, revealed in the Erasmus University study, is the body of social norms that are expected within the group. For example, an online discussion group about recovery may insist that posts be of a positive, uplifting nature. These norms, a form of direct or indirect social control, operate as a sort of moral enforcement and are helpful to recovery. Therefore, it’s important that any potential resource for a support network include healthy social norms.

12-Step Groups: A Prime Example of a Social Support System

Recovery groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous offer all of the above benefits, including:

• Opportunities for social engagement and mutual caring and concern


• Behavioral exchanges in the form of mutual giving and receiving


• Shared group norms (abstinence, sobriety and daily working of the 12 Steps) that are positive influences on behavior


• Access to a wider community of resources

For these same reasons, it’s not surprising that older adults stand to benefit from regularly participating in a 12-step group. In fact, those who attended more meetings and had a sponsor exhibited the best recovery outcomes, both one year and five years following treatment, according to “Outcome Research on 12-Step and Other Self-Help Programs.”

Tips for Connecting Your Loved One with a 12-Step Group

Recovery groups are free to attend and usually quite easy to get to in most parts of the United States and around the world. Many retirement communities have active 12-step groups, as do nursing homes, hospitals, churches and community centers. There are also online 12-step meetings that you can help them join.

For an aging loved one struggling with alcohol abuse, this directory of AA meetings can help you find a face-to-face or online meeting that is nearby. Alternatively, for those with a drug use disorder, this directory of NA meetings is a good place to start.

Make sure your loved one is connected with a healthy group that is actively working the program, is easy to reach at least once a week, and has safe, reliable transportation to and from the meeting. If your loved one has a professional caregiver, the caregiver should be made aware that getting to a 12-step meeting at least once a week is a priority—right up there with regular personal hygiene and taking medications.

Other Key Support Systems for Older Adults in Recovery

An addition to 12-step groups like AA or NA, the following sources of support for older adults struggling with drug or alcohol abuse are essential:

• An addiction-certified psychiatrist who oversees medication-assisted treatment (MAT)


• A therapist trained in evidence-based, behavioral interventions for addiction


• Church membership or another spiritual outlet that is social in nature


• A sober and alcohol-free living environment

Creating a Sober Living Environment

When evaluating potential living situations, consider that a 1992 review of studies titled “Alcohol Use in Retirement Communities” by W.L. Adams found high rates of drinking and at-risk drinking within retirement communities. Ideally, your loved one should be in a living environment that maximizes his or her independence and opportunities for positive, alcohol-free social interactions.

In cases where caregivers are providing live-in assistance, they need to be aware of the status of your loved one’s substance abuse problem. They will also need to take certain precautions to ensure your loved one does not have easy access to alcohol and other substances. Medications will need to be safely and securely stored, and alcohol should not be on the premises.

If an older person expresses interest in certain social settings that revolve heavily around alcohol, other positive alternatives for social companionship and interaction should be encouraged and facilitated.

How Families Can Provide Support to an Older Loved One in Recovery

In addition to 12-step recovery communities, families can provide crucial emotional support to their loved one by keeping the following principles in mind:

• Your loved one will respond more positively to non-confrontational expressions of concern about a drug or alcohol problem. When your loved one perceives that you are there to love them and collaborate with them, as opposed to baby and belittle them, they will be more motivated to get better.


• Your loved one deserves respect of their person and privacy as much as can be afforded them at this stage in life. This respect for privacy should extend to their participation in 12-step meetings. Whenever possible, they need to be afforded space to take part in these gatherings on their own and uphold the confidentiality expectations of the group


• Give your loved ones regular opportunities to talk about what they are feeling and experiencing, and do your best to listen without offering quick fix-it solutions. (According to the Erasmus University study, family members are often better at meeting seniors’ physical needs than they are at meeting seniors’ emotional needs.)


• Never be bashful about asking for help in creating a stronger emotional support system for your loved one. Sometimes this may mean consulting a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified life coach or social worker for help.


• Do your best to ensure your loved one is getting his or her emotional needs met through different kinds of relationships including a few close friendships with others in the same stage of life.


• Wherever possible, consult your loved one for their feedback regarding what they need to stick with recovery.


• Encourage your loved one to share their life wisdom with you, and facilitate opportunities (however small) that let them give support to others rather than only receive it.

	- By Anna Ciulla, LMHC, RD, LD
Anna Ciulla is the Clinical Director at Beach House Center for Recovery where she is responsible for designing, implementing and supervising the delivery of the latest evidence-based therapies for treating substance use disorders. Anna has a passion for helping clients with substance use and co-occurring disorders achieve successful long-term recovery.

---

Sources

“Aging and social support,” Pearl A. Dykstra, Erasmus University Rotterdam.

“Social cohesion and belonging predict the well-being of community-dwelling older people,” National Center for Biotechnology Information.

“Outcome Research on 12-Step and Other Self-Help Programs,” Textbook of Substance Abuse Treatment.

“Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide” National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).