The Benefits of Walking

Walking is one of the simplest exercises that you can do. Many don’t think of walking as an exercise because they do it all the time.  After all, they’re just walking.  However, walking can become your favorite fitness program. Walking is an easy exercise program to start, which makes it the perfect choice for people over 40.  Walking is one of those exercises that almost everyone, no matter their fitness level, can do and get great results.

New reports say that to maintain a healthy level of fitness as we grow older, daily activity must include 60 minutes of physical activity. This can be a frightening thought if you’ve been sedentary for a good number of years.  Many people have the misconception that unless you are sweating like crazy during a workout, you are not going to see any benefit from exercise. That couldn’t be farther from the truth.

For seniors, walking is an exercise that can grow with you as you increase your activity level. Your walking program may begin with a Sunday stroll in the park, but then your walking workout will grow and have a purpose – to get fit.

Here are a few benefits of walking:

• Improved cardiovascular endurance
• Proper posture
• Improved mood
• Weight loss
• Improved sleep
• Increased muscle tone

Walking can be done most anywhere and at just about any time. You may want to begin in a mall with other early morning walkers.  There may be a track at your local high school or university.  You can go out in the rain or cold as long as you wear proper gear and walk flat paths for safety.  Walking is a very versatile exercise program.  Just keep your shoes with you so whether you’re on vacation or a business trip you can go on your walk.

Start at a pace that you can maintain and still hold a conversation. This will be faster than a stroll but you won’t be race-walking either. Start with a half mile or a mile walk. As you walk faster you can walk farther as a way of continually challenge yourself.

As you get more fit and start to look for greater fitness challenges, move off the track or mall and onto walking paths that have hills.  Walking up and down hills will not only improve your muscle strength, but your heart and lungs will get a good workout, too.  If you live in a neighborhood that has nice sidewalks and streets, choose your path and take a walk.  Call a friend to join you and enjoy your walk even more!

Walking is a great avenue toward better health for people over 40.  It is an activity that is easily customized and other than the cost of the clothing and shoes, it is free (and who doesn’t like free?). You can vary your terrain, vary your speed, and walk farther to challenge yourself and make your fitness program more effective.

You can get started walking for exercise today with just a pair of good shoes and comfortable clothing.  Before you know it, you’ll be feeling better and well on your way to a new, healthy lifestyle.

Simple Prepared Meal Delivery Services for Family Caretakers Of Seniors

Almost all daughters and sons who take care of their older parent, or elderly parents, usually do not imagine themselves as caregivers. They just consider themselves as attending to their parents. A caregiver is defined as somebody that provides support for another person who may not be able to reside on their own as a result of bodily, psychological, financial, or mental limitations.

Caregivers are likely to be thought to be specialists or volunteers who stop by the home of the person they may be looking after as needed. In situations where an expert will not be necessary, the duty will most likely drop on the siblings of the family. This could consist of errands, housekeeping, yard maintenance, managing finances, food shopping, and cooking meals in advance.

Surveys differ, but as many as 80% of all caregiver services in the U.S. are provided by family members. This adds up to practically 50 million men and women, and approximately a third of every U.S. family has an unpaid caregiver attending to the needs of an older parent in some capacity. 86% of caregivers are family members, and 66% tend to be female. The average family caregiver can assume this obligation for as long as nine years.

While there are several jobs and commitments a family caretaker will expect, 65% of all services consist of cooking food, and 40% are maintaining specific nutritional diets. 75% of family caregivers state food shopping is often a regular part of their duty. Senior citizens make up the largest percentage of people in society who need diabetic, weight loss, low sodium, and heart healthy diet programs. Preparing meals in advance for parents is usually a significant task in itself. Preparing meals regarding special diets, calls for further expertise with respect to both food shopping, and cooking.

