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Marita Ellers* was lucky. Her parents lived three blocks away in Greater Detroit. She enjoyed a close relationship with them and could tend to their needs as they continued to age, which was well into their 90s. They both passed away when Marita entered her 60s as she helped with their hospice care needs. But having never married, and with only a chronically ill brother and sister-in-law living in Seattle, reality set in when Marita needed major surgery which would incapacitate her for weeks or possibly months.
Unlike her parents who had her to depend on, Marita had no one. Of course there was her circle of friends, but as it turned out most were married. She’d never thought about cultivating relationships with single people; it had just never occurred to her. Her married friends had busy lives of their own with spouses, adult children, and grandchildren, and the last thing Marita wanted to do was impose on them during a long recuperation.
Ellers is part of a growing trend of “elder orphans” and “solo agers”: individuals ages 55-plus who live alone without a spouse, partner, children, or other family around at all, or if they are around, they cannot be relied upon sometimes due to family dynamics. In short, these individuals have no real support network—no safety net. In a survey of 500 elder orphans, nearly 70 percent hadn’t identified someone to help them with health problems, while 35 percent had no friends or family to begin with who could help.
Studies show the demographic’s numbers are on the rise and the group is so ubiquitous, it even has its own Facebook page with nearly 10,000 members to provide support through shared experiences. If you fall into this category, what are some of the steps you can take to prepare for successful aging?
Planning to Live as a Solo Ager
The best kind of plan for almost anything is, naturally, to plan. If we don’t do that, we may leave critical decisions to disconnected relatives, acquaintances, or ultimately overburdened, court-appointed strangers who have no idea what we need and want. Considering herself staunchly independent, Marita’s lack of planning was twofold: she was in denial about her own aging process, and at the same time she figured the experience of seeing her parents through life’s end stages would enable her to apply all that knowledge to herself if the time came.
While in some respects her experience puts her a step ahead of many of her contemporaries, her reasoning does not allow for what can happen when her mobility is compromised, cognitive capacity is diminished, or myriad other conditions where she may need more help than she can give to herself. Marita’s upcoming surgery was a wake-up call, making her acutely aware of what steps she should have taken and scrambling to put as many as possible in place.
Understand the Levels Between Senior Independence and Assisted Living
Yes—face things and research them, laying them out as early and comprehensively as you can. Avoidance will only get you so far. The antidote for anxiety, feeling isolated, and depression—three issues elder orphans and solo agers have expressed are problems for them—is action. Goethe said, “Be bold, and mighty forces will come to your aid.” Keren Brown Wilson, known as the pioneer of assisted living, says there are many steps and levels between independence and dependence. She recommends interdependence: a mutual reliance on one another on the path to better aging.
Think about trained caregivers for when you may need help with activities of daily living (ADLs) and a fiduciary or senior care advisor for your financial needs including Long-Term Care insurance. Go out and cultivate friendships if you don’t already have them with other elder orphans or solo agers. People in similar situations may have more time to give you if the need arises, as you can give to them.
Build a Senior Support Network That Works
If you don’t know how to go about something, network with people in your community. This may include professionals and others you know at work, where you volunteer, doctors, dentists, lawyers, librarians, teachers, salon and store owners, as well as neighbors. We all age and ahead of that most of us have aging parents or had parents who got up in years. That kind of personal experience is invaluable in terms of recommending others they trust who can help you put things in order now and down the line.
Communities for Successful Aging—Get Involved!
With the rising tide of graying Baby Boomers, city and business leaders and policymakers need to embrace the task of developing solutions for better aging. This needs to be done on a nationwide basis. Elder orphans and solo agers are affected at even deeper levels than their counterparts who are surrounded by family and friends in a position to help. In some locations, there are more resources already in place in the realm of affordable transportation, technology training, respite care, senior advocacy, nutrition oversight, and home health care. But we have a long way to go.
If you are an elder orphan or solo ager looking for involvement in your own community, turning your attention to the cause can bring awareness and even expedite results from which everyone can benefit.
(* Name has been changed for purposes of anonymity.)
