Rocky Mountain PACE FAQS

As individuals age, they often experience changes that can impact their ability to live independently. Recognizing the need for home care can sometimes be challenging, both for the elderly person and their loved ones. Nonetheless, understanding the various reasons why home care might be beneficial is crucial.

As we enter the winter season, its important to pay extra attention to skin care, especially for seniors. The cold and dry weather can have a significant impact on skin care, and can lead to dryness, flakiness, and even discomfort. Here are some essential tips for senior skin care during the winter to help keep the skin healthy, hydrated, and protected.Understanding the Effects of Winter on SkinAs we age, our skin naturally becomes thinner and less able to retain moisture. This makes seniors more susceptible to the negative effects of winter weather on their skin. The cold temperatures, low humidity, and indoor heating systems all contribute to further drying out the skin. Additionally, winter weather can make common skin conditions worse in seniors, such as eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea. Skin care is essential year-round, especially during the winter.Tips for Senior Skin Care during the WinterMoisturize Regularly: Use a thick, emollient-rich moisturizer to hydrate the skin and create a protective barrier. Apply it immediately after bathing or washing when the skin is still slightly damp to lock in moisture. Pay special attention to areas prone to dryness, like the hands, feet, elbows, and knees.Protect from the Elements: Wear appropriate clothing to protect the skin from cold temperatures, wind, and precipitation. Choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or silk that wont irritate the skin. Dont forget to cover exposed areas with a hat, scarf, and gloves.Use Sunscreen: Even in winter, the suns harmful UV rays can still damage the skin. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to any exposed skin.Humidify Indoor Air: Use a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the dry indoor air. This helps prevent excessive drying of the skin, and it can also benefit respiratory health.Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is essential for overall health and skin hydration. Make sure to stay adequately hydrated throughout the day, even if you dont feel as thirsty during the winter.Avoid Harsh Soaps and Cleansers: Opt for mild, fragrance-free cleansers and soaps that wont strip the skins natural oils. Harsh products can further dry out and irritate the skin.Consider a Winter Skincare Routine: Consulting with a dermatologist or skincare professional can help you develop a customized winter skincare routine. They can recommend specific products and treatments that suit your unique needs.Eat a Nutrient-rich Diet: A well-balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can promote healthy skin from within. Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, and seeds, as they help nourish the skin and reduce inflammation.Limit hot showers and baths. The excessive heat can strip the skin of its natural oils and worsen dryness.Seek Medical Help for Skin Conditions: If you notice any persistent or worsening skin conditions, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can provide guidance on managing common skin conditions during the winter months.Senior skin care during the winter requires some extra attention and care. By following these essential tips, seniors can protect their skin from the harsh winter weather and maintain hydration and comfort. Remember, prevention and regular skincare routines are key to keeping the skin healthy and nourished throughout the winter season.Senior LIFE can help seniors manage their day-to-day healthcare and supportive needs. Each participant in the LIFE Program receives a care plan that is made to suit their unique medical needs, and this care plan changes as the participants needs change.  Our medical and supportive services include physicians and specialists, nursing care, physical, occupational and speech therapies, personal and home care, medications, and so much more.At Senior LIFE, our main goal is to keep seniors living at home and out of a nursing home for as long as possible. Senior LIFE Participants on Medicaid who live in the community have no out-of-pocket costs, no cost to enroll, no co-pays and no deductibles. Not sure if you qualify for Medicaid or the LIFE Program? We can help you determine your eligibility.Find the location nearest you: https://wp-staging-6ie96gty5n.pairsite.com/locations 

As we age, staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle becomes increasingly important. One way to do this is by walking more. In fact, research suggests that taking just 500 extra steps per day can have a significant impact on senior health.Health Benefits of WalkingWalking is a low-impact form of exercise that can have numerous health benefits, especially for older adults. It can help improve cardiovascular health, strengthen bones and muscles, and reduce the risk of chronic conditions like osteoporosis, diabetes, and heart disease. In addition, walking can improve balance and reduce the risk of falls.The Benefits of 500 Extra StepsTaking just 500 extra steps per day may not seem like much, but it can have a significant impact on senior health. Research suggests that taking an extra 500 steps per day can lead to a decrease in the risk of developing chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. In addition, it can lead to improved mental health, better sleep, and increased energy levels.A study conducted by the American Heart Association found that for people ages 70 and older who walked an additional 500 steps per day, or an additional quarter mile of walking, experienced a 14% lower risk of heart disease, stroke or heart failure. Also, compared to adults who took less than 2,000 steps per day, adults who took about 4,500 steps per day had a 77% lower observed risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event.Strategies for Walking MoreTaking an extra 500 steps per day may sound like a daunting task, but there are many strategies that can help seniors achieve this goal. Here are a few tips:Take multiple short walks throughout the day: This can help add up to 500 extra steps without requiring a lot of time commitment.Use a pedometer or fitness tracker: Tracking steps can help seniors stay motivated and monitor their progress.Find a walking partner: Walking with a friend or family member can make it more enjoyable and provide social interaction.Set achievable goals: Start small and gradually increase the number of steps taken each day.Choose scenic routes: Walking in a park or nature trail can make it more enjoyable and provide additional health benefits.In conclusion, taking 500 extra steps per day can have a significant impact on senior health, and its an achievable goal for most people. Walking can help improve cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of chronic conditions, and improve mental health and overall well-being. By incorporating walking into their daily routine, seniors can help maintain their independence and enjoy a higher quality of life.Senior LIFE can help you with your goalsAt Senior LIFE, our goals align with the goals of many seniors to stay in the comfort of their homes, and out of a nursing home. We work with seniors and their caregivers to help seniors maintain independence by providing medical and supportive services including physician and nursing services, medication management, in-home care, and so more more! For a full list of services, please visit us online at: Senior LIFE ServicesSenior LIFE (Living Independence for the Elderly) is state and federally funded Medicare and Medicaid Program that provides long-term care for seniors, 55 years of age or older, so that they can remain living at home and out of a nursing facility.Senior LIFE Services are provided at NO COST to those on Medicaid who live in the community.To speak with a Senior LIFE representative about the program, and to learn if you or a family member may be eligible, please contact us via our website or email us at info@SeniorLIFEPA.