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Fall 2020

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Surprisingly, older Americans are coping best during the pandemic

A recent study found older Americans are handling the COVID-19 pandemic better than their younger counterparts. Participants in the study said they longed to use their talents to help others and said previous traumatic experiences such as World War II helped prepare them for the necessary isolation during the pandemic.

STOCK PHOTO Living Senior

• While 37 percent of Gen Zers, 27 percent of Millennials, and 25 percent of Gen Xers said they’d suffered “mental health declines” since the virus hit, only 15 percent of Baby Boomers responded likewise.

• Faring the best were those 75 and over – the Silent Generation that followed the so-called “Greatest Generation” – with a mere 8 percent of those respondents reporting any mental health deterioration. That would seem to run counter, as does the results

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See COPING BEST, Page 4

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O

lder Americans have actually been coping far better than younger ones during the coronavirus pandemic, according to new research.

The Edward Jones and Age Wave Study goes where few have ventured before in focusing exclusively on how different generations have held up emotionally and financially in the months since all the lockdowns began. And some of its findings are at least as startling as how quickly even 70-year-olds came to love Zoom.

“COVID-19’s impact forever changed the reality of many Americans, yet we’ve observed a resilience among U.S. retirees in contrast to younger generations,” said Ken Dychtwald, Ph.D., the founder and CEO of Age Wave, a leading research think tank on aging, retirement and longevity issues.

While acknowledging upfront that the virus itself disproportionally struck aging adults, the five-generational sampling of 9,000 people age 18 and over revealed more than a few surprises. Among them:

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COPING BEST, from Page 3 for Boomers (age 56 to 74), to early dire warnings that prolonged social isolation made older adults especially vulnerable to depression, anxiety and cognitive decline.

• Nearly 68 million Americans have altered the timing of their retirement due to the pandemic, and 20 million stopped making regular retirement savings contributions.

Dychtwald attributed the two older generations’ resilience to their having “a greater perspective on life.”

“They’ve seen wars and other major disruptions before,” he said, “and they know that this, too, will pass. Younger generations feel like, ‘What happened to my life? I mean, I was supposed to go to college or I was starting a new job, and now everything has changed.’”

Most retired Boomers and Silent Gens also had monthly Social Security checks to fall back on. Which explains why – though the pandemic has significantly reduced the financial security of a quarter of Americans – younger generations were slammed the hardest: Nearly one-third of Millennial and Gen Z respondents characterized the impact as “very or extremely negative,” compared to 16 percent of Boomers and 6 percent of Silent Gens who admitted to similar

hardship.

Looking for any silver lining that’s come out of the COVID-19 crisis?

Well, 67 percent of respondents did say it’s brought their families closer together.

“The pandemic has certainly thrown into sharp relief what matters most in our lives,” said Ken Cella, Edward Jones’s client services group principal. “And important discussions have taken place about planning earlier for retirement,

saving more for emergencies, and even talking through end-oflife plans and long-term care costs.”

And with the study also showing that an overwhelming percentage of retirees yearn for more ways to use their talents to benefit society, financial services firm Edward Jones believes it’s time to redefine retirement more “holistically” to encompass what it calls “the four pillars” of health, family, purpose and finance.

Successfully addressing most of those pillars admittedly takes more financial savvy than many of us have, though, especially given ever-rising costs. But a financial advisor, like a local one at Edward Jones, has the perspective, experience and empathy to help.

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With regular care, proper nutrition and loving attention, aging pets can live a long, enriching life and enjoy every moment they have with you.

STOCK PHOTO Living Senior

3 ways to keep senior pets happy and healthy

When are pets considered ‘senior’?

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, our cats and dogs are generally considered senior when they reach the age of 7 years. However, some pets, like larger dog breeds, are considered seniors when they are 6 years old.

No matter what age your pet is, make sure they get regular veterinary checkups and necessary preventive care, like required vaccinations. Your veterinarian may recommend older pets get additional tests to watch for specific health conditions, and more frequent checkups to prevent future problems.