Struggling to catch those elusive zzzs? The solution may lie right in your kitchen. Certain nutrient-packed foods possess the power to gently lull you into a deep, restorative sleep, offering a natural alternative to sleep aids. From tart cherries to fatty fish, these 10 superfoods are your ticket to blissful slumber.Unlock the Sleep-Boosting Magic of KiwiThe unassuming kiwifruit is a treasure trove of sleep-enhancing nutrients. Rich in vitamins C and E, as well as potassium and folate, kiwis have been shown to help people fall asleep faster, sleep longer, and experience better overall sleep quality. Researchers believe this may be due to the fruits high antioxidant content, which can suppress inflammatory markers, as well as its ability to address folate deficiencies and provide a natural source of the sleep-regulating hormone serotonin.Tart Cherries: Natures Melatonin BoostWhile sweet cherries may be the more popular variety, their tart counterparts are the true sleep superstars. Tart cherries, also known as sour cherries, contain above-average concentrations of melatonin, the hormone that governs our circadian rhythms and sleep-wake cycles. Studies have found that drinking tart cherry juice can significantly increase total sleep time and sleep efficiency in individuals with insomnia. The fruits powerful antioxidant properties may also contribute to its sleep-promoting effects.Malted Milk: A Nostalgic Bedtime BeverageMalted milk, made by combining milk, wheat flour, malted barley, and a touch of sugar, has long been touted as a sleep-inducing nightcap. While the exact mechanisms are unclear, the unique blend of B and D vitamins, phosphorus, zinc, and magnesium in malted milk may work in harmony to help the body relax and unwind before bed. Additionally, the melatonin naturally present in milk may enhance the sleep-supporting benefits of this classic bedtime beverage.Salmon and Other Fatty Fish: Omega-3s for SlumberSalmon, tuna, and other fatty fish are not only delicious, but they may also be the key to better sleep. These nutrient-dense proteins are rich in vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, both of which play a crucial role in the bodys release and regulation of serotonin, a neurotransmitter essential for healthy sleep-wake cycles. A study found that people who consumed salmon three times a week experienced improved overall sleep quality and daytime functioning, particularly during the darker winter months when vitamin D levels tend to be lower.Nuts: A Handful of Sleep-Promoting NutrientsFrom almonds and walnuts to pistachios and cashews, nuts are a veritable treasure trove of sleep-boosting compounds. These crunchy snacks contain a unique blend of melatonin, omega-3s, magnesium, and zinc all of which work together to promote relaxation and facilitate restful sleep. In fact, a clinical trial involving older adults with insomnia found that a combination of melatonin, magnesium, and zinc supplements significantly improved sleep duration and quality.The Carbohydrate Connection: Rice for SlumberWhile the relationship between carbohydrates and sleep is a complex one, some research suggests that rice may be a particularly sleep-friendly grain. A study of Japanese adults found that those who regularly consumed rice reported better sleep quality compared to those who favored bread or noodles. The high glycemic index of rice may play a role, as research has shown that consuming high-GI carbohydrates a few hours before bedtime can aid in falling asleep. However, its important to note that not all carbohydrates are created equal, and sugary snacks and beverages have been linked to poorer sleep.Dairy Delights: Milk, Yogurt, and Cheese for SlumberDairy products, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, are rich in a trifecta of sleep-promoting nutrients: tryptophan, calcium, and melatonin. Tryptophan is an amino acid that helps the body produce serotonin and melatonin, the hormones that regulate our sleep-wake cycles. Pairing dairy with carbohydrates, such as whole-grain crackers or granola, can further enhance the sleep-inducing effects by allowing the tryptophan to more easily reach the brain. Additionally, the calcium and vitamin D found in dairy products are essential for maintaining healthy sleep patterns.Leafy Greens: Magnesium-Packed PowerhousesLeafy greens like spinach, kale, and lettuce are true sleep superstars, thanks to their high magnesium content. Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in regulating the bodys stress response and promoting muscle relaxation, both of which are essential for quality sleep. In fact, just one cup of cooked spinach packs an impressive 39% of the daily recommended magnesium intake. Incorporating these nutrient-dense greens into your diet can help combat the common sleep-disrupting issue of magnesium deficiency.Bananas: A Potassium-Rich Bedtime TreatBananas are more than just a convenient on-the-go snack theyre also a sleep-promoting powerhouse. Rich in tryptophan, magnesium, and potassium, bananas can help relax the body and muscles, reducing sleep disturbances and promoting a more restful nights sleep. The fruits natural sweetness also makes it a perfect pairing with milk or yogurt for a soothing bedtime treat that can lull you into a deep slumber.Honey: Natures Sleep-Enhancing NectarDrizzle a spoonful of honey into your bedtime tea or smoothie, and you may just find yourself drifting off to dreamland with ease. Honey has the unique ability to raise insulin levels in the body, which in turn triggers the production of melatonin, the sleep-regulating hormone. This natural sleep-boosting effect makes honey a valuable addition to any sleep-supporting bedtime routine.Chamomile Tea: A Centuries-Old Sleep RemedyChamomile tea has long been revered for its calming, sleep-promoting properties, and for