LIVING SENIOR Winter 2022

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S E N I O R

STAY ACTIVE TRAVEL SAFE CONNECT ONLINE

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WINTER 2022

Faith Based - Not For Profit

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LIVING SENIOR • WINTER 2022

How to create

structure after retirement

Professionals typically look forward to retirement and the freedom that comes with it. The notion that commuting and deadlines will one day be a distant memory is enough to make anyone excited for retirement. But when the day to leave the daily grind behind arrives, many retirees admit to feeling a little anxiety about how they’re going to find structure.

Retirement is a big transition, and Robert Delamontagne, PhD, author of the 2011 book “The Retiring Mind: How

to Make the Psychological Transition to Retirement,” notes that some retirees experience anxiety, depression and even a sense of loss upon calling it a career.

Some of those feelings can undoubtedly be traced to the perceived lack of purpose some individuals feel after retiring.

Without a job to do each day, people can begin to feel useless. Overcoming such feelings can be difficult, but finding ways to build daily structure can make the transition to retirement go smoothly.

800 Park Dr 800 Park Dr Lake Geneva, WI Lake Geneva, WI 53147 53147

Get engaged

Find something to truly engage in.

Professionals who truly enjoy their work tend to be fully engaged, so it’s no surprise if such individuals have a hard time adjusting to retirement.

Some may suggest volunteering can help fill the void created by retirement, but researchers with the Sloan Center on Aging and Work at Boston College have • CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

living S E N I O R

A publication of Southern Lakes Newspapers LLC 1102 Ann St., Delavan, WI 53115

(262) 728-3411

EDITOR:.................................................................................Tracy Ouellette CREATIVE/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR:............................ Heather Ruenz SECTION DESIGNER:............................................................. Jen DeGroot ADVERTISING DIRECTOR:............................................ Vicki Vanderwerff

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FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES: Call (262) 725-7701 ext. 134 above: Structure and retirement may seem like strange bedfellows.

But many retirees seek structure after calling it a career, and there are many fun ways for seniors to create more organization in their lives.

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LIVING SENIOR • WINTER 2022

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Ways to stay active and keep your mind in shape Aging brings about many changes.

Beyond graying hair and wrinkles, your brain is also changing as you grow older and wiser. According to McKnight Brain Research Foundation, 87% of people 65 and older experience cognitive changes associated with normal aging.

The good news is that these changes don’t have to be a normal passage of aging.

You may find that you can combat some cognitive decline through exercise.

Beyond staying physically fit and healthy, exercise can benefit your mental health. Physical activity improves cognitive function as people age through neuroplasticity, which allows the brain to compensate for injury and disease and adjust in response to new situations.

Exercise also helps alleviate stress and depression.

Here are three ways you can stay physically active and reap the mental benefits.

Take a walk Daily walks are incredibly beneficial and easy to incorporate into your routine.

You can start small by taking a walk around your block or going to a local park for a short circuit. As you continue to build your walking stamina, you may find that you can go farther and farther.

While walking, you can also enjoy listening to an audiobook or podcast.

Learning about new subjects is another excellent way to keep your mind healthy as you age. You can also listen to music or simply enjoy the ambient sounds of nature.

Walking doesn’t have to be a solitary

activity. Ask a friend or family member to come along on your daily walk. Your neighborhood may have local walking groups. Joining a group allows you to stay active, provides community and allows you to make new friends.

Join a fitness class Group exercise is a great way to stay active. Your local gym or community center is likely to have group fitness classes like SilverSneakers several days a week at various times, so you can easily find one that fits your schedule.

Whether you’re going back to a familiar activity like swimming and water aerobics or learning a new form of exercise like • CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

No matter what type of physical activity you decide to do, invest in your mind and body and get moving today.

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LIVING SENIOR • WINTER 2022

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A checklist for good senior health and wellness As you age, your health needs change.

Staying on top of senior wellness activities is important, but it can sometimes feel overwhelming. Creating a list of health and wellness to-do’s can help you stay organized, so you look and feel your best.

