Let's Move More

As men and women alike grow older, health screenings become important for seniors to have. Some of these tests are well known but some may not be. This is a compiled list of screenings as well as immunizations that seniors need.The month of October welcomes the seasonal changes of fall, Halloween and most importantly, Breast Cancer Awareness month. States across the nation host breast cancer walks and other fundraisers that not only serve to increase awareness but also to encourage donations towards the prevention of breast cancer. Thanks to these efforts, breast cancer awareness has increased over the years. Many lives have been saved because women of all ages are learning the importance of receiving regular mammograms to detect the disease early on.As men and women alike grow older, there are other health screenings that become important for seniors to have. Some of these tests are well known but some may not be. This is a compiled list of screenings as well as immunizations that seniors need in order to maintain good health with age based on recommendations from the National Institute of Aging and the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force.Health screenings for both men and women age 50 and older:Blood pressure and cholesterol levels should be tested regularly.Diabetes tests should be administered for those who have high blood pressure.Colorectal cancer screenings are important, especially if cancer runs in the family.Vision tests help detect diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts.Hearing screenings can be important to determine whether seniors need aids.Depression evaluations are also important as seniors experience important life changes that come with age, such as the loss of a spouse.Vaccinations such as the flu shot can be life saving for older adults. Other vaccinations to discuss with health care providers include pneumonia, tetanus, shingles and whooping cough.Health screenings for senior women according to the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center:Mammograms should be ordered for women 50 and older every 1-3 years.Cervical cancer testing should be administered every 3 years in women between the ages of 50-65.Osteoporosis screenings for women 65 and over are important to detect bone strength. If osteoporosis runs in the family, these tests should begin at age 60.Health screenings for senior men:Abdominal aortic aneurism testing should be administered to men between 65-75 years old who smoke. This includes smokers who have quit by this age. This is a one-time test that can be a lifesaver for those who are positively diagnosed with this condition.Regular visits to health care providers is key in determining how often the above screenings should be administered. While most average about once a year, some screenings are required more often and maybe less often depending on individual stages of health.

Pickleball has emerged as a beloved sport for seniors, offering many benefits for their physical, social, and cognitive well-being. So, whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner looking for a new hobby, consider embracing pickleball as a game-changer for your overall health and happiness in your golden years.As we age, staying physically active becomes essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and enjoying more vitality and well-being. Fortunately, there is a sport that has gained popularity among seniors in recent yearspickleball. Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, offering numerous benefits for older adults. From improving cardiovascular health to fostering social connections, this low-impact sport has proven to be a game-changer for seniors seeking an enjoyable and accessible way to stay fit. Let's delve into the world of pickleball and explore the benefits for older individuals. Low-Impact Exercise One of the most significant advantages of pickleball for seniors is its low-impact nature. Unlike high-impact sports like running or basketball, pickleball places less stress on joints, reducing the risk of injuries and joint pain. The game is played on a smaller court, requiring less lateral movement and putting less strain on the knees, hips, and ankles. The low-impact nature of the game makes pickleball an ideal choice for seniors with arthritis or those recovering from joint-related surgeries.Furthermore, the game's slower pace allows seniors to build endurance gradually while engaging in a moderate-intensity workout. Combining aerobic and anaerobic movements in pickleball enhances cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, and strengthens the heart. Regular sessions help seniors improve their overall fitness levels, stamina, and balance, reducing the likelihood of falls and enhancing their independence. Social Interaction and CommunityPickleball is more than just a sport; it's a social activity that fosters connections among seniors. Many communities and retirement centers now offer pickleball facilities, bringing people together to play and socialize. The game's doubles format encourages teamwork, communication, and camaraderie, making it an excellent opportunity for seniors to meet new people and develop lasting friendships. Playing pickleball promotes a sense of belonging and community involvement, which can combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. Seniors who participate in pickleball leagues or join clubs often report increased happiness and improved overall quality of life. Cognitive BenefitsPickleball isn't just a physical workout; it also offers numerous cognitive benefits for seniors. The game requires strategy, quick thinking, and hand-eye coordination, stimulating the brain and promoting mental agility. Regular pickleball play can enhance cognitive function, memory, and problem-solving skills, reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline. Moreover, pickleball provides a unique opportunity for seniors to engage in continuous learning. Whether learning new techniques, refining their shots, or adapting their gameplay, seniors can continuously challenge themselves and expand their skill set. This mental stimulation contributes to maintaining a sharp mind and a sense of accomplishment. Pickleball has emerged as a beloved sport for seniors, offering many benefits for their physical, social, and cognitive well-being. The low-impact nature of the game allows seniors to remain active without putting excessive strain on their bodies. The social aspect of pickleball fosters a sense of community and combats social isolation. Additionally, the cognitive demands of the game help seniors stay mentally sharp and agile. So, whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner looking for a new hobby, consider embracing pickleball as a game-changer for your overall health and happiness in your golden years. Get on the court and start experiencing the remarkable advantages of pickleball today! Comfort Keepers Can HelpCaring for others and ourselves can take a lot of thought and preparation as we age. Our Comfort Keeperscan help encourage seniors to meet activity guidelines, recommend ways to add more physical activity to their day, and can help to motivate a senior to stay active. Our trained caregivers can provide transportation to a local park, a trail, or greenways to enjoy a walk together or watch a pickleball game. Caregivers can drive clients to scheduled doctor appointments, provide mobility assistance and meal preparation, and help with activities of daily living. We believe in Elevating the Human Spirit by providing our clients with practical assistance and daily moments of joy. By giving equal parts compassion, attention, and comfort, our goal is to help seniors feel independent again while promoting good health to enjoy their days. ResourcesNational Library of Medicine (NIH): Pickleball: Injury Considerations in an Increasingly Popular SportAmerican Institute for Preventive Medicine: What can the Well-Being Industry Learn from Pickleball?Medical University of South Carolina: Pickleball: Fastest Growing Sport Especially for Seniors

