Author: hawthornseniorliving

January 25, 2021 | Assisted Living - Events & News - Health & Wellness - Independent Living - Memory Care | by hawthornseniorliving

What You Need To Know About The COVID-19 Vaccine

What You Need To Know About the COVID-19 Vaccine: Information, Safety and Efficacy

Most everyone spent 2020 being concerned about the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. But as we enter the new year, hope is on the horizon with the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine. Here’s everything you need to know about the vaccine and the process:

How Does The Coronavirus Vaccine Work?

The vaccine is considered a messenger RNA vaccine, also known as a mRNA vaccine. These types of vaccines use the cell’s process of making proteins in order to trigger an immune response and help build up immunity. This means that the vaccines do not contain any live virus so there is no risk of infecting a vaccinated person. In addition, mRNA vaccines never enter the nucleus of a cell and do not interact with a person’s DNA.

In contrast, other types of vaccines use weakened versions of pathogens to encourage the body to create an immune response and antibodies.

What Options Are Available?

The two vaccines that have received EUAs – Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna – are so far the only products available in the United States.

Pfizer’s vaccine has been given emergency authorization for use in people 16-years-old and older, making it the first coronavirus vaccine available to the public. Moderna’s vaccine has now been authorized for people 18 and older.

Both vaccines have been found to be highly effective at preventing COVID-19 in clinical trial participants. According to the FDA, Pfizer-BioNTech’s two-dose vaccine has proven to be about 95 percent effective against COVID-19, regardless of age, ethnicities or other risks for severe illness from an infection. It is recommended that the second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine be administered 3 weeks after the first dose.

Moderna’s vaccine has been proven to be about 94.5 percent effective against COVID-19 in people of all ages, genders and ethnicities as well. It is recommended that the second dose of the Moderna vaccine be administered 1 month, or roughly 28 days, after the first dose.

To learn more about the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, click Pfizer-BioNTech Fact Sheet.

To learn more about the Moderna vaccine, click Moderna Vaccine Fact Sheet.

January 15, 2021 | Assisted Living - Health & Wellness - Independent Living - Memory Care - Senior Lifestyles - Senior Living | by hawthornseniorliving

Why 2023 Might Be The Year To Consider A Senior Living Community

Is 2023 the Year for Senior Living? Exploring the Benefits of Community Living

Just like that, another year has come to a close. And for a variety of reasons, many are looking forward to a more positive, healthier 2021. Reflecting on 2020 and looking forward to 2021 might be the perfect time to consider a senior living community either for yourself or senior loved ones.

More Socializing

For many, the last year has been focused on social distancing and time alone. This has left many feeling lonely and disconnected. A senior living community offers a great opportunity to expand your social circle and create new relationships. Go for walks, enjoy meals together or take up a new hobby together. Whatever you do, a senior living community has a built-in network of peers that can make developing new friendships easier. 

Eating Healthier

This past year with so much focus on the COVID-19 pandemic might have led you or your loved ones to fall into unhealthy eating habits. Our senior living communities offer three chef-prepared meals daily with focus on both health and taste.

Perks and Amenities

A massive benefit to a senior living community is that there are a multitude of amenities that are easily accessible. Our fitness centers allow all the residents to stay active and focus on their physical health. On-site entertainment and activities keep all our residents engaged and busy. No matter what sort of amenities you or your loved one value, you’ll be able to find something in our community that fits your specific interests.

Protect Your Health

Senior living communities are typically on the forefront of the latest trends in health and wellness, particularly as it relates to senior health. During 2020, with the spread of Coronavirus, our communities were focused on providing a safe and healthy environment for all of our residents. Sanitation practices and methods for maintaining a protected environment was our top priority, providing our residents with peace of mind during a rather unsettling period of time.