Family caretakers who reside nearby will have a much easier go regarding cooking and taking care of their aging parents compared to those that live further away, or perhaps in another state. With the fast paced routines of employment and rearing their own families, it is no surprise 40% of family caregivers find caring for a mother or father, or parents, can be a burden. 32% say it is a excessive responsibility and results in emotional tension, but when it comes to taking care of an aging member of the family, it is usually a labor of love.

Prepared Meal Delivery Solutions

Nourishing an aging parent, or parents, can be one of the most frequent, and time intensive responsibilities a family caregiver can provide. Having prepared meals delivered, in some capacity, is often a potential option that helps both the family caregiver and the parent. Menus can be as simple as one dinner a day, to a comprehensive selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Most companies that offer premade meals ship their meals frozen allowing it to easily be heated up in a microwave oven.

• DineWise is a nationwide meal delivery service that delivers frozen senior meals across the country. They have a substantial choice of foods, and offer nutritional options for individuals with diabetic, weight loss, and low sodium requirements. Repeated food deliveries may be booked for any time frame, as well as any budget. DineWise meal costs average $12 per meal.
• HomeStyle Direct is a service that accepts medicaid for residents who live in Idaho, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, Utah, or Wyoming. Their menu offers significantly less selection and does not cater to specific nutritional diet programs, but they do offer less expensive cost option. Their average meals will cost around $6 each.
• Meals On Wheels is a local service which provides hot meals to homebound senior citizens, typically more than 60 years old. Restrictions, qualifying criteria, and rates, in the form of contributions, varies depending on the county you live in. The service is not offered nationally. These agencies are usually financed through charitable efforts and local governing bodies.

National prepared meal delivery service corporations give family caretakers the ability to reduce stress and lower the burden of taking care of an aging parent, or parents. They also offer a benefit to the elderly in that they are simple to reheat, and enable seniors a sense of remaining self-sufficient. They may be bought in just about any volume, and optionally planned for regular shipping and delivery dates. Having precooked meals on hand also offers convenience for family caregivers in situations where they go away, or cannot attend for their parent, or parents.

Why it is Important to Have Fun after You Retire

It is time to retire not bid farewell to planet earth! Lets get rid of the gloom and doom prophesies and start looking forward to an active, fun filled retired life. It all begins and ends with the mind. What kind of thinking do you practice? Are you a positive thinker or a negative thinker? Positive people go far in life because their ability to see the bright side of things will carry them far.

Retirement is a word, a concept that a good many of us work hard towards. Sure, we make plans in a casual, offhand manner when we say we will take up knitting or learn Spanish when we retire. As you draw near to retirement it is not a bad idea to start scoping out all the fun things you can do with your spare time. Rather than wringing your hands in dismay at not having a job to go to, look forward with joy to waking up and enjoying the peace and serenity a new day brings. Sure you will make plans and then life will intervene and plans will change, but that is all part of the fun of being alive.

By far the most important thing to keep in mind is not to allow depression to gain as much as a toehold in the doorway of your life. Depression sets off a chain reaction whereby you start feeling sorry for yourself and start thinking you are abandoned and alone. Thats just the start, soon depression will take over, you will lose your appetite and your health, your interest in life and slowly the will to live. 

Everything negative in your life will start becoming magnified a hundred fold and every mole hill will become an insurmountable mountain.

In our youth the very toughness of our age helps us to shrug off all things negative. However, as senior citizens a positive outlook is very important. Dont give yourself opportunities to sit and brood, get up and go out, get going and do stuff, just dont sit around feeling sorry for yourself.

Here are some tips on how you can set yourself up to have fun after you retire:

Depending on how active and healthy you are there is a long list of things you can do to enjoy retired life. You have the choice to live a fulfilled life or a sedentary life based on how you view retirement. 

Does it symbolize the closing of a door after a lifetime of work and a hectic social life or is it the opening of the door to brand new life? The way you answer this question will determine how much you enjoy your life after retirement.

CELEBRATE LIFE!