There is a high incidence of cardiovascular disease in seniors. In fact, 35% of seniors 65-74 and 59% of seniors 75-84 years old have cardiovascular disease. Taking a few preventative steps can lead to a more active independent lifestyle later in life.A published study in the journal Circulation confirmed that taking more daily steps for seniors was associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease. Additional positive effects of physical activity include the following: More prolonged independence. Higher self-esteem. A better quality of life. Realizing joy in everyday moments. More good news: no additional gym equipment is required, just a comfortable pair of shoes.How can seniors count steps?Today more seniors are adopting technology and smartphones. The Apple Health app on iPhones and the Google Fit app on Android phones are examples of pedometers already integrated into the smartphone. However, you don't need technology to count steps, the old fashion way works too, and it's easy; remember, 1 mile equals 2,252 steps when strolling.  Creative ways for seniors to incorporate steps into each day Take the dog for a walk twice a day, or volunteer to walk a neighbors dog A senior can create or join a neighborhood walking group.  Check with the local mall or shopping center, as these are frequent senior walking destinations during the winter months A walk to the store instead of driving and picking up something special for dinner Meet a friend for a cup of coffee, but walk to the destination A walking tour of the neighborhood Give up the newspaper delivery and take a walk to the store daily to pick it up Meet a friend for a movie and take a walk together afterward Go to the beach and take a leisurely stroll to enjoy the day Invite the grandkids over and take a walk together Schedule walks onto the calendar, making it a habit and something to look forward to Invite a friend to join a senior for a walk, and they can meet halfway When talking to a friend on the phone, suggest continuing the conversation in person and on a walk Take a walk while talking on the phone and catching up with friends and family.  Get to know the neighborhood and walk a different way each day Create a playlist of favorite songs to listen to while walking Download an audiobook and listen while enjoying a walk Pick up a bird-watching book and see how many there are to find in the neighborhood while on a walk  Comfort Keepers Can HelpCaring for others and ourselves can take a lot of thought and preparation as we age. Our Comfort Keepers can help encourage seniors to meet activity guidelines, recommend ways to add more physical activity to their day, and can help to motivate a senior to stay active. Our trained caregivers can provide transportation to a local park, a trail, or greenways to enjoy a walk together. Caregivers can drive clients to scheduled doctor appointments, provide mobility assistance and meal preparation and help with activities of daily living.We believe in Elevating the Human Spirit by providing our clients with practical assistance and daily moments of joy.  By giving equal parts compassion, attention, and comfort, our goal is to help seniors feel independent again while promoting good health to enjoy their days. Questions, please call Comfort Keepers today at - 970-241-8818. References and Additional Information National Library of Medicine - The Burden of Cardiovascular Disease in the Elderly: Morbidity, Mortality, and Costs National Library of Medicine - Physical Activity in Elderly Prospective Association of Daily Steps with Cardiovascular Disease: A Harmonized Meta-Analysis Healthline - How Walking 6,000 Steps Per Day Can Boost Heart Health for Older Adults Medical News Today - cardiovascular disease: Walking 6,000+ steps daily may lower risk for older adults