Watch for signs of aging that could need attention. You may notice changes in their skin and coat, their appetites may diminish, or their activity level may slow down.

“Changes in appetite and behavior may indicate underlying health concerns, so it’s worth sharing your observations with your vet,” said Dr. Kurt Venator, DVM, Ph.D. and chief veterinary officer at Purina.

“Dogs may also experience hearing, vision or cognitive changes as they age that are hard to detect, so pay attention if your dog

responds less promptly to voice commands, bumps into things as they walk or seems to have trouble doing activities he once enjoyed.”

Reduced mobility, limping or having trouble managing steps can also indicate issues like osteoarthritis.

Do pets need special nutrition as they get older?

A 2020 Purina Pet Ownership Survey found that 93% of pet owners feel it is important to choose food specific to a pet’s life stage. And while most people know puppies and kittens have different nutritional needs than adult dogs and cats, few owners realize that senior animals also need food tailored to them.

See SENIOR PETS, Page 8

LIVING SENIOR - FALL 2020

As members of the family, we love our pets unconditionally. We would do anything to ensure they live long and happy lives with us. That’s why as they age it is important to be aware of the different ways to care for our pets to help them remain healthy and energized as they reach senior status.

Purina has answers to these common questions about aging pets to help you be the best pet parent for your furry family member.

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65th birthday brings key decisions regarding health care (StatePoint) Your 65th birthday is an important milestone. That’s when you become eligible for the federal Medicare health insurance program.

Medicare is a popular, affordable health insurance program for Americans 65 and older, and those under 65 with certain disabilities, providing hospital coverage (Part A) and physician visits (Part B) to those who qualify. But it can be complicated. To decide what coverage is best for you, take inventory of your current and future health, work and economic standing, including your personal preferences and goals.

Here are a few tips to consider from Cigna, which serves hundreds of thousands of Medicare customers nationwide.

1. Timing is important! Medicare has a seven-month window around your 65th birthday called the Initial Enrollment Period. It begins three months before your 65th birthday and extends three months past your birthday month. Enrolling

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Jesse White announces expired driver’s licenses, ID cards extended

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White announced that expiration dates for driver’s licenses and ID cards have been extended an additional three months – from Nov. 1, 2020, until Feb. 1, 2021.

This new Feb. 1 extension also includes those who have October, November, December and January expiration dates. As a result, expired driver’s licenses and ID cards will remain valid until Feb. 1, 2021, so customers do not need to rush into Driver Services facilities during the pandemic.

“Extending expiration dates until February 1 means people with an expired driver’s license and ID card do not need to visit a Driver Services facility immediately,” said White. “During this pandemic, we continue to think creatively to serve the public as efficiently as possible, while making public health and safety our top priority.”

License plates stickers remain extended until Nov. 1, 2020, as they can easily be renewed online.

White continues to urge the public to consider using online services when possible instead of visiting a facility due to heavy customer volume. Customers who can conduct business online may go to www.cyberdriveillinois.com to take advantage of online services – such as renewing license plate stickers, obtaining a duplicate driver’s license or ID card, obtaining a driving record abstract or renewing a standard driver’s license through the Safe Driver renewal program – from the comfort of their own home.

People who conduct online transactions will avoid waiting in line at a facility.

White recently extended the driver’s license expiration date by one year for qualified drivers age 75 and older. The new expiration date is their birthday in 2021.

For those customers who must visit a facility, face masks are required. In addition, customers are asked to be patient due to heavy volume and to be prepared to wait outside in various types of weather. This is due to social distancing, which limits the number of people inside a facility at one time.

OSF HealthCare connecting communities with Medicare education, resources Nearly 70 percent of people nearing retirement say they wish they had a better understanding of how Medicare works, according to a recent Nationwide survey. As Medicare enrollment season approaches, OSF HealthCare is taking steps to help patients and caregivers better understand Medicare coverage.