good reason. The herb contains antioxidants that activate receptors in the brains GABA complex, providing a gentle sedative effect that can help you drift off to sleep. Sipping a warm cup of chamomile tea before bed is a simple yet effective way to wind down and prepare your body for a restful nights sleep.The Sleep-Disrupting Culprits to AvoidWhile incorporating these sleep-promoting superfoods into your diet is a great start, its also important to be mindful of the foods and drinks that can sabotage your sleep. Steer clear of caffeine, especially in the afternoon and evening, as it can interfere with your bodys natural sleep-wake cycle. Alcohol, despite its initial sedative effects, can ultimately disrupt sleep and reduce REM sleep. Spicy, acidic, and fried foods can also cause discomfort and acid reflux, making it difficult to fall and stay asleep. By focusing on a balanced, consistent diet rich in these sleep-enhancing foods, you can harness the power of nutrition to cultivate a more restful and rejuvenating slumber. Remember, while individual foods and drinks may offer sleep-promoting benefits, the true key to better sleep lies in adopting a comprehensive approach that addresses both your dietary habits and overall sleep hygiene. Sweet dreams await!
Embarking on a journey towards better health doesnt always require drastic changes to your diet. Sometimes, its the small, thoughtful adjustments that can make a significant impact on your overall well-being. We understand that as you age, maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet becomes increasingly important. Thats why weve compiled a list of six simple food swaps that can help boost your nutrition without overhauling your entire eating habits.1. Breakfast Cereal vs. Steel-Cut OatsIf you often find yourself reaching for a box of breakfast cereal in the morning, consider steel-cut oats as an alternative. Steel-cut oats, also known as Irish oats, are minimally processed oat groats that have been chopped into small pieces. This minimal processing means they retain more of their natural nutrients compared to their rolled or instant counterparts. Rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals, steel-cut oats offer a hearty and satisfying breakfast option that can keep you feeling full and energized throughout the morning.2. Canned Tuna vs. Canned SalmonOne of the most significant advantages of choosing canned salmon over tuna is its higher content of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats play a crucial role in maintaining heart health, supporting brain function, and reducing inflammation throughout the body. Sockeye salmon, in particular, is an excellent source of these beneficial fats, providing more omega-3s per serving than most canned tuna varieties.3. Iceberg Lettuce vs. Dark Leafy GreensWhile iceberg lettuce seems to be popular at salad bars across the country, a simple swap for a healthier salad is using dark, leafy greens as a replacement. Dark leafy greens like spinach, kale and collard greens, contain 9 times more vitamin A than iceberg lettuce. Greens also contain healthy amounts of fiber, folate and potassium.4. Low-Fat Yogurt vs. SkyrSkyr (pronounced skeer) is a cultured dairy product that has been a staple in Icelandic cuisine for centuries. Its made by incubating skim milk with live active cultures, then straining the whey, resulting in a product thats thicker and more concentrated than regular yogurt.The nutritional benefits of Skyr are truly impressive, especially when compared to low-fat yogurt. Skyr contains up to 17 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving, which is significantly more than low-fat yogurt. Since Skyr is a cultured dairy product, it contains probiotics that support gut health. Lastly, its low in sugar, which is great for those who are monitoring their sugar intake.5. White Bread vs. Whole Grain BreadThere are many different types of breads available in super markets, but the two most common types are white bread and whole wheat. While they are both made from grains, there are some key differences between the two types. Whole grain bread is made from wheat that has all components of the grain, the bran, the germ, and the endosperm. This means that whole wheat bread contains the healthy fats, minerals, and fiber. White bread is made from refined flour, which goes through a milling process that removes the bran and germ. Therefor, white bread lacks a lot of the nutrient properties of whole grain bread.6. Potato Chips vs. Baked SnacksPotato chips are fried in oil, which gives them a delightful texture- but unfortunately, more calories and fat. Baked snacks like pretzels, air-popped popcorn or veggie chips are cooked without any inflammatory oils, but can be just as satisfying. As you embark on this journey of healthier eating, keep these final thoughts in mind: Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how these new foods make you feel. Everyones nutritional needs are different, so find what works best for you. Gradual Changes: Introduce these swaps gradually. This approach is more sustainable and allows your taste buds to adjust. Experiment and Enjoy: Dont be afraid to get creative with these new ingredients. Trying new recipes can make healthy eating an exciting adventure. Balance is Key: While these swaps offer nutritional benefits, remember that a balanced diet includes a variety of foods from all food groups. Consult Professionals: If you have specific health concerns or dietary restrictions, its always wise to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet. By making these thoughtful swaps, youre not just changing whats on your plate; youre investing in your long-term health and well-being. Each meal becomes an opportunity to nourish your body with foods that not only taste good but also do good for your health.
