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February is National Self-Check Month. We recommend checking yourself for different health ailments on a regular basis, but now is a good time to remind everyone of the importance of self-checking. You can increase your odds of avoiding certain diseases or conditions with regular self-checks, especially if you try to avoid regular checkups with your physician. If you are someone who actively takes care of your health and talks to your doctor about all of your concerns, maybe you can take some time this month to talk to family or friends who struggle with self-care.
If you do not regularly see your doctor, the first step in observing National Self-Check Month is to make yourself an appointment with you doctor for an annual check-up. If it’s been over a year, schedule yourself an appointment, make a list of any changes in your lifestyle or concerns you may have noticed in the last year so you can discuss them with your doctor. It is important that your physician have all of the most up-to-date information about your health and how you’re taking care of yourself.
There are also ways to check yourself for potential illnesses like heart disease or certain cancers. These types of self-checks can help with early detection and the earlier a problem is noticed, the earlier you can start treatment. You can ask your doctor for the best methods of checking yourself for things like lumps or other abnormalities. There are also a handful of websites out there that have great information and can teach you how to self-check.
Of course, the best preventative measure to avoid major health concerns is to practice healthy habits. Eating health, getting regular movement in your daily routine, avoiding bad habits like smoking and excessive drinking are all ways to keep your body working at it’s best. Now is a good time to evaluate some of your lifestyle choices and determine if they may be increasing any risks to your health. It isn’t always easy to make changes, but as we age, the better decisions we make, the better chance we have to prevent unwanted health issues.
This National Self-Check Month, take some time to take think about your health and learn the best ways to take care of yourself. Do it for you, your family, your friends, and everyone who loves you. Aging can be challenging, but if you take care of yourself properly and often, you may be able to avoid and extra strain or worry.
Warmer weather is a great invitation to enjoy the outdoors and nature. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining health and keeping critical bodily functions working properly. Hydration can be a challenge for some seniors because seniors may have a diminished ability to sense thirst, notice changes in body temperature, and may be taking medications that have a dehydrating effect. Keeping a few tips in mind will ensure that seniors stay hydrated and continue to enjoy the activities that bring them joy.Older adults looking to stay hydrated throughout the day should try these tips to get started. Being dehydrated can cause confusion, headaches, elevated heart rate, muscle weakness, and fatigue. Seniors who think they may be dehydrated should discuss their symptoms with their doctor before changing their fluid intake. Seniors should discuss hydration with their doctor as only can a healthcare professional recommend how much water someone needs, and they can also provide guidance and tips on managing water intake. Create a schedule drinking a lot of water in one sitting can be difficult. However, creating a schedule that accounts for daily activity, physician-recommended intake levels, and the preferences of the senior can help keep hydration on track. Eat water-rich foods cucumbers, watermelon, apples, and other water-rich produce can help seniors get more fluids at mealtimes. Broth is also a good option. Make water more interesting For those that dont enjoy drinking water, adding small amounts of juice or flavoring to water can make it less boring. Popsicles are also a great optionespecially on warm days! Reduce water loss excessive sweating can contribute to dehydration keeping inside temperatures at a reasonable level, and being mindful of fluid loss during outside activities, can help seniors stay hydrated. Dont wait for thirst often, when seniors feel thirsty; they may already be dehydrated. Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers can provide support for seniors that are concerned about the issue of hydration. Our caregivers can provide transportation to healthcare appointments, assist with meal preparation and planning, and provide support for physician-prescribed hydration regimens. Our goal is to support physical and emotional care goals and to elevate the spirits of our clients and their families every day.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today by calling (970) 241-8818 References Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Get the Facts: Drinking Water and Intake. Web. 2016. FamilyDoctor.org. Hydration: Why Its So Important. Web. 2017. Mayo Clinic. Dehydration. Web. 2018. WebMD. What is Dehydration? What Causes It? Web. 2019 Healthline The Causes and Symptoms of Dehydration in Older Adults