“Patients want to ensure that visits to their doctors’ offices and services provided by their local hospitals will be covered by their insurance plans,” said Mark Meeker, DO, vice president of community medicine for OSF HealthCare. “The desire to double check coverage is especially strong during open enrollment periods when patients may be considering switching plans.” To help community members with this ‘homework,’ Dr. Meeker explained that the OSF HealthCare website has been updated to include not only an updated listing of insurance plans accepted at its facilities but also helpful links to Medicare tips and resources.

“One resource that some patients don’t realize they have available to them is free counseling,” said Dr. Meeker.

“Counseling services are provided through the Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP), which is a free statewide health insurance counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers. SHIP provides information and resources about applying for Medicare.”

Additionally, OSF has partnered with Health Alliance to offer OSF MedAdvantage, a new Medicare Advantage health plan that debuted in 2020. Informational seminars that explain the partnership and the different plan options will be hosted online throughout the enrollment period. Specific dates and times can be found by visiting www.OSFMedAdvantage.org.

OSF MedAdvantage plans are available in the following Illinois counties: Boone, Bureau, DeWitt, Henderson, Henry, Knox, LaSalle, Livingston, Marshall, McLean, Peoria, Putnam, Stark, Tazewell, Warren, Winnebago, and Woodford.

outside this window could result in higher premiums on Medicare Part B for the rest of your life.

If you’re still working, your path forward depends on the size of your company. If you work for a company with fewer than 20 employees, generally, you must sign up for Medicare at 65. If you work for a larger company, you can keep your company’s plan and enroll in Medicare without penalty later – usually when you retire – or enroll in Medicare immediately. However, by switching, your spouse could lose coverage if they’re currently on your company’s insurance.

If you’re not working and you’ve already filed for Social Security, the process is much easier. You’ll automatically be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B when you turn 65.

Sometimes called Original Medicare, this doesn’t include prescription drug coverage.

2. Original Medicare doesn’t cover everything. Original Medicare covers

hospital and physician expenses, but there are cost-sharing requirements and limits on what’s covered. Consider how you’ll cover things like dental, vision, hearing and pharmacy.

You can buy supplemental plans, or you can buy a Medicare Advantage plan (also known as Part C), which covers everything that Medicare does and provides additional benefits, including, in many cases, prescription drugs (also known as Part D).

3. You have many options. With Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement (also known as Medigap), and Prescription Drug Plans, there are many choices to make.

Understanding your budget, health needs, doctor preferences and lifestyle will be important in making the best choice for you.

4. Get help. For more information, call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800633-4227), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048. Or visit the Medicare Plan Finder website

at Medicare.gov/plan-compare. Find local assistance through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) at www.shiptacenter.org.

You can also contact individual Medicare plans. For instance, you can learn more about Cigna plans at www. cigna.com/medicare. Consult your benefits administrator at work and talk with friends and family members who’ve been through the process.

5. Use it. Know your available benefits.

Find out about wellness checks and preventive screenings needed for your age and health status, and get them. Take advantage of Medicare Advantage extras, like gym memberships, to actively engage in your health and well-being.

As you turn 65, it’s important to do your homework regarding health insurance.

However, if you find out that the plan is not the right fit, all is not lost. You can make changes during Medicare’s Annual Election Period, which occurs every year from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7.

LIVING SENIOR - FALL 2020

BIRTHDAY, from Page 6

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SENIOR PETS, from Page 5 An effective senior pet food formula can help control chronic health conditions, manage a pet’s weight and improve their mental focus. For example, Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7+ is formulated specifically for senior dogs.

It includes ingredients like enhanced botanical oils that are Medium-Chain Triglycerides, which can help improve brain function in older dogs. Purina scientists have spent years developing formulas that help boost energy levels and manage caloric intake for your senior dog, while ensuring that he or she receives the right balance of food and nutrients.

How can you keep an older pet active and alert?

Dr. Ragen McGowan, Ph.D., a Purina pet behavior scientist, notes that “just like people, older pets can become set in their ways and naturally slow down as they age. Keeping your senior pet active is a simple, fun and effective way to help them stay healthy and nimble.

Remember, that it is just as important to keep your pet’s mind active as it is to keep their body active.”

Try out a couple of these activities with your pet: • Play with new toys and games –

Cats and dogs are generally considered “senior” when they reach the age of 7 years.