“Aging well is living well and it all starts with a combination of activities that can improve our mental and physical well-being,” says Dr. Scott Kaiser, chief executive officer of Determined Health, member of the Tivity Health Healthy Aging Coalition and a physician specializing in geriatric medicine. “Although health and wellness may seem to get increasingly complicated with age, it doesn’t have to be a struggle. A few simple - and fun - steps can keep us on the healthy aging path. By taking a proactive approach and prioritizing health, seniors can live their best life.”

Dr. Kaiser shares a simple senior-health checklist to help keep you or a loved one focused on wellness:

Annual physical Everyone’s health is different. Even if you see specialists for certain conditions, it’s typically recommended to get an annual physical with your primary physician.

This is an opportunity for important health screenings that may include tests to evaluate blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, bone density and more. It’s also a good time for you to ask any questions and discuss concerns.

Vaccinations Staying current on recommended vaccinations can help you stay healthy and limit the spread of disease. Cold and flu season has arrived, so now is the time to ask your doctor about getting an influenza vaccine if you haven’t already. The risk of severe illness from COVID also increases with age. COVID vaccines are safe and effective in preventing severe illness and you can help protect yourself and the people around you by getting vaccinated.

The new year is a great time to take inventory of your health and make plans for improvements.

Talk to your doctor about changes you can make for future fitness.

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Physical activity

anxiety, seeing a therapist and medication.

All seniors eligible for Medicare benefits through a Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement or group retiree plan may be eligible to join SilverSneakers at no additional cost and have access to live and on-demand virtual workouts, including nearly 2,000 activities and classes per week in a variety of lengths and formats. Check eligibility at SilverSneakers.com.

Mental enrichment

Social connection Maintaining friendships and connecting with others is an important component to supporting physical, mental and emotional wellness. Set up coffee with friends. Join community groups. Check out social engagement opportunities through programs like SilverSneakers where working out with a group of peers can build friendships and community.

Mental health Although prioritizing mental health is now more widely accepted, it still can be a challenge for older adults to admit they need help. Talk with your doctor about how you feel and mental health concerns you may have. There are many ways to help with a variety of mental health concerns, including learning mindfulness techniques to reduce

Cognitive decline can occur as you age, so it’s important to be proactive to help support brain health through mental stimulation. Read books. Join a weekly game group. Check out GetSetUp, new for SilverSneakers members in participating health plans. This program provides an online learning platform designed specifically for seniors with a wide range of live video classes – over 2,000 hours per week on more than 1,800 topics – to support mental enrichment.

Nutrition What you eat fuels your body and mind, so it’s important to pack your pantry and refrigerator with wholesome foods. Stock up on fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, beans and low-fat dairy. Then explore recipes you can try to experience new flavors and keep mealtime exciting. If you need help or have strict dietary concerns, consider working with a nutritionist for additional guidance.

Doesn’t it feel good to check a few things off your list? For more ideas on how seniors can stay active and connected, visit SilverSneakers.com.

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LIVING SENIOR • WINTER 2022

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LIVING SENIOR • WINTER 2022

Make a day of it Short trips seniors can enjoy

Vacations to faraway destinations can make lasting memories that families cherish forever. Though day trips might not require the planning of more traditional vacations, these brief getaways can still be a great way to spend a day, especially for seniors.

Day trips typically are based around visits to historic attractions, shopping districts, restaurants, or museums. Since they don’t require much in the way of advanced planning, and tend to be easy on the wallet, day trips are ideal for those looking for short getaways.

When considering day trips, seniors should look for locales that are no more than two to three hours away. Such proximity ensures travelers will have plenty of time to see the sights and still get home at a reasonable hour.

Need day trip inspiration? Here are some ideas to get started.

Botanical gardens Botanical gardens are beautiful and relaxing places to spend a day. The Botanic Gardens Conservation International reports that there are between 296 to 1,014 botanical gardens and arboretums in the United States, while there are roughly 70 botanic gardens across Canada. People can tour topiaries, exotic plants, butterfly retreats, acres of rolling landscape, and even bonsai collections.

Seaside towns

Day trips are enjoyable ventures that seniors can partake in when they want to get out but not necessarily get away.

Visits to the coast make for memorable, scenic excursions. Many boast quaint shops to purchase coastal trinkets or decor.

