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After decades of hard work, the time finally comes to retire and enjoy your life. Last time we talked about  places that are senior-friendly to travel to for vacations (Senior-Friendly Vacation Spots), but settling down is completely a different case. When we talk about the best countries for retirement, Canada is at the top of the list. It is a beautiful country to retire in, given that it offers an appealing retirement lifestyle.

Bella and her husband have thought about it, too. They both have just retired and chosen Canada as the place to retire for a better quality of life. Surely, they are attracted to the high-quality healthcare and the low population density of the country, but the natural beauty and the friendly people in Canada also attract this couple very much.

However, because Canada is such a giant country, Bella was lost on where exactly they wanted to reside in Canada. If you are struggling just like Bella, this article will provide you with an in-depth discussion on places that are suitable for retired seniors to live in Canada.

What Do We Look for When Choosing a City to Retire?

  • Lifestyle

Lifestyle is a very important component for seniors to consider when planning their future place to reside. Although it is mainly a matter of personal taste, in this article, we will focus on the preferences of most of our clients.

Usually, small towns may not be appealing to those who have spent most of their lives in a bustling metropolis, even if they initially find them intriguing.

Before you consider, first think about your pursuits and hobbies. If you love staying in, then most cities are pretty much the same to you. However, if you are a person who enjoys traveling, hiking, or engaging in other recreational activities, you should select a retirement city that best suits your needs.

  • Cost of Living

No matter if you are on a tight budget or sitting on a pile of money, the cost of living is an important factor to consider when you move to a new place.

An expensive city will eat away your savings and make it more difficult for you to enjoy your later years.

It’s crucial to consider the cost of housing (rent/buy), food, transportation (public transit/owning a car), cost of services, and most importantly, the cost of doing things you’ve always wanted to do in your retirement.

  • Weather

Weather is more important than you think, especially for people who have chronic diseases. For example, you may not want to live in a humid city if you have respiratory problems or arthritis.

If you’re used to living in warm weather, moving to a freezing area can be a bad idea as well. Furthermore, you may not be able to handle the heat in a sunny location if you have always been living in a city with a high longitude.

So, before deciding, take weather conditions into account carefully. The best way to decide is to visit the city you like in varied weather conditions/seasons before making a final decision about moving there.

  • Doctors Per 100, 000 People

Having enough accessibility to medical facilities and professionals is crucial as you get older. For those who already have chronic medical conditions or live alone, this is even more crucial. The concentration of doctors per capita is a measurement of how easily it will be for you to get medical care if necessary.

Top Places to Retire in Canada:

  • Kelowna, BC

  • Cost of Living: $1,071 per month (without rent)

  • Population: 217, 229

  • Weather: Average Max Temp – July: 27°C, January: 0°C

  • Lifestyle: Casual, retiree-friendly

  • Doctors Per 100, 000 People: 137

The top place surely goes to Kelowna, BC. When it comes to retirement communities, Kelowna is a place that you never want to ignore.

With over 18 percent of the population being made-up of retirees, which is significantly higher than the national average, Kelowna could be described as the heaven of retirement living – the nature and urban vibes are perfectly balanced in this area (especially during the tourist season).

If you’re willing to live a bit outside of the city, enjoy driving, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and picnics by the lake, Kelowna would be a good option for you.

  • Victoria, BC

  • Cost of Living: $1,186 per month (without rent)

  • Population: 401, 700

  • Weather: Average Max Temp – July: 20°C, January: 7°C

  • Lifestyle: Welcomingly, expensive

  • Doctor Per 100, 000 People: 176

Victoria, BC one of the greatest places to retire in Canada because of its high doctor-to-population ratio and low property tax.

The weather in Victoria is dry and mild compared to Vancouver and has less snowfall. It’s also Canada’s most romantic city, so if you are looking to find a new love interest after relocation, Victoria is perfect for dating. It is especially romantic for those who enjoy flowers (and aren’t allergic to pollen). There is a reason Victoria is called Canada’s city of gardens.

In a nutshell, Victoria is a great fit for those who enjoy living in a densely populated urban environment and can afford a bougie lifestyle.