Strong relationships between grandparents and grandchildren are more than just heartwarming. They have been shown to contribute to better health, sharper minds, and deeper emotional connections across generations. At Right at Home, weve seen firsthand how relationships in grandfamilies (also called kinship families) improve the quality of life for both older adults and younger family members, says Patti Walter, owner/operator at Right at Home Northern Colorado As an in-home caregiving agency, we not only support day-to-day care but also champion the kind of intergenerational connections that lead to healthier, happier lives. Heres why nurturing the grandparent-grandchild bond mattersand how it helps at any age. The Health Benefits Go Both WaysFor grandparents:Spending meaningful time with grandchildren can reduce the risk of depression, cognitive decline, and even chronic illness. Studies show that older adults who engage regularly with younger generations report lower levels of loneliness and higher life satisfaction. Conversations and shared activities also help keep the mind active. Whether helping with homework, discussing current events, or sharing stories from the past, these interactions stimulate memory, language, and problem-solving skillsall critical for healthy aging. For grandchildren:The benefits arent one-sided, says Walter Grandchildren who have strong relationships with their grandparents often show greater emotional intelligence, resilience, and a stronger sense of identity. Grandparents offer a unique kind of supportless authoritative than a parent, but still deeply rooted in love and life experience. In families where grandparents help with caregivingeither regularly or as neededchildren can experience more stability, better behavior, and improved academic outcomes. And even as teens or adults, grandchildren often gain valuable perspective from a grandparents lived experience. Mind the (Communication) GapOf course, every generation speaks its own language. Misunderstandings between grandparents and grandchildren can happen, especially in todays fast-moving digital culture. But these gaps can be bridged with a bit of patience and intention. Walter suggests some tips for different generations to improve communication with each other: Dont assume disinterest. Grandparents may not know current slang or how to use current technology, but that doesnt mean they dont care. Grandchildren may seem tied to their toys or screens, butas anyone who has raised children knowsthey are always listening. Ask open-ended questions. Encouraging storytelling and reflection can lead to richer conversations. Be mindful of hearing or cognitive limitations. For grandchildren, making simple adjustmentsspeaking clearly, avoiding noisy environmentscan make a big difference. Grandparents can make the most of mealtimes or times when grandchildren are least busy. Respect different life stages. A teen might be navigating identity or stress about the future; a grandparent may be dealing with health issues or loss. Understanding context helps both sides show compassion, says Walter. Supporting Each Other Through CareIn-home caregiving often highlights how much grandparents and grandchildren lean on one another. Grandsboth generationshave been caring for each other more and more in recent years. Adult grandchildren may step into caregiving roles, providing companionship, managing medications, or helping coordinate care. On the flip side, grandparents often remain active caregivers in their own rightbabysitting, offering financial support, or simply being a trusted presence. These roles can be deeply rewarding, but also emotionally complex for both parties. Whether or not the grands relationships include caregiving, there are many ways to support them: Schedule regular visits or calls. Routine contact reduces isolation and builds trust and familiarity. Share activities. Cook a favorite recipe together, take a walk, or explore family history. Use techcurrent and olderto stay connected. Teach each otherwhether its FaceTime or how to play an old record. Include caregiving support. Home care agencies can ease the load by providing daily assistance and helping maintain a safe, comfortable home environment. Caregiving Equals ConnectionGrandparent-grandchild relationships can be an important part of healthy aging and emotional development for all involved. They remind us that caregiving is more than a service; its a connection. At Right at Home, were proud to support families in building and maintaining those connections, every step of the way. Need help supporting a grandparent or looking for ways to strengthen intergenerational bonds? Our care team is here to help with personalized, in-home services and expert guidance. About Right at Home of Northern Colorado The Northern Colorado office of Right at Home is a locally owned and operated franchise office of Right at Home, LLC, serving the communities of Larimer and Weld County. For more information, contact Right at Home of Northern Colorado at rightathome.net/northern-colorado , at 970-494-1111 or by email at pwalter@ncoloradorah.com.
