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February 2024

Resources for Families / Resources for Seniors

It’s never too late to start eating smart.

A healthy, well-balanced diet can help your senior loved ones maintain a healthy weight, stay energized and lower the risk of developing chronic conditions, such as osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. Recents studies also suggest it could ward off dementia.

“When you look in your senior loved one’s refrigerator, what do you see – fresh fruits and vegetables or hot dogs and canned peaches,” asked Sierra Goetz, co-founder and operations director at Trail Ridge Home Care’s partner, the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “We know that maintaining a healthy diet is critical for healthy aging. But for some older people, cooking just isn’t fun anymore – especially if they live alone. For others, limited mobility, cognitive decline and worsening vision can make it more difficult to put a healthy meal on the table and clean up afterward.” Continue reading Nutrition Tips for Older Adults

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Resources for Families

Does your job offer more than a paycheck?

A new study shows that living a purposeful life can stave off loneliness – especially in older adults. That’s why professional caregiving may be a great option for seniors who are interested in an encore career.

Embracing an Encore Career in Professional Caregiving

“The older men and women on our caregiving team enjoy staying active and, most importantly, making an important difference in the lives of others,” said Sierra Goetz, operations manager at Trail Ridge Home Care’s partner, the Home Care Advocacy Network (HCAN). “With many years of life and work experience, older people have so much to offer – that’s why they’re such great caregivers. Continue reading Finding a Purpose Can Reduce the Risk of Loneliness

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Resources for Families

Mom can no longer keep up with household chores – beds are unmade, there’s expired food in the fridge and unopened mail on the counter.

Dad spends less time with his friends and more time sitting in his recliner.

Is it time to suggest in-home care?

Aging parents

“It’s never easy to admit that you need help with day-to-day activities — especially for seniors, because they worry it’s the first step toward losing their independence,” said Sierra Goetz, operations manager at Trail Ridge Home Care’s partner, the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “While care conversations can be very challenging, it’s important to have them before a crisis occurs.” Continue reading Mom, Dad – We Need to Talk

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Resources for Families

While winter can be a wonderland, it’s important to remember that colder temperatures, ice, snow and hours of darkness can pose serious risks for older adults.

“The cold weather months present some significant challenges for older adults,” said Sierra Goetz, co-founder and operations director at Trail Ridge Home Care’s partner, the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “As temperatures drop, seniors are more at risk for falls, hypothermia and the flu. It’s important to be aware of the hazards and take steps to help keep your aging loved ones safe and warm.”

Understanding Winter Risks for Seniors

Seasonal hazards to watch for include: Continue reading Keeping Your Senior Safe This Winter

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