Seaside spots also may boast their share of fishing charters or sightseeing cruises, and seafood fans will appreciate what these regions have to offer in the way of dining.

discounted admissions to seniors. From the famed San Diego Zoo to the Georgia Aquarium, it’s possible to get up close and personal with many species.

Historic cities and villages

Wine tasting

Touring historic places of register, like Colonial Williamsburg or areas of historic Boston, can be a hands-on way to learn about the country’s history. They can provide more personal experiences than books and movies alone.

A recent study from Wine & Vines magazine said there are 8,391 wineries in North America, and that number is on the rise. One is likely to find a winery to visit and sample the wares close to home. Make a day of it by bringing a picnic lunch.

Zoos and aquariums

Museums

Interacting with wildlife is on the itinerary when visiting zoos and aquariums, and such establishments typically offer

Museums are ideal day trip destinations because many are indoors. That means weather never needs to be an issue while

STOCK PHOTO Living Senior

visiting. With historic artifacts, paintings, sculptures, or niche items like pop art or collectibles, there are museums for just about every interest. For example, railway enthusiasts can visit the National Railroad Museum in Wisconsin, one of the oldest railroad museums in the country.

Restaurant crawl Certain town centers and tourist destinations organize restaurant events where day trippers can enjoy tasting menus from various establishments for a single price. Day trips also can culminate at one specific restaurant. A new restaurant can be visited each month.

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How seniors can travel safely during the pandemic A big advantage of retiring is having more leisure time to travel, and millions of seniors capitalize on that free time every day.

Seniors spend more on travel and leisure than any other demographic, according to the United States Census Bureau. The international travel agency Virtuoso says the average retiree spends nearly $12,000 a year on travel.

Even though they have the money and time to get away, the global pandemic has made it harder to join the jet set. However, a renewed wanderlust spurred by an increasing number of people having been vaccinated against COVID-19 is driving travel interest once again.

Additional booster shots also have assuaged some fears about travel by ramping up virus protection even further.

Seniors who want to get away all over again can take note of the following safety tips so they can stay healthy as they hit the road.

Check with the airline If air travel is on the horizon, confirm with the carrier if any safety precautions have been implemented. Most airlines still require passengers to wear masks. Proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID test may be required as well.

Confirm with the airline if any seats on the aircraft are deliberately left empty to maintain social distancing.

Travel during off-peak hours Mid-afternoon and early evening tend to be busy travel times. No matter how you’re traveling, avoiding crowds can reduce infection rates. If possible, travel in the early morning or late at night when fewer people will be out.

Consider vaccination Seniors were among the first groups of people to be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The travel resource Go Backpacking says vaccination is now one of the primary requirements for entering destinations around the globe. If you have not been vaccinated, now may be the time to discuss the vaccine with a doctor.

Check infection rates Avoid destinations with high infection rates. The World Health Organization offers daily counts of cases on their Coronavirus Dashboard. Visit covid19.who.int to learn more.

Pack accordingly

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Along with the usual travel gear, bring

LIVING SENIOR • WINTER 2022

along hand sanitizer, antibacterial wipes, masks, and disinfecting sprays. Wipe down common touch points in hotel rooms, like doorknobs and remote controls.

restaurants. Try to limit time spent in other public places if they are crowded. That includes bars, clubs or even museums.

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Dine outside Many people have safely returned to indoor dining. But if you want extra protection, ask to be seated outdoors at

above: Some simple planning can help seniors travel safely during the pandemic.

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How to determine if it’s time to

Downsizing requires careful consideration of a host of variables. No two situations are the same, so seniors should exercise due diligence to determine if downsizing is right for them.

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downsize

Individuals work hard to save enough money to purchase their homes. And the hard work doesn’t end there. Once homeowners settle into a new home, they may set their sights on renovations that suit their individual needs. And even when buyers find a home that needs no such work, maintenance requires homeowners’ utmost attention.

All that hard work is perhaps one reason why seniors may be a little reluctant to downsize as they advance through their golden years. In addition to the sweat equity homeowners put into their homes, all the memories they’ve made within their walls can make it harder to put a home on the market.

Downsizing is a difficult decision that’s unique to each homeowner. Seniors who aren’t quite certain if downsizing is right for them can consider three key factors to make a decision that’s in their best interests.

