Social Connection: The Key To Healthy Aging For Older Adults

As we enter the fall and winter season this year, things look a little different. Many seniors continue to isolate at home because of the Coronavirus pandemic and this can take a toll on their mental health.Its important for seniors to work with their families, caregivers and health professionals to develop a plan that allows them to safely take part in activities they love and maintain positive mental health through activity and connection.At any age, our health and wellbeing are enhanced by regularly participating in the things that bring us purpose, hope and joy. For seniors, taking part in these activities can be more difficult, older people who feel younger than their age show less brain aging, better memory and less depression. And studies show that staying engaged is important for a seniors mental and physical health. Medical professionals recognize that social determinants of health, especially those that affect mental, social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing, impact health outcomes and quality of life.There are always opportunities for meaningful moments and joyful days with a little planning, conversation and intentional action.Fall ActivitiesFall activities tend to focus on connecting with loved ones, enjoying the  turning season and spending time outside before the weather gets icy.This year, many people cant see their favorite sports teams play in person. But fall is a dream for seniors that enjoy football, baseball and hockey and there are ways to participate virtually. Seniors and their loved ones can watch together over a video call or have a socially distanced viewing party at home, as long as everyone adheres to recommended safety guidelines.Enjoying fall foliage is an activity in itself, and can be done sitting on the porch, going for a short walk or on a longer hike outside. Raking leaves can even be fun when done with loved ones.Eating is another activity that seems to be more fun in the fall family dinners for those isolating together, baking projects and Halloween fun are all opportunities for seniors to participate in activities they enjoy while maintaining their nutrition goals. Winter ActivitiesThe holidays are filled with opportunities to enjoy music, celebrations with family and community service.Holiday shopping is a fun activity usually done outside of the house. However, online shopping may be the best way for seniors to get their gifts without visiting the mall.Singing, dancing, playing instruments and listening to holiday carols are ways that seniors can enjoy music, no matter what the weather looks like outside. Streaming music services often have a wide selection, allowing seniors to pick their favorites to listen to through a phone, virtual assistant or computer.While there are ways that seniors can serve others year-round, volunteering can be even more meaningful around the holidays. Finding virtual volunteer opportunities is even easier this year writing letters, knitting blankets and finding old coats and sweaters to donate can all be done safely at home. Comfort Keepers can HelpAt Comfort Keepers, we create individual care plans for every client. These plans include wellness goals that consider physical, mental and emotional health. Our caregivers can help support physician-prescribed diet and exercise plans, provide medication reminders, provide transportation to appointments and help seniors engage in the activities they love the most. And, our caregivers can help senior stay connected with loved ones through video chats, phone calls and care updates. We believe that every senior should experience the best in life. If you have questions about Comfort Keepers uplifting in-home care services, please contact us today. 

Birdwatching is more than just a delightful pastimeits a wonderful way to connect with nature, boost your mood, and enjoy some gentle outdoor activity. For seniors, creating a backyard haven specifically designed for birdwatching can offer endless hours of joy and relaxation.Imagine the pleasure of sipping a cup of tea while watching colorful feathered friends' flit and chirp just outside your window. In this Seniors Helping Seniors guide, well walk you through simple, accessible ideas to transform your backyard into a serene wildlife retreat that makes birdwatching accessible, enjoyable, and enriching.But first, lets talk about why birdwatching is such a great hobby for seniors.A Full Flock of Mental PerksBirdwatching provides seniors with a perfect blend of mental stimulation and physical activity. It boosts mental sharpness by challenging seniors to recognize and remember different birds. Physically, birdwatching encourages light, manageable exercise that promotes circulation and flexibility, whether youre walking around your garden or simply standing and observing.The Seniors Helping Seniors team encourages you to enjoy the dual benefits of stress relief and gentle movement as you immerse yourself in this engaging hobby.Attracting Birds to Your BackyardWant to turn your backyard into a bustling bird haven? Its easier than you might think! With a few thoughtful additions, you can transform your outdoor space into a welcoming environment that draws in a variety of beautiful avian visitors.Bird FeedersTypes of Feeders: Place bird feeders at eye level a comfortable distance from your desired viewing point. There are plenty of options that cater to different avian species. Platform feeders accommodate a wide range of birds, but tube feeders are best for small birds, and suet feeders are designed to attract woodpeckers and other insect-eaters.Bird Seed Selection: Research your native bird species to determine which kind of seed they prefer. Use seeds that attract a variety of birds, such as sunflower seeds, nyjer seeds, and suet cakes.Bird BathsDesign: Choose a bird bath with a shallow, easy-to-clean basin and a gentle slope to make it accessible for all types of birds. You can also use shallow dishes or bowls with a textured surface to make it easy for birds to drink and bathe.Maintenance: Clean the bath every few days to prevent algae growth and disease. Consider a solar-powered fountain to keep the water moving, which helps attract more birds and keeps the bath cleaner longer.Natural ElementsBird-Friendly Plants: Berry-producing shrubs like holly and elderberry provide food for various species while flowering plants such as coneflowers and bee balm attract nectar-loving birds like hummingbirds. Find out whats native to your local area before planting.Nest Boxes: Birds can be picky when it comes to real estate. To attract your desired bird species, make sure to pick the right home for them. Birdhouses with small entrance holes attract wrens and chickadees, while larger holes are suited for woodpeckers and blue jays.With the right mix of feeders, bird baths, and natural elements, youll soon be enjoying a lively and picturesque birdwatching experience right from your own home. Seniors Helping Seniors caregivers are always happy to help with light yard work, so you can achieve the backyard paradise of your dreams.Take Birdwatching to New HeightsAsk your Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver to help you set up a comfortable chair and a pair of binoculars by your favorite bird-friendly spot in the backyard. Pick a location thats both close to your bird feeders and free from hazards like uneven ground or sharp objects. Consider adding a side table for holding binoculars or a bird guidebook, and make sure the area is well-lit for ease of use. Installing a small, shaded awning can provide comfort on sunny days while having a nearby rail or support for stability can enhance safety.As you settle in, note the different species that visit and consider keeping a journal of your observations. You can also bring your mobile phone or a digital camera to practice capturing photos of your flying friends. Each venture will reveal something newwhether its a flash of color from a rare bird or the charming antics of a familiar species.Birdwatching is not just about spotting birds; its about experiencing the calming rhythm of nature and finding pleasure in the small, everyday miracles. This peaceful, rewarding hobby sparks joy and also fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural world around you.

