SBB University presents "The Importance of Heart Health: Prevention & Rehabilitation of Heart Attack

As we age, we naturally experience changes physically and mentally. One of the less discussed but increasingly common issues among older adults is anxiety. While many assume that anxiety is primarily a concern for younger people, the truth is that it can affect individuals at any stage of life. But is it normal to have anxiety as you get older? And if so, what can be done to manage it?Understanding Anxiety in Older AdultsAnxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. Though its a natural stress response, it can interfere with daily life when it becomes overwhelming or persistent. In older adults, anxiety often presents itself in different ways compared to younger people. It might manifest as a general sense of unease, a focus on health concerns, or heightened fears about independence and safety.Common Triggers of Anxiety in Older AdultsSeveral factors can contribute to anxiety as people age. Understanding these triggers can help manage and address the issue.Health ConcernsHealth issues become more prominent as we age. Chronic illnesses, mobility challenges, and cognitive decline can all lead to increased anxiety. The fear of losing independence or becoming a burden on loved ones can be particularly distressing.Life TransitionsMajor life changes, such as retirement, the loss of a spouse or friend, or moving to a new living environment, can be significant sources of stress. These transitions can lead to feelings of loneliness, uncertainty, and anxiety.Financial WorriesConcerns about financial stability in retirement, managing medical expenses, or the cost of long-term care can be pretty stressful for older adults. This economic uncertainty further contributes to heightened anxiety.Fear of Falling or InjuryThe fear of falling or suffering an injury is common among older adults, especially if theyve experienced a fall in the past. This fear can lead to anxiety about leaving the house or participating in activities they once enjoyed.Cognitive DeclineFor some, the fear of developing dementia or Alzheimers disease is a significant source of anxiety. Even mild memory lapses can cause worry, increasing anxiety about the future.Is Anxiety Normal as You Age?While its common to experience some level of anxiety as you age, persistent or severe anxiety is not a normal part of aging. Its essential to address it and seek help when it starts interfering with daily activities, sleep, or overall well-being.Managing Anxiety in Older AdultsHere are some practical steps to help manage anxiety: Stay Active: Regular physical activity, even light exercises like walking or yoga, can boost mood and reduce anxiety. Social Connections: Maintaining relationships and engaging in social activities can help alleviate loneliness and anxiety. Relaxation Techniques: Practices like deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness can calm the mind and ease anxiety. Talk to Someone: Sharing your worries with a friend, family member, or therapist can provide relief and new perspectives. Seek Professional Help: If anxiety becomes overwhelming, consult a healthcare provider for treatment options such as therapy or medication.If you or a loved one are experiencing anxiety as you age, at The Oberon House, we can provide the support and care you need. Our assisted living facility in Arvada, CO, offers a compassionate environment and services designed to manage anxiety and enhance well-being. Contact us today to explore how our community can help you live comfortably and confidently 303-420-7258.

The loss of a spouse is one of lifes most profound challenges. The person you shared your life with, relied on, and loved deeply is suddenly gone, leaving a void that can feel impossible to fill. Grief is a natural response to such a significant loss, but it can be overwhelming and isolating. However, with time, support, and the right coping strategies, its possible to find healing and rebuild your life.Understanding the Grieving ProcessGrief is a deeply personal experience that varies from person to person. There is no right or wrong way to grieve, and the process often unfolds in stages, including denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. You may experience these stages in a different order or find yourself revisiting them multiple times. Its important to recognize that grief is not linear, and healing takes time.Allow yourself to feel your emotions without judgment. Whether youre feeling sadness, anger, guilt, or even relief, these emotions are a natural part of the grieving process. Suppressing your feelings can prolong your grief and make it harder to heal.Lean on Your Support SystemIsolation can intensify feelings of grief, so stay connected with family, friends, and community members who can offer comfort and companionship. Dont hesitate to share your feelings with those you trust; talking about your loss can be a powerful way to process your emotions. Support groups specifically for those who have lost a spouse can also be incredibly helpful.Take Care of Your Physical HealthGrief can affect physical health, leading to fatigue, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, and weakened immune function. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule, eat nutritious meals, and incorporate physical activity into your routine. Even gentle exercise like walking or yoga can boost your mood and help you feel more grounded. If youre struggling with your physical health, consider seeking support from a healthcare provider who can offer guidance and resources.Find Meaning and PurposeAfter the loss of a spouse, it can be difficult to find meaning in life. Many people find that activities honoring their loved ones memory can provide a sense of purpose and help heal. This might include volunteering, creating a memorial, or participating in causes that were important to your spouse. Exploring new hobbies or interests can also be helpful. Remember that its okay to experience happiness and pleasure, even as you grieve.Seek Professional Help if NeededFor some, the grief of losing a spouse can be particularly intense and may not subside with time. If youre struggling with prolonged depression, anxiety, or feelings of hopelessness, it may be helpful to seek support from a mental health professional. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore your emotions, develop coping strategies, and healthily work through your grief.At The Oberon House in Arvada, CO, we understand the unique challenges that come with aging and loss. If you or a loved one is seeking a supportive community during this time, contact us to learn how we can help provide comfort and companionship in a caring environment.