January 08, 2021 | Assisted Living - Events & News - Health & Wellness - Independent Living - Senior Lifestyles | by hawthornseniorliving

4 Resolutions For The New Year

New Year, New You: 4 Resolutions to Embrace in the Coming Year

A new year is here and with it, the tradition of New Year’s resolutions. Even if you aren’t a person who makes New Year’s resolutions, the beginning of a new year is the perfect time to assess if there are any goals or lifestyle changes you’d like to make. Here are a few

Eat Healthier

For seniors, a specific diet centered around imperative nutrients is key to maintaining a healthy immune system and overall feeling of wellness.

  • Eat foods rich in fiber for a healthy digestive system
  • Eat more foods high in nutritional value (i.e. fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, low-fat dairy, etc.)
  • Limit your intake of process sugars, saturated and trans fats, and foods high in salt
  • Don’t overeat–as you age you typically require less calories
  • Avoid dehydration by drinking 8 glasses of water each day

Get More Active

Find ways to get more active this year. In fact, commit to getting in thirty minutes of physical activity each day. Here are some ways to incorporate more physical activity into your days:

  • Go for a brisk walk with a friend or your dog
  • Participate in a yoga class
  • Get the blood flowing with a swim
  • Play a round of golf
  • Take a dance class

Focus On Your Mental Health

After a year like 2020, taking time to focus on our mental health is more important than ever. Depression, anxiety and stress are very common among senior adults. Make sure to check in on yourself every so often to see where your mental health stands. Keep a journal to help clear your head. Listen to more music which has been shown to boost your mood. If you need to, talk to a mental health professional either in-person or via a telehealth session to address any concerns you may have.

Be Your Best Self

This could mean a variety of different things. It might mean getting more active or eating more fruits and vegetables. Or it might mean picking up a new hobby like painting or dancing. It could be starting to express more gratitude year round either privately with a gratitude journal or outwardly through phone calls or letters. It could even be attempting to learn a new skill or language. Whatever it is, there’s no better time than 2021 to be your best self.

January 01, 2021 | Assisted Living - Health & Wellness - Independent Living - Memory Care - Senior Lifestyles - Tips & Tricks | by hawthornseniorliving

6 Foods To Eat This Winter To Improve Your Health

The winter months can be hard on your body and immune system. For one, when the weather cools down, we stay indoors more often which deprives our bodies of valuable vitamin D and other nutrients we get from spending time outside. In addition, spending more time indoors, particularly when you are surrounded by others, increases your risk of getting sick. Keeping your immune system functioning efficiently starts with your diet. Here are six foods to incorporate into your winter diet to keep yourself healthy and happy.

1. Pomegranates

Pomegranates are a powerhouse fruit to add to your diet this winter. It’s full of antioxidants, vitamins and has even been linked to cancer prevention. Add the seeds to your morning cereal or yogurt or enjoy a glass of pomegranate juice.

2. Pears

While pears do contain essential vitamins, their most important feature is the fiber they contain. Fiber aids in digestion, can help with weight management and even help lower cholesterol levels.

3. Bananas

Bananas are an amazing source of potassium which has been linked to help decrease anxiety and stress levels. They also contain B-6 which help strengthen and build cells within the body. One of the best benefits of bananas is that they’re one of the most affordable fruits you can incorporate into your diet.

4. Cranberries

Cranberries are a classic winter fruit, oftentimes making an appearance on most holiday dinner tables. But they are more than just a colorful side dish. Cranberries can help with heart disease, the prevention of certain cancers and help decrease inflammation in the body.

5. Persimmons

While a little less known than some of these other fruits, persimmons are a superfood you should try. They are packed full of vitamins and nutrients that have been linked to increased eye health, an improved digestive system and can aid in heart health.

6. Citrus

Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit are an essential food year round, but particularly in the winter months. They are packed full of vitamin C which has been shown to help boost your immune system. They are also full of vitamin D which can help boost levels in your body during the winter months when you can’t receive as much from the sun.