There are many senior citizen groups all across the country, join a couple, they actually do a lot of fun things. There are bus tours and travel to places you have never had a chance to visit. You get to make new friends and find yourself a whole new peer group to play with.

If your partner is with you, you may want to consider renting a mobile home and touring the countryside. America is full of mobile home parks where you can park and avail of the facilities provided from BBQ pits to electricity and running water, sewage connections and garbage disposal. 

Traveling is a great way to feel alive!

If you like arts and entertainment you can start taking in the shows and also get involved in your local theater. Join a social group that is involved in cultural entertainment or start your own music group. 

Start a group that meets maybe twice a week to play gin rummy, it does not matter so long as you socialize and stay busy. Plenty of food and wine tasting festivals are held all over the country that you can visit and enjoy.

If you have the money then take a cruise, maybe you have friends you can team up with and plan a fun trip. The cruise itself will provide you with great opportunities to meet new people and make new friends.

What you do is not important, what is important is that you have fun doing it! When you retire you need to make a concerted effort to stay positive and upbeat to enjoy a full life.

Senior Jobs: Employment Tips After Retirement

With the current economic condition and increasing unemployment rates in the U.S, a growing number of seniors are either seeking employment after retirement or trying to remain in the workplace for financial stability. Probably because, they have miscalculated the amount they need during retirement or they just can't afford to retire.

Some seniors may want to go back to work, simply because they are bored, they miss the interaction with people in the workforce or they just love to work! However, for seniors and older adults aged 55 years or more, finding a job can be very challenging.

Whether you're looking for a part-time job or a full-time employment opportunity, here are some tips to help increase your chances of getting a good retirement job:

1. Review and Update Your Resume.

If you are a senior looking to go back to the workplace, be sure not to use your old resume. It is important to update your resume and include new skills, achievements and expertise to make your resume stand out. You might also want to remove some information regarding skills or experiences that are not relevant to the job you are applying for. In this type of job market, seniors need to be competitive in order to get a retirement job.

2. Take Advantage of the Internet.

Seniors should use the Internet to browse and find jobs that are suited for older adults. There are a lot of websites like monster.com where you can find and compare job listings in your area or the area were you want to relocate. You can also upload your resume for free and they will match you with different companies that match your qualifications.

3. Consider Temporary and Part Time Jobs.

Let’s face it, with the current economic condition and unemployment rate in the country, it is very difficult to find a permanent job, especially for seniors. If you want to get a job, it would be wise to consider temporary or part time jobs since there are more available part-time jobs compared to full-time jobs.

4. Be flexible.

Being flexible includes applying to a wide range of jobs and being able to work flex hours. Even if you have no prior experience in some of the jobs that are available, you should try to apply anyway as long as you know you can do the job. Getting your name out there may increase your chance of getting a retirement job. Also, if you are available to work flex hours, be sure to let the potential employer know. The more flexible you are, the higher your chances are in finding a job compared to someone who is not willing to adjust or take on certain job responsibilities.

5. Increase Your Knowledge. Update Skills.

In order to stay competitive in the workplace seniors need to be computer savvy and should be willing to update their skills, whenever necessary. Computer skills are very important. If you are not that tech-savvy, consider taking up computer classes at a community college to keep yourself updated on how to use the Internet, eMail and the most current computer programs, like Microsoft Office, which includes, Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel. You can also contact your local Senior Center as most of the Senior Centers across the U.S offer free computer classes for seniors.

Most of the employers now, require applicants to have basic computer skills. Remember, a tech-savvy senior will have a better chance of landing the job they want compared to other applicants who do not have computer or technical skills.

6. Network.
If you are looking for a job, ask your family, friends and neighbors if they know someone who is currently hiring. If they do, tell them to refer and put in a good word for you. Most of the time referrals from family and friends can increase your chances of getting a job. If your family, friends and neighbors do not know anyone who is currently looking for employees, don’t be discouraged, continue to network and be patient.

