Nourishing Mind, Body and Soul: Springtime Wellness Tips for Seniors

As the winter chill fades away and the first day of Spring is on the horizon, it's the perfect time for seniors to prioritize their well-being and embrace healthy habits. At American House Senior Living Communities, we understand the importance of holistic wellness, especially as we transition into the new season. Here are 5 springtime wellness tips tailored to nourish the mind, body and soul of our beloved residents.

5 Wellness Tips for Seniors

1. Embrace outdoor fitness activities. With longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, Spring provides an ideal opportunity for seniors to engage in outdoor fitness activities. From leisurely walks in the park to gentle yoga sessions, outdoor exercise not only improves physical health but also boosts mood and mental well-being. American House offers guided fitness classes to encourage residents to soak up the sunshine while staying active and energized.

2. Seasonal nutrition: fresh and flavorful Spring recipes. Spring brings an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables bursting with flavor and nutrients. You can incorporate seasonal produce like strawberries, asparagus and leafy greens into your meals to support overall health and vitality. Our culinary team creates delicious spring-inspired recipes that are both nutritious and delicious, ensuring that residents enjoy wholesome meals that nourish their bodies from the inside out.

3. Mindfulness meditation and relaxation techniques. As nature awakens and blooms around us, it's essential to take moments of stillness and reflection to nurture our inner peace. Mindfulness meditation and relaxation techniques can help alleviate stress, improve sleep quality and promote emotional well-being. Our communities offer quiet spaces to empower residents to cultivate a sense of calm and tranquility amidst the business of daily life.

4. Spring cleaning for clarity and renewal. Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up physical spaces – it's also an opportunity to declutter your mind and rejuvenate your spirits. Encourage your loved ones to engage in spring cleaning activities, such as organizing personal belongings, clearing out unnecessary clutter and refreshing their living spaces. A clean and organized environment fosters a sense of clarity and renewal, creating a harmonious sanctuary where residents can thrive.

5. Cultivate connections and community. Springtime is a season of growth and renewal, making it the perfect time for seniors to cultivate connections and strengthen bonds within the community. At American House, we encourage residents to participate in social activities, such as group outings, game nights and arts and crafts workshops. Building meaningful relationships and fostering a sense of belonging can enhance emotional well-being and combat feelings of loneliness or isolation.

At American House Senior Living Communities, we are dedicated to promoting the health and happiness of our residents year-round. This spring, we invite everyone to prioritize their well-being by embracing outdoor fitness activities, savoring seasonal nutrition, practicing mindfulness meditation, decluttering for clarity and cultivating connections within our vibrant community.

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

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At American House Senior Living Communities in Michigan, we know that winter is a challenging time for many seniors. Harsh weather conditions pose various health and safety risks, especially for those seniors who are aging in place. We put together this article with 6 winter safety tips for seniors and how they can navigate the cold season with ease.

Here are our top winter safety tips, and these are valuable for both the senior and their caregivers. Winter can be a beautiful time, but it can also be dangerous if you’re not prepared.

6 Winter Safety Tips for Seniors

1. Preventing slips and falls is important year-round, but even more so when the sidewalks and roads could be slippery. For older adults who live alone, it might be wise to hire someone to clear the snow and ice from walkways before you venture out. Our residents benefit from not having to worry about snow removal.
2. Always dress for the weather. Wear layers, a hat, scarf and gloves or mittens when you go outside. When you’re indoors, keep the temperature at a comfortable and safe temperature. If you’re concerned about the cost of heating this winter season, keep dressed in layers in your home to keep you safe and warm. It's best to keep your home’s temperature around or above 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Address health concerns and take your doctor’s orders when it comes to vaccinations. The flu shot can protect seniors against influenza, which can be severe for seniors. Get regular check-ups and keep your medical appointments – especially if you have any chronic conditions.
4. Be prepared for winter storms and power outages. Stock up on non-perishable foods and foods that can be eaten without the benefit of the stove or microwave. Keep bottled water in the house and ensure your medications have been refilled so you don’t run out in a winter storm. Get some flashlights and extra batteries, and keep additional blankets handy. Prepare for a winter storm by making certain you have a list of emergency contacts who will reach out to check on you in the event of a storm. Make use of senior center programs and senior food programs year-round as a way to not only stay connected but ensure you have access to food and other resources.
5. Make sure your home is safe indoors. Avoid using space heaters, or if you must, never leave them in a room unattended. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
6. This is great advice year-round - eat a balanced diet to help maintain your strength and energy. Don’t forget to stock up on fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of fluids.