December 26, 2020 | Assisted Living - Health & Wellness - Independent Living - Memory Care - Senior Lifestyles - Tips & Tricks | by hawthornseniorliving

4 Ways To Get More Vitamin D This Winter

UVB rays from the sun help the body produce vitamin D, so in the winter months when there is less light, our bodies cannot naturally produce as much vitamin D. That’s why it’s important to take steps to increase your vitamin D levels during the winter months in particular.

What is a vitamin D deficiency?

Vitamin D is very beneficial. It plays a key role in the absorption of calcium which can strengthen bones and increase the overall health of your bones. A vitamin D deficiency, particularly as an older individual, can lead to osteoporosis or osteomalacia, which is the softening of the bones. In addition, data shows that a vitamin D deficiency is also linked to:

  • Type 1 diabetes
  • Increased muscle pain
  • Breast cancer
  • Colon cancer
  • Esophageal cancer
  • Prostate cancer
  • Issues with the lymphatic system
  • Increased risk of heart attacks
  • Increased blood pressure

Ways To Get More Vitamin D

Eat foods rich in vitamin D

Foods that contain high levels of vitamin D are a great way to help avoid a vitamin D deficiency. Foods like pork, mushrooms and fish all contain high levels of vitamin D. In fact, a serving of canned tuna contains about a third of the daily recommended value of vitamin D.

Get outside when possible

Try to get outdoors whenever possible. Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you can’t get outside and take advantage of the sunshine, if there is any.

Get a vitamin D lamp

If natural sunlight is unavailable, an artificial vitamin D lamp may help. A light therapy lamp may help with a vitamin D deficiency and can also ward off the effects of seasonal affective disorder, a common disorder that can cause depression and usually occurs during the winter months.

Take a vitamin D supplement

Adding a vitamin D supplement into your medication regimen may help. Prior to adding any supplements or new medications, please consult your doctor to ensure it’s recommended.

December 18, 2020 | Assisted Living - Events & News - Health & Wellness - Independent Living | by hawthornseniorliving

Avoid The Holiday Blues This Winter

The holiday season is upon us and, while it can be a time of joyous festivities and happy gatherings, it can also be a time of increased anxiety and depression. Add in the fact that 2020 has been a year ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic and this winter is set to look a little different than years past.

The holiday season can be difficult for many, particularly as they age. As we get older, families evolve, loved ones pass away and living situations change, the holidays may not continue to be as joyous as they once were. This year, with the continued concern around the Coronavirus pandemic, more families than ever may be opting to stay apart for their health and wellbeing. While that’s good for our physical health, it can take a toll on our mental health.

Here are some common causes of the holiday blues and ways to combat them.

Grief & Loss

For many, the holidays can be a particularly difficult time if you’ve suffered a loss. Perhaps it’s the first holiday without a loved one. Or perhaps the loss is just highlighted during the holiday season. In order to celebrate their memory, place a photo of your loved one in a prominent place. Maybe light a memorial candle or create a photo album full of photos of your loved one enjoying holidays past. However you choose to remember them, include them in your celebrations.

Holiday Stress

The holidays can be stressful. Oftentimes that stress is a result of wanting to continue to do all of the things you used to do during the holidays of prior years. Buying and wrapping presents, entertaining friends and family, decorating your home… The list can be overwhelming.

Set boundaries for yourself. Adding too much to your plate will only cause exhaustion and keep you from enjoying the season. Make a list of the things you want to do and plan it out so you don’t get overwhelmed.

Financial Stress

Spending tends to increase during the holiday season. This added financial stress, especially if you are living on a fixed income, can be anxiety-provoking. Set a budget at the start of the season and stick to it. Instead of buying multiple presents for loved ones, choose one that they’ll really enjoy. Or create a heartfelt memento that they’ll enjoy.

December 10, 2020 | Assisted Living - Events & News - Health & Wellness - Independent Living | by hawthornseniorliving

Showing Gratitude and Giving Back This Holiday Season

The importance of expressing gratitude has been known to help with a multitude of things in your life. Everything from your physical health, quality of sleep and even your mental health can be positively impacted by the practice of expressing gratitude. And while there are small ways of expressing gratitude, like keeping a gratitude journal, if you’re looking to do more for people this holiday season, here are a few ideas.

