Maintaining a sense of purpose and engaging in meaningful activities can be important for seniors mental and physical well-being. Senior living communities, like Celebration Villa of Allison Park, a Priority Life Care Community, can provide a supportive environment that can help seniors maintain a sense of purpose with meaningful activities as they age.Here are some ways seniors can start or continue with their meaningful activities to help keep their sense of purpose as they age:PURSUE HOBBIES AND INTERESTSSeniors can continue to pursue hobbies and interests that they enjoy, such as painting, playing music, or gardening. Engaging in these activities can provide a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment. Priority Life Care communities offer a range of activities and programs, such as arts and crafts classes or gardening clubs, that can help seniors pursue their hobbies and interests. We get to know our seniors and build our programs around the interests of our residents.VOLUNTEERMany seniors find meaning in volunteering, whether its at a local charity or community organization. Volunteering can provide opportunities to give back to the community and connect with others who share similar values. Many Priority Life Care communities have partnerships with local charities and organizations, making it easier for our residents to get involved and volunteer. We find that some residents find it fulfilling to lead classes of their own or join a group that loves to give back to the community like creating floral arrangements for the dining room.LEARN NEW SKILLSLearning new skills can be a great way to stay engaged and mentally stimulated. Seniors can take classes, attend workshops, or even learn online to pick up new skills or knowledge. Priority Life Care communities all offer classes and workshops on a variety of topics, from computer skills to cooking. We find that these types of opportunities can help seniors learn new skills and stay mentally stimulated.Stay ActivePhysical activity is important for seniors health and well-being. Seniors can try activities like yoga, walking, or swimming to stay active and maintain mobility. All of our communities offer daily fitness classes, such as chair yoga or tai chi, that can help seniors stay active and maintain mobility. These classes are offered at all levels so anyone can join and feel the effects of maintaining their physical well-being.CONNECTION WITH OTHERSSocial connections are important for seniors mental health. Seniors can connect with friends and family members, join social clubs or groups, or even use technology to stay connected with others. Priority Life Care communities provide opportunities for social interaction, such as organized outings or social events, that can help residents connect with others and make new friends.TRAVELMany seniors enjoy traveling and experiencing new things. Whether its a day trip to a nearby town or a longer vacation, travel can provide new experiences and a sense of adventure. In addition to on-site events, Priority Life Care communities offer local day trips that allow seniors to explore new places and experience new things in safe and supportive environments. Residents can also choose to come and go with family and friends.Overall, senior living communities can provide a range of resources and support that can help seniors maintain a sense of purpose and continue with meaningful activities as they age. These are just a few examples, and seniors can find meaning and purpose in many different ways. Thats why we take the time with every resident to understand what they love to do now AND what they might like to learn in the future. With this information, were likely to pair them with like-minded individuals and people who share their interests.
TIPS FOR SAFE AND ENJOYABLE ADVENTURESAge is just a number and that number should never restrict your sense of adventure or put a damper on your desire to explore the world. Many of us have a bucket list of places we want to visit but are often held back because we arent sure where to start, have no one to travel with or feel overwhelmed by the cost. But guess what? You dont need to spend a fortune or find a travel companion to pack your bags and set off an exciting adventure.Traveling solo is not only liberating, but it can also be extremely fulfilling. You get to take your time and savor every experience, meet new people, and learn about different cultures. As much as we want you to embrace the joys of solo travel, we also recognize that safety is a top priority. Here are some tips to help you ensure safe, enjoyable, and memorable solo travels.1. Plan AheadOne of the hallmarks of safe solo travel is thorough planning. Before you embark on your journey, take the time to research your destination, including local customs, popular tourist sites, and means of transportation. This will give you an idea of what to expect, how much money you should budget for your trip, and what safety precautions you need to take.2. Choose Safe AccommodationsWhen traveling solo, the type of accommodation you choose can make or break your experience. If you can, always stay in reputable hotels or well-rated Airbnbs. Opt for accommodations that are centrally located in safe neighborhoods, offer amenities such as 24/7 security, and have positive reviews from other travelers.3. Share your ItineryLetting someone close to you know where you will be at all times is another smart tip.Share your travel plans with a family member, friend, or a trusted neighbor before you leave. Provide them with your itinerary, your contact information, and emergency contact details. If youre traveling abroad, its also a good idea to provide them with your passport information.This will give you (and, likely, them) some peace of mind and ensure that someone knows where you are at all times in case theres an emergency.4. Pack LightlyTraveling solo means that you will be responsible for carrying all your luggage so you should pack light and pack smart. Focus on essential items such as comfortable clothing, footwear, toiletries, and medication. Also, keep an extra copy of important documents such as your passport, ID, and travel insurance.5. Trust Your InstinctsYour gut feeling is often right, so if you sense something is off, trust your instincts. If you feel like a particular activity or destination is unsafe, avoid it altogether. Be wary of strangers who seem too friendly or offer to help you more than what seems reasonable. Always keep an eye on your belongings and your surroundings and as always, trust your gut. Its better to be paranoid than it is to put yourself in a dangerous situation.HAPPY WANDERING!Traveling solo is an experience that should not be limited by age. By following our safety tips and trusting your instincts, you can embark on an adventure that will leave you with lasting memories.And if youre looking for a place to call home when youre not wandering the globe and ideally one that offers all the amenities and support you need to live your best life then we are here for you. Contact us today to learn more about our senior living, and how we can help you live your adventure!
