Author: hawthornseniorliving

May 12, 2021 | Assisted Living - Events & News - Health & Medicine - Health & Wellness - Independent Living | by hawthornseniorliving

Eat Right and Stay Active for Positive Vaccine Effectiveness

Boost Your Vaccine Effectiveness: Importance of Eating Right and Staying Active

The COVID-19 vaccine is available to all seniors, and many are already fully inoculated, but the work does not stop there. According to the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA), physical activity and good nutrition contribute to your vaccine response long after you received your shots.

As adults age, their natural ability to fight germs, stave off infections and develop new antibodies decline. The good news is this state of immunosenescence can be slowed down with a lifestyle full of exercise and a healthy diet.

Importance of items for older adults infographic

CAPTION: Factors influencing the immunosenescence of older adult immunity; Source: ICAA

Exercise

Continuing to exercise as we age has several benefits but when it comes to your immune system it promotes stronger antibody response. A famous study from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) found: “Chronic exercise or high levels of physical activity have been shown to be related to improved vaccine responses in older adults, illustrating improved immune function, and conferring potentially significant public health benefit.” If you need ideas on exercises you can do at home, check out this blog. 

Healthy Diet

For decades clinicians and researchers linked good nutrition to several health benefits for seniors, including the effectiveness of vaccines. Deficiency of nutrients and malnutrition are key factors in a weakened immune system. It is important to focus on getting enough protein, vitamins such as vitamin D and minerals like zinc in your diet. Talk to your doctor to make sure your diet is on track for a healthy immune system, and in the meantime, check out these three healthy recipes for what to make at home tonight.

Nearly 30% of the population is fully vaccinated in the U.S., and almost 3% in Canada. While things are looking up for everyone, it is still important to put in the work to boost your immune system in conjunction with the vaccine. 

May 04, 2021 | Assisted Living - Events & News - Independent Living - Recipes | by hawthornseniorliving

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Pico de Gallo

Spice Up Your Cinco de Mayo Celebration with Fresh Pico de Gallo Recipe

Pico de gallo is a quick and easy version of salsa that goes great with a number of dishes and appetizers. Also known as salsa bandera (flag sauce) because it has the same colors of the Mexican flag, this is a fitting recipe to make on Cinco de Mayo. While we don’t celebrate Mexico’s victory over their battle with France in 1862 anymore, we still like to recognize Mexican culture and heritage on this day. 

Without further ado, this recipe is perfect to make at home because it combines fresh ingredients and there’s no cooking involved. 

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb roma or plum tomatoes (about 3-4), diced
  • 1 c red or white onion, minced
  • ½ c cilantro, chopped
  • 1 jalapeno, minced (seeds for a kick, seeded for a milder version)
  • 2 Tbsp lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, pressed or minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Mix everything together in a medium bowl and let it rest in the fridge for at least 1-4 hours. If you’re looking to add something special, you can also include diced peaches or mangos for a more tropical flair. When you take it out of the fridge, stir again so the tomato and lime juices will be reincorporated.

Serve with chips as an appetizer, a topping for grilled meats or inside your favorite burrito. The only problem with this recipe is that it will run out fast!

April 13, 2021 | Independent Living - Senior Lifestyles - Tips & Tricks | by hawthornseniorliving

Smart Technology Boosts Seniors’ Independence and Morale

Empowering Seniors with Smart Technology: How it Boosts Independence and Morale

Before moving into a senior living community, it’s important to set up your loved one with the tools they need to succeed and thrive in their new home. Seniors and their families utilize smart technology to enable an independent lifestyle and improve morale. Technology can be daunting for all of us but there are three main things that your loved one should have in their new home:

Cell Phone

Every senior needs a phone in order to connect with their family, friends, make important calls and to use in an emergency. While landlines are still available and important, cell phones offer a number of other options like video chat, a camera and apps for reading.

Tablet or Laptop

A device that’s lightweight and easy to use such as an Amazon Fire tablet or Apple MacBook Air laptop will be important to do banking, check out books from the library or video chat with loved ones.