Three Things You Must Do When Choosing A CaregiverSearching for a service to care for your aging parent or loved one can be an overwhelming and emotionally charged process. With numerous options available and often a sense of urgency to find help quickly, it's crucial to approach this decision methodically. Before diving into your research, here are three essential steps you must take when selecting a caregiver. These steps will help ensure you make an informed decision that provides the best possible care for your loved one.1. Ask The Right QuestionsPreparing a comprehensive list of interview questions is vital to getting to know potential caregivers and caregiving services. This process allows you to gather crucial information about their capabilities, experience, and approach to care. Focus your questions on three main areas: services provided, employee qualifications, and associated costs.Services ProvidedWhat specific services do you offer? (e.g., personal care, medication management, mobility assistance)Can you accommodate specialized care needs? (e.g., dementia care, post-surgery recovery)What is your policy on emergency situations?Do you provide 24/7 care if needed?Employee Qualifications and PoliciesHow long has your company been in business?Are your caregivers required to pass background checks? How extensive are these checks?What are the education and experience requirements for your employees?Do you offer ongoing training to your caregivers? If so, what kind?How do you handle caregiver substitutions or sick days?What is your process for matching caregivers with clients?Costs and BillingWhat is the cost structure for your services? (hourly rates, daily rates, package deals)Are there additional fees for weekends, holidays, or overnight care?How are your customers billed? What payment methods do you accept?Do you work with long-term care insurance or offer any financial assistance programs?Performance MetricsWhat are your hospital re-admission rates after rehabilitation?How do you measure client satisfaction?Can you provide references from current or past clients?By asking these detailed questions, you'll gain a clearer picture of each caregiving service's strengths and potential limitations. This information will be invaluable in making your final decision.2. Prioritize Effective CommunicationEffective communication is the cornerstone of quality care. It's essential to understand how the caregiving company will maintain open lines of communication with both your loved one's healthcare providers and you as the family member.Communication with Healthcare ProvidersHow does the caregiving service coordinate with doctors and other healthcare professionals?Is there a system in place for regular updates to the primary care physician?How are medication changes or new care instructions from doctors implemented?Communication with Family MembersWhat is the protocol for updating family members on the loved one's condition?How frequently can family members expect updates?Are there multiple channels for communication (e.g., phone, email, secure messaging app)?Is there a designated point of contact for family inquiries?Reporting on Physical and Emotional HealthHow do caregivers monitor and report on both physical and emotional well-being?Are there regular assessments of the client's overall health status?How are changes in condition, both positive and negative, communicated to family members?Emergency CommunicationWhat is the protocol for contacting family members in case of an emergency?How quickly can family members expect to be notified of significant changes?Ensure that the caregiving service has a robust system for keeping all parties informed about your loved one's physical and emotional health. This transparency not only provides peace of mind but also allows for quick adjustments to care plans when necessary.3. Read Ratings & ReviewsIn today's digital age, there's a wealth of information available about caregiving services. Take advantage of this by thoroughly researching ratings and reviews from various sources.Online Review PlatformsVisit reputable sites like Care.com, Yelp, and Google Reviews.Look for patterns in the feedback, both positive and negative.Pay attention to how the company responds to negative reviews this can provide insight into their customer service approach.Social MediaCheck the company's Facebook page and other social media profiles.Read comments and reviews left by clients and their families.Observe how the company interacts with its social media audience.Industry RatingsLook for ratings from industry organizations or local senior care associations.Check if the company has received any awards or recognitions for their services.Personal RecommendationsAsk friends, neighbors, and colleagues if they have experience with or have heard of the caregiving company.Reach out to local senior centers or support groups for recommendations.Consult with your loved one's healthcare providers for their professional opinions on local caregiving services.Conduct In-Depth ResearchLook beyond star ratings and read detailed reviews to understand specific experiences.Consider the recency of reviews, as services can change over time.Look for reviews that mention specific caregivers or services that align with your needs.By thoroughly investigating ratings and reviews from multiple sources, you'll gain a well-rounded perspective on each caregiving service's reputation and quality of care.Choosing a caregiver for your loved one is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. By asking the right questions, ensuring effective communication, and thoroughly researching ratings and reviews, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed choice. Remember, the goal is to find a caregiving service that not only meets your loved one's physical needs but also provides compassionate, personalized care that enhances their quality of life. Take your time with this process, and don't hesitate to trust your instincts the right caregiver will provide both you and your loved one with peace of mind and excellent care.