Winter can be beautiful and enjoyable for seniors and their caregivers, as long as they’re prepared for the harsher elements of winter. When you follow these safety tips, you can reduce the health risks associated with winter and stay safe, healthy and connected with loved ones.

If you’re wondering what it might be like to not have to worry about winter weather conditions and shoveling and snow removal, consider making American House your new home sweet home this winter.

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post 6 Winter Safety Tips for Seniors appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

Now that the new year is here, it’s a great time to welcome the possibilities that the changing of a calendar brings. At American House Senior Living, we want to talk about senior living in 2024 and offer 5 ways to embrace joy.

A new year brings the opportunity to celebrate a new beginning, leave the past behind and focus on creating new joyful memories with friends and family. Whether you’re aging in place, living with family or enjoying life in your own apartment in an American House Senior Living community in Michigan, there are many ways to welcome 2024.

Senior Living In 2024: 5 Ways To Embrace Joy

Our communities work to foster friendships and community, and the new year is no exception. We had New Year’s events, and we welcome our residents and their families to attend our social activities throughout the year.

Here are some ways to welcome the new year and embrace it with a sense of joy and wonder.

1. Host your own New Year’s themed party. You don’t have to stay awake until midnight to celebrate New Year’s. In fact, hosting a party during the first week of the year is a great way to keep the celebration and festivities going. Choose a theme for your party and invite friends to attend. Do you enjoy tea parties or Hollywood glam or action movies? Plan your party with decorations, foods and activities from your favorite theme.

2. Don’t go it alone when you set your resolutions. Whether you take time to talk about your resolutions, new habits you want to start or old habits you want to stop, you’re more likely to follow through when you share it with others. Use your resolution-setting time as a way to get together with your family at American House and make an afternoon of talking about resolutions and why you’re setting them.

3. Take a trip down memory lane as a way to welcome in the new year. Take any photos that you have from the previous year and make a scrap book. When you look at the photos from the past year, it is a great way to embrace the positive from the year that’s passed.

4. Consider learning something new in the new year. Many of our communities offer activities that you can get involved in and learn something new from. If you’ve never played chair volleyball or taken part in our craft activities, maybe put that as a resolution. If you want to learn to knit or paint, see if there are any classes at local senior centers where you can do that.

5. Work on your mental and physical wellness. Find a walking partner and take a stroll around the American House community regularly. This is a great way to get physically active and foster friendships. Work on puzzles or trivia to help stay mentally alert. Your mental and emotional wellness can be enhanced by visiting friends or family – if your loved ones aren’t local, set up a time to meet via video to have a chat. Volunteer with a local group whose mission you embrace.

As with almost anything you do, you get out of it what you put into it. But at American House, we believe the new year opens doors to new adventures, experiences and opportunities. Let’s celebrate 2024 with excitement and a time of renewal and possibility.

Give us a call today, schedule a tour and consider making American House your new “home sweet home.”

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post Senior Living In 2024: 5 Ways To Embrace Joy appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

We may not want to face it ourselves, and we don’t want to think about our aging family members having to leave their homes, but there may just come a time when aging in place isn’t feasible. There are 5 benefits of living at American House, but it certainly makes sense that you’d want to start researching and visiting senior living communities before an immediate need arises.

The “sandwich generation” is the term given to adult caregivers who are taking care of aging parents, holding down jobs and raising their own children. It’s a recipe for caregiver burnout, and before that happens, it’s wise to sit down with your aging loved ones and have a talk about what’s best for everyone. This is especially true if the seniors in your life can no longer perform daily living tasks or can’t keep up with home maintenance or grocery shopping.

If your aging parents and loved ones are struggling with daily tasks and it’s getting harder for you to take care of it all, consider a respite stay at one of our communities. This will give your family member an introduction to what we offer and to the amenities of our apartments. One of the biggest benefits of living in one of our communities is peace of mind – for you and the senior in your life.

There are no long-term commitments at American House. Not only do we offer short-term respite stays, but there are no long-term lease arrangements, and that’s why a senior living community like ours lets you try before deciding to move in.