7. Know Your Rights

The U.S Equal Employment Opportunity Commission supervises The Age Discrimination Employment Act of 1967, which prohibits discrimination in employment. This law protects employees and job seekers who are age 40 years and older. It also prohibits employers from refusing to hire, discharge or discriminate against individuals because of age.

8. Be Your Own Boss

If you have a hobby like making arts and crafts or if you love to bake goodies, why not start your own business and make money? You can make money while doing what you love to do! You can start by showing and selling your products to friends, family and neighbors.

Security on the Road - For Traveling Seniors

If driving, plan your route carefully, travel on main roads, and use maps. Map two routes for each auto trip. One should be the quickest route, the other the most scenic. Rand McNally and AAA are good sources. Avoid traveling during night hours.

Have your car serviced and tires checked before leaving. Keep car doors locked at all times. Wear seat belts. Don't drive too long. 

Never pick up hitchhikers. Do not stop to offer help to a stranded motorist. Go to a telephone booth and call for assistance.

Don't get out of the car if there are suspicious individuals nearby. Drive away. If you suspect someone is following you, drive to the nearest service station, restaurant, or business and call the police or sheriff's department. If you believe it is unsafe to get out of your car, honk your horn and flash your lights to draw attention.

CAR SECURITY

Never leave your car unlocked. Always lock valuables out of sight, preferably in the trunk. Always carry wallets, checkbooks, and purses with you. Do not advertise that you are a tourist. Place maps and travel brochures in the glove compartment.

If you stop overnight, remove bags and other valuables from the car and take them inside. Don't park your car on the street overnight if the hotel has a garage or secure area. If you must park on the street, select a well-lit area. Check the back seat before getting in. Mark your car radio and other removable car equipment with your driver's license number.

Don't Advertise
Your Travel Plans to Strangers!

In case of a BREAKDOWN
If your car breaks down, get the vehicle as far off the road as possible. Raise the hood and attach a white cloth to the car antenna as an emergency signal. Get passengers out of the vehicle and away from traffic. Set up flares or warning triangles at least 250 feet behind the vehicle. Stand on the shoulder at least 100 feet behind the vehicle to signal for help. Ask anyone who stops to call the police or a garage.

Don't attempt to fix a flat in busy traffic--wait for roadside assistance. If you must remain inside the vehicle while waiting for help, keep your seat belt fastened. If you must abandon your car, keep all passengers together.

TRAVELING IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES

Find out about the international driver's license beforehand. Some countries will not allow people over 70 to rent cars. There may be other restrictions. Memorize the international road signs. Check out the auto insurance requirements before you enter each country. Learn the words for police officer and doctor. Know the location of the nearest U.S. consulate. If you rent a vehicle, don't insist on an American model if there are not many in use. Make sure a rental car is in good repair.

HOTEL AND MOTEL SECURITY

When you first check in, get a map of the city with your hotel or motel location clearly marked. Get a map of the bus and subway lines. Ask an English-speaking hotel employee to explain the local public transportation system. Find out the proper charges for taxis, and if there is a surcharge for night or holiday trips.

If possible, book a room between the second and the seventh floor--above ground level to prevent easy entrance from outside and low enough for fire equipment to reach. Keep your hotel/motel door locked at all times. Use all auxiliary locking devices on doors and windows. Use the door viewer to identify anyone requesting entry. Open the door only if you are certain the person has a legitimate reason to enter your room. If in doubt, call the office. Be observant. Report any suspicious movements in the corridors or rooms to the management.

Determine the most direct route to and from your room to the fire escapes, elevators, and nearest telephone. Know how to use the room phone or where a pay phone is located. Make a note of emergency numbers you may need: police, fire, your hotel, the nearest U.S Embassy or consulate. Know how to use the pay phone and have the proper change on hand.

Learn a few phrases in the local language so you can signal your need for help, the police, or a doctor.