STOCK PHOTO Living Senior

When was the last time you got your pet a new toy, or played a game of fetch or catch the mouse? Research your pet’s breed (or breeds) to find out what kinds of activities they may like best at all stages of their life.

Puzzle feeders and games can go a long way to keeping your pet mentally active.

• Introduce variety to your pet’s life – Vary your walking route by visiting an unfamiliar park or drive to a walking trail to give your dog a new place to discover.

Introduce your cat to the outdoors by taking her on a walk or letting her explore the backyard on a harness and leash.

• Train your pet – Yes, even older pets can learn new tricks. Consider a training class or watch videos from trainers to learn how to teach your pet a new command.

• Spend time with your pet – Petting, talking to and playing with your pets can help keep them happy and alert. Grooming them regularly will also give you a chance to bond as well as look for changes in their skin, toenails, ears and coat that your vet may need to know about.

To learn more about caring for your senior pet, visit www.Purina.com.

(BPT)

WELCOME TO

ROCK BAY HARBOR APARTMENTS Independent living for adults 55 years and older If you are 55 years or older and wish for a quiet 1 or 2 bedroom apartment that offers all the comforts of a home along with more opportunities for socializing, look no further than Rock Bay Harbor Apartments.

Our beautifully decorated facility offers spacious apartments with plenty of closets and storage.

LIVING SENIOR - FALL 2020

WE ARE OPEN AND ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS!!!

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We offer market rate apartments, as well as several units reserved at reduced rents, should your household income fall within guidelines. This is made possible due to our participation in Wisconsin’s Affordable Housing Program.

For rental information, please call 608-362-1020 or visit sawallproperties.com.

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New this year, Midway Village Museum will plan a digital version of its popular World War II Days military re-enactment with digital video presentations Sept. 25 through Oct. 25. The videos will be a great addition to online E-learning opportunities as well as visitors who want to have a World War II experience this year without leaving home.

Re-enactor units will produce short videos related to the impressions each depict during the military re-enactment.

Digital visitors will experience through these videos various aspects of the war by viewing these 6- to 7-minute videos showcasing artifacts, military units, uniforms and interviews with re-enactors.

Pay-Per-View Rates: $5 per person $2 per student There is a processing fee applied to your purchase.

The entire video series will include approximately 20 videos complete with footage from previous World War II Days and new videos pre-recorded specifically for this digital experience.

Pay-Per-View YouTube links The virtual video presentations will be available online on Friday, Sept. 25, and are pay-per-view YouTube videos launched on a private-group Facebook page. If you are not a Facebook social media subscriber, the YouTube video links will be emailed to you directly upon receipt of payment.

The videos will be “live� online beginning Friday, Sept. 25 through Oct. 25.

Receiving the video link A confirmation email will be sent to you with the email link for the private Facebook group. Please email, admin@

midwayvillage.com, following your recipient of the confirmation email, if you choose to have the YouTube video links sent via email to you instead of using the Facebook platform.

In early August, Midway Village Museum announced it will not present the annual World War II Days military re-enactment which was scheduled for the third weekend in September due to COVID-19 safety concerns.

The annual special event is known as the largest of its kind in the Midwest with typically more than 1,000 re-enactors portraying Axis and Allied forces as well as civilians during the 1940s.

The new digital experience is in the planning stages with additional announcements detailing topics and how to view the presentations available in early September.

Questions? Call 815-397-9112.

Re-enactors will produce short videos related to the impressions each depict during the military re-enactment.

LIVING SENIOR - FALL 2020

World War II Days digital video presentations available online

SUBMITTED PHOTO Living Senior

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LIVING SENIOR - FALL 2020

Now more than ever, it is important to get a flu vaccine

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Flu causes millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and tens of thousands of deaths in the United States yearly. This year, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to get a flu vaccine to protect yourself, your family and your community from flu and its potentially serious consequences.

Both flu and COVID-19 are respiratory illnesses that are thought to spread mainly by droplets when people who are infected cough, sneeze or talk. Both flu and COVID-19 can be spread to others before infected people know they are sick.