There are always questions and concerns you and your family have before making a move, and we’re here to answer your questions.

What are the 5 benefits of living at American House?

1. You can rest assured that your loved one is in a safe and secure apartment. The apartments provide one-story living along with bathrooms that accommodate seniors or those with limited mobility and more.
2. You need to determine the level of care you or your loved one need and choose a senior living community that suits that. Not all communities provide personal care, and if your aging loved one requires it, you will need to understand what is offered, what isn’t and what may be required in the future.
3. Help eliminate loneliness with our social activities and outings, as well as dining room facilities, where you or the senior in your life can get involved and make new friends.
4. You can rest assured that you are moving your loved one into a community where they are making friends, enjoying themselves and are in a safe environment where there is no maintenance required.
5. There doesn’t have to be a loss of independence. Some of our residents have cars and come and go as they please. Other residents rely on our transportation options to take them grocery shopping, on special outings or to doctor’s offices. If you’re concerned about a loss of independence, talk with one of our staff when you’re on your building visit.

Prepare in advance and know what you’re looking for in a senior living community in Michigan. Here are a few questions to think about.

1. Choose a location that allows for easy visits, and if your loved one is still driving, find a community that is close to shopping centers, doctors and family.
2. Do you want to live in a large, bustling community, or are you more comfortable in a smaller, more intimate living arrangement in a smaller community?
3. What services are needed now? What services might be needed in the future?
4. What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
5. What is the cost?

We understand there can be relocation stress associated with moving from a family home and into a senior living community and do what we can to make the transition as seamless as possible.

Give us a call today, schedule a tour and consider making American House your new “home sweet home.”

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post 5 Benefits Of Living At American House appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

Older adults have been known to struggle with loneliness and isolation; this is especially true if they age in place and if they’ve lost a spouse, significant other and family members. The pandemic highlighted the almost epidemic proportions of the harmful impacts that isolation and loneliness can have on the health and well-being of seniors. At American House Senior Living, we welcome older adults with activities, socialization and ways to alleviate the health issues that arise from being lonely, and we have 10 ways to help seniors beat loneliness at the holidays.

We’ve put together a list of 10 ways to help seniors beat loneliness at the holidays, but these tips and strategies are important year round. The holidays seem to highlight the fact that an older adult is alone, and they can bring up sadness and could lead to depression.

In Michigan, once the time changes, we face dark, cold and long winter days. When the snow is blowing and the sun sets around 5 p.m., it makes it difficult for older adults to muster the energy to leave the house. In fact, many seniors who are aging in place may find themselves not leaving the house for days on end.

Don’t give into the idea that because it’s the holidays you must be “merry and bright.” You, or your aging loved ones, are allowed to feel your feelings, but we do want to help you feel happier and less isolated this season.

10 Ways To Help Seniors Beat Loneliness At The Holidays

To understand loneliness and its impacts on seniors, let’s talk about it before we get into the strategies to make the holidays and the long winter days less lonely and less isolating.

1. Many older adults feel they have gone through enough change and loss, and because of that, they don’t want to give up the home they have known for years. For those seniors who age in place, their world can become very small; this is especially true if they’ve lost a loved one or their neighbors and family have moved away.
2. Losing a loved one, spouse or significant other makes the holidays not shine as brightly for many people. The holidays may also bring up memories of the time and love they were once surrounded by, and that leads to heightened feelings of loneliness.
3. Lack of mobility or lack of access to a car can mean a senior is housebound and may be reliant on the goodwill of neighbors or family members to get them to the grocery store, church or doctor’s visits.

Here are some of our favorite strategies to bring light and happiness back into the lives of your aging loved ones and help them beat loneliness at the holidays.