By Dustin M. Cole, MDGrand River Health Aging often gets a bad rap. Wrinkles, memory slips, and sore joints tend to dominate the conversation. But what if growing older brought with it a host of unexpected giftsones that outweigh the inconveniences of aging? The truth is, aging brings numerous psychological, emotional, social, and even physical benefits that are often overlooked.Happiness Grows with AgeStudy after study has shown that older adults report higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction compared to their younger counterparts. Between the ages of 65 and 85, happiness actually increases, with many seniors ranking among the happiest people in society. Why? Theyve mastered the art of realistic expectations, theyre more comfortable in their own skin, and theyve learned to let go of unnecessary pressure.Many elderly individuals describe the last decade of their lives as the happiest. They emphasize the joy of living in the momentsomething they wish they'd embraced earlier in life.A Positive Shift in PerspectiveWith age comes increased self-esteem, self-control, and altruism. Seniors are more likely to focus on the good, let go of negativity, and cherish meaningful connections. Neurological studies even show that older adults react more strongly to positive images and are less emotionally impacted by negative ones. Emotional stability improves over time, and worry tends to decline with each decade.Sharper Minds, Wiser ChoicesAlthough aging brings some changes in memory and processing speed, it also enhances cognitive abilities in other areas. Older adults often demonstrate stronger problem-solving skills, richer creativity, and greater insight thanks to decades of accumulated knowledge. Theyre better at identifying patterns and making connectionsskills particularly useful in complex, real-life situations.People in their 40s to 60s often outperform younger adults in vocabulary, reasoning, and spatial orientation. Their broader perspective allows for deeper empathy, better conflict resolution, and wiser decision-making.Strengthened RelationshipsOlder adults tend to focus more on what truly mattersfamily, friendships, and meaningful experiences. Deep, supportive relationships are not only emotionally fulfilling but are also key to physical health and longevity. The long-running Harvard Study of Adult Development found that quality relationships are one of the most powerful predictors of happiness and health in old ageeven more so than wealth or fame.The Power of Positive ThinkingAging well isnt just about what happens to your bodyits also about how you think about it. A positive outlook on aging is linked to longer life expectancy, better memory retention, and stronger daily functioning. On average, people with a positive perception of aging live 7.5 years longer than those with a negative outlook.Movement and Connection: Pillars of Healthy AgingStaying physically active is one of the most effective ways to maintain vitality. Regular aerobic activity boosts heart health, strengthens muscles and bones, and improves brain function. It also reduces the risk of depression, improves sleep, and helps prevent chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and even certain cancers.Equally important is staying socially engaged. Maintaining close relationships and participating in community activities help prevent loneliness, reduce stress, and even lower the risk of dementia.Real-Life InspirationCentenarians like Jeanne Calmet (who biked at 100 and quit smoking at 120) and Fauja Singh (who ran marathons into his 100s) serve as vivid reminders that aging doesnt have to mean slowing down. Their secrets? A sense of humor, active lifestyle, and a positive attitude.In SummaryAging brings with it a remarkable opportunity to live more fully, love more deeply, and engage more meaningfully. If you want to age well, remember the formula is simple:Move your body.Feed your mind.Stay connected.Think positively.As Abraham Lincoln said, In the end, its not the years in your life that count. Its the life in your years.
Your Family is Our Family!At Talem Home Care, we are proud to be one of Colorado's premier senior care life enrichment companies, dedicated to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for aging individuals.Aging shouldn't be stressful or uncertain. Every family deserves access to the best information and support to make informed decisions for their loved ones.As a life enrichment company specializing in senior care, our mission is to provide holistic support through these key principles: - Comprehensive Senior Care - Wellness-Focused Services - Engagement and Social Interaction - Personalized Senior Care - Community Connection - Positive ImpactOur team of Certified Senior Advisors is dedicated to providing expert advice, professionalism, and compassion, reassuring families as they navigate the aging process.Our ServicesAt Talem Home Care, we offer a broad range of senior-focused services designed to support the well-being and independence of seniors: - Home Care Services - Free Care Management - Senior Placement Services - Veterans Care - Alzheimers and Dementia Care - Hospice Support - Life Enrichment Program - Photo Reminiscence Therapy (PRT)Our VisionOur vision is to empower people to experience the full joy of living. This core belief drives everything we do at Talem Home Care. We aim to help our staff, clients, and community partners achieve their goals by providing every opportunity for success.At Talem, we recognize that our dedicated staff is key to our success. Thats why we prioritize creating a supportive, family-friendly work environment that is flexible, low-stress and focused on delivering the best customer care.For Our ClientsOur senior care services promote greater independence, self-confidence, and the freedom to live on their terms.For Our CommunityTalem Home Care - Broomfield takes pride in being a responsible community partner dedicated to improving the quality of life for the communities we serve. We also respect the importance of work-life balance and celebrate the diversity of cultural and ethnic backgrounds that make us who we are.Whether you need home care, care management, senior placement, veterans care, Alzheimers and dementia care, hospice support, medical equipment, or even someone to help with daily tasks like snow shoveling, Talem Home Care is here to help.
