Another Bowl, Please–Three Yummy Immune-Boosting Soup Recipes

As we enter the fall and winter season this year, things look a little different. Many seniors continue to isolate at home because of the Coronavirus pandemic and this can take a toll on their mental health.Its important for seniors to work with their families, caregivers and health professionals to develop a plan that allows them to safely take part in activities they love and maintain positive mental health through activity and connection.At any age, our health and wellbeing are enhanced by regularly participating in the things that bring us purpose, hope and joy. For seniors, taking part in these activities can be more difficult, older people who feel younger than their age show less brain aging, better memory and less depression. And studies show that staying engaged is important for a seniors mental and physical health. Medical professionals recognize that social determinants of health, especially those that affect mental, social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing, impact health outcomes and quality of life.There are always opportunities for meaningful moments and joyful days with a little planning, conversation and intentional action.Fall ActivitiesFall activities tend to focus on connecting with loved ones, enjoying the  turning season and spending time outside before the weather gets icy.This year, many people cant see their favorite sports teams play in person. But fall is a dream for seniors that enjoy football, baseball and hockey and there are ways to participate virtually. Seniors and their loved ones can watch together over a video call or have a socially distanced viewing party at home, as long as everyone adheres to recommended safety guidelines.Enjoying fall foliage is an activity in itself, and can be done sitting on the porch, going for a short walk or on a longer hike outside. Raking leaves can even be fun when done with loved ones.Eating is another activity that seems to be more fun in the fall family dinners for those isolating together, baking projects and Halloween fun are all opportunities for seniors to participate in activities they enjoy while maintaining their nutrition goals. Winter ActivitiesThe holidays are filled with opportunities to enjoy music, celebrations with family and community service.Holiday shopping is a fun activity usually done outside of the house. However, online shopping may be the best way for seniors to get their gifts without visiting the mall.Singing, dancing, playing instruments and listening to holiday carols are ways that seniors can enjoy music, no matter what the weather looks like outside. Streaming music services often have a wide selection, allowing seniors to pick their favorites to listen to through a phone, virtual assistant or computer.While there are ways that seniors can serve others year-round, volunteering can be even more meaningful around the holidays. Finding virtual volunteer opportunities is even easier this year writing letters, knitting blankets and finding old coats and sweaters to donate can all be done safely at home. Comfort Keepers can HelpAt Comfort Keepers, we create individual care plans for every client. These plans include wellness goals that consider physical, mental and emotional health. Our caregivers can help support physician-prescribed diet and exercise plans, provide medication reminders, provide transportation to appointments and help seniors engage in the activities they love the most. And, our caregivers can help senior stay connected with loved ones through video chats, phone calls and care updates. We believe that every senior should experience the best in life. If you have questions about Comfort Keepers uplifting in-home care services, please contact us today. 

At some point, in life we all experience stress. Its not always a thing. Yet prolonged stress can lead to both emotional damage.  Different individuals experience stress in ways and understanding the triggers of your stress and effective methods to alleviate its symptoms can prevent the development of severe health problems down the line. Engaging in relaxation techniques may even proactively ward off stress before it escalates.  What signs indicate that someone is experiencing stress? Feeling stressed is your bodys way of responding to changes, in your life routine. Activities you're doing regularly. There are times when a little stress can push you to overcome fears or get things done; much stress can have negative effects on your well being.It's crucial to be aware of the signs of stress, on so that you can take steps to manage them right from the start.  Feeling queasy in the tummyExperiencing discomfort, in the chest area.Frequent head pain.Tightness, in the musclesFeeling tired or having trouble sleeping. Forgetting thingsFeeling easily annoyedSerious health issues could also lead to these symptoms appearing. It's crucial to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider at all times. If you experience symptoms such, as chest pains don't hesitate to seek medical help. What kinds of stress exist there? Sudden stress is normal and doesn't last long; it can feel exhilarating. Give us a boost to tackle moments such, as exams or work problems.  When someone experiences stress due, to specific situations it can lead to both mental and physical health issues arising from constantly feeling overwhelmed by rushing through tasks and taking on too much work while struggling with organizational challenges.  Long term stress is something that persists when we overlook or fail to address the sources of stress in our lives. If left unchecked and not dealt with stress could lead to serious health issues, like heart attacks or strokes and even prompt thoughts of suicide.Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) which arises from a event sometimes manifests, as flashbacks,nighmares or episodes of anger.  If one overlooks the signs of stress. They worsen to a level h it may progress into anxiety disorder where an individual experiences intense apprehension or dread concerning routine activities, in life even after the initial stressor is removed. Tips, for coping with stressOne effective approach, to handling stress involves identifying the factors that trigger stress in your life foremost.  If you find yourself overwhelmed by stressors talking to a healthcare about your symptoms is recommended.  Some basic strategies, for dealing with stress include; Engage in activity such, as a half hour walk or a yoga session to maintain your well being.Establish objectives. Ranking to determine the tasks that require attention and those that can be postponed.Engaging in calming practices such, as meditation and mindful breathing exercises.Let us assist you in managing and reducing stress.  It's hard to eliminate all the stress, in your life; however there are methods to deal with it effectively.   Blue Cross provides a range of health initiatives that can assist you in recognizing the sources of your stress and maintaining it at bay by opting for lifestyle options. Some individuals may also engage in an internet based behavioral health initiative such, as Learn to Live.* This course assists in recognizing issues and grasping the functioning of ones mind before teaching strategies to manage anxiety or stress effectively.  Visit your member portal to check if this program is part of your coverage or reach out to customer support using the contact number provided on the back of your Blue Cross ID card. If you need assistance, in locating a physician to help with your stress management needs please reach out to customer support. Search for a doctor online.  

In recent years, scammers have increasingly targeted seniors, preying on their trust and vulnerability to perpetrate fraudulent schemes. According to a report by the FBI, Baby Boomers alone were scammed out of more than $3.4 billion in 2023, with losses from reported scams surging by 11% from the previous year. With imposter scams on the rise, it's essential for seniors to be vigilant and informed to protect themselves from falling victim to these schemes.Imposter scams often involve criminals impersonating trusted figures, such as relationship managers or financial advisors, and setting up fraudulent websites to deceive victims. To avoid falling victim to these scams, it's crucial to recognize the warning signs, including:Unexpected phone calls or emails requesting personal information or payments.Phone calls stating you have missed Jury Duty and have to pay a fine or you will be arrested. Urgent requests to fill out forms or provide sensitive information.Poor website design quality, grammatical errors, or misspellings on fraudulent websites.Website domains that use the name of the relationship manager rather than a reputable firm. To protect themselves from imposter scams follow these best practices:Verify all anomalous communications or requests for payments by double-checking the sender information and independently confirming the source using verified contact information.Do not open emails that do not look normal - it could be a phishing email which could put a virus on your computer. Never rely solely on caller ID to determine the legitimacy of a caller. Let an unknown caller go to voicemail. Refrain from sending payments or sensitive information without independently verifying the identity of the recipient.Avoid giving out sensitive information, such as account numbers, over the phone or through a website unless certain of the recipient's identity.Cut off contact with anyone suspected of impersonating a professional and report the incident to authorities.Never give cash to a vendor, Zelle payments or meet them in a common area. Additionally, you can decrease any chances of falling victim to imposter scams by proactively establishing mutually understood defense measures with professional contacts.By remaining vigilant and informed, seniors can protect themselves from falling victim to imposter scams and safeguard their financial well-being. Education and awareness are key to empowering seniors to recognize and avoid fraudulent schemes targeting them.