1. Be patient and lend a willing ear. Whether you’re in a rush or if your aging parents have told you the same story over and over, give them time to re-tell the tale. Even if the senior in your life wants to complain for a while, give them a sympathetic ear – sometimes just knowing someone is listening is good for the heart and mind.
2. Make sure you include your loved ones in holiday plans or shopping trips. Drop by and bring them a meal or a holiday treat. If possible, invite them to stay with you for a few days during the holidays. Ask them if there is somewhere they’ve been wanting to go but haven’t been able to and take them there.
3. Pull out the photo albums and look through them together. Let them reminisce, and then make sure you’re taking new photos throughout the holidays – and throughout the year – and give them the gift of a new photo album of the new memories they’ve made with you.
4. Take the pressure off your loved one who may be living on a tight budget and tell them the holidays are going to be about togetherness and making memories – not about gifts. If you give gifts, they need to make their lives more comfortable or happy, and you should give them at a time other than Christmas morning, for example. That way they won’t feel bad if they are receiving gifts but haven’t given any. Consider gifting your loved one an easy-to-use computer so you can stay in touch via video calls.
5. For loved ones who live in one of our American House Senior Living communities, urge them to get involved in our holiday activities. Feel free to join us for the many events that we open to families. Reach out to the activity director in the community where your loved one lives and ask about the events you can attend.
6. Bring a box of decorations and bring a festive flair to their apartment. Make certain none of the decorations pose a safety hazard. Plan to spend a few hours together or even a couple of weekends decorating. Turn the decorating time into a bonding activity, and pick up their favorite take-out food and enjoy a meal together.
7. Speaking of food… bring their favorite foods or meals when you visit. If your loved one’s apartment is equipped with a kitchen and they enjoy cooking, bring the ingredients for a feast or to make some cookies and spend time together cooking, baking and enjoying the foods together.
8. Get the senior in your life involved in the holiday celebrations. Ask them if they’d like to help with the planning, prep and day-of activities.

Surround them with the love of the family, and when you make them part of the prep and the overall celebration, you’ll truly give them a gift of family and feeling they’re making a difference. Give your aging loved one the gift of family and making memories this holiday season.

Give us a call today, schedule a tour and consider making American House your new “home sweet home.”

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post 10 Ways To Help Seniors Beat Loneliness At The Holidays appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

Food is fuel. Because of that, we need to fuel our bodies with healthy foods to help our bodies stay as healthy as they can for as long as they can. American House Senior Living Communities in Michigan understand that, and they offer their residents options for healthy meals. They’ve put together 18 tips to eat healthier as you age that could help you become a “super ager.”

Older adults, especially those who live alone, may find themselves reaching for something quick and easy to eat, and that may not always be the healthiest choice. It’s understandable that seniors may not want to cook meals for themselves, but it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, a healthy weight and to get the necessary nutrients. When you eat healthy, you can lower your risk of developing certain diseases like hypertension, diabetes and heart ailments.

When planning a shopping trip, look for a variety of foods, including:

1. Dairy
2. Fruits
3. Grains
4. Lean proteins
5. Vegetables

Some older adults find it easier to ensure they are eating healthy meals and not letting snacking become the norm for their meals if they keep a food diary.

18 Tips To Eat Healthier As You Age

Your food diary could include:

1. What you’ve eaten
2. What time you ate
3. What you had
4. Whether you had fruits, vegetables, lean protein, grains and/or dairy in the meal
5. Tracking portion sizes

It is so much easier to pick up prepared and processed foods, but that is not usually the healthiest option. Prepared foods are typically loaded with added sugars, fats and salt. There’s no reason you can’t treat yourself to snacks on occasion, just make sure they aren’t part of your daily routine.

For many older adults, slowing down is a sign of aging, and with that comes the need to cut back on calories. However, we do recommend being as active as you can, as often as you can. Take a walk outside, walk around the inside of your house if the weather isn’t cooperating, do some stretches or look for a senior exercise class. Keeping your body in shape could help keep your brain sharper.

Here are some of our favorite ways to ensure you’re eating as healthy as you can.

1. Eat a variety of foods. Try to get one food from each food group in every meal.
2. Eat enough lean protein to help maintain muscle. Enjoy seafood, dairy, beans and lentils as part of or as all of your meals.
3. Buy fruit and vegetables, chop them up and keep them readily available in the fridge. Cut-up veggies and fruits are a healthy snack throughout the day.
4. Lower your sodium intake by substituting salt in your recipes with other herbs.
5. Drink water throughout the day. Staying hydrated aids in digestion and prevents dehydration.
6. Plan your meals in advance. When you do this, you’re less likely to give into impulse food purchases. Planning meals will also cut down on food waste.
7. Look for budget-friendly ingredients for your meals.
8. Know how long you want to devote to food preparation. If you don’t truly enjoy time spent in meal prep, look for meals that are healthy and easy to prepare.

