There’s something quietly magical about May. It’s not quite summer, but the world feels like it’s leaning in that direction—stretching toward warmth, color, and possibility. The trees fill out, the sun lingers just a little longer each evening, and everything seems to be waking up. For me, this month always feels like a gentle breath before the rush of summer—an in-between moment that invites clarity.
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about pace. How easy it is to sprint through life, checking boxes, chasing productivity, trying to get it all “right.” But May has a different rhythm. It asks us to pause. To notice what’s growing. To consider what we actually want to carry with us into the busy season ahead—and what we’re ready to let go of.
That’s part of what inspired this month’s issue. Whether we’re talking about personal growth, creative projects, education, or the way we connect with others, it all begins with that one question: What do I want this next chapter to feel like?
It’s a question I’m asking myself as I look ahead—not just to summer, but to the kind of life and community I want to be part of building. Whether you’re a student wrapping up a school year, a parent navigating transitions, or someone simply trying to carve out space for meaning in the everyday, I hope you find something here that resonates.
We’re grateful you’re reading. Truly.
Here’s to slow mornings, fresh ideas, and a summer that feels like yours.
May is that confusing month where you leave the house in a jacket, regret it by noon, and then need it again by dinner. It’s like the weather equivalent of someone saying “I’m fine” when they are absolutely not fine. Allergies are raging, calendars are bursting, and yet somehow we’re all supposed to pretend we have it together just because there are tulips. Classic May: nature’s way of soft-launching summer while keeping us emotionally unstable.
POSITIVE AGING is published on the first of each month . The articles in this publication are in no way intended to replace the knowledge or diagnosis of your doctor. We advise seeing a physician whenever a health problem arises requiring an expert’s care. Embrace Life. Age Well. Keep
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Milwaukee Recreation’s OASIS COMMUNITY CENTER
2414 W. Mitchell Street, Milwaukee, WI 53204
ACTIVE OLDER ADULTS PROGRAM
Make your life more fulfilling by joining Milwaukee Recreation’s Active Older Adults Program! The program provides opportunities for adults, fifty years and older, in arts and crafts, fitness, health and wellness, language skills, outdoor education, sports and recreation, and special events. Whether you’re looking to get a good workout or learn a new language, this closeknit community provides a fun, social, and supportive environment for you to do it in.
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CONTACT
OUTDOOR EDUCATION CLASSES COMPUTER LAB FITNESS CENTER
Offerings vary by season
Open Monday through Friday 8:00AM - 3:00PM
Open Monday through Friday 8:00AM - 3:00PM
Fitness Center equipment includes compressed air resistance machines, treadmills, ellipticals, exercise bicycles, rowing machines, and free weights.
MEGAN FREY | megan@mkerec.net | 414.647.6057
SUPERVISOR — ACTIVE OLDER ADULTS
Open Monday - Friday 8:00AM - 3:00PM
What Are the Backyarding Trends for 2025?
The popularity of backyarding will continue to increase in 2025, says the TurfMutt Foundation, which has encouraged outdoor living and caring for green spaces for the last 15 years. Backyarding is the act of moving everyday activities like dining, entertaining, relaxing, and working to the outdoor green space around us, such as family yards, parks, sports fields, and other green areas.
“Things are always changing economically, culturally, and in terms of what people prioritize in their lives; however, the importance of the family backyard and community parks remains consistent,” says Kris Kiser, President &
CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation. “People have come to appreciate the many health, well-being, environmental, and economic benefits of the green space around us, and communities should be making it a greater priority.”
Here are the top backyarding trends the TurfMutt Foundation has identified for 2025:
The need for urban backyarding will increase. Homebuyers moved to the suburbs in droves during the pandemic, but mandates to return to in-person workspaces continue driving people back to city centers. This means greater importance on making the most of small urban backyards, balconies, or patio gardens. There will also be an increased desire for “public backyarding” spaces like neighborhood parks, pocket parks, community gardens, dog parks, and more.