The term dizziness can describe various sensations, including lightheadedness, faintness, a room-spinning sensation (vertigo), or unsteadiness. Due to the additional stress on the body while exercising, feeling dizzy after running is common and has various potential causes. This article will review the most common causes of dizziness after running and strategies for preventing and addressing dizziness to promote safer and more enjoyable running experiences.DehydrationAmong the most common causes of dizziness while running is dehydration. Dehydration occurs when the amount of fluid taken in is less than the fluid lost. Since the body is about 70% water, remaining adequately hydrated is necessary for all essential body functions. When the body exercises, energy needs increase, which in turn increases body temperature. To cope with this temperature increase, the body sweats and loses water in the process. This phenomenon is especially common on a hot day.When the body is in a state of water loss, the risk of dehydration and subsequent dizziness increases. Dizziness from dehydration results from inadequate blood supply to the brain due to low blood volume. Additional signs that the body is dehydrated include:Dry mouthDry coughHeadacheWeaknessTiredness or fatigueConfusion or deliriumFast heart rate but low blood pressureLow appetite or sugar cravingFlushed skinChillsHeat intoleranceConstipationDark-colored urineSwollen feetMuscle crampsAs running, and exercise in general, pose a significant dehydration risk, experts have created guidelines to prevent and treat dehydration experienced by runners. This advice is particularly relevant for long-distance runners.In particular, about two hours before a run, it is recommended that runners pre-hydrate by drinking between 17 and 20 oz of water. During exercise, runners should drink between 5 and 10 oz of water every 15 to 20 minutes. For post-exercise hydration, experts recommend drinking 16 to 24 oz of water for every pound lost during a run. This advice emphasizes the importance of weighing yourself (ideally with an empty bladder) before and after a run to monitor your hydration status. Generally, if someone loses several pounds after a run, they must drink more water. Staying hydrated when not exercising is also important for preventing dehydration and dizziness while running.Once dehydration symptoms develop, hydration becomes even more essential to make up for water loss. Drinking small sips of water instead of chugging is generally recommended for someone who is exercising. In addition to drinking water, runners with signs of dehydration should stop exercising at least until symptoms improve and consider drinking a sports drink for added carbohydrates and electrolytes. Symptoms that do not improve after drinking water can be a sign that more aggressive hydration, such as intravenous (IV) hydration, is needed. In this situation, people should seek immediate medical care.Low Blood SugarAnother common cause of dizziness while running is hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. When exercising, the body needs an increased amount of water and energy in the form of carbohydrates. During the initial phase of exercise (first 15 minutes), the body uses glucose from the muscles and the blood to power physical activity. Once this supply runs out, the body gets glucose from other sources, such as the liver. Similar to the brains response to dehydration, the brain cannot handle persistently low blood sugar, and this deprivation can lead to dizziness. Other signs of low blood sugar include:Trembling or shakingSweatingChillsWeaknessFast heart rateConfusionDifficulty concentratingExtreme hungerAnxietyTiredness or fatigueIrritabilityLip, tongue, and/or cheek tingling or numbnessPale skinRecognizing the signs of low blood sugar is the first step of effective management, followed by consuming carbohydrates. Drinking a healthy sugary beverage, such as a sports drink, is the fastest way to raise blood sugar, followed by snacks such as raisins and applesauce. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, it may also be necessary to stop exercising after an episode of low blood sugar to allow adequate rest and recovery. General strategies for the prevention of exercise-induced hypoglycemia (EIH) include:Eating a nutrient-dense, balanced meal or snack before exercising to ensure the blood contains enough glucose (sugar) to power physical activity.Noticing how you feel during exercise and taking care to modify the exercise if symptoms of low blood sugar occur.Importantly, people with diabetes are at increased risk of developing EIH. Special prevention considerations for those living with diabetes include:Monitoring your blood sugar before, during, and after exercise to identify patterns and make necessary treatment plan decisions.Adjusting your insulin dose prior to exercising with the help of a medical