Cost

Perhaps no variable affects senior homeowners’ decisions to downsize their homes as much as cost. No one wants to outlive their money, and downsizing to a smaller home can help seniors reduce their monthly expenses by a significant margin.

Even homeowners who have long since paid off their mortgages can save substantial amounts of money by downsizing to a smaller home or even an apartment or condominium. Lower property taxes, reduced insurance premiums and the need to pay for fewer repairs are just some of the ways downsizing can save seniors money.

Space Many people love the extra space that single-family homes provide. But seniors can take a walk through their homes and see how many rooms they still use on a consistent basis. If much of the home is

unused, seniors can probably downsize without adversely affecting their daily lives.

Market

The real estate market is another factor to consider when deciding if the time is right to downsize. A seller’s market can help seniors get the biggest return on their real estate investment, potentially helping them make up for meager retirement savings.

For example, home prices skyrocketed across the country during the COVID-19 pandemic, making that a great time for sellers to put their homes on the market. Seniors selling to downsize may capitalize on such spikes since they won’t be looking to turn around and buy larger, equally expensive homes once they sell their current place.

If the market is down and seniors can withstand the work and cost a little longer, it may be best to wait until things bounce back in sellers’ favor.

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RETIREMENT

• CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

found that only those individuals who are truly engaged in their post-retirement volunteering enjoy the psychological benefits of such pursuits.

So before retirees dive right in to volunteering as a means to creating structure, they should first exercise due diligence and find an opportunity they’ll find genuinely engaging.

Try temp work Embrace the idea of “bridge employment.” “Bridge employment” is the name given to the trend that has seen retired individuals take on part-time or temporary employment after they have retired from full-time working.

STAY ACTIVE

Be social Make a concerted effort to be more social. Volunteering and working are not the only ways to create structure in

retirement. A concerted effort to be more social can help retirees fill their days with interactions with like-minded individuals who may be experiencing the same feelings.

Join a book club, a local nature group that goes on daily or semi-daily morning hikes or another local community organization. These are great ways to build structure and meet new people.

Retirees can create social media accounts to find local community groups that cater to their interests. Even if it seems hard to believe, plenty of retirees are seeking to create structure in retirement life, and social media can make it easier to find such individuals in your community.

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yoga and dance, a fitness class allows you to have a repeating, consistent physical activity in your weekly schedule.

“I encourage seniors who are new to exercise to try a class like SilverSneakers that is designed specifically for older adults,” said Richard Ashworth, president and CEO of Tivity Health, the company that delivers SilverSneakers. “We also have a wide variety of live virtual classes through SilverSneakers.com with trainers who guide participants every step of the way. These classes are a great way to get moving from the comfort of your home.”

Keeping your mind as active as your body is vital to healthy aging.

SilverSneakers has added mental enrichment to the experiences available to members by joining forces with GetSetUp, a virtual learning platform designed specifically for seniors. The program offers a wide range of classes through a senior-

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COVID-19 has no doubt skewed post-retirement working statistics since the World Health Organization first declared a pandemic in March 2020, but a 2019 survey from the LIMRA Secure Retirement Institute found that 27 percent of pre-retirees with at least $100,000 in assets planned to work part-time in retirement. Even part-time work can provide enough daily structure to help retirees feel as though each day is not just a free-for-all.

LIVING SENIOR • WINTER 2022

specific video platform optimized for ease of activation, user engagement and social connection.

“Once you turn 65 or 85, it doesn’t mean you can’t keep learning, trying new things and sharing your passions with others,” said Lawrence Kosick, cofounder and president of GetSetUp. “The older adults who participate in GetSetUp classes are eager to explore new topics and develop or deepen hobbies. Not only is it a lot of fun, but with brain health being as important as physical health as we age, learning new skills or enjoying mentally stimulating activities with peers all can lead to healthier aging.”

These online classes allow older adults to learn new skills, combat social isolation and unlock new life experiences. The program also encourages seniors to become instructors and share their skills and knowledge with their peers.

Keep stretching As you age, you tend to lose some muscle strength and elasticity and your joints weaken. A gentle way to incorporate movement into your life is to do daily stretches. Stretching provides several benefits, including increased circulation and blood flow, enhanced muscle strength and improved range of motion and flexibility. You may also find that stretching relieves lower back pain and stiffness associated with arthritis.