Cities investing in green space will be sought after. Community investment in spaces for “public backyarding” as a keystone amenity has proven to produce happier residents. Green space makes cities more livable, creates wildlife habitats, and improves environmental conditions within city corridors. The city of Louisville is ahead of this trend with Mulligan’s Bark Park and The TurfMutt Foundation Great Lawn, which are both located in the city’s historic downtown.
Outdoor activity areas will accommodate all ages. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, there are now more multi-generational households than ever before. This is largely because of the cost of homeownership and the need to pool money to afford housing. Other factors are an aging population that requires care or young adults “boomeranging” back home due to high housing costs. Backyards will be revamped for flexible activity zones that accommodate all manner of activities.
Backyards will become wellness retreats. The focus on improving mental health in big and small ways will continue to gain steam in 2025, and the
Backyarding continued on page 38
How to Know if Independent Living is the Right Choice for You
Retirement age should be some of the best years of your life. A chance for you to explore your interests, pick up new hobbies, and spend more time with family.
It can also be a point when questions arise if it’s the right time for you to consider moving to an independent living community.
With so many different options, how do you determine if independent living would be the best fit for you and your lifestyle?
There can be a slight overlap, but generally, independent living is best suited for seniors who don’t require hands-on care and are still active, selfsufficient adults.
Spero independent living communities offer a place for you to experience freedom and endless opportunities. We encourage our residents to live an active lifestyle and offer first-class amenities, activities, and socialization.
Home Maintenance Has Become Too Difficult
Many seniors your age have lived in their homes for a long time – in fact, some may have spent their entire adult life in the same home.
The joys of owning your own home can be wonderful. But there’s no denying it takes a LOT of work to keep a home maintained properly.
A move to an independent living community can be a breath of fresh air. No more lawn to mow, snow to shovel, or clogged drains to clear. No unexpected surprises like a leaky roof or a broken water heater. Let’s be honest – home maintenance expenses can add up quickly.
In an independent living community, you will no longer need to worry about big chores, maintenance, or costly repairs.
Need a lightbulb changed? Have a broken refrigerator? Professional staff is available 24/7 to assist with all levels of home maintenance.
The Convenience is Very Appealing
Wouldn’t it be nice to take a trip to the store or explore other places you enjoy and know you don’t have to worry about driving?
How about being able to easily walk to the spa/salon within your community and get a massage or a haircut?
Convenience and peace of mind are two very appealing factors that may influence you to consider independent living.
Independent Living is about lifestyle preference. The communities primarily focus on servicing the social needs of their residents.
Almost anything you need can be found within the living community – but if not, most places provide transportation to get you to and from your destination quickly and safely.
Buildings are more spread apart on a large campus independent living community, with a central meeting area for social activities and meals. Living spaces are generally larger than assisted living, with more area to walk or drive between buildings.
Another added convenience – if you’d like to take a trip for a few days, you don’t need to be concerned about the safety of your home. You can lock up, leave, and feel rest assured your home is being watched by security within the community.
Eight Scenic Wisconsin Golf Courses
The American Heart Association cites research showing regular golfing may lower the risk of death in older adults, offers other health benefits
While golfing was once known as the game of kings, the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, says you don’t have to be royalty or a professional player to reap health benefits from hitting the links at your local golf course. Research presented at the Association’s International Stroke Conference in 2020 found that regularly golfing – at least once per month – lowered the risk of death, especially among older adults.
Golfing can provide benefits such as stress reduction and regular exercise. Due to its social nature and typically slower, controlled pace, people of most all ages and physical fitness levels can play the sport.
Whistling Straights – Sheboygan
Two courses designed by Pete Dye.
The Straits Course. Open, rugged and windswept terrain defines Straits. Sculpted along two miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, one of the great championship courses in the United States. Fescue fairways and over a thousand sand dune bunkers with elevation changes from 10 to 70 feet above the great lake.
The Irish Course. Just inland. Interspersed with four meandering streams. Fescues of greens and golden browns. Is a course with real bite.