We know that for some senior adults, the idea of preparing meals and eating them alone is a barrier to eating healthy. We understand, and that’s why we love knowing that the residents who stay with us are eating healthy meals and have the opportunity to enjoy those meals with friends they’ve made in our community.

Give us a call today, schedule a tour and consider making American House your new “home sweet home.” Enjoy healthy meals and make new friends in our senior living community!

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post 18 Tips To Eat Healthier As You Age appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

Triple-digit temperatures are prevalent in many parts of the country. In Michigan, heat and humidity are constant reminders that the dog days of summer are here to stay. Because winters are long and cold, it makes sense that seniors and older adults want to soak up the sun and get out of doors as often as possible when summer arrives. We have put together a list of how seniors can stay safe in the heat: 4 tips.

At American House Senior Living, we understand that, but we also offer advice on how seniors can stay safe in the heat, along with 4 tips to prevent heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

As we get older, our body’s ability to respond and protect us from summer heat diminishes. Senior citizens and older people are at a higher risk of suffering a heat-related illness in the sweltering summer months.

How Seniors Can Stay Safe In The Heat: 4 Tips

A condition called hyperthermia is a collection of heat-related illnesses that include:

1. Heat stroke
2. Heat exhaustion
3. Heat edema (when your feet and ankles swell because of the heat)
4. Heat cramps

Experts from the National Institute on Aging explain older adults are more prone to these heat-related illnesses because:

1. There are age-related changes that happen in our bodies that include poor blood circulation and sweat glands that operate more inefficiently.
2. They suffer underlying heart and lung diseases that lead to general weakness.
3. Older adults who have high blood pressure are at an elevated risk of heat-related illnesses.
4. The consumption of alcoholic beverages can lead to dehydration. It could be compounded by being dehydrated in a general sense because older adults may not drink as much water as is necessary to keep them healthy.
5. Many older adults take medications to treat different health conditions, and these can lead to possible heat-related problems.
6. Lifestyle factors include living in a house or apartment without adequate ventilation or air conditioning. They also include overdressing for the weather and not being cognizant of how to respond to heat-related issues arising.

How can you protect yourself or your loved one from injuries or health problems because of heat and humidity?

The older adult professionals at American House Senior Living in Michigan offer these tips:

1. Stay indoors on the hottest and most humid days. Stay inside the house during the hottest parts of the day. If you go outdoors, wear protection from the heat like a hat or long-sleeved, light-colored, loose clothing. Stay in the shade. Consider using an umbrella to protect yourself from the heat of the sun’s rays.
2. Exercise during the coolest parts of the day – early morning or early evening. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids when you’re exercising.
3. Stay in an air-conditioned space. When you choose an apartment at any of our American House Senior Living communities, you are assured an air-conditioned apartment. Our gathering spaces are also air-conditioned to keep our older adults cool and comfortable. If you are aging in place and don’t have access to air-conditioned living, open windows during the coolest parts of the day and use fans to circulate the air. When the sun gets hotter, close the curtains and keep the fans running to help cool you and your house.
4. Drink plenty of water. There is nothing more refreshing than water. You can enjoy it with ice or without. If you want to give your water a flavor boost, consider putting a pitcher of water in the refrigerator and dropping in some cucumber, lemon, or lime slices. Add some blueberries or strawberries for added color and flavor. Stay away from caffeinated beverages or alcohol, as they can lead to dehydration.

High body temperatures, lack of sweating, dry, flushed skin, fainting and confusion are a few of the signs of heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

Here are a few more tips for how seniors can stay safe in the heat

What should you do if you feel yourself or a loved one suffering these symptoms?

1. Move them to a cooler space.
2. Put cool cloths on their foreheads, wrists and on their armpits.
3. Give them cool water to drink.
4. Turn on fans to get a cross breeze going and encourage them to sit down and relax in the cool space.
5. Call 911 if you suspect or are concerned about heat stroke.

Give us a call today, schedule a tour and consider making American House your new “home sweet home.” Escape the heat and make new friends in our senior living community!

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post How Seniors Can Stay Safe In The Heat: 4 Tips appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

The pandemic may have brought the “loneliness” epidemic to the forefront, but seniors and older adults in Michigan have faced issues brought about by social isolation for longer than the past three years. At American House Senior Living Communities in Michigan, we have put together tips to combat the loneliness epidemic facing seniors. We understand being alone can lead to depression and other health issues for older adults.