Voice Activated Speaker

Whether you go with Amazon’s Alexa or Google’s Nest, you can program reminders to take medications, call a ride, help cook a recipe, make a shopping list or even dial 911 in emergencies.

Once set up and programmed, thanks to these devices, your senior will be at ease during this important transition in life. Knowing your loved one has the technology they need to feel confident and independent is just as important as you knowing they’re safe.

March 22, 2021 | Assisted Living - Health & Wellness - Independent Living - Recipes | by hawthornseniorliving

Three Healthy and Easy Recipes for Spring

Three Healthy and Easy Recipes for Spring: Fresh and Delicious for the Season

Whether you’re making dinner for two or just for you, spring into an easy, healthy night rich in omega-3 fatty acids, anti-inflammatory compounds and a whole lot of vitamin C.

Minty Citrus Water

Minty citrus water

Ingredients

  • 1 citrus fruit such as a blood orange or grapefruit, sliced
  • Whole mint leaves
  • Cold mineral water
  • Ice

Instructions

  1. Add sliced citrus and several mint leaves to the bottom of a large pitcher.
  2. Cover with mineral water and let sit in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
  3. Pour over ice and enjoy a refreshing drink.

Healthy Tip: The vitamin C found in citrus fruit helps prevent iron deficiency and boosts the immune system.

One-Pan Veggies and Salmon Bake

Salmon cut perfectly

Ingredients

  • 1 squash or zucchini, sliced into rounds
  • ½ large onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • Olive oil and Cajun seasoning to taste
  • 2 4-ounce salmon fillets, skin on
  • ½ lemon, sliced

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 450 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy clean up later.
  2. Toss all veggies with olive oil and seasoning in a large bowl, then spread into a single layer on the baking sheet.
  3. Nestle the salmon fillets skin side down between the vegetables. Brush the fillets with olive oil and top with lemon slices.
  4. Roast for 12-15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  5. The last step is the easiest: plate each fillet with the veggies and eat up.

Healthy Tip: The omega-3s found in salmon are known to promote eye, brain and heart health.

Berries and Cream

Berries and cream

Ingredients

  • Seasonal berries of choice
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Instructions

  1. Slice berries directly into individual bowls.
  2. Beat cream on high speed until there are medium to stiff peaks, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Place whipped cream on top of berries, grab a spoon and dig in!

Healthy Tip: The antioxidants in berries help reduce inflammation and are another great way to regulate your immune system.

Maintaining a healthy diet is just as important as exercise and good sleep. Choosing simple, easy to make dishes will only make that task easier as you age. If you would like more ideas on maintaining your health, check out how to Focus On Fitness.

March 12, 2021 | Assisted Living - Independent Living - Memory Care - Senior Lifestyles - Tips & Tricks | by hawthornseniorliving

5 Great Audiobooks and How to Listen to Them

5 Great Audiobooks and How to Listen to Them: Recommendations and Tips for Enjoying Books on-the-go

One of the best ways to keep yourself entertained in a dynamic way is to read. But what if you have trouble seeing the font size, can’t go to the library or get headaches? Enter digital audiobooks. Gone are the clunky books on tape and here to stay are sleek, audiobooks you can access from your phone, tablet, desktop computer or laptop. Here are five popular audiobook suggestions and how to listen to them:

Great Audiobooks

Sherlock Holmes: The Definitive Collection


Sherlock Holmes: The Definitive Collection book
by Arthur Conan Doyle. Performed by English actor Stephen Fry.
Fiction
Sherlock Holmes has entertained millions of fans for decades. Relive your favorite detective’s adventures with Fry’s award-winning narration and exclusive introductions before each title.

Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents


Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents book
by Isabel Wilkerson, performed by Robin Miles.
Nonfiction
Pulitzer winner Wilkerson delivers a reframing of the racism conversation with rich, historical significance, revealing anecdotes and standout narration by Miles. This award-winning book is an excellent look at American history and its people.

