Silver Surfers Guide: Enriching Omaha Senior Living with Technology

Nope, we're not going to talk about seniors dressing up or trying to identify themselves as the Marvel comic book character. (Although that would be a treat for seniors with interests for vintage comic books, don't you think?) The expression “silver surfer” originating from English countries actually refers to stereotyped “silver”-haired techie seniors, who “surf” the internet leisurely. Modern inventions aim to make the lives of the elderly more convenient.

Technology Classes

Interactive classes that engage seniors in technology usage are widely available. These aim to rid skeptical seniors of their aversion to technology and integrate benefits of innovations into senior living in Omaha. Classes may be focused one-on-one computer instruction or classroom settings. Most tech classes are offered voluntarily, so seniors learn at no financial cost while the instructors earn community service or plain goodwill.

Social Networking

Through social networks, communication has been the greatest gap bridged by technology. Massive social media sites like Facebook allow seniors to reach distant relatives or peers and enrich relationships. They get doses of learning or entertainment through shared reading materials, interesting discussions and news feeds. They also get to unleash their creative sides through posts.

Gadget Frenzy

More and more manufacturers are taking the elderly population by electronic storm. In effect, technology has been a mainstay in assisted living for Omaha, Nebraska residents. A lot of gadgets from cellphones and tablets to specialized computer programs are marketed to this target group. Studies are continually showing how, for instance, apps and video games keep sharp senior minds.

Safety First!

Aside from recreational purposes, gadgets can also promote safety and emergency preparedness for the elderly. Among the nifty innovations are medical alert tags or buttons, “smart” maintenance drug dispensers, ergonomic walking aids, etc. Tracking and medical response is made efficient, especially for elders with life-threatening ailments or wandering tendencies with dementia.

Of course, human intervention is still key in improving senior living. Comfort Keepers, who may accompany or supervise seniors throughout the day, can be hands-on in ensuring safety and enjoyment. Call (402)-671-0448 to find out how home health providers can support senior care.

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Fun Activities for the Elderly: A Guide for Comfort Keepers

Omaha senior living doesn't have to be all drab and boring. What better way to spice things up than with a daily excursion? It is no secret, though, that there are some activities the elderly won't be able to participate in or enjoy. So when planning your senior's day-out, be sure to find activities that they will enjoy without too much physical exertion.

Swimming. 

Be it at the beach or at the pool, swimming is a great activity for any day’s vacation. Senior or not, everyone appreciates a refreshing dip. The water provides excellent support when moving about so it shouldn't put to much strain on knees, hips or backs. If it’s a trip to the beach, however, make sure that they are up for a walk through the sand, since that could cause mobility issues.

Open Mic Night. 

 Doing a lot of walking around isn't always a senior's idea of fun. Usually they like activities that involve taking it easy, but that doesn’t automatically mean that it can’t be a fun excursion. How about having an open mic/karaoke night? It's fun and entertaining and it won't take a lot out of the elderly participants.

Catch a show. 

Be it a movie or a play, or any performance for that matter. It is interesting, entertaining and doesn't require a lot of walking or moving around for that matter. It is also a great way to learn more about the culture of a place. At the same time, it stimulates the mind improving alertness and mental acuity.

They may have gotten along in years but it doesn't mean that our elderly loved ones don't want to get away now and again too. Everyone needs a change of pace, a change of scenery. To enjoy the best senior care in Omaha, seniors deserve a trip now and then. Be it just a weekend getaway or a trip that lasts a few days, you'll find that our enthusiastic seniors are up for it!

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Kitchen Safety for Your Elderly Loved One

Cooking and preparing food is a genuine pleasure for some and a necessary task for others, but as experienced by Omaha senior living professionals, the kitchen can be a particularly dangerous place for the elderly.

By no means should we keep our elderly loved ones from doing food preparation tasks if they enjoy doing them. After all, many of the elderly feel a sense of accomplishment in being able to contribute in the small ways they can, and that also helps ease their minds. However, there are some simple precautions you can take to make your loved one’s time in the kitchen a lot safer.

Aiding visibility is very important. Ample lighting and clear labeling go very far in making sure that your loved ones have an easy time finding and identifying ingredients and utensils.

Consider investing in means to cut steps from even the most basic cooking procedures. For example, an automatic kettle is a great help. Just don’t go overboard with complicated devices that can be confusing. Heavier items should always be stored at waist level, so your loved ones can lift and manipulate them with ease. Finally, make a habit of checking if foods have gone bad. It can be difficult for your loved one to tell.

Hopefully, this will help you create a productive and safe cooking environment. For expert advice, you can call professional assisted living companies like Comfort Keepers. 

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Home Health Care Products: Putting the “Living” Back in Senior Living

As the body gets weaker, it gets harder and harder to move around, even in one's own house. Eventually, the pressure to move someplace where one can get proper care and assistance increases. An elderly person can stay where he or she resides through the care of a relative, or through the use of assisted living services. However, in many states like Omaha, senior living means letting the elderly feel like they can do some things themselves, and that they are not totally reliant on others.

Exercise and rehab can help a little, but for many who want to age in place, a good option is to have home care products at home. There are many facilities and tools that can be set up, even simple ones, which can go a long way in helping aging adults retain some of their independence.

Mobility aids

Arguably the biggest problem is how to get from one place to another. Simple acts like walking or climbing stairs become much harder than before. The traditional solutions are walkers, canes, or wheelchairs, but it's also possible to have permanent facilities installed like handrails or chair lifts. Trapeze bars are also an option to help in getting up from chairs or beds.