Where you live as you age can make a big difference in your health and overall happiness. Many older people find their world shrinking with the loss of a spouse or other loved one and family members and friends moving away or passing away. Some seniors cling to their homes and want to age in place because it’s familiar and comfortable, but being alone is detrimental.

Tips to combat the loneliness epidemic facing seniors

If you or your loved one finds the ties that have connected you to friends and family have been severed, it’s time to step out of your comfort zone and find ways to boost health and happiness and rebuild your community. Keep in mind that loneliness is one issue older adults face, but social isolation is becoming more prevalent. Loneliness is the feeling of being alone. Social isolation is the state of being alone – not having friends or family nearby and not having other people with whom to interact. Social isolation itself leads to loneliness and depression.

According to a study published in the medical journal PLOS Medicine, “the health impact of loneliness is comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.” Loneliness has been found to be a “strong predictor of poor physical and emotional health and early death.”

The risks of loneliness and social isolation include:

1. Depression
2. High blood pressure
3. Heart disease
4. Anxiety
5. Cognitive decline, including dementia
6. Weight gain or loss

Seniors who are socially isolated may not get enough exercise, may not eat healthy meals (or at all), may drink too much alcohol and suffer from sleep problems, among other issues.

Some of the risk factors that lead to social isolation and ultimately loneliness include:

1. Physical inability to leave your home/lack of transportation or health reasons, etc.
2. A major life change such as the death of a spouse
3. Financial struggles
4. Living alone
5. Having a limited social support network

What can you do to combat loneliness and social isolation? Here are a few ideas from the senior professionals at American House in Michigan:

1. Find an activity you enjoy. Look for a class where you can meet people and learn something new.
2. Phone or video chat with family members. Schedule this so it’s on your calendar and gives you something to look forward to.
3. Sign up for a computer class at a local library (many of these are free) and learn to use technology to stay connected.
4. Adopt a pet if you’re able to care for it. Be certain you have a plan for your pet’s care should you be no longer able to care for it.
5. Get up and get moving. Take a walk. Join an exercise group. Find a friend with whom to walk. Aim for at least two hours of exercise a week. Any movement is better than no movement.
6. Look for a senior center or a faith-based group you can join.
7. Consider moving into a senior living community that offers planned activities, beautiful maintenance-free apartments and home-cooked meals. When you move into a senior living community, you could potentially be surrounded by new friends that will combat social isolation.

Give us a call today, schedule a tour and consider making American House your new “home sweet home.”

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post Tips To Combat The Loneliness Epidemic Facing Seniors appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

If we’re fortunate enough, we will live long, happy and healthy lives. The way in which we live may change, and that’s why we want to share this vital information with you. As we age though, our bodies slow down, we may lose loved ones, and it might be harder to live in your own home and age in place. At American House Senior Living, we understand that, and that’s why we offer independence to our residents. We have tips for how seniors can celebrate independence with independent living.

As the 4^th of July gets closer, we think more about individual freedom and about being independent but in our American House communities, and independence is never far from our thoughts. Independent living at one of our communities means you or your loved one will be given the opportunity to live independently, have access to amenities and necessary services and can socialize and make friends and memories.

What is independent living? It’s senior housing that offers its residents the chance to live on their own terms for as long as they’re physically and mentally able. Residents at any of our American House Senior Living communities in Michigan enjoy independence in their own apartments. Many independent living communities let residents manage their own cleaning, cooking and laundry. There are hybrid senior living communities in which the resident can begin in an independent living apartment and move into assisted living as their needs and health change.

How Seniors Can Celebrate Independence With Independent Living

Independent living communities run the gamut from complete independence and freedom to offering community meals, activities and off-site trips. Knowing how you want to spend your golden years is one of the first steps in determining the type of independent living you are interested in for yourself or for your loved one.

When you’re looking for an independent living community, ask about services such as:

1. Health programs
2. Housekeeping and laundry services
3. Meals
4. Social and in-house as well as off-site activities
5. And more

When is it time to begin the search for independent living? Honestly, there is no time like the present. Contact one of our communities and schedule a tour. Whether you’re looking for a place to live for when you no longer want the hassle of outdoor lawn and home maintenance or you’re looking for a community of people with whom you can connect and make friends. Waiting until an emergency arises means you may not find the ideal living situation you were seeking. There is no harm in taking a tour to get a feeling for what independent living communities have to offer.