Your Family is Our Family!At Talem Home Care, we are proud to be one of Colorado's premier senior care life enrichment companies, dedicated to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for aging individuals. Aging shouldn't be stressful or uncertain. Every family deserves access to the best information and support to make informed decisions for their loved ones.As a life enrichment company specializing in senior care, our mission is to provide holistic support through these key principles: - Comprehensive Senior Care - Wellness-Focused Services - Engagement and Social Interaction - Personalized Senior Care - Community Connection - Positive ImpactOur team of Certified Senior Advisors is dedicated to providing expert advice, professionalism, and compassion, reassuring families as they navigate the aging process.Let us help you find the appropriate senior living community!!Our ServicesAt Talem Home Care, we offer a broad range of senior-focused services designed to support the well-being and independence of seniors: - Senior Placement Services - Home Care Services - Free Care Navigation & Advocation - Veterans Care - Alzheimers and Dementia Care - Hospice Support - Life Enrichment Program - Photo Reminiscence Therapy (PRT) Our VisionOur vision is to empower people to experience the full joy of living. This core belief drives everything we do at Talem Home Care. We aim to help our staff, clients, and community partners achieve their goals by providing every opportunity for success.At Talem, we recognize that our dedicated staff is key to our success. Thats why we prioritize creating a supportive, family-friendly work environment that is flexible, low-stress and focused on delivering the best customer care.For Our ClientsOur senior care services promote greater independence, self-confidence, and the freedom to live on their terms. For Our Community Talem Home Care - Broomfield takes pride in being a responsible community partner dedicated to improving the quality of life for the communities we serve. We also respect the importance of work-life balance and celebrate the diversity of cultural and ethnic backgrounds that make us who we are. Whether you need home care, care management, senior placement, veterans care, Alzheimers and dementia care, hospice support, medical equipment, or even someone to help with daily tasks like snow shoveling, Talem Home Care is here to help.
Your Family is Our Family!At Talem Home Care, we are proud to be one of Colorado's premier senior care life enrichment companies, dedicated to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for aging individuals. Aging shouldn't be stressful or uncertain. Every family deserves access to the best information and support to make informed decisions for their loved ones.As a life enrichment company specializing in senior care, our mission is to provide holistic support through these key principles: - Comprehensive Senior Care - Wellness-Focused Services - Engagement and Social Interaction - Personalized Senior Care - Community Connection - Positive ImpactOur team of Certified Senior Advisors is dedicated to providing expert advice, professionalism, and compassion, reassuring families as they navigate the aging process.Our ServicesAt Talem Home Care, we offer a broad range of senior-focused services designed to support the well-being and independence of seniors: - Senior Placement Services - Home Care Services - Free Care Navigation & Advocation - Veterans Care - Alzheimers and Dementia Care - Hospice Support - Life Enrichment Program - Photo Reminiscence Therapy (PRT) Our VisionOur vision is to empower people to experience the full joy of living. This core belief drives everything we do at Talem Home Care. We aim to help our staff, clients, and community partners achieve their goals by providing every opportunity for success.At Talem, we recognize that our dedicated staff is key to our success. Thats why we prioritize creating a supportive, family-friendly work environment that is flexible, low-stress and focused on delivering the best customer care.For Our ClientsOur senior care services promote greater independence, self-confidence, and the freedom to live on their terms. For Our Community Talem Home Care - Broomfield takes pride in being a responsible community partner dedicated to improving the quality of life for the communities we serve. We also respect the importance of work-life balance and celebrate the diversity of cultural and ethnic backgrounds that make us who we are. Whether you need home care, care management, senior placement, veterans care, Alzheimers and dementia care, hospice support, medical equipment, or even someone to help with daily tasks like snow shoveling, Talem Home Care is here to help.