There are also some key differences between flu and COVID-19. COVID-19 seems to spread more easily than flu and causes more serious illnesses in some people. It can also take longer before people show symptoms and people can be contagious for longer. Another important difference is there is a vaccine to protect against flu. There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to the virus.

While what will happen this fall and winter is uncertain, CDC is preparing for flu and COVID-19 to spread at the same time. Besides making people sick, this could result in a dangerous public health situation because both diseases can cause serious illness that might require hospitalization.

Getting a flu vaccine provides the best protection against flu and is particularly important this year. Flu vaccines help reduce the risk of developing potentially serious flu complications. This is especially important for people with certain long-term health conditions like diabetes, asthma and heart disease.

Flu vaccines are also important for people who are 65 years or older who are more likely to get very sick from flu.

Reducing the number of people who are sick with flu also can reduce the burden on our medical systems. More people getting vaccinated can mean that fewer people will need to go to doctors’ offices for flu treatment and testing, and fewer people will need to seek urgent medical care or be hospitalized

with flu. These reductions in doctor visits and hospitalizations can help save medical resources needed for the care of COVID-19 patients.

CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get their flu vaccine in September or October, or as soon as possible after that.

Talk to your healthcare provider, pharmacy, or health department about getting your flu vaccine. Doctors, pharmacists and other health professionals are putting new procedures in place to keep people safe from COVID-19 during vaccination.

It’s also important to continue social distancing, wearing a mask and washing hands often – all these actions help slow the spread of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19 and flu.

Not sure where to get a flu vaccine?

Visit vaccinefinder.org to find a vaccination location near you.

With the coronavirus still spreading across the United States, getting a flu shot is particularly important to help reduce the risk of developing potentially serious flu complications, which might require hospitalization.

STOCK PHOTO Living Senior

(BPT)

WATCH YOUR STEP

6 ways to prevent falls around the house

D

espite all of the potential hazards around a house – from electrical issues to fire hazards to carbon monoxide – the National Home Security Alliance says that falls are the leading cause of death due to home accidents.

Falls are responsible for one-third of all home-related fatalities. Although seniors are the group most affected by falls, these types of accidents can affect anyone.

A broken bone may be a minor inconvenience for young people, but fractures are more serious for the elderly.

As a result, seniors must take measures to protect themselves against falls. These steps can minimize risk at home.

Remove tripping hazards Examine rooms and hallways for potential hazards, such as slippery throw rugs, floorboards that stick up, loose carpeting, or furniture that blocks walking paths. Remedy these hazards as soon as possible. Address loose floorboards and/ or place nonslip materials beneath rugs.

Install grab bars or railings Install grab bars in certain locations for extra stability or where someone may need leverage getting up from a seated position. They are particularly helpful near toilets and bathtubs and in stairways and hallways.

Sensible shoes fit properly and have sturdy, nonskid soles. Avoid walking around in slippers or even in stocking feet, which are much more slippery.

Store items within reach Store items that are used frequently, such as dishes, in easily accessible cabinets and other locations. This prevents having to climb or reach for them.

Install more lighting Poor visibility can contribute to falls. Lighting in hallways, stairways,

Falls can cause serious injury or death, particularly for aging men and women. Simple fixes around the house can make things more secure and reduce the risk for falls.

STOCK PHOTO Living Senior

bathrooms, and bedrooms – even if it is a small night light – can be enough to light the way.

Reinforce your home’s exterior Falls do not only occur inside. Inspect

the perimeter of a property for uneven turf, holes or cracked or uneven patches of walkways. Make sure lighting is working at entryways, and check that exterior handrails are secure.

LIVING SENIOR - FALL 2020

Stick to sensible shoes

(METRO CREATIVE)

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Robotic dog provides comfort to hospice patients Northern Illinois Hospice is excited to announce the newest member of its team, a golden puppy who also happens to be an animated robotic therapy pet.

Pet therapy is one of several integrated therapies offered to patients of Northern Illinois Hospice. A pet visitor offers many benefits including reducing anxiety, eases depression and encourages communication.