As we age, maintaining our eye health becomes increasingly important. Our eyes are precious windows to the world, allowing us to experience lifes beautiful moments and connect with our loved ones. Just as we care for our overall health, its crucial to pay attention to the well-being of our eyes. One of the most effective ways to support our vision is through a nutrient-rich diet. In this article, well explore five superfoods that can help keep your eyes healthy and your vision sharp.Leafy GreensLeafy greens, like spinach, kale, and collard greens, are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that protect your eyes. Spinach is rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, which filter harmful light and protect eye cells. Kale offers more than 200% of your daily vitamin A, essential for retina health, while collard greens are high in vitamin K, which may reduce macular degeneration risk.Ways to add them: Toss spinach or kale in smoothies Use collard greens as wraps Saut with garlic and olive oil for a side dish Omega-3 Rich FishOmega-3 fatty acids in fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel support retina health and reduce inflammation. Salmon is rich in DHA and EPA, which are key for retinal structure. Sardines, small but powerful, provide omega-3s, vitamin B12, and calcium. Mackerel also contains selenium, which protects eye tissues.Ways to add them: Grill salmon with vegetables Make a sardine salad Try mackerel on whole grain toast or crackers Vibrant Orange VegetablesOrange vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and butternut squash are rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. This helps night vision and eye structure. Carrots also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect the eyes from blue light. Butternut squash is high in vitamin C and E, antioxidants that combat oxidative stress.Ways to add them: Roast sweet potato wedges Add grated carrots to salads Blend squash into soups Nuts and SeedsNuts and seeds like almonds, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds are rich in vitamin E, omega-3s, and zinc. Almonds protect against macular degeneration, while sunflower seeds help fight oxidative stress. Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc, crucial for retina function, and walnuts offer a plant-based omega-3 alternative.Ways to add them: Add nuts to oatmeal or yogurt Sprinkle seeds on salads Make homemade trail mix Colorful BerriesBerries like blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, and goji berries are packed with antioxidants that protect eye cells. Blueberries reduce cataract risk, while strawberries boost vitamin C, supporting blood vessels in the eyes. Goji berries may help reduce macular degeneration risk, thanks to their zeaxanthin content.Ways to add them: Top oatmeal with berries Blend into smoothies Snack on dried goji berries ConclusionBy adding these five superfoods to your dietleafy greens, omega-3 fish, orange vegetables, nuts and seeds, and colorful berriesyou support eye health and protect vision. A nutrient-rich diet, along with healthy habits like regular eye exams and hydration, can help you maintain clear vision for years to come. Treat your eyes with care and nourish them for a lifetime of healthy sight!