The Brute Golf Course - Lake Geneva
Massive sand traps. Prominent water features. It’s Brute-iful.
The magnificent Brute, at over 7,000 yards, is one of the most challenging layouts in the Midwest and is considered one of Wisconsin’s best golf courses. Designed by Robert Bruce Harris, the course is enhanced with 68 bunkers and huge rolling greens, averaging over 8,000 square feet. This par-72 Lake Geneva golf course is perfectly manicured and immaculately maintained.
The Brute is long and tight, and everything about it is “Brute-ish.” The greens can be really quick and challenging. Many of the greens are crowned, making for really tough downhill putts and a lot of challenging two-putt situations. The hilly tree lined terrain features sloping fairways punctuated by large sand traps and sculpted water hazards that added aesthetic beauty as well as challenge. Many tee boxes are elevated and most of the green complexes are raised.Geneva National Resort & Club
The Highlands Golf Course -Lake Geneva
Wide open fairways. Lightning quick greens. Bring your best golf game.
The Highlands is a Scottish-inspired, links-style course, complete with a beautiful landscape of scenic hills, trickling creeks and lush foliage. This Lake Geneva golf course was originally designed by Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus, and transformed in 1996 by Bob Cupp.
Golf continued on page 13
istock.comSmederevac
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I look forward to helping you explore your Medicare options so you can enroll in a plan with confidence.
Rightsizing with Purpose: A Joyful Guide to Downsizing
One of the biggest delays seniors face when considering a move is the overwhelming task of downsizing and decluttering. After 30 years of working with seniors, I can recognize the look on a client’s face the moment they open the door for a consultation, usually being tired, stressed, and unsure where to begin.
The comments are often the same:
“It’s too stressful.”
“My kids don’t want anything.”
“I just don’t know where to start.”
“What if I need it later?”
It’s completely normal to feel this way. But here’s the truth: Rightsizing is not a sprint—it’s a marathon. And it can be a beautiful one. This process is more than just sorting through things, it’s a chance to share stories, relive memories, and make thoughtful decisions about what comes next.
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your space and your life. Here’s how to begin:
• Gather supplies: Boxes, packing paper, tape, markers, and labels
• Create a checklist of all areas to downsize and check each off as completed once you are done. Don’t forget often-overlooked spaces like the garage, attic, or the basement
• Make a plan of action: Set aside one or two consistent days a week to stay on track
• Tackle one room at a time and start with an easier space to build momentum
•Set up clear containers (preferably see-through plastic bins) for keep, family, sale, donate, and trash
• Create a memory box for things like record stories, notes, or photos that
5 Tips: Natural Products Used for Common Aging Related Conditions
Many older adults are turning to complementary and integrative health approaches to promote health and well-being. Natural products, often sold as dietary supplements, are frequently used by many older people despite safety concerns or a lack of evidence to support their use. Although many people believe that natural products are safe, these products can contain pharmacologically active compounds and may interact with prescription medicines or have side effects and risks. Check out what the science says about natural products for these common aging-related conditions, and talk to your health care provider if you are considering taking a natural product. And for information about mind and body approaches for common aging-related conditions, be sure to check out these tips.
Osteoarthritis. Findings from studies of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate—taken separately or together—suggest that they do not provide much, if any, meaningful improvement of pain or function for osteoarthritis (OA). Independent clinical practice guidelines published in 2012 by the American College of Rheumatology, and in 2010 by the American Academy of Ortho-
paedic Surgeons recommend not using glucosamine or chondroitin for OA. Cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. Although natural products containing fish oils or ginkgo biloba have been widely marketed to improve memory and sharpen the mind, there is a lack of evidence to support the use of these products for the prevention of cognitive decline or dementia.
Sleep problems. Current research suggests that melatonin (a hormone known to shift circadian rhythms) may be useful in treating several sleep disorders, such as jet lag, delayed sleep phase disorder, and sleep problems related to shift work. Guidelines from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommend the use of melatonin supplements to promote daytime sleep among night shift workers. The guidelines also recommend melatonin to reduce symptoms of jet lag and improve sleep following travel across multiple time zones.