For compromised dexterity

Another challenge is presented by decreasing dexterity. Fingers or hands may get weaker, decreasing the strength to grip, turn, or push things. Shoe horns and sock aids help in getting socks and shoes onto the feet with minimal effort, while button aids can also help reduce the effort in putting on clothes with buttons. It would also be a good idea to buy clothes that do not have zippers, buttons, or hard-to-manipulate parts necessary for proper wearing.

For impaired senses

It's not just the muscles that are compromised as we age. The senses also experience increasing deterioration. The most critical senses are sight and hearing. Hearing aids and spectacles are common tools, but there are other solutions. Talking watches and thermometers, telephones with large buttons, computer screen magnifiers and other magnification products are just some options that can be explored.

For the elderly, it is important to feel a certain degree of independence. Of course, this is not to say they should be left totally alone. To support the aging population, Omaha assisted living services are still necessary.

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How to Start the Talk: Thinking about Assisted Living for a Loved One

Let's be honest—the realization that a parent will get old and frail is, in most cases, a difficult one to come to. Maybe it hits the parent first, when they find themselves taking longer and longer to clean themselves in the bathroom, or find that they cannot account for long stretches of time. Maybe the adult child sees it first, but finds it hard to bring it to their parent's attention. In either case, it's a violent emotional blow, and finding the words to start the conversation can be difficult. But like many difficult conversations, it must happen sooner or later. If it is time to for a loved one to consider home health care, Omaha residents will want to follow the tips below.

Start early

If you have to speak with your parent, it can be hard to get him or her to listen. Parents are used to having the power and having the authority in the family, and the idea of being the one that needs help can be a bitter pill to swallow. But it's important to start the talk early. Otherwise, your parent may not be able to participate competently in future decisions.

Remember that the talk is about them

It is important to choose a time and a place to have this talk. Do not have it at the same time as other commitments or occasions—set a specific date just for that. Also, include other close loved ones and make it as non-confrontational as possible. Remind them that this is not about taking away their independence, but helping them live comfortably.

Non-verbal signals are critical

Speak with respect, always. Maintain good eye contact and use an even tone. If you feel you have to rehearse, doing some role playing with a trusted confidant could be a good idea. Non-verbal cues can go a long way in getting the message through.

There are some other tips that you can follow in speaking with an aging loved one. However, recognize that it is still possible that your senior parent will not accept the idea of assisted Omaha senior living right away. It can take a lot of patience and understanding, along with perseverance, but if it is for their own good, you should not waver.

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Keeping the Blues at Bay: Caregivers and Depression

Compassion and sympathy are two of the most important traits an individual should possess if they wish to have a career in assisted living in Omaha. Seniors are just like any other elderly everywhere: prone to feeling down from the burden of the years, and the people who look after them are in a position to absorb and resolve that negativity.

Awareness is Key

It is crucial to be aware of the possibility of depression in the assisted living industry. Knowing the most common emotional problems that afflict seniors, these issues become easier to manage when they inevitably emerge. This puts you in a better position to be of most help to your loved one.

Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Help

Just as we give so much of ourselves to give care to others, we also require help for ourselves from time to time. Actively seek out a support system of friends, family and peers to talk to when work becomes difficult. It’s very important for you as a caregiver to know that you are not alone. It's helpful to know that there are many who share your experiences, or at least have a willing ear to listen.

Never hesitate to get professional help when you feel that you need it. Remember that taking care of your own emotional well-being is integral to your ability to provide the care your loved one needs.

Depression can occur frequently in Omaha senior living situations, and understanding this will equip you with the means to be a firm emotional anchor for your loved one.

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What Does Your Local Senior Center Have to Offer?

Still undecided on why you should join a senior center?

According to NCOA (National Council on Aging), older adults who utilize senior centers experience significant improvement to their whole wellbeing (physical, social, spiritual, emotional, mental, and even economic). Moreover, older adults learn to manage and delay the onset of chronic disease as well. Being part of your local senior center is a fun and healthy accompaniment to Omaha senior living.

Since senior adults are now living longer and staying active, senior centers designed a variety of programs for every individual's needs. These facilities provide a welcome break from home and the usual places.

Education

Whether you are particularly interested with writing, gardening, music, dancing, painting, public speaking, education, or photography, you will always have something to do and you will never have a room for boredom! Senior centers do offer a lot of educational activities for everyone.

Fitness

Senior centers in Omaha, is now offering fitness programs for older adults. Exercise programs are meant to keep the senior adults' bodies active and healthy. Members can use the fitness equipment available in the center for their own enjoyment, with the assistance of their care providers.

Travel

Senior centers are known for sponsoring trips. Exclusive members experience 24-hour adventure to a 7-day adventure. The travel program likely includes advance planning of the trip, transportation, stops, meals and sleeping arrangements. So all you or your loved has to do is pack!

Job

People who are past age 60 are still enjoying their careers. In case you have retired already, but are still interested to work, senior centers offer job resources to help you make your dreams come true!

Joint Programs

Everyone is given the chance to grow and learn from each other. Age difference is not an issue. That is why most senior centers facilitate joint programs. Joint programs are group activities wherein the participation of teens and adults are being encouraged. Senior center visits are a great way to achieve the best assisted living Omaha can offer.

Now, what's stopping you from joining a senior center?

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