Give back to children

Many children go without each and every year, and this year, with the continued impact of COVID-19, even more children are impacted. There are many ways to give back. To help children suffering from hunger, you can donate funds to the many charities that help provide meals to minors.

Or you can try donating to a local food bank in your community. Many charities have Amazon wish lists that allow you to purchase items that go directly to the organization and those in need. It’s a safe and effective way to give back this holiday.

Give back to essential workers

2020 was a year to recognize the dedication of our essential workers. Firemen, police officers, hospital workers and more have all been working around the clock to keep everyone healthy and safe this year.

Send holiday cards or letters of gratitude to your local essential workers. Heartfelt thank yous like that can make all the difference in brightening someone’s day this time of year and year- round.

Give back to animals

Just like children, many animals and animal shelters are in constant need, even more so this holiday season. Donating old towels, blankets as well as treats, toys and food are always welcome at local animal rescue centers.

Use your talents

Perhaps you are an expert knitter. Or you have an artistic eye. Whatever your unique skill or talent is, put it to good use this holiday season. Make blankets for your local homeless shelter or create a homemade card to send to your local hospital workers. Any act, big or small can make a large impact.

December 04, 2020 | Assisted Living - Health & Wellness - Independent Living - Tips & Tricks | by hawthornseniorliving

Insomnia and Ways To Combat It

Oftentimes as we age, our quality of sleep and the amount of sleep we get deteriorates. In fact, according to the Sleep Foundation, as early as middle age we lose about 27 minutes of sleep every night with each decade that we age. In addition, the current environment we are all living in with the continued worry of Coronavirus may be increasing the likelihood of insomnia in the elderly. 

What is insomnia?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder that can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. It can also cause you to wake up too early or make it difficult to fall back asleep once woken up. It can affect not only your energy levels, but also your overall mood. Those that are affected by insomnia may suffer from a lack of being able to regulate their emotions as well as an overall decrease in their quality of life. Insomnia symptoms may include: 

  • Difficulty falling asleep 
  • Waking up often in the night
  • Waking up too early
  • Not feeling well-rested after a night’s sleep
  • Daytime tiredness or sleepiness
  • Irritability, depression or anxiety
  • Difficulty remaining alert or focusing
  • Difficulty remembering 

Insomnia and Aging

Insomnia becomes more common with age for a few main reasons. 

Changes in Sleep Patterns 

Sleep is often less restful as you age, so the likelihood of being woken up increases and it can be difficult to go back to sleep. And while older adults still need the same amount of sleep as younger adults, their internal clock oftentimes keeps them up later and wakes them up earlier. 

Medications

Older people typically take more medications than when they were younger and many prescription medications can make it more difficult to sleep. 

Changes in Activity

Older adults are typically less physically and socially active which can make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep.

Ways To Combat Insomnia

  • Stick to a routine and try to wake up and go to bed at the same time each day.
  • Make your bedroom as comfortable as possible and try to reserve that area for relaxation and sleep.
  • Try a bedtime ritual–play soft music, take a bath or read a book each night to cue your mind that it’s time for sleep.
  • Talk to your doctor about any medications that may be keeping you awake at night. 
  • Limit napping during the day to ensure you are ready for sleep at night. 
  • Avoid large meals prior to bedtime–they can keep you awake. 
  • Keep active–staying physically and socially active each day can prepare you for a good night’s sleep. 

November 26, 2020 | Assisted Living - Health & Wellness - Independent Living - Tips & Tricks | by hawthornseniorliving

The Importance of Expressing Gratitude

Gratitude is a rather simple concept; however, it can have a real impact on your mental health and overall outlook on life. As we enter the holiday season, gratitude becomes a bigger topic of conversation but it’s a great practice to try and implement in your daily life year-round. 