  • Halifax, NS

  • Cost of Living: $1,202 per month (without rent)

  • Population: 440, 332

  • Weather: Average Max Temp – July: 23°C, January: 0°C

  • Lifestyle: Big-city life

  • Doctors Per 100, 000 People: 145

Halifax is Nova Scotia’s largest city, with a population that accounts for more than half of the province’s total. Also, if you move to Halifax, you’ll have access to the best medical and healthcare facilities.

Halifax is a city that has beachy vibes, as the sea is the primary focus of most of the region’s outdoor pursuits, and the seafood is incredibly fresh. So if you enjoy surfing and fishing, Halifax is a nice pick.

  • Calgary, AB

  • Cost of Living: $1,197 per month (without rent)

  • Population: 1, 585, 900

  • Weather: Average Max Temp – July: 21°C, January: -2°C

  • Lifestyle: Dynamic

  • Doctors Per 100, 000 People: 143

As Canada’s second-largest city, the cost of living in Calgary is surprisingly lower than in many other cities, as both the cost of living and taxes are minimal in this area.

The city is bustling so if you are used to living in a busy city or looking for work after retirement, this is the place you are looking for.

  • Kingston, ON

  • Cost of Living: $1,194 per month (without rent)

  • Population: 136, 685

  • Weather: Average Max Temp – July: 25°C, January: -3°C

  • Lifestyle: Mild-paced

  • Doctors Per 100, 000 People: 138

Kingston might be a good fit for you if you don’t mind living in a city where the majority of residents are under the age of 25, consisting mainly of students from Queen’s University. There are many stories that can be told about the city’s past because of its strategic location and extensive history.

The laid-back atmosphere and leisurely pace of life in Kingston are ideal for retirees. Transportation in the immediate area is also fast, convenient, and cost-effective. However, Kingston’s greatest asset may be its world-class medical care – Kingston General Hospital is one of Southern Ontario’s largest healthcare facilities.

References:

https://wealthawesome.com/best-places-to-retire-in-canada/

https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/baby-boomers/slideshows/the-10-best-places-to-retire-in-canada

 


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Judy is a 78-year-old lady and she has been smoking for more than half a century. Recently, she has noticed that her son has quit smoking so she asked how he felt without tobacco.

Expecting a negative answer, her son told her that he felt much different than before, in a good way.

“it was hard in the first month, but if you get used to life without cigarettes,” he said. “Your body feels so much better, and my singing has improved, too!”

Judy clearly knew that good things would happen if she quit smoking cold turkey, but it’d be a little annoying since she just couldn’t imagine what she would do if she were not smoking. Also, she wondered if she was too old to do so. Since she was already 78, it seemed a bit unnecessary to quit at her age.

Is It Too Late to Quit Smoking?

We always hear people saying things like:

“I have smoked for many years. It’s hard to quit.”

“The damage has already been done anyway.”

“I’m already old, why shouldn’t I enjoy cigarettes for the last few years in my life?”

However, the truth is, you can still quit in old age, and things would still be different. There are some immediate results after quitting smoking:

Short Term Effect

  • 20 Minutes After Quitting: Your blood pressure and pulse rate drop.

  • 8 Hours After Quitting: Carbon monoxide levels decrease and the oxygen level in your blood returns to normal.

  • 1 Day After Quitting: The chances of having a heart attack decreases.

  • 2 Days After Quitting: Your sense of smell and taste begin to improve.

  • 2 Weeks To 3 Months After Quitting: Your circulation and lung function improves.

  • 6 Months To 1 Year After Quitting: Symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath, and fatigue is reduced. Your immune system improves, and your lungs start to regain normal function.

On the other hand, the benefits of quitting smoking are more prominent in the long run.

Long Term Effects

  • 1 To 2 Years After Quitting: Chances of heart attack, stroke, peripheral artery disease, and breathing problems decrease.

  • 5 To 10 Years After Quitting: Your risk of developing cancers of the mouth and throat would be cut in half.

  • 10 Years After Quitting: Your risk of lung cancer is cut in half compared to a person who is still smoking. The risk of cancer in the bladder, esophagus, and kidney will also decrease drastically.

  • 15 Years After Quitting: Your risk of developing coronary heart disease is similar to that of a non-smoker. Also