Welcome to the future of exploration, where travel is just a click away! Thanks to the power of virtual museum tours, discovering the world has never been more accessible or exciting! These virtual tours offer a fantastic opportunity to explore global treasures, stimulate your mind, and enjoy a vibrant cultural experienceall from the comfort of your home. Picture yourself strolling through the halls of the Louvre, admiring the Mona Lisa, or delving into ancient artifacts at the British Museum without leaving your favorite armchair.The Seniors Helping Seniors team wants to show you how these experiences can spark joy, stimulate your mind, and turn each day into an exciting journey. Lets get started.What Are Virtual Museum ToursVirtual museum tours are online experiences that allow you to explore museum exhibits and galleries from anywhere with an internet connection. Using high-resolution images, interactive features, and sometimes even virtual reality technology, these tours offer a way to view art, artifacts, and historical displays as if you were physically present in the museum. They provide an immersive experience where you can navigate through different rooms, zoom in on specific pieces, read detailed descriptions, and listen to audio guides.For seniors, virtual museum tours are especially beneficial. They eliminate the need for physical travel, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues, and they provide a way to enjoy cultural and intellectual stimulation without leaving home. Additionally, these tours can be enjoyed at ones own pace, with the ability to pause, revisit, and explore in-depth, making them an ideal option for lifelong learners.Seniors Helping Seniors caregivers can help you set up and navigate these virtual tours, ensuring you have a smooth and enjoyable experience accessing the worlds cultural treasures right from your living room.Free Virtual Museum Tours for SeniorsThe Louvre (Paris, France)Tour Overview: The Louvre offers virtual tours of its vast collections, including the iconic Mona Lisa, ancient Egyptian artifacts, and classical sculptures. The interactive platform allows users to explore the museums renowned exhibits and learn about their historical significance through detailed descriptions and high-resolution images.Why Its Great for Seniors: The intuitive navigation and accessible interface make it easy for seniors to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of one of the worlds most famous museums without the need for physical travel.The British Museum (London, England)Tour Overview: This virtual tour allows users to explore the British Museums extensive collection, including the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and ancient Greek sculptures. The online platform features an interactive timeline and detailed maps to enhance the user experience.Why Its Great for Seniors: The user-friendly design and educational content make it a perfect choice for seniors interested in history and archaeology, providing a comprehensive look at humanitys past.The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (Washington, D.C., USA)Tour Overview: The Smithsonian offers a variety of virtual tours showcasing exhibits on natural history, including dinosaur skeletons, gemstones, and biodiversity. The tours include 360-degree views and detailed information about each exhibit.Why Its Great for Seniors: The immersive 360-degree views and extensive educational resources make it an engaging and informative experience for seniors fascinated by natural history and science.The Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York, USA)Tour Overview: The Met provides virtual tours of its diverse collections, featuring everything from ancient artifacts to modern art. The online platform offers high-quality images, audio guides, and educational videos.Why Its Great for Seniors: The wide range of exhibits and accessible features ensure that there is something for everyone, allowing seniors to explore various art forms and historical periods at their own pace.The beauty of virtual museum tours lies in their ability to bring the worlds greatest art and historical collections directly to you. With free access to many of the worlds most renowned museums, the possibilities for discovery are endless. Seniors Helping Seniors caregivers are ready to assist you in navigating these virtual platforms and ensuring you have a seamless and enjoyable experience. Ask them to help you set up a virtual museum tour today and start exploring!