Menopausal symptoms. Many natural products, such as black cohosh, have been studied for their effects on menopausal symptoms, but there is little evidence that they are useful. While some herbs and botanicals are often found in over-the-counter formulas and combinations, many of these combination products have not been studied.
It’s also important to know that because natural products used for menopausal symptoms can have side effects and can interact with other botanicals or supplements or with medications, research in this area is looking at safety as well as effectiveness.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Although several small studies have suggested modest benefit of saw palmetto for treating symptoms of BPH, a large study evaluating high doses of saw palmetto found that saw palmetto was not more effective than placebo for treatment of urinary symptoms related toToo much stress can make skin more sensitive and trigger acne breakouts and other skin conditions.
Manage Stress
To boost your chances for healthy skin and a healthy state of mind, take some steps to manage your stress:
Get enough sleep.
Add more movement into your day, such as taking a brisk walk.
Scale back your to-do list.
Try meditation or yoga.
Make time to do the things you enjoy and see the people you care about.
Revitalize Your Well-Being
Published by Grace O
Revitalize Your Well-being: FoodTrients Unveils Nourishing Anti-Inflammatory Recipes to Conquer Stress, Accelerate Healing, and Bolster Immunity
Inflammation can wreak havoc on your health. It’s the body’s natural reaction to a stressor, which can be an injury, illness, infection or even a tough workout. Acute inflammation is a good thing, as long as it resolves the effects of stress on the body in the short term. But when it is chronic, occurring at high levels over a period of time due to a lack of sleep, poor diet, repeated
infections, or other health conditions, it can lead to digestive problems, reduce the body’s ability to heal and lower immunity, leading to inflammatory diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and arthritis.
Exercise, getting enough rest and reducing emotional stress are ways to reduce inflammation in your body. As far as eating right, Grace O, founder of FoodTrients, believes that there are many foods that help reduce or avoid chronic inflammation and regularly features them on the FoodTrients website. Fortunately, they are easy to work into your diet and quite delicious.
“I keep coming back to the Mediterranean diet, which is high in lean proteins like fish, as well as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low saturated fats such as olive oil that help with reducing inflammation in the body,” Grace says. “And if you look at some of the ‘blue zones’ including Icaria, Greece, and Sardinia, Italy, the long, healthy lives of those residents are attributed to their Mediterranean diet and a lifestyle of integrated physical activity and social connections.”
Following are two of Grace’s recipes that are high in anti-inflammatory ingredients and are excellent additions to any dietary regimen. To see the complete list of anti-inflammatory recipes click here.
Quinoa Chili with Sweet Potatoes Serves 5
This is a hearty vegetarian ‘chili’ loaded with flavor and nutrition. It contains 39 percent of the RDA for fiber, 24 percent for protein, 215 percent of vitamin A, which protects vision, boosts the immune system and is beneficial to reproduction, growth, and development. Vitamin A also helps keep the heart, lungs, and other organs working properly.
Ingredients
1 ½ Tbs. olive oil
2 (12 oz.) sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into ½ -inch pieces
1 medium yellow onion, diced
istock.com/Jacob :eggeeggjiew
istock.com/iJacob Wackerhausen
2 poblano peppers, diced
4 large cloves of garlic, chopped
1 Tbs. chili powder
2 tsp. ground cumin
2 tsp. ground coriander
1 tsp. ground cayenne pepper
1 qt. unsalted vegetable broth
1 (10 oz.) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes with green chiles
1 (4 oz.) can diced green chiles
2 cups of water, divided
1 cup uncooked white or multicolored quinoa
1 ½ cans (about 23 oz.) of no-salt-added pinto beans, rinsed
½ teaspoon salt
Sliced jalapeño peppers, plain Greek yogurt, and cilantro for serving Directions
Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sweet potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened and lightly charred, 6-to-7 minutes.