professional, as needed.Orthostatic HypotensionOrthostatic, or postural, hypotension a drop in blood pressure when a person transitions from lying down or sitting to standing is another potential trigger for dizziness after running. Usually, when a person stands up, the body adapts and preserves circulation to the organs by increasing blood pressure. If this adaptation does not occur, blood pools in the feet, leading to orthostatic hypotension. The diagnostic criteria for orthostatic hypotension include:A drop in systolic (top number) blood pressure by at least 20 mmHg within two to five minutes of transitioning from sitting to standing.A drop in diastolic (bottom number) blood pressure by at least 10 mmHg within two to five minutes of transitioning from sitting to standing.Orthostatic hypotension can occur in otherwise healthy people but more commonly occurs when people have chronic medical conditions or take certain medications. Common causes related to running, which may also be signs of other underlying conditions, include dehydration, low blood sugar, overexertion, and heat exhaustion. Managing orthostatic hypotension requires addressing the underlying cause and, in the case of runners, resting until symptoms improve. In addition to dizziness, symptoms to monitor include:Blurry visionWeaknessFaintingConfusionOverexertion and HyperventilationOverexertion can also cause dizziness after running. The more individuals exert themselves during exercise, the more energy the body requires. As a result, overexertion increases the risk of dehydration, low blood pressure, and dizziness. If someone is dizzy during or after a challenging workout, they should rest, breathe deeply, and hydrate to improve blood pressure. Overexertion can be avoided by developing and following a set exercise plan that prioritizes gradual intensity build-up.In regards to overexertion, hyperventilation or rapid breathing can also lead to dizziness while running. When someone hyperventilates, they exhale excess carbon dioxide, which leads to low blood levels of carbon dioxide and dizziness. Breath-holding may also cause dizziness during exercise. Learning and practicing effective breathing practices is highly recommended for runners who notice that they are holding their breath or hyperventilating during their exercise.Heat ExhaustionDizziness after running can also develop due to heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats and may occur with overexertion, particularly on a hot day. Heat exhaustion is one of three heat-related illnesses. The most severe of these is heatstroke, followed by heat exhaustion and heat cramps, which is the most mild of these conditions. Dizziness from heat exhaustion typically results from dehydration, which causes a drop in blood pressure. Along with dizziness, symptoms of heat exhaustion include:Cool, moist skin with goosebumps during heat exposureFaintnessFatigueWeak, fast pulseHeavy sweatingOrthostatic hypotensionMuscle crampsNauseaHeadache Any of these symptoms can start suddenly or progress slowly over time. Prolonged periods of exercise increase the risk of heat exhaustion. Runners with signs of heat exhaustion should stop activity and rest in a cool place. Drinking cool water and a sports drink for added electrolytes is also important. If these modifications do not improve symptoms within an hour or they worsen, a doctor should be notified. Signs that require immediate medical attention include confusion, loss of consciousness, the inability to drink water or a core body temperature that is greater than or equal to 104 F.Chronic Medical ConditionsPeople living with certain medical conditions are more likely to experience dizziness after running. One such condition is postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). POTS causes orthostatic intolerance (OI), which occurs due to a severe reduction in blood flow to the heart when a person transitions from lying down to standing. As a result, dizziness during exercise is particularly common for people who are living with POTS. Despite the risks, safe exercise is still recommended for people with POTS.The best exercise practices for people living with POTS include adhering to their medication regimen, prioritizing increased fluid intake, wearing compression stockings, and gradually increasing physical activity over time. Individuals performing this type of activity should also focus on working toward performing fully upright exercises without experiencing dizziness or syncope (loss of consciousness).These recommendations can also be helpful for people living with other chronic conditions associated with increased risk of dizziness after exercise, such as Parkinsons disease, Addisons disease, diabetes, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), and thyroid conditions. Importantly, persistent dizziness after running without an underlying cause can be a sign of