The Vanishing Half


The Vanishing Half book
by Brit Bennett and performed by Shayna Small.
Fiction
Twin sisters, inseparable as children, choose to live two very different lives. The fates of the twins remain intertwined as the next generation makes its mark.

A Short History of Nearly Everything


A Short History of Nearly Everything book
written and narrated by Bill Bryson.
Nonfiction
In this ambitious audiobook, Bryson takes the listener on the ultimate journey into the most intriguing questions that science seeks to answer about humanity. Written with humor and a journalistic touch, science has never been more entertaining.

Educated: A Memoir


Educated: A Memoir book


by Tara Westover, read by Julia Whelan.
Nonfiction
Winner of numerous awards and critical acclaim, this coming of age memoir follows the life of Westover and how she became educated with a Ph.D. against all odds.

How to Listen

Now that you’ve selected the book you want to listen to, how do you listen to it? Most audiobooks are available to listen to on your smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, desktop computer or laptop. Essentially, you’ll need to download an application through Google Play or the Apple App Store to your favorite device. All of the apps are free to download but may require a monthly subscription. Here are five leading services:

Amazon’s Audible


Apple and Android compatible
30-day free trial, then a monthly subscription for either the Plus ($7.95) or Premium Plus ($14.95) plan. Both plans offer access to a selection of audiobooks but the Premium provides credit to buy a book of your choice and exclusive discounts.

Libby


Apple and Android compatible
Free! This app is connected to your local public library. You will need to link it to your library card, then check out virtually any book available from your library, or place a hold on the audiobook so you can listen when it’s ready.

Scribd


Apple and Android compatible
30 day free trial, then $9.99 per month for unlimited access to a number of audiobooks from major publishers.

Apple Books


Apple users only
No monthly subscription. Access to a revolving selection of free titles, special promotions and discounts. While some titles are free, others will cost you, so this is a great option for the light reader who doesn’t want to commit to a monthly fee.

Google Play Books


Apple and Android compatible
No monthly subscription and acts like a retail store. Access to over 5 million titles but you will need to purchase each audiobook separately. Perfect for the extremely casual reader or if you have a gift certificate for Google Play.

Once you’ve downloaded the app on your device, search for the book you want to listen to and enjoy your afternoon.

March 05, 2021 | Assisted Living - Health & Wellness - Independent Living - Senior Lifestyles - Senior Living | by hawthornseniorliving

Tai Chi And Other Exercises You Can Do At Home

Tai Chi and Other Exercises You Can Do at Home: Improving Health and Wellness Through Physical Activity

Health has never been more at the forefront of everyone’s mind as it is in 2021. Keeping immune systems functioning properly whether it’s through medicine, nutrition, exercise or wellness, health is definitely top of mind. And continuing to exercise as we age can help us maintain our self-reliance in our later years.

Tai Chi

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese practice that uses precise movements to improve your “life energy”. Now that might sound intimidating, but Tai Chi can provide a multitude of health benefits, particularly for seniors. The practice focuses on slow controlled use of your muscles and can increase stability, balance and flexibility in seniors. Research has shown that when practiced regularly it can be used for the reduction of pain, particularly in those that suffer from back problems, osteoarthritis or fibromyalgia.

Water Aerobics

In recent years, water aerobics has continued to grow in popularity amongst people of all ages, but specifically seniors. For one, it’s low impact which makes it great for those suffering from joint pain or arthritis because of the buoyancy factor of exercising in water. Water aerobics exercises like aqua jogging and leg lifts are a great way to improve your strength, flexibility and balance without a ton of impact on your joints. Plus, these exercises can get your heart pumping which is good for the health of your heart and lungs.

Seniors exercising in pool

Resistance Band Workouts

Resistance bands are strips of rubber that provide different levels of tension and resistance to help you increase muscle and strength without added stress on the body. These types of workouts are a great way for beginners to enter the exercise world. Exercises like bicep curls and “band pull apart” are great ways to increase strength and mobility and even improve posture.

