Some say that "growing old is no fun," but there's no need to subscribe to that pessimistic theory. Retirement is no longer sitting in a rocking chair watching others enjoy life. There are plenty of ways to still have fun as seniors.
 
1. Take a Walk
            While jogging or Zumba might not look so good anymore, taking a walk is one of the best ways to keep healthy. Even a stroll around the block or up the hallway and back can add to a senior's strength, balance, heart and lung function and eyesight. During a walk, one can look around for things of interest: nesting birds, new housepaint colors, children at play or new models of cars.
 
2. Write
            Many seniors are frustrated that their family members don't have time to really visit anymore. A solution is to start some creative writing. Even if one thinks one's life was routine or ordinary, everyone has real stories, heartbreaks, obstacles and successes to pass along to others. An older adult can jot down notes about their time in a war or their reactions to a historical event. Maybe share some gardening secrets or memories of a teaching career. The budding writer might have some hilarious tales to tell. If hand-writing is hard, enlist a younger relative to "take dictation" for an hour or so at a time or use a small recording device. The process of writing can actually prevent age-related brain shrinkage!
 
3. Play a Game
            Whether one plays alone—like solitaire or a jigsaw puzzle—or in a group (think Pinochle or Spoons), the brain activity provided by counting, guessing, figuring and laughing is a tremendous advantage to health. A weekly "game night" can also provide something to look forward to.
 
4. Take the Stage
            Many residential or worship centers provide activities for seniors to act, sing, dance or put on shows. Cardiovascular health, serotonin levels, balance and memory can all be helped by getting creative in these active ways. 
 
5. Take the Plunge
            Swimming can be a safe and healthy way for seniors to spend time. It's easy on the joints and can help fight osteoporosis, while being a calming way to lower blood pressure and increase strength. A class at a local gym or community pool might be geared especially to seniors.
 
Prairie Homestead
yvonne@prairiehomestead.org
prairiehomestead.org
1605 W. May Street
Wichita KS 67213
(316) 263-8264
 

After a long, isolated time during the COVID-19 pandemic, there are still many questions about what safety precautions are necessary. Most residential care facilities follow strict guidelines about rules and regulations which will help keep residents safe and healthy. But what are sensible guidelines for getting out into daily life now that many have had vaccines?
 
Am I Safe from the Virus?
 
As of two weeks after your final vaccination (some come in two doses, some in one), the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that it is safe for you to be in an indoor group of people who have all been vaccinated, without having to wear a mask. An extended-family dinner or birthday party is considered fine in this scenario. Say hello to your family and friends again. Game night is on!
 
Who is Still at Risk?
 
It's still wise to be extra careful if you have an immune-deficiency condition, have recently had or are having chemotherapy, or if you are an older citizen. Washing hands is still a great idea, and if you have any doubts about the health of others you might gather with, stay away. Some people, those with certain health conditions or young children, cannot be vaccinated. Others may choose not to be. There are still risks of transmission of the COVID-19 virus and its variations.
 
Whom Can I Trust?
 
With many rumors and media articles giving out theories galore, it's hard to know what is right or wrong, but consulting your Personal Care Physician is always the best idea. With their help, you can make well-informed personal decisions about your health care. Your own experiences from the past (such as living through the polio epidemic or hearing stories of epidemics) should add to your information-gathering.
 
What Advice Do Professionals Give?
 
Health-care professionals, from the CDC to emergency care nurses, still advise that the best way to stay well is to get vaccinated. Keep wearing a mask in crowded conditions. Eat on the patio instead of a crowded restaurant, if the option is available. Avoid huge crowds, concerts, movie theatres. Stay out of unventilated buildings. There is no situation in which there is no risk, but after having a vaccine, your life can begin to open up again. 
 
Prairie Homestead
yvonne@prairiehomestead.org
prairiehomestead.org
1605 W. May Street
Wichita KS 67213
(316) 263-8264