cardiovascular (heart) disease and warrants prompt medical attention.Symptoms that accompany dizziness and typically require a medical evaluation include:HeadacheVision changesNauseaVomitingConfusionArrhythmias or racing heart rateDifficulty breathingChest painPhysical Therapy Can HelpIn addition to incorporating prevention and treatment strategies into the daily routine, physical therapy can also help people who are dizzy after running. This form of therapy is particularly useful for those who live with chronic medical conditions or experience recurring dizziness. Physical therapists can help create safe exercise plans and will work with you to ensure you are practicing effective strategies to prevent dizziness. These strategies include pre- and post-workout stretching, gradual intensity increases, hydration, and nutrition.For people with pre-existing conditions that cause dizziness while running, physical therapists will tailor recommendations to their condition. At FYZICAL, expert physical therapists are available to evaluate balance and dizziness disorders that affect exercise. They offer programs such as gait and balance training, functional training, and fall prevention retraining, among others.FYZICAL also offers vestibular rehab for people who experience dizziness after running due to inner ear problems, such as BPPV. Vestibular rehabilitation aims at improving a persons ability to compensate for issues with their vestibular or balance system. Regular vestibular exercises can train the brain to tolerate vestibular stimulation, which improves symptoms and exercise tolerance.Generally, vestibular exercises start with very slow movements that gradually increase in speed over time. Experts recommend continuing the exercise if dizziness develops but pausing if more severe symptoms occur, such as nausea and vomiting. People should work towards doing each movement about 20 times. At FYZICAL, physical therapists will help people incorporate these vestibular exercises safely to improve symptoms.Exercise avoidance can also affect people with chronic dizziness that is associated with exercise. FYZICAL uses special equipment, such as the Safety Overhead Support (SOS) system, to help with this problem. The SOS system allows people to perform exercises while attached to a harness, allowing them to exercise without fear of falling. Using this type of equipment in conjunction with support from a physical therapist can help people build up to safe, independent exercise.SummaryVarious conditions can cause dizziness after running, most of which can be prevented and treated with simple interventions. Hydration, adequate nutrition, and well-timed rest are crucial to prevent dizziness during exercise. People with pre-existing conditions must be incredibly attentive to their bodys needs before, during, and after running. Along with a proper medical evaluation for underlying causes, physical therapy can be beneficial for developing safe exercise practices that reduce dizziness. If you are interested in learning more about physical therapy for dizziness and balance issues, call FYZICAL to discuss details and how to get started.Locate a FYZICAL near you to learn more about our services.FYZICAL offers a wide variety of physical therapy services by qualified providers across the U.S. To find a FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Center near you, visit our website at FYZICAL.com. Our highly skilled therapy providers are 100% focused on your optimal health so you can Love Your Life!
Charter Senior Living's Springwood Court in Fort Myers, Florida, offers exceptional assisted living services that enhance the human spirit. As part of Charter Senior Living, we are committed to providing a true sense of community and personalization to older adults with specific needs and wants.Our philosophy is simple: Do the right thing for residents, whatever it takes. We strive to improve the quality of life for residents and their families each day. We believe in cultivating warm, meaningful relationships among residents, staff, leadership, and families, creating a homelike neighborhood in Fort Myers that you wont find anywhere else.At Springwood Court, we specialize in assisted living, ensuring that every person who calls our community home lives their absolute best life, every single day. We offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere, an array of convenient services and amenities, exceptional programming, and a staff that treats every resident like family.Whether you're looking for yourself or a loved one, when you choose Charter Senior Living, you're choosing a community where you'll be welcomed with open arms, treated like family, and feel comfortable in a place where you'll find the best assisted living services.Contact us today to learn more about our community and schedule a tour. Visit us and experience the Charter Senior Living difference firsthand.