Low-intensity stretching – such as lunges, squats and shoulder circles – can also improve your mood and energy. You can incorporate these and other stretches into your routine by starting your day with some light stretches after your morning cup of coffee or doing a few dynamic yoga stretches before turning in for the (BPT)

Inside active senior living Housing needs may change as adults grow older and their children move out.

Adults nearing retirement may want to reduce their cost of living and could find a big house is more than they need at this stage in life.

According to the financial management resource The Motley Fool, in 2019 48 percent of seniors planned to downsize, while 52 percent wanted to remain in their existing homes.

A lower cost of living could be the primary motivator to sell, but less house to maintain and the extra free time that comes with fewer chores can be powerful motivators as well.

Many adults age 50 and older consider adult communities when seeking to downsize their homes. Senior home options are categorized based on the level of care they provide. “Active adult living” is a relatively new option that reflects a growing desire for residences that afford aging adults a chance to downsize their homes and engage in their favorite activities.

Active adult living, leisure living or active adult communities include single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums, and other housing options within a community that offers an array of amenities and services. According to Retirement Living, residents in active adult communities enjoy country club settings with amenities like swimming pools, clubhouses, golf courses, exercise centers, walking trails, computer labs, hobby centers, and even on-site restaurants.

Active adult living communities may provide transportation options and have their own travel clubs. Though active adult residences do not typically provide medical services, many communities are conveniently located close to local shopping centers and complexes, ensuring that the doctor’s office is not that far away.

Other features of active living covered by homeowner’s association fees include outdoor maintenance like landscaping, snow removal and sanitation services.

Security, internet service and cable also

may be included in the monthly fees.

Active communities emulate the benefits afforded by all-inclusive vacations, where day-to-day details are handled by management so residents can focus on fun and leisure.

Unlike general neighborhoods, seniors may appreciate active living communities because they have access to an array of services within the community. Some promote a resort vacation feeling, while others may focus on sports or cultural life. What’s more, since age is restricted, residents know that many people in these communities have shared experiences.

Active adult communities also are amenable to adults who like to travel.

Residents get the peace of mind to lock up their homes and leave knowing lawns will still be mowed and shrubs trimmed – removing signs that the residence is unoccupied. This is an ideal situation for a snowbird who spends time in a different location for part of the year.

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Active adult living is the relatively new kid on the block for senior communities, filling an important niche for independent retirees and near-retirees.

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Qualities to look for in a

post-retirement job

The notion of relaxing on a beach all day in one’s golden years is still a retirement dream for millions of adults across the globe. But many individuals also harbor a desire to keep working after retiring.

Whether it’s a volunteering gig or a part-time job retirees are looking for, certain qualities can make an opportunity uniquely suited to a post-retirement job.

Flexibility Retirees may be looking to contribute to their communities or simply earn a little spending money, but they will likely still want the freedom to travel or spend time with their families whenever they choose.

So flexibility is something to look for in a post-retirement job. This is what makes consultant work so attractive to retirees.

In-person hours may not be required of consultants, who can then offer their input while visiting their grandchildren or traveling the world.

Socialization

Though the ability to work from home

can make it easier for retirees to earn some extra money, some seniors aren’t concerned about their finances but want to work so they can get out of the house.

In that case, look for a job that offers the opportunity to socialize and meet new people.

Socializing as an older adult is a great way to fend off loneliness. In addition, one study published in 2007 in the journal of the American Public Health Association found that social support networks have a positive effect on cognition among older adults.

So a post-retirement job that enables retirees to socialize could delay or reduce the severity of age-related cognitive decline.

Engagement A job seniors find engaging also is more likely to provide the types of benefits seniors are looking for in post-retirement work.

For example, researchers at Boston College’s Sloan Center on Aging and Work found that seniors who find a job or volunteering opportunity truly engaging

are more likely to benefit psychologically from those experiences than those whose post-retirement work is not engaging.

If seniors find themselves simply going through the motions with their post-retirement work, they can look for opportunities that they can be more enthusiastic about.

