Staying Fit as You Age: Exercise for Seniors

10 Ways to Stay HydratedBeat the Heat with These HacksWe are often dehydrated before we even feel thirsty. We lose water through sweating, urinating, and breathing.  According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, women should drink 11.5 cups a day, and men should drink 15.5 cups a day.Does keeping up with your fluid intake feel daunting? Read on for different ways you can stay on track from Registered Dietitian Lila Cornelio.Start Your Day with a Glass of WaterKickstart your hydration first thing in the morning with a glass of water. This can help replenish fluids lost overnight and set a good hydration habit for the day.Carry a Reusable Water BottleHaving a reusable water bottle on hand makes it easier to sip water throughout the day. Choose one that's easy to carry and holds a good amount of water to encourage regular drinking. Infuse Your Water with Fruits and HerbsAdd a burst of flavor to your water by infusing it with fruits like lemon, lime, berries, or herbs like mint and basil. This can make drinking water more enjoyable and encourage you to drink more.Eat Water-Rich FoodsIncorporate fruits and vegetables with high water content into your diet, such as watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and strawberries. These can contribute to your overall hydration.Set RemindersUse your phone or a hydration app to set regular reminders to drink water. This can help ensure youre drinking consistently throughout the day.Opt for Hydrating BeveragesWhile water is the best option, other beverages like herbal teas, coconut water, and electrolyte-enhanced drinks can also help maintain hydration levels, especially if youre active.Monitor Your Urine ColorA simple way to check your hydration status is by the color of your urine. Light yellow indicates good hydration, while darker urine suggests you need to drink more fluids.Stay Cool with Ice PopsHomemade ice pops made from water, fruit juice, or blended fruits can be a refreshing way to boost your fluid intake while enjoying a summer treat.Hydrate Before, During, and After ExerciseIf youre engaging in physical activities, especially outdoors, make sure to drink water before, during, and after exercise to replace the fluids lost through sweat.Limit Caffeinated and Alcoholic BeveragesCaffeine and alcohol can have a diuretic effect, leading to increased fluid loss. Balance these with plenty of water to maintain proper hydration.Hydration is crucial during the summer, as higher temperatures increase the risk of dehydration. Staying well-hydrated helps regulate body temperature, supports metabolic functions, and maintains overall health, making it essential for enjoying the season safely and energetically.-Lila Cornelio, MS, RDN, LDN is a Registered Dietitian at our Florida program, Trinity Health PACE of Pensacola. With education and expertise in public health, sports nutrition, and plant based nutrition, her passion lies in educating others how to nourish their body and mind in a fast paced world.   Mercy Life of Alabama is a PACE that offers numerous services for Seniors.  Learn more by visiting their website at: https://www.trinityhealthpace.org/alabama/mercy-life-of-alabama/.

Safe Summer Activities For SeniorsStroll in the ParkA gentle walk in the park is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors. Parks often have well-maintained paths that are easy on the joints and provide a scenic backdrop. Walking helps improve cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and boosts mood. Dont forget to bring a hat and sunscreen to protect against the summer sun!GardeningGardening is both a relaxing and rewarding outdoor activity. Whether its planting flowers, vegetables, or herbs, getting your hands dirty in the soil can be very therapeutic. It also offers light physical exercise and a sense of accomplishment as you watch your plants grow. Remember to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade.Tai Chi or Yoga in the ParkMany parks offer Tai Chi or yoga classes designed for seniors. These activities are excellent for enhancing flexibility, balance, and mental clarity. Plus, doing them outdoors adds an extra layer of tranquility. Check with local community centers or senior groups for schedules.Bird WatchingBird watching is a peaceful and educational way to connect with nature. All you need is a pair of binoculars and a bird guidebook. Many parks and nature reserves have designated bird-watching areas where you can spot various species. This activity sharpens the mind and encourages patience and observation skills.FishingFishing is a timeless activity that combines relaxation with the thrill of the catch. Many local lakes and rivers are well-stocked and have areas easily accessible for seniors. Ensure you have the appropriate fishing license and gear, and dont forget your hat and sunscreen!Safety Tips For Seniors Enjoying The OutdoorsWhile enjoying National Play Outside Day, keeping safety in mind, especially during the hot summer months is essential. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and pleasant outdoor experience:Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your activities to stay hydrated.Sun Protection: Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30.Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics and supportive footwear.Time Your Activities: Plan outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon.Buddy System: If possible, engage in outdoor activities with a friend or family member for added safety and companionship.Know Your Limits: Listen to your body and dont overexert yourself. Take breaks as needed and seek shade to cool down.National Play Outside Day is a splendid reminder of the joys and benefits of spending time outdoors. By choosing activities that are both fun and safe, seniors can enhance their physical health, boost their mental well-being, and relish the simple pleasures of nature. So, put on your walking shoes, grab your hat, and lets celebrate the great outdoors!