Add onion and poblanos; cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened, about 3 minutes.
Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, coriander, and cayenne; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add broth, tomatoes, green chiles, and 1 cup of water. Cover, increase heat to high, and bring to a boil.
Stir in quinoa, beans, and salt. Reduce heat to medium, cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the quinoa is tender, about 15 minutes, adding the remaining 1 cup of water during the last 3 minutes of cooking time. Garnish with jalapeño slices, Greek yogurt, and cilantro.
Savory Oatmeal with Baby Spinach and Poached Egg
Serves 4
Whole grains are a key part of a Mediterranean diet, plus they are hearty and satisfying. This recipe provides the protein and vitamins from the egg. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, iron, folate, and potassium. Spinach also adds some protein to your diet. The oatmeal provides antioxidants, improves insulin response, lowers blood sugar, improves cholesterol levels, promotes healthy bacteria in the digestive tract while it’s also a good source of vitamins and minerals including magnesium, iron, phosphorus, zinc, folate, and vitamins B-1 and B-5. Cooking the oats in the skillet with the onions gives it a risotto-like texture.
Heat oil in a medium-size skillet over medium-high. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, 3-to-4 minutes. Stir in oats; cook 1 minute. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, and simmer, stirring often, until oats are tender, about 8 minutes. Remove from heat.
Stir ¾ cup cheese, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ tsp. pepper into oats mixture. Spoon ½ cup of oats mixture into each of 4 serving bowls; top each with ½ cup spinach and 1 poached egg. Sprinkle evenly with salt and pepper to taste, and top evenly with remaining ¼ cup cheese. Sprinkle evenly with chives.
*For perfect poached eggs:
Use the freshest eggs possible. Crack each egg into its own ramekin; pour the egg into a fine mesh strainer to remove the watery part of the white to avoid the ‘whispies’.
Well continued on page 19
Tudor Oaks Senior Living Community, a trusted name in the Muskego area for over 40 years, is now offering Home Care Services to area residents! Tudor Oaks Home Care Services provide a variety of supportive options to assist seniors who wish to remain in their own home.
Easy Indoor Houseplants for Decoration
Here are some of our top tips and ideas for using houseplants as indoor decor. It can also be the start of a fun new hobby. These easy indoor houseplants for decoration can brighten your space, give you delicious herbs to use in your kitchen, and help you decorate with color.
Adding houseplants to your indoor space is an easy way to bring a fresh, natural touch to your home while also enjoying the benefits of gardening. Whether you’re looking to create a lush green corner, grow your own herbs for cooking, or add a little life to your shelves, indoor gardening can be a re-
warding and stress-relieving hobby. Here are some tips on easy indoor houseplants for decoration in your home.
Grow Fresh Herbs on Your Windowsills
A sunny kitchen windowsill is the perfect spot for growing fresh herbs. Fresh herbs can add a vibrant touch to your space and provide easy access to flavorful ingredients for cooking. Basil, mint, parsley, chives, and rosemary thrive in small pots and require minimal care—just a bit of sunlight and occasional watering. If you’re new to growing herbs indoors, you can start with pre-potted plants from a garden center to make the process easier.
Decorate with Draping and Vining Plants
Trailing and vining plants can add greenery in interesting shapes and create movement in your rooms. Hanging baskets, shelves, or wall-mounted planters can showcase plants like pothos, string of pearls, or ivy, creating a cascading greenery effect. You can also drape vines on bookshelves to add color and contrast or encourage draping plants like string of turtles or string of hearts to cascade down an end table. Having these plants creates dimension and interest on otherwise flat objects.
Incorporate Taller Plants for Height Variations
Consider adding a statement tree to your space for impact, or try varying heights of indoor plants for maximum visual interest. Plants like the fiddleleaf fig, rubber tree, Schefflera, or snake plants can grow tall and create a focal point in any room. They work well in corners, next to furniture, or even as dividers in open spaces, adding height and texture to your home decor.
