Are you drinking enough water? Most adults do not especially during the cooler weather months. Did you know that use of a heater in the winter months can accelerate water loss? The drier indoor environment is not the only challenge; When the weather is colder, your body will excrete more urine and without warmer weather to make you realize you are thirsty, you may forget to replenish these lost liquids. Couple the environmental changes with medication, illness, mobility issues and other health conditions, and dehydration can become a bigger problem than you might realize.  Here are just a few symptoms of dehydration: Extremely dry skinFatigue Not using the bathroomDark urine Dizziness Fast heart rateConfusion Having enough fluid in your body is important for literally every bodily function and not getting enough can lead to catastrophic health issues. Dehydration can cause urinary and kidney problems, seizures, swelling of the brain and even death. Experts agree that most people need to drink at least one eight-ounce cup of water per every 20 pounds of body weight each day and as we age, our water content decreases, and we need to replenish it more frequently. Dont like plain water? There are many other options to stay hydrated including hot beverages such as herbal tea, soup, popsicles, milkshakes, and sports drinks. Caffeinated beverages can contribute to dehydration and should be avoided. To learn more please call Villa Pueblo Senior Living at 719-776-4380.

There are about 22,000 senior housing properties in the U.S. And there are different types of senior housing within that 22,000, so figuring out which one to choose can feel a bit daunting.Asking yourself two questions How much can I afford? and What level of services do I need? will help you narrow your range of choices so you can find the best fit for your lifestyle and budget.What Level of Care Do I Really Need?Before you begin to explore senior living options near you, ask yourself two questions that will simplify your search.How Much Can I Afford?You may think senior living is expensive. But a lot of people are surprised at how favorably costs compare to homeownership.First, figure out how much it costs to stay in your own home. Even if youve paid off your mortgage, you still have home owners expenses such as senior-related renovations and ongoing home maintenance issues, as well as expenses for utilities, taxes, groceries, dining out, entertainment, etc. and dont forget to add up any medical or in-home health care expenses.Next, take all your financial resources into account. In addition to income and your assets, this includes long-term care insurance, veterans or surviving spouses benefits, retirement investments or other pension benefits.Once you collect this information, you can establish a budget. Then you can eliminate any retirement housing options that dont fit within it making your search that much easier.What Level of Services Do I Really Need?Make an objective list of current services and support you need, as well as those you anticipate needing down the road. You may not need health services now, but the reality is that 70 percent of people over the age of 65 will need some type of long-term care (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services).Here are some broad definitions to help you determine what level of care to look for:Independent Living offers opportunities to pursue your interests, make friends, and take care of your mind, body and spirit all while freeing you from the burdens of homeownership. If your overall health is good and you dont need help with ADLs (activities of daily living), this could be a good fit for you.Assisted Living These communities are designed to help you live more independently through personal help with ADLs, transportation and home maintenance. Consider assisted living if there are mobility issues, medication management problems, or difficulties dressing, bathing or grooming.Skilled Nursing Care in a licensed health care facility may be best if you need short-term rehabilitation services or a higher level of continuous care for health issues too complex to be dealt with at home or in an assisted living facility.Life Plan Communities Also known as CCRCs (continuing care retirement communities), this is an option that offers a continuum of care that includes independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. It allows you to enjoy your independent lifestyle now and gives you access to future health care at controlled costs.Know your budget, know your needs. Once you do, youll be much closer to finding the senior living lifestyle thats best for you.Retrieved on 12.19.2017 from: https://www.whereyoulivematters.org/two-important-questions-starting-senior-living-search/Editors Note: This article was submitted by Sharon Naslund, Community Relations Director at Villa Pueblo Senior Living Community. Villa Pueblo is a CCRC community and Sharon may be reached by calling 719-545-5911, or email at SNaslund@villapueblo.com

With tax season approaching, it is important to begin getting prepared to ensure a smooth process of filing. Taxes can be complicated due to several rules surrounding different financial scenarios for people. Tax information regarding retirement income, Social Security benefits, pensions, retirement accounts and more are all included.This in-depth guide is designed to provide up to date information about senior tax preparation and may help clear up questions you have during this upcoming 2021 tax season.You can find information on calculating tax rates, AARP tax aide, some expert tips and additional resources from the IRS.All of the resources from RetireGuide.com are written and reviewed by experts; this article being no different. Though it is not financial advice, all information included in this Tax Prep for Seniors article is reviewed by Ebony J. Howard CPA.

Lets face it, the thought of moving away from your home and into a senior living community can be a daunting decision.For many people that are 65 and older, contemplating a move can seem like the last chapter of a well-read book; however, most people have say, I wish I wouldve made the move a lot sooner!Get Out 2017 streamingI have been told that there are many benefits to moving out of a private home and into a community that is geared towards mature adults: After I moved in, I met so many wonderful new friends. I didnt realize how lonely I was and what I was missing by myself. There is a sense of community here. If I am not feeling well, someone is around to check on me, bring me a cup of soup. I feel safer here- the building has around the clock staff and they look out for us. You get accustomed to all the work at home the cleaning, cooking, yard work, house maintenance, all of it. I felt like I was on vacation when I moved in. If I want to cook, I cook, but I dont have to. I can eat at the restaurant downstairs instead. I dont have yard work and they even help me with weekly cleaning. I am spending time doing things I like to do I have even started sewing again.Of course, there are many considerations such as price, location and property amenities to think about before making a move. Where you live matters (www.whereyoulivematters.org) is a website that offers an unbiased, research-based, and thought-provoking resource to help guide you toward a smart and confident decision. (whereyoulivematters.com home page content, 12.27.2016.)Are you considering a specific community? Why not ask about a try before you rent short-stay? This can be extremely helpful in making a final decision.Finally, remember that making a move to a retirement community doesnt have to be the last chapter in your lifes book; it could mean an exciting sequel that has yet to be written!Editors Note: This article was written by Kelly Saracino, LPN, VP Business Development with Frontline Management and submitted by Sharon Naslund, Community Relations Director at Villa Pueblo Senior Living Community. Sharon may be reached at 719-253-3725 or by email at snaslund@villapueblo.com