A pet can also reconnect the patient with the experience of a beloved former pet. Most of it, it provides comfort to patients.

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, our in-person pet therapy visits were suspended leaving a void for some of our patients.

Thanks to generous donors who give to our Pet Peace of Mind program, the volunteer department was able to purchase a robotic puppy.

The puppy has built-in sensors and speakers so the pup can respond to motion and touch, has a heartbeat, lifelike coat and responds to voices.

Northern Illinois Hospice volunteers are now combining virtual visits with real pet therapy dogs while the patients are cuddled by the robotic dog!

The puppy has built-in sensors and speakers so the it can respond to motion and touch, has a heartbeat, lifelike coat and responds to voices.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Living Senior

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How older drivers can approach vehicle maintenance and social distancing

Inquire about safety measures Before booking vehicle maintenance

appointments, seniors should call the dealership or body shop to determine what’s being done to keep everyone safe. Many such businesses quickly implemented new safety protocols so they should be ready and willing to share this information over the phone.

Look for specific information about sanitization practices. Are vehicle interiors being sprayed with disinfectant before and after maintenance appointments? Are employees wearing masks each day? Are employees being checked for COVID-19 symptoms before each shift?

These are some of the simple yet effective measures many dealerships and body shops are taking to ensure the safety of their customers.

Ask about pickup service Some communities that have reopened are encouraging high-risk segments of the population to adhere to stay-at-home measures. Elderly men and women are

still vulnerable to COVID-19 even if the number of reported cases in their towns has decreased.

Pickup service, in which a service shop employee will come pick up and then drop off a customer’s car once the work is done, can be a great way for elderly drivers to have their vehicles serviced without going out in public. Even if pickup is not policy, ask if it’s possible and request that your vehicle be disinfected upon being returned.

If pickup is not an option, ask a younger friend or family member to drive your car in for maintenance in your place.

Only visit safe facilities Elderly drivers who must visit a dealership or body shop in person should confirm that waiting rooms feature socially distant seating. If possible, drop the car off and then go for a walk or find somewhere safe off the premises to read a book or listen to music while the work is being done.

(METRO CREATIVE)

Elderly drivers who need to have their vehicles serviced can take certain steps to stay safe in the era of social distancing.

LIVING SENIOR - FALL 2020

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 in the winter of 201920 required people of all ages and backgrounds to make changes in their daily lives.

Elderly men and women were among the groups the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identified as high-risk for severe illness from COVID-19. That forced people 65 years and older to be especially cautious when engaging in otherwise normal activities, including having their vehicles serviced.

In recognition of the threat posed by COVID-19, many auto dealerships and service shops implemented changes to their operations to ensure the safety of their employees and their customers, including those in high-risk groups. Seniors can take additional measures to ensure they stay safe while having their vehicles serviced.

STOCK PHOTO Living Senior

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As studies show that engaging in physical activity is the most effective way for aging men and women to stay healthy, more adults may be compelled to join fitness groups that cater to the 50-and-over market.

STOCK PHOTO Living Senior

Innovative fitness programs for seniors LIVING SENIOR - FALL 2020

I

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t is important to stay active and eat healthy foods in an effort to promote fitness and well-being. This is especially true for seniors, many of whom lead increasingly sedentary lifestyles as they age.

The American Heart Association says adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity, and a Harvard University study says that exercise can be an insurance policy for heart health.

Today’s seniors have more fitness options at their disposal than ever before.

SilverSneakers is the leading community fitness program for older adults in the

United States. SilverSneakers members can participate in specially curated programs at participating gyms and community centers across the nation.

According to the organization, there are more participating fitness locations available than there are Starbucks coffee establishments. Classes are fit for everyone, no matter their experience level.

Those concerned about gym costs may find that SilverSneakers already is included in their Medicare Advantage plan for no additional cost. Plus, there is access to healthy living discounts from participating businesses.

Canada has begun to develop its own

senior-centric fitness programs. The Healthy, Safe and Strong group exercise program is an introduction to safe exercises available for adults age 60 and older in the province of Ontario.