Benefits of Expressing Gratitude

  • Gratitude can help your physical health. People who practice expressing gratitude actually reported feeling fewer aches and pains and felt an overall increase in their general wellbeing. 
  • Gratitude can help with your mental health. Taking moments to recall things you are grateful for and even expressing that towards others can do wonders for your psychological well-being. If you find yourself slipping into periods of feeling down, try writing down three items you’re grateful for each day and see what a change it can make. 
  • Gratitude can improve your sleep. Expressing gratitude has been shown to provide a greater sense of calm and peace. In fact, focusing on gratitude prior to bed can help you fall asleep faster and sleep sounder. 

Ways to Express Gratitude 

  • Write a letter of gratitude. Take some time out of your day to acknowledge someone who you’re grateful for. Maybe it’s a friend or a family member. Or maybe it’s a friendly employee from a business you visited. Regardless, write them a letter letting them know you are grateful. A small thank you can go a long way!
  • Say it. As simple as it may seem, we often don’t verbalize our gratitude to people. Pick up the phone and let someone know that you appreciate them. Or better yet, say it in the moment. 
  • Keep a gratitude journal. Keep a small journal at your bedside table. Every night prior to falling asleep write a list of three things you are grateful for that day. You’ll sleep sounder having expressed gratitude and it’s a good way to build a routine of practicing being grateful. 
  • Give a gift. Gift-giving to show your gratitude doesn’t have to be expensive or laborious. Frame a picture of you and the person you’re grateful for. If they’re interested in gardening, pick them up a plant or a pack of seeds for their garden. If they’re a reader, give them a copy of your favorite book. Small acts of kindness can be a very effective way of expressing gratitude.

With the holiday season right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to begin practicing being more grateful. Start now and carry it through to the post-holiday season and beyond! 

November 18, 2020 | Assisted Living - Health & Medicine - Health & Wellness - Independent Living | by hawthornseniorliving

5 Risk Factors That Can Make The Flu More Dangerous

Protect Yourself: 5 Risk Factors that Increase the Severity of the Flu

The flu is a serious illness causing hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations each year and resulting in tens of thousands of deaths. While there is a continued focus on the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to protect yourself against seasonal influenza as well. There is no way of knowing how rough this year’s flu season will be, however there are a few risk factors that might make you or your loved ones more susceptible to contracting the flu. Here are a few risk factors to keep in mind as we enter flu season.

1. Being 65 or older

Adults age 65 and older make up a large portion of flu hospitalizations and deaths each year. In fact, about 70-percent of hospitalizations occur within the 65 and older population.

2. You have heart disease or have suffered a stroke

Recent research suggests that there may be a link between the flu and poor heart health. Studies have shown that individuals who have struggled with heart health in the past are at an increased risk of heart complications after contracting the flu.

3. You have a chronic condition or a weakened immune system

Certain chronic conditions like liver disease, kidney disease, blood disorders, metabolic disorders or certain neurological conditions can increase the likelihood of complications related to influenza. The results can be an exceptionally high fever or even a secondary condition like pneumonia.

4. You are obese

Those with a body mass index greater than 40 (which is considered obese) are at increased risk of complications related to influenza. In addition to an increased risk of complications, obese individuals tend to carry the flu virus for longer than non-obese people.

5. You have diabetes

Diabetes can weaken your immune system which makes it harder for your body to fight off viruses like the flu. The flu virus itself has a tendency to skew blood sugar levels as well, which can cause patients to suffer from dehydration or have complications related to their kidneys.

What You Can Do

There are a few things that can be done to help protect yourself from the flu. For one, talk to your doctor about receiving the flu vaccine. It may also be beneficial to receive the pneumonia vaccine if you are at increased risk. In addition, most precautions that are being made to protect against COVID-19 can also help protect you from getting the flu. Washing your hands regularly, staying socially distant and wearing a face covering can all protect against the flu as well. If you feel flu-like symptoms coming on, contact your doctor immediately to get professional medical advice.