Make sure you ask, “What happens when I can no longer live safely in my apartment here?” Will you have to move out of the community? Are there on-site health providers that will allow you to continue to live in your apartment? It’s important you know your options in case the time comes when you can no longer live independently.

Here are four benefits that older adults realize when they make a move into an independent living community.

1. Many seniors find the cost of independent living more cost-effective than continuing to live in the family home and keeping up with maintenance and lawn care.
2. Peace of mind and security. Living alone may be scary for some older adults. They worry about falling and hurting themselves and having no way to summon help. They may find themselves feeling forgetful and worry about leaving a stove on, for example. If driving becomes more difficult, getting groceries or going to doctor’s appointments may become almost impossible.
3. Alleviating loneliness. When you live in an American House Senior Living community, you will find a sense of community and access to social activities and events, and you will get to know your neighbors down the hall. In addition to your neighbors, you will get to know the wonderful staff at the community in which you live.
4. Independence! Look for a senior living community that provides flexibility and freedom. You want to live on your own terms, and that could mean making the decision on when you want to eat, what time you want to go to bed or wake up and how much you want to socialize.

Keep these three items in mind when you’re looking for an independent or senior living community for yourself or a loved one.

1. What amenities do you need or want? What services are you searching for? If you’re an active older adult, look for a community that offers activities or even fitness centers. If you’re looking to make friends or a very social person, check out the activities schedule when you take a tour.
2. Where is the community located? Is it close to your family and loved ones? Is it close enough to shopping centers, restaurants or your doctor that you can safely and comfortably drive yourself?
3. The cost. What is the monthly cost, and what services are provided for that price? Set your budget so you know what you can afford before you take a tour of any senior living community. Get quotes and compare prices and benefits from more than one place before you decide.

We’d love to meet you or your mom and dad and give you a tour of one of our lovely communities!

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post How Seniors Can Celebrate Independence With Independent Living appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

If you want to grow old gracefully and enjoy all that your senior years and retirement have to offer, you need to stay fit! American House Senior Living Senior Living Communities understand that, and that’s why their life enrichment directors plan exciting and engaging outings and in-house activities. These activities are designed to stimulate both the body and the mind. We share the benefits of exercise for older adults in this article.

Exercise benefits everyone at any age. Unless your doctor tells you not to add activity to your daily routine, we believe that older active adults who do exercise regularly typically enjoy happier, healthier and longer lives.

The Benefits Of Exercise For Older Adults

Chances are, you know people who seem to look and act “older than their age.” The reason could simply be that they’re not getting up and moving around. Exercise for seniors doesn’t mean you need to run a marathon or climb a mountain, but what it does mean is making sure you’re getting some daily activity. The exercise you get involved in will be determined by your level of fitness, how active you currently are and the recommendation of your doctor.

You certainly don’t want to go from couch potato to marathon runner. But you can go from limited movement and activity to taking a short walk outdoors or strolling the hallways outside your apartment here at American House in Michigan.

Staying active might eliminate the risk of certain diseases and could also help prevent trip-and-fall injuries. Older adults who are more active are also more likely to have better balance than their more sedentary counterparts.

What are some habits that older adults can have to stay active?

1. Park your car further from the store and walk.
2. Take the stairs instead of an elevator.
3. Practice chair yoga.
4. Ride an exercise bike.
5. Get up and do some stretches during television commercials.

Adults who want to be more active find simple ways to work more movement into their daily activities.

How will physical activity benefit you as you age?

1. Lowers your risk of heart disease, stroke or type 2 diabetes.
2. Improves your balance and strength.
3. Could alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
4. Could help with overall mental health.
5. Movement prevents bone loss.
6. You might see a boost in your mood!

What activities can a senior citizen easily do?

1. Take a walk.
2. Try chair yoga.
3. Do stretches.
4. Lift “weights” at home by using canned foods as your weights.

Find a friend or an accountability buddy who wants to walk with you to help keep you motivated. And it’s more enjoyable to share an activity with a friend, right?

Now that spring is in full bloom and summer is just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to add activity to your daily routine!

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post The Benefits Of Exercise For Older Adults appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.