The program can help develop better stamina, maintain or improve balance and increase strength and endurance. StrongerU Senior Fitness is a relatively new program of pre-choreographed group fitness offering instruction in four program types: cardio, strength training, stretching, and circuit training. The program addresses a need in Canada for quality and consistent senior fitness programing.

(METRO CREATIVE)

September is Healthy Aging Month, and in the year 2020 people are living longer than ever before. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2000 there were 35 million people living in the U.S. who were 65 or older. In 2016, this number increased to 49 million and is expected to reach 71 million by 2030 and 98 million by 2060 – when older adults will make up nearly 25% of the population.

In addition to technology and medical advancements, increased education about everyday healthy habits have allowed many adults to still feel young as they reach milestones like 60, 65 and beyond. Years ago, this was not the case. People are retiring later and staying active longer. The goal of Healthy Aging Month is to encourage individuals to act how you feel instead of “acting your age.”

“As people are getting older, they sometimes use their age almost as a crutch and they don’t realize that age is really nothing but a number. It doesn’t matter how old you are. It’s never too late to start taking care of your health, whether that is for exercising, eating healthy, being just more active in general – it’s never too late to start improving your overall health and improving your chronic conditions,” explains Rasha Atallah, M.D., Family Medicine Physician, OSF HealthCare.

An important aspect of getting and staying healthy includes annual visits with your primary care physician (PCP).

This year because of the pandemic, the number of PCP visits in the U.S. declined due to fear of going into a healthcare facility.

However, extra measures are being taken to keep offices safe and clean. These visits are important to maintain even when you are feeling otherwise healthy. This helps your doctor get an annual baseline of your health.

Furthermore, they will be able to recommend personalized preventative measures to keep you healthy.

“Whether it’s your primary doctor or your specialist – especially now during COVID, during this pandemic, people are obviously afraid to go in. But you want to make sure that you know that all of your doctors are doing the best they can to keep you safe and keep you healthy. And the most important way to do that is to make sure we are up to date and getting regular check-ups,” Dr. Atallah says.

The social aspect of healthy aging is critical as well. While many people may be feeling isolated this year, Dr. Atallah strongly encourages people to utilize the various virtual platforms available to socialize with friends and family. She also recommends finding ways to keep your mind active and sharp. Whether you are working in the office, from home, or are retired, finding tools to exercise your mind is an important part of healthy aging.

“Reading, puzzles, learn a new game. If you have someone who can teach you how

to play a new game, you can even play it virtually. You can also do some math. Brush up on those skills. With the grandkids being at home nowadays, maybe join them a little bit. Sit with them. Try to help them with their homework. That might help you to brush up on some of your skills and give you some nice bonding time with the kids and the grandkids,” advises Dr. Atallah.

As winter approaches and the days begin to shorten, Dr. Atallah recommends creating and sticking to a routine. This will play a role in all aspects of your health – physical, mental, and emotional.

“We are going to be more cooped up inside, so we want to make sure that we get into a routine. Have something that wakes you up out of bed, whether it’s getting up to read the paper, getting up to do an exercise, getting up to call somebody. The more of a routine that you have, the less likely that you will feel down or sad or depressed especially when there’s less sunlight outside, less things that we can do in terms of activities with our friends and family,” explains Dr. Atallah.

Most importantly, remember that age is just a number.

“My number one advice to people as they start to age is just to stay motivated. If you are doing something that is working for you, don’t stop. Keep doing it. If there is something that you’ve always wanted to do, know that it’s never too late to start. It’s never too late to change,” says Dr. Atallah.

LIVING SENIOR - FALL 2020

Healthy aging in the year 2020

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ompa C . ce a e P

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ife L r Fo To d ay. To m o r row.

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Since 1982, we’ve provided comfort and quality of life for our patients across Southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. Our experienced and compassionate staff ensure dignity for our patients and peace of mind for their loved ones along the end-of-life journey. We know that it is not an easy decision to make, but knowing your care options brings peace of mind.

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