Experiment with Growing Plants from Seeds or Grocery Remnants
Interested in an at-home science experiment? Want to introduce your grandkids to your new hobby? Try upcycling food scraps for an educational and exciting adventure. Starting plants from seeds or food scraps can be a fun and budget-friendly way to grow your indoor garden. Many common kitchen scraps can sprout new life—avocado pits, lemon seeds, green onion roots,
Plants continued on page 33
The CapTel® Captioned Telephone shows word-for-word captions of everything a caller says, letting you read anything you cannot hear over the phone. CapTel is a NO-COST, federally funded technology available under the Americans with Disabilities Act To qualify, users need:
• Hearing loss
• Internet connection
• Landline telephone service
istock.com/Jose carlos Cerdeno
Want to Age Well? Eat This One Fruit Every Day
By Jaime Osnato
Toss a third of an avocado into your morning smoothie for extra creaminess and longevity-supporting nutrients.
They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but what about an
avocado? Turns out, incorporating this fantastic fruit (yes, avocado is technically a fruit) into your daily diet can support your health today, tomorrow and in the long term.
Here, Phyllis Famularo, DCN, RD, CSG, a dietitian with a specialty in gerontology, explains why eating avocado is amazing for longevity (good news for you guac lovers!).
Benefits of Avocado for Longevity
1. It’s Good for Your Heart
Avocados are terrific for your ticker: That’s because they’re heaping with heart-protective monounsaturated fats.
“Research indicates that individuals who consume avocados (as well as a diet high in other fruits and vegetables) have healthier lipid profiles, including higher HDL, which is the good cholesterol,” Famularo says.
Indeed, a small study found that swapping avocado oil for butter improved total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (“bad cholesterol”), triglycerides levels and insulin, per a June 2019 review in Molecules.
And a healthy heart helps your odds of enjoying a longer life.
2. It Supports Brain Function
For a sharper mind, add an avocado to your plate.
Raw Spinach Is Packed With Nutrients to Make You Strong
The fruit’s heart-protective properties play a role in brain health, too. Here’s why: “Many dementias are vascular in nature,” meaning that they’re related to a problem with your blood vessels, Famularo says.
Think of it like this: When your blood vessels are working at their best, they can supply your brain with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to perform at its peak.
So, foods like avocado — which promote heart health and healthy blood flow — can also aid in brain function, she says. Plus, avocados are ample in antioxidants, including a carotenoid (or pigment) called lutein, Famularo
Age continued on page 26
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Visit our state-of-the-art, beautifully renovated Assistive Technology Center and meet at no charge with technology experts to determine your needs for the latest assistive devices. Appointment is preferred. Walk-ins Welcome!
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Planells says.
For context, it’s recommended that we get below 2,000 milligrams of sodium per day, Planells says. Still, the average American gets over 3,200 milligrams daily.
Again, checking food labels is key. Anything with a 20 percent Daily Value (DV) or above is considered a high-sodium food. To slash your sodium, opt for foods that are under 700 milligrams per serving and bump up your fruit and vegetable intake, Planells says.
4. Trans Fat
Artificial trans fats — man-made substances used to enhance the taste, texture and shelf-life of processed foods — are such a hindrance to health, they were deemed unsafe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Here’s why: Trans fats can raise your bad cholesterol (while lowering your good cholesterol levels) and increase your risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes, according to the American Heart Association.
What’s more, a diet high in trans fats can harm your brain health, too. An October 2019 study in Neurology found that people with higher levels of manmade trans fats in their blood had a greater likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.
And while the FDA banned them from most foods, a product may be considered “trans-fat free” if it contains less than 0.5 grams of trans fat per serving, Planells says. Though that sounds like a teensy amount of trans fats, these small servings can add up over time.
To avoid the trans-fat trap, limit your intake of fried foods, fast food, animal-based foods (such as red meats and dairy), margarine, non-dairy creamer, crackers, cookies, cakes, pastries and some frozen foods (like pizza), Planells says.
5. Saturated Fats
Like trans fats, saturated fats in excess amounts can inadvertently increase your risk for developing certain health problems as you age.