Unpack and place belongings in the closet and dresser. Arrange your things so you will know if anything is missing. Inventory your belongings daily. Consider locking any electrical appliances in your luggage. Suitcases should always be locked so they cannot be used to carry your property out of your room.

Never leave money, checks, credit cards, or car keys in the room. Always take them with you. Use the hotel/motel safe to store extra cash, expensive jewelry, or other valuables. Report any lost or stolen items to the management and the police.

BE PREPARED ON THE ROAD -- Carry these safety items:

• flashlight and fresh batteries
  
• fire extinguisher
  
• gloves
  
• spare tire, jack, and lug nut wrench
  
• tool kit
  
• first aid kit
  
• jumper cables
  
• flares/warning triangles
  
• blanket

Managing Medications

Senior counselor Carol Carson advises you on Medication Management. Making sure your loved ones take their medications exactly how prescribed will ensure they are receiving the exact treatment they need, and hopefully keep them healthier for a longer period of time.

As your parents or loved ones age, the amount of medication they will take will most likely increase. Taking medication correctly is crucial to its effectiveness on our bodies. This becomes increasingly true as now, even some Cancer medications are able to be taken at home. While this convenience saves patients time and visits to their doctor, Cancer is a very serious condition, and should be treated specifically and consistently. Because some patients are opting to take their medication at home, it becomes imperative that you or your loved one take their medication exactly how it is prescribed.

As your parent or loved one becomes more dependent on others, and as their need for a primary caregiver increases, their medication can become lost, forgotten or taken inappropriately. Making sure they take their medications exactly how prescribed will ensure they are receiving the exact treatment they need, and hopefully keep them healthier for a longer period of time.

According to the FDA, 50% of prescriptions written in the US are not taken correctly. There are some very common reasons why this is the case. He or she could feel better before their medication runs out, and discontinue taking their pills or they might forget the schedule of their medicine, especially if they are supposed to take it multiple times a day. Some medications do not have an obvious benefit immediately, so one might think the drug isn't working and discontinue use. Someone might also skip medication purposefully to make their prescription last longer, and avoid the high cost of refilling it.

Communicating with your loved one's doctor is the best way to avoid these common mistakes. Ask them questions about the medication, prior to filling the prescription. This way you will know what his or her purpose is in prescribing each medication and what to expect when taking them. Things you should know:

1. How long will your loved one need to take this medication?
2. What should they do if they miss a dose?
3. What are some common side effects of this medication?
4. What amount, and in what dose should they be taking this medication?
5. Are there foods or beverages that will alter the effectiveness of this medication?
6. What is the plan of action if an unexpected side effect occurs?
7. What should they do if they double their dose of medication?

Ask your doctor to write down instructions so you can refer to them later, and also make sure to have their phone number, so you can contact them should you need to. Assisted living communities will also help keep track of medication, side effects and administer them according to the doctor's instructions.

Once you have the medication, staying on the right schedule is the most important part. Make sure to organize the medication in a way that is easy for you and your loved one to remember and keep track of. Here are a few tips to help you.

1. Read the labels on the medications carefully to make sure you or your loved one is taking the right dose at the right time. Make sure to take the medication at the same time every day.
2. Use a weekly pill organizer, so you can keep track of which day you have taken your medication. Also remember to keep the prescription bottle for reference.
3. Keep a reminder in the home of your loved one. Whether it's on the refrigerator or on their bathroom mirror. Make sure they have at least one reminder to take their medication.

While communicating with your loved one and their doctor about their medications will help you care for your loved one, keeping track of medications and other things can become overwhelming. It is very likely that the number of medications they take will increase as they age, and the more complicated the times and schedules of each pill will become. Assisted living communities administer medication manage meals for each resident. If your loved one should avoid certain foods and take their medications at a specific time each day, an assisted living community will be able to tailor their care specifically to your loved ones needs, avoiding any type of mishap with medication.