Chad and Vicki Craig, owners of Amada Senior Care Pittsburgh Northwest, both share a lifelong passion for serving our senior population. Having spent the last 25 years of their professional careers in advanced healthcare technologies for older adults, they understand the importance of providing the highest quality care at home so that our loved ones can age in place safely and happily.For both Chad and Vicki, providing quality care to support senior independence at home isnt just a passion, but a calling. Their appreciation for and dedication to our cherished elder community began at a young age. As a child, Chad would often choose to visit residents of a senior facility neighboring his home over playing kickball outside with friends his own age. When his father, a WWII veteran and amputee, was transitioned to a memory care facility for dementia, Chad didnt know about the options available that could have allowed his father to spend his last days enjoying the comforts of his own home. I felt guilty after my dad passed because I was not aware that I could have brought him home where he could have been in a familiar place surrounded by family, Chad recalls. Vicki experienced a very similar situation with her own grandmother, who declined quickly after she was moved from her own home to a care facility.Personalized Care for Seniors and Families in Pittsburgh NorthwestRecognizing that well-vetted, committed caregivers are a necessity to safely aging in place, Chad and Vicki felt compelled to start their own senior home care business. Chad, Vicki and the entire Amada Senior Care team have devoted themselves to delivering the highest quality of compassionate elder care. Their extraordinary level of service is the reason why Amada Senior Care Pittsburgh Northwest has a reputation for providing in-home caregivers who exceed client expectations, along with the highest rating (A+) from the Home Care Standards Bureau, the industrys standard-bearer.Chad, Vicki and the rest of the Amada Pittsburgh Northwest team couldnt offer the exceptional quality care that they do without investing time and effort into pairing trained and knowledgeable Amada caregivers with senior clients to promote their well-being and health. Their process of offering excellent caregiving assistance includes regularly checking with their senior clients and families to ensure that individual care needs and preferences are being met. Chad, Vicki, and the Amada Pittsburgh Northwest team are just as diligent in offering expert financial advisory services to help seniors and their families navigate the complexities of Long-Term Care insurance (LTCi) policies and VA benefits.We invite you to contact us at Amada Senior Care Pittsburgh Northwest to learn more about how we can be of service to help your senior loved one age with dignity and respect, while giving your family the peace of mind they deserve. We exist to enrich seniors lives by helping them retain independent living for as long as possible, and our services include providing funding solutions on how to pay for in-home care. It is our pleasure and honor to serve.Specialized Care by Amada Pittsburgh NorthWestWhen senior loved ones need assistance to manage health conditions, our trained caregivers at Amada Pittsburgh NW can address their unique needsFamilies can feel confident that Amada Pittsburgh NW caregivers have the training and education necessary to provide the specialized care meeting the individual needs of seniors who are contending with health challenges. Is your senior loved one recovering from a stroke? Does your spouse or another family member suffer from Alzheimers or dementia? Is your family trying to help an aging loved one manage symptoms of congestive heart failure (CHF), diabetes, Parkinsons or another chronic condition?Assisting Senior Patients Diagnosed with Alzheimers or Dementia According to the Alzheimers Association, nearly 6.5 million Americans were living with Alzheimers or another form of dementia as of 2022. A progressive disease that destroys memory and other key mental functions, Alzheimers and other forms of dementia impact not only the senior patient but the entire family, which is where Amada Pittsburgh NW comes in. Our team of dedicated and compassionate caregivers at Amada Senior Care Pittsburgh NW are highly skilled and trained in supporting activities of daily living (ADLs) and special pursuits and activities far and above the ordinary, thus bringing to our senior clients a sense of fulfillment and joy in their everyday lives. Supporting Senior Clients to Manage Symptoms of Parkinsons Disease There is still no cure for Parkinsons disease, a brain disorder characterized by shaking, stiffness, difficulty walking and talking, and balance and coordination issues. The symptoms of Parkinsons typically begin on a gradual basis worsen over time, so families can expect that a loved one diagnosed with the disease will need assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) at some stage of this progressive disease. The professional caregivers at Amada Pittsburgh NW are trained and well-versed in how to assist seniors and other adults who are managing life with Parkinsons. Amada caregivers can help adapt the home environment, help monitor systems and communicate changes to the care team and family members, provide medication reminders, assist with prescribed exercises, and much more. Dedicated Respite Care for Families When a Senior Loved One is in Hospice When a senior loved one begins the journey of hospice care, an increased level of care and responsibility naturally come along with the familys deepening concerns. Whats required of the family can be unrelenting and exhausting in ensuring their beloved elders last weeks and days are filled with comfort and dignity. Amadas expert, compassionate caregivers can provide a much-needed respite from the continuous care and extreme mental and emotional output that accompany the final passage. With emotions running high, family members often neglect their most basic needs including showering, eating and sleeping. The option to step away for a brea can provide family members with the opportunity to rest, refresh and regroupknowing their parent, grandparent or spouse is in excellent handsreturning better able to be fully present with their loved one. Call 724-318-6668 to speak with one of our senior care advisors and find out more about how we can help either you or a senior loved one. Click on the links below to learn more about how Amada caregivers can help senior clients manage symptoms of various disease states. Alzheimers and Dementia Congestive Heart Failure COPD Diabetes Hypertension Parkinsons Stroke Recovery