Lifes most tender moments often involve the companionship of our beloved pets.   How many of us giggle with delight when we get to pet a rabbit or a horse or hold a bird? From morning walks with our faithful dogs to the comforting purr of a cat in our lap, these interactions bring immeasurable joy. But why should these cherished experiences fade as we age or transition to senior living? At Grand Living, we recognize the importance of preserving these connections, valuing the unique individuals we serve, and their desire for pet experiences.Fostering Bonds Between Seniors and Their PetsRemember the exhilaration of a playful romp with your dog or the contentment of your cat nestled in your lap? These feelings are timeless and transcend age. At Grand Living, we celebrate the magic of pet companionship, whether residents bring their pets or wish to experience the joys of pet interaction.A Profound Impact on Physical and Mental Well-beingThe positive rewards of pet companionship extend far beyond the surface. Studies have revealed the benefits of having a furry friend by your side. Lowered blood pressure, improved mood, reduced depression, enhanced mobility, and increased physical fitness are just a few of the positive outcomes. Remarkably, these effects linger even after the interaction ends. A single daily interaction with a pet can have lasting benefits for hours and days.Grand Living at Tower Place residents enjoy pet therapy.One of the most profound advantages of pet companionship is the sense of purpose it brings. Caring for a pet offers a continuous source of affection and attention, infusing life with meaning. At Grand Living, we understand the significance of this bond in promoting emotional well-being. The simple act of nurturing a pet fosters immeasurable positivity in a persons life.Maintaining Pet Companionship in Memory CareMemory loss can pose challenges to pet care, but at Grand Living, were dedicated to overcoming obstacles. In our LUMINATIONS Memory Care program, we strive to enrich residents minds, bodies, and spirits. Recognizing the benefits of pet companionship, we make many adaptations to penetrate through memory loss to recreate the benefits of owning a pet.Innovative Pet Therapy ProgramsLLamas visit Grand Living at Indian Creek.Our Pet Therapy programs are both diverse and heartwarming. Within our communities, dedicated staff members bring therapy dogs to interact with residents. Beyond traditional cats and dogs, we introduce residents to llamas, therapy horses, and petting zoos featuring adorable baby lambs, goats, and rabbits. Additionally, other Grand Living residents and families bring their dogs to the LUMINATIONS neighborhood for daily visits.In a creative leap, weve introduced animatronic cats and dogs to our neighborhoods. These lifelike companions purr, yap, and play, captivating residents with the same joy as real pets. These interactions create a bridge to the past, allowing residents to relive the joy of caring for and playing with pets.A Life Enriched: Championing the Joys of Senior LivingAs we grow older,  life can sometimes feel like a succession of losses. At Grand Living, we meet this challenge head-on, striving to fill the lives of our residents with warmth, happiness, and fulfillment. The power of pet companionship cannot be underestimated its a connection that transcends time and infuses our days with purpose and delight.Age is no barrier to the profound joys of pet companionship. At Grand Living, we celebrate the uniqueness of each individual and their desire for pet experiences. Through our innovative programs, we ensure that the benefits of pet companionship are accessible to all, even in the face of challenges like memory loss. The warmth, love, and purpose that pets bring to our lives are boundless, and were committed to keeping that spirit alive in every step of our residents journey.