Seniors exercising with resistance bands

Walking

Using walking as an exercise can do wonders for both the body and mind. Studies show that walking 10,000 steps a day has been shown to lower the ten-year outlook for mortality significantly. That being said, the general goal is to shoot for 10,000 steps a day, but those that struggle with joint pain can do less. Using a cell phone or a fitness tracker can help you keep track of your steps throughout the day and finding an audiobook or playlist that you find enjoyable can help you pass the time while out walking.

February 26, 2021 | Health & Wellness - Independent Living - Senior Lifestyles - Tips & Tricks | by hawthornseniorliving

5 Tips For Healthier Skin

Weather changes throughout the year can be tough on our skin and seniors are more at risk to develop skin-related conditions like Eczema and Seborrheic dermatitis, both of which can cause itchy irritated skin.

Here are a few ways to help combat dry, irritated skin.

5 Winter Skin Care Tips for Seniors

1. Create a humid environment

Furnaces and other heating elements remove moisture from the air. Consider investing in a humidifier for your living spaces and bedroom to add humidity back into your environment. Always ensure to operate your humidifier according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid a malfunction.

2. Drink plenty of water

Drinking water comes more naturally in warm weather, but it’s easy to become dehydrated in the winter weather as well. Dehydration not only has an effect on your body but also your skin. A lack of hydration can lead to dryness, irritation and even saggy looking skin. Health experts generally recommend drinking 8 glasses of water every day to avoid the effects of dehydration.

3. Take shorter showers

A long, hot shower might sound like the perfect antidote to cooler weather, however it can severely dry out your skin. Try keeping your showers brief and only using lukewarm water which is gentler on older skin.

4. Use a moisturizer

A rich moisturizer for your face and body can help protect your skin during the winter months. Once the warmer months return you can switch to a lighter, less heavy moisturizer.

5. Use sunscreen

Sunscreen isn’t just for summer. In fact, the sun’s rays can reflect off of snow and ice and be amplified causing what’s called “snow burn”. It’s essential to wear sunscreen in the winter as well to protect against skin cancers like melanoma.

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

Flexing Your Mind: 7 Exercises for Continued Brain Health

Flexing Your Mind: 7 Exercises for Continued Brain Health and Congintive Function

Brain health is a complex topic. By oversimplifying the issue, brain function is basically as important as physical health when it comes to an aging mind. And because the brain is one of the most important muscles of the body, it needs to regularly exercise to stay healthy. Here are seven great tips for flexing your mind and continuing your brain health:

Play Word Games

Word puzzles and brainteasers like Sudoku and crosswords are popular ways to improve not just word association but recall memory, too.

Listen to Music

According to Johns Hopkins researchers, there are few things that stimulate the brain like music does. “Music is structural, mathematical and architectural. It’s based on relationships between one note and the next,” noted one otolaryngologist in a recent study. Get extra brain bonus points by listening to new music instead of music from your favorite era. New music challenges our brains because it’s unfamiliar and forces the brain to understand the new sound.

Go Outside & Stay Active

Activities outside like gardening and walking are great ways to not only get fresh air but also refill your vitamin D levels, which can hurt neurological and cardiovascular systems if low. Athletic activities (indoor or outdoor) also increase the blood and oxygen flow throughout the body. Try low-impact activities such as putt-putt golf, yoga and tai chi — all three are great ways to think about physics and strengthen the mind-body connection.

Tackle Puzzles, Board & Card Games

Talking about low-impact but high reward; puzzles are a great way to boost brain function and assist with dexterity. Games also provide opportunities for social interaction, making new friends and promoting strategic problem-solving skills. Of course, the game-playing landscape looks a little different these days with COVID-19 precautions, so be sure to transition to virtual games until it’s safe.

Get Crafty

Being creative requires more brain power than learning, so a more art-focused activity can have a big impact on mental sharpness.

Learn Something New

Much like listening to new music, taking on a new hobby or skill can improve both cognitive function and your sense of well-being. Trying learning a new language, cooking a new recipe or discovering how to paint.

Read Books

Neuroscientists say reading can improve brain function on a variety of levels. A now-famous study found that reading fiction improves theory of mind (capacity for empathy and understanding). Reading books of all genres improves vocabulary and cognitive skills across the board but it doesn’t have to be fiction. Try reading newspapers, magazines, biographies and blogs, if not books, or listen to audiobooks instead. You also get bonus brain points if you can retell the story to others to boost your memory skills.

Be sure to flex that muscle daily! Whether it’s puzzles with a loved one, reading a new novel or flying a kite, routine brain exercises help you maintain healthy cognitive function.

February 08, 2021 | Assisted Living - Independent Living - Senior Living - Tips & Tricks | by hawthornseniorliving

Ways To Help A Parent or Loved One Process Pre-Move Anxiety

5 Ways to Help a Parent or Loved One Process Pre-Move Anxiety: Tips for a Smooth Transition

Moving is stressful and exhausting no matter your age. However, for seniors, the idea of moving from their home to a senior living community may come with added anxiety. In fact, psychologists often refer to this worry as Relocation Stress Syndrome (RSS), and it is oftentimes accompanied by anxiety and grief. Here are some ways you can help ease the transition to an independent living or assisted living community.

1. Consistency

Oftentimes with a move from a home into an independent living or assisted living facility, a certain degree of downsizing occurs. Children and loved ones can sometimes feel the need to sell or donate many of the items in this process however this can cause a certain level of trauma.

Ensure that certain items, particularly any items that provide comfort or hold sentimental value make the move with your loved one. Maybe it’s their favorite chair or a particular mug that they hold dear. Whatever the case, providing this level of continuity and consistency from their old home to their new one can make the transition easier.

2. Respect

When downsizing and sifting through personal belongings of your loved ones, it’s important to remember to approach the process with respect. The process can be emotional and stressful so don’t rush them or force them to part with items that they deem important.

3. Involve Them

It can be particularly important to involve your loved one in the transition. Bring them on tours and get their feedback. Listen to their concerns and invite them to engage in the decision-making process. It will help alleviate everyone’s anxiety, including your own, if everyone feels good about the decision.

4. Prepare

As mentioned before, moving is stressful no matter who you are. In these instances, it is best to prepare well in advance. It will help prepare your loved one for a smooth transition and give them time to process the move.

5. Have Fun

Moving is a hectic process, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. Indulge your loved one in walking down memory lane, browse old photos and share stories that will make them smile. Show them that the transition can be exciting and an overall positive experience.

February 01, 2021 | Assisted Living - Health & Wellness - Independent Living - Senior Lifestyles | by hawthornseniorliving

Focus On Fitness In 2023

Focus on Fitness in 2023: Benefits and Ways To Improve Your Overall Health

By age 75, one in three men and one in two women do not engage in any physical activity. This lack of physical activity can lead to all sorts of conditions ranging from heart disease to a lack of sleep.

Benefits of Physical Activity In Seniors

  • Improving balance can help decrease the likelihood of a fall or fractured bones.
  • Can help reduce blood pressure.
  • Can help reduce the chances of developing heart disease, certain cancers, and diabetes.
  • Helps maintain healthy bones, joints and muscles.
  • Can help reduce swelling in those suffering from arthritis.
  • Can reduce symptoms of depression, stress and anxiety.
  • Can help maintain muscle tone and overall strength.

If you’re looking for ways to get more physical activity into your day, here are a few ideas:

  • Try yoga to help improve mobility and flexibility as well as clear your mind with its meditative properties.
  • Swimming is a great low-impact way to get in cardio and resistance training without added pressure to your joints.
  • A brisk walk can be a great way to get in some exercise and can be done solo or with a friend. Socializing during exercise can make it feel less like work and more like fun.
  • Tai Chi can help improve balance, core strength and improve focus.

Other Ways To Improve Your Overall Health

  • Quitting smoking can help decrease your risk of heart attacks, strokes and a variety of cancers and can even improve your sense of smell and taste.
  • Getting a full night’s sleep can improve overall cognitive function, reduced risk of falling and a strengthened immune system.
  • Taking steps to decrease stress levels can help protect against cardiovascular disease and decreased immune function.