Pressure-free Regardless of what retirees did for a living prior to calling it a career, chances are they dealt with work-related stress. In fact, the American Stress Institute reports that 83% of workers in the United States suffer from work-related stress, while Statistics Canada reports that 62% of Canadian workers say work is their main source of stress.

After a lifetime of confronting workrelated stress, individuals who want to work in retirement should look for pressure-free opportunities. This is an important quality, as the ASI indicates that stress has been linked to increased rates of heart attack, hypertension and other disorders.

The right post-retirement job may differ from what individuals looked for during their careers.

Various qualities can combine to make for a post-retirement gig that benefits seniors in myriad ways.

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Get tech savvy

What seniors should know about social media safety Seniors might not be the demographic individuals initially associate with social media. However, Pew Research notes that seniors’ social media usage has been steadily rising for a number of years, proving that individuals 65 and over are not tech-averse.

Pew data from 2019 indicates that 46 percent of individuals 65 and older use Facebook. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram can be a great way to stay connected with family and friends and stay up-to-date on community events. But social media usage is not without risks, especially in regard to users’ safety. Seniors without much social media experience can heed these safety tips as they navigate popular platforms and discover all they have to offer.

Make smart choices Be mindful of your social media social circle. It’s easy to make virtual friends via social media, but seniors should be mindful of who they accept as online friends.

Carefully consider each friend request and decide just how big or small you want your social media community to be. Many individuals prefer to limit their online social circles to individuals they know well and want to stay in touch with, and that can serve as a good measuring stick when deciding whether or not to accept a friend request.

Avoid oversharing Seniors are no doubt aware that they should never share especially personal information, such as their Social Security number. However, seniors also should hesitate to share personal information like vacation plans.

Seniors who post about upcoming trips could return home to find they’ve been victimized by criminals who scoured their social media accounts and learned when

they were going to be away. A good rule of thumb is to keep personal information private and limit posts to information that is not overly specific or sensitive.

Examine account settings Social media users can control their privacy settings so they can decide who can (and can’t) view their online activity.

Each platform is different, but profiles set to public generally allow anyone to view individuals’ activity, so seniors should set their profiles to private to limit access to their information.

Recognize scam threats Social media platforms have had varying degrees of success in regard to keeping their sites scam-free. But scammers find a way, and users must take steps to avoid being victimized.

Never click on a link within a post from someone you don’t know and avoid anyone soliciting donations through social media platforms.

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Seniors are engaging with social media more than ever. Such engagement requires seniors to be mindful of the many ways to protect their privacy when spending time online.

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LIVING SENIOR • WINTER 2022

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Tips to thwart fraudsters and protect older adults Unfortunately, many of the most effective scams are those which target older adults, according to experts.

“All too often, we hear of elder financial abuse cases where bad actors manipulate unsuspecting older adults out of their savings and possessions,” says Lauree Peterson-Sakai, strategy leader for Wells Fargo Aging Client Services.

Imposter scams use a variety of tricks to gain a person’s trust and steal their sensitive information, but they often start with a simple call, email or message impersonating a person or company they know to trick them into giving away their money. To thwart fraudsters, consider these five tips.

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LIVING SENIOR • WINTER 2022

Beware of callers. Don’t pick up calls 1. from unknown numbers. The IRS and other government or financial institutions rarely make outbound calls and never ask you to provide personal information.

Don’t be ghosted by a money mule 2. scam. Avoid helping strangers with cashing checks, delivering packages or receiving goods.

Beware of calls from anyone claiming 3. to be your grandchild in urgent need of money. Hang up immediately to avoid falling for this common trick.

Speak to another family member or 4. trusted person in your life before lending large sums of money to family members or new acquaintances.

Bad actors are everywhere today, 5. including in internet searches, emails and texts. Don’t be tempted to click on

something that could hurt you or expose your personal information and log-in credentials.

“The best things you can do for yourself are know how to recognize potential scams and keep an open dialogue with your family and loved ones. Encourage each other to share if something sounds suspect,” says Peterson-Sakai. “What we’ve found to be really protective against scams is running a situation by someone you trust before making a decision that could impact you financially.”

For a guide to identifying and preventing elder abuse, visit wellsfargoadvisors.com.

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To protect yourself and those you love, learn the most common tricks and scams, and when contacted by someone you don’t know, always proceed with caution.

