Help seniors age independently (NewsUSA) – Ask most seniors if they want to age independently in their own homes, and they likely will say yes. Surveys show 95 percent of people over the age of 75 desire to age in place, and about a quarter of seniors live alone. These numbers are just the beginning. Baby Boomers are now turning 65 at a rate of about 8,000 a day, according to AARP. But what if you’re the adult child of one of those independent-minded seniors? What if, like Alison Jacobson, whose SafetyMom.com blog has a loyal following, you find yourself frequently worrying about your parents’ well-being? “While aging-in-place is the goal for most seniors, how do you, as the adult child, ensure sure they’re safe?” she asks. Here are some tips for dealing with the situation: • Preventing falls. Falls are a leading cause of injury and death for
seniors. Like the worry Jacobson describes, a n ew s u r vey b y m a rket researchers Toluna found that a far greater number of caregivers were concerned about seniors being injured than seniors themselves were (76.1 percent vs. 33 percent). One simple first step is to remove all scatter rugs and make sure electric cords don’t extend into high-traffic areas. • Upgrading lights. While seniors sometimes may be reluctant to admit it, vision diminishes with age. So, brighten lights in kitchen work areas to reduce the risk of burns and cuts. • Tech fix. The latest technology is the answer to substantial research highlighting the importance of staying connected for both seniors and caregivers. Harvard University researchers found that the odds of mental decline doubled for seniors with no social ties, for example, while Toluna’s survey
looked at the emotional toll on those trying to help loved ones age in place. “For caregivers, ease of communication with the seniors they love relieves stress, reduces guilt and builds rich relationships,” says expert on successful aging Adriane Berg. Enter the new CareLine home safety telephone system from V Te c h ( w w w. v t e c h phones.com/CareLine). The product includes three individual pieces designed for optimal usability, even for those with vision, hearing and dexterity issues. The pieces are the corded base phone with photo displays for frequent contacts, a cordless handset and a very handy pendant that can also be snapped onto a belt and easily kept with the user. The pendant can make and receive calls, access voicemail, and receive automatic reminders about medications and appointments.
The aging population A benefit, not a burden
(BPT) – With life expectancy increasing, the percentage of population over age 60 is booming. By 2030, the population over 60 will be growing 3.5 times as rapidly as the total population, according to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). While some look at this as a potential burden on the health care industry and society, Greg Sebasky, chairman of Philips North America, looks at this trend as an opportunity. He says this is a time to connect with well-rounded, productive and intelligent people and reap what the Philips Center for Health and Well-Being calls, the “longevity dividend.” All citizens have an important role to play to ensure everyone has the opportunity to receive this longevity dividend. Here are five steps to take to help shift a perceived burden into a lasting, positive benefit for society: 1. Appreciate the contributions of older citizens. Saying “thank you” to a family member for sharing a traditional family recipe or to a neighbor for keeping a watchful eye on your home is an easy way to bring to light the every-day dividends. 2. Learn from history. Older citizens have seen more of society’s ups and downs, from a macro world view to a micro family perspective. They have the benefit of experience that can help everyone shape new approaches to challenges
faced – whether in the home, at work or around town. Ask for advice and listen to the input. 3. Plug in. Help keep citizens engaged with family and friends by showing them technologies such as email or social media, or bookmark links to helpful websites. Doing so will keep elderly residents connected while maintaining independence. 4. Offer employment. Many newlyretired citizens would benefit from the ongoing mental and social stimulation provided by a workplace, even for a few hours a week. Consider posting jobs at senior community centers so active residents can easily learn about new opportunities. 5. Be an advocate. Speak up at town meetings and keep an ongoing dialog with local officials to consider the aging population in town planning, budgeting and support services. Remind officials of the social capital provided by these important residents, and how considering their needs will help the community as a whole. By changing perceptions of the elderly’s contributions to the community, society can take the important first step to reaping these positive impacts of the longevity dividend. The Philips Center for Health and Well Being’s Think Tank on Aging Well offers solutions for citizens, non-profits and government officials at www.philips-thecenter.org/Aging-Well.
News For Seniors, The Punxsutawney Spirit & Jefferson County Neighbors, February 2013 - 19
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