A diet high in saturated fats coupled with high-sodium foods can contribute to heart disease, diabetes, obesity and other chronic conditions, Famularo says.
Famularo recommends limiting saturated fats to 10 percent of your daily calories. One way to do this is by cutting your intake of animal products.
“The push to plant-based diets is the best way to reduce saturated fats found predominantly in animal foods,” she says.
Planell agrees you should pack your plate with plants like fruits and veggies, and choose whole grains, legumes and healthier fats like olive oil.
6. Folic Acid
Folic acid is a B vitamin found in leafy green vegetables, fruits, beans and enriched breads and cereals. It aids the body in making new cells and is especially important for pregnant people as it helps prevent neural tube defects in the growing fetus, Famularo says.
But, “some research has indicated that too much folic acid in older adults can cause peripheral neuropathy (a type of nerve damage),” Famularo exAge continued on page 33
Socialization for a Longer Lifespan
Whether it’s playing a game of Scrabble with a grandchild or enjoying lunch with a best friend, there’s just something special about being around people you love.
“Socialization is important at any age, but it’s critical for older adults – especially for those who live alone,” said Sierra Goetz, co-founder and operations manager for Tudor Oaks Home Care’s partner, the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “Research shows spending time with family and friends can boost a senior’s quality of life – including their physical and mental health.”
There are a number of important ways that socialization can improve a senior’s health and well-being, including:
Slowed cognitive decline
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, remaining socially active may support brain health and delay the onset of dementia.
Reduced stress
Older adults who are socially active tend to handle stress better, which reduces the risk of anxiety, heart disease, depression, obesity, gastrointestinal issues and other chronic conditions.
Improved fitness
Being with others encourages movement, which improves health and prevents a sedentary lifestyle.
Improved mental health
Isolation and loneliness may lead to feelings of despair or worthlessness.
Memory Care at Tudor Oaks
Socialization prevents these depressive situations and allows people to feel loved and valued.
Longer lifespan
High levels of socialization can help increase longevity.
Greater self-esteem and sense of purpose
Having a reason to get up in the morning can do wonders for energy and mood – helping seniors feel like their lives have purpose. Spending time with those we care about reminds us that life is worthwhile.
Improved coping skills
An aching back, creaking knees and other aging challenges are a whole lot easier to deal with when you share them with friends.
“Active living is critical to a senior’s ability to maintain their independence as well as their overall health and well-being. However, we know that time and distance may prevent friends and family members from spending as much time with older loved ones as they would like,” Goetz said. “We can help. At HCAN, companion care is one of our most popular services. Our caregivers spend time helping clients with favorite hobbies, taking them on outings, engaging in friendly conversation or watching an old episode of Gunsmoke. These simple activities can be a lifeline for seniors who are at risk of isolation and depression.”
For information about HCAN’s companion care and other services, contact tudoroakshomecare.com.
Senior Living Guide
June 2025
Oncology Nurses Help Educate And Support Patients
istock.com/Halfpoint
ProHealth Care’s cancer services are comprehensive, ranging from genetic counseling, advanced diagnostics and innovative treatment options to clinical trials, health screenings and support services. The care team includes oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, nurses, technicians and others.
The program’s partnership with UW Health and connection to Wisconsin’s only National Cancer Institute designated cancer center brings the benefits of academic medicine close to home for patients.
Oncology nurses provide care in ProHealth’s hospitals and cancer centers in Oconomowoc, Mukwonago, Pewaukee and Waukesha. Advanced practice providers, RN oncology supervisors, clinical nurses, nurse navigators and licensed practical nurses are all part of the nursing team.
Oncology nurses provide:
•Patient assessment
•Patient education
•Care coordination
•Direct patient care
•Symptom management
•Supportive care
Medical oncology nurses get to know patients over the long term. Their primary role includes administering chemotherapy and immunotherapy medications and infusions, educating patients, and helping them with pain management and side effects.
Radiation oncology nurses see patients at the beginning and end of treatment and whenever needed during treatment. They also support patients over the phone and through MyChart.
Radiation oncology nurses work with medical oncologists and other members of the team. They collaborate closely with radiation therapists to ensure each patient is prepared for treatment
. The nurses help patients and the care team prepare for procedures, providing care coordination, prior authorization, equipment readiness and instructions. Many cancer patients receive more than one treatment modality at a time, making collaboration crucial.
Nurse navigators also play an important role in patient support and team collaboration. Navigators explain diagnoses and treatments to patients, guide them in shared decision-making with their providers, and coordinate care.
Initial patient discussions with a nurse navigator include a review of test results, treatment options and evidence-based outcomes. Each patient’s concerns, support system, family and other priorities help inform their care plans.
Nurse navigators have multiple touchpoints with a patient during their cancer journey. They assist with referrals to oncology dietitians, behavioral health therapists, genetic counselors, clinical research professionals, rehabilitation therapists and social workers. They also help coordinate and support tumor board conferences, help develop care plans.
The Antiaging Movement:
Preventing and Reversing Cognitive and Physical Decline
Maintaining good health does not come by accident and is essential for preventing cognitive and physical decline. These last several months have been met with an unprecedented time in our history when we are faced with a pandemic caused by a highly contagious virus. We have all heard and are trying to follow the tips to keep us healthy including frequent hand washing, masking in public, social distancing, regular checkups with recommended vaccinations and healthy lifestyle. We are fortunate to live in an era when we can make smart lifestyle choic-
es to prevent and even reverse cognitive and physical decline. Most of us are aware that a healthy diet for an adult is low in carbohydrates, simple sugars and processed foods and high in fiber, fresh fruits and vegetables, unsaturated fats, and omega-3 fatty acids. The Mediterranean diet meets all of these criteria but is not necessarily the best for weight loss. Intermittent fasting and Keto-diets are also gaining in popularity to help with weight loss. Keeping weight under control is necessary to prevent colon, breast and endometrial cancers, diabetes, depression, heart attack, stroke and early death. Increasing movement and exercise along with watching your diet is the main approach to weight control. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week with strength training with weights three times per week. Regular checkups are needed to assess your blood pressure, cholesterol and risk for other chronic diseases such as certain cancers, diabetes, thyroid dysfunction and osteoporosis. Treating hypertension is very important in preventing decline of cognitive function, preventing stroke and heart attack, as well as dementia. Monitoring and treating lipid abnormalities prevents the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques that cut off blood supply and oxygen to the brain and heart which also cause dementia, heart and vascular disease. If your Hemoglobin A1C is over 5.8% and your fasting blood sugar is over 99 mg/dl, you are headed towards diabetes which also elevates the risk for dementia.
Treating an underactive thyroid, insomnia, chronic depression and preventing chronic infection will also help to prevent cognitive and physical decline. Alerting your provider if you have unusual or persistent pain, abnormal bleeding from any orifice or fatigue can also be lifesaving!
Even in this unusual time of a pandemic, do not deny yourself proper medical care! Once the diagnosis of a problem is made, the earlier an individualized protocol can be developed to recode the affected network.The earlier the anti-aging protocol is started to stop the inflammatory process, the better the chance to preserve and maintain the affected body parts. Many of these disease processes have genetic markers and genetic testing is now becoming widely available and affordable. For more information visit cedarburgfamilywellnessaesthetics.com.
Stair Crest – Opened May 2023
S67W14765 Janesville Road Muskego, WI
414-367-2400 StairCrest.org
Fairway Knoll N112W17500 Mequon Road Germantown, WI
262-735-7900 FairwayKnoll.org
Avalon Square 222 Park Place Waukesha, WI
262-446-9300 AvalonSquare.org
Kirkland Crossings* 700 Quinlan Drive Pewaukee, WI
262-695-5800
KirklandCrossings.org
Dickson Hollow W156N4881Pilgrim Road Menomonee Falls, WI