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Stay safe while surfing

How seniors can protect their online independence through cybersecurity literacy It’s no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the increased use of the internet and technology for many; however, this trend is best highlighted by seniors.

A recent survey on global internet trends conducted by Avast in partnership with Forsa and YouGov found that 22% of people over the age of 65 spend more than three hours per day online. Forty-six percent also noted that the internet has become more important since the start of the pandemic. While this shift was great for staying in touch with loved ones and keeping busy in a time of isolation, drawbacks emerged.

With the uptick in use, online threats like malware (software designed to disrupt, damage or gain unauthorized access to a computer system), phishing scams (manipulation through deception into disclosing sensitive personal information), tech support fraud (unsolicited offers to help fix alleged computer problems)

and even romance scams culminating in untraceable payments to bad actors, emerged.

Elders reported the least confidence in their online abilities, with only about 16% asserting their ability to do things online is “very good.” This is particularly relevant when looking at fears that keep seniors from fully participating online; in fact, 69% of people over the age of 65 decided not to do something due to security and privacy concerns, and another 17% felt that they don’t have enough online protection knowledge.

Further, fears of being a digital burden put older Americans at greater risk online due to a direct correlation between internet literacy, the perceived burden on others, and frustration of online tasks for those older than 55.

According to the FBI, Americans were particularly impacted by tech support fraud, which garnered nearly 10 million attack attempts on computer users between

January and March 2021. These scams are particularly insidious because although seniors make up 66% of tech support fraud victims, they shoulder a disproportionate amount of the financial losses at 84% in the U.S., translating to $116 million in 2020.

“In our increasingly digital world, cybersecurity literacy is essential, especially as many crucial social interactions and essential services moved online due to the pandemic,” said Ramsey Alwin, President and CEO of the National Council on Aging. “Despite the risks of using technology, the rewards are boundless. Older adults need to be empowered to extend their independence in the online domain to participate wholly in our modern society.”

Build confidence online and avoid becoming a victim by using a comprehensive security and privacy solution and following three simple rules: • CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

With more seniors online than ever, cybersecurity has become a bigger issue. Protect yourself by becoming tech savvy.

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How active seniors can

lower their injury risk

Physical activity is one of the key components of a healthy lifestyle. Though physical activity benefits people of all ages, it can be especially helpful for seniors by making it easier for them to overcome some of the obstacles associated with aging.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, physical activity supports daily living activities and independence. That’s a significant benefit for seniors who are worried that agerelated physical and mental decline might one day compromise their ability to live independently. The CDC also notes that physical activity lowers the risk for early death, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.

The CDC reports that physical activity

is generally safe for fit individuals who are 65 and older and have no existing conditions. Despite that, it’s best for any senior to consult his or her physician prior to beginning a new exercise regimen. Once doctors give seniors the go-ahead to begin a new workout routine, seniors can take the following steps to reduce their risk for injury.

The American Council on Exercise reports that warming up helps reduce workout-related injury risk by improving tissue elasticity. So prior to beginning a workout, regardless of how moderate- or low-intensity that regimen will be, seniors should warm up for five to 10 minutes.

Warm up

Start with a routine that’s commensurate with your abilities. Seniors excited by the prospect of working out must temper that excitement if they’re not accustomed to physical activity. Such individuals should consider working with a personal trainer.

Personal trainers design exercise regimens based on each individual client’s fitness

Seniors may think they don’t need to warm up before exercising because their workouts are not as high-intensity as they might have been when they were younger. But Harvard Medical School notes that warming up pumps nutrient-rich, oxygenated blood to the muscles and helps increase heart rate.

Start slow

• CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

Physical activity is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle for seniors. Active seniors can take various steps to reduce their injury risk so they can continue to reap the rewards of exercising for years to come.

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LIVING SENIOR • WINTER 2022

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Outdoor activities that are perfect for seniors The great outdoors beckons people of all ages. Fresh air can be hard to resist and the benefits of spending time outdoors are so numerous that it behooves anyone, including seniors, to answer the call of nature.

According to researchers with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service, human beings benefit both physically and psychologically from spending time in nature. Such experiences can reduce stress and help lower heart rates, potentially decreasing individuals’ risk for cardiovascular disease. In addition, the Forest Service notes that spending time outside in green spaces has been linked to a lower risk of depression.

Seniors who are retired or even aging empty nesters who are still in the workforce can make great use of their free time by venturing into the great outdoors.

The following are a handful of seniorfriendly outdoor activities that provide a great reason to get off the couch and take in all that Mother Nature has to offer.

Hiking Hiking provides a great workout and an ideal opportunity to spend time in an idyllic setting. The U.S. National Park Service notes that hiking helps individuals build stronger muscles and bones, improves their sense of balance, has a positive effect on heart health, and can decrease the risk of

certain respiratory problems.

Hiking is an especially attractive outdoor activity for seniors, as many parks feature trails with varying degrees of difficulty, ensuring there’s a trail for seniors whether they’re seasoned or novice hikers.

Water aerobics The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that water-based exercises can be especially helpful individuals with chronic diseases, a category many seniors fall into. The CDC notes that one study published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatology found that improves the use of joints affected by arthritis without worsening symptoms.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services also notes that swimming can lead to improved health for people with diabetes and heart disease. Seniors can reap these benefits by going for a dip in their own backyard pools or a local body of water, such as a lake or ocean. M any swim clubs also offer discounted memberships to seniors, making these another great and affordable way to reap the benefits of swimming.

Fishing Of course not all outdoor activities need to make seniors huff and puff. Fishing

provides a great reason to get outdoors, and many individuals devoted to fishing report feeling less stressed after a day spent casting for their favorite fish.

Individuals who consume what they catch also can benefit by improving their diets, as the American Heart Association notes that consuming certain types of fish has been linked to a lower risk for heart disease and obesity.

Volunteering Local environmental groups often sponsor cleanups at parks and waterfront attractions like beaches and lakes.

Volunteering with such organizations is a great way to get outside and give back, and working with like-minded individuals can be a great way for seniors to meet new people.

In addition, a national study sponsored by the Corporation for National and Community Service in 2019 found that 88 percent of Senior Corps volunteers who initially reported a lack of companionship reported a decrease in feelings of isolation after volunteering.

(METRO CREATIVE)

The opportunities for seniors to enjoy the great outdoors are endless. Taking advantage of such chances can benefit seniors in multiple ways.

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Don’t click links Whether from senders you don’t recognize or messages you aren’t expecting, clicking on suspicious links may lead to phishing scams.

Don’t open attachments Unless you know the sender and were expecting the document in question, they may be a vehicle housing malicious programs on behalf of an attacker.

Don’t respond to calls or pop-ups Unsolicited calls or pop-up windows could be facilitating a tech support scam or other sinister activity. If in doubt, hang up or close the window and contact someone you trust.

“It’s fantastic that older adults are discovering the rich rewards that a more digitally connected life can offer,” said Jaya Baloo, Chief Information Security Officer, Avast. “However, older adults face disproportionate risks online, causing some to hold back. The key to a rich and safer digitally connected life is to approach being online like driving and follow our

INJURY RISK

STOCK PHOTO Living Senior

clear, simple, defensive tips to help ensure a safer and better online experience.”

If you think you’ve been victimized, call your financial institution and the FBI right away.

To learn more about how to protect yourself or your loved ones online, visit blog.avast.com/tag/elders for additional easy-to-use resources.

(BPT)

• CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

levels and goals.

As clients make progress and their bodies become acclimated to routine physical activity, personal trainers can then tweak regimens to make them more challenging. Seniors can take on these responsibilities themselves, but are urged to begin slowly and gradually build up their exercise tolerance.

Strength train Seniors may think lifting weights is for young people who want to look buff, but the AARP¨ notes that muscle-strengthening activities protect the joints, reducing seniors’ risk for injury as a result.

The Department of Health & Human Services recommends seniors who have been cleared to exercise engage in strength training at least twice per week.

Stretch after workout Harvard Medical School reports that efforts to cool down after a workout, including stretching, can prevent muscle cramps and dizziness a nd lengthen muscles throughout the body, which improves range of motion. Harvard Medical School recommends holding each stretch for 10 to 30 seconds, as the longer a stretch can be held the more flexible individuals’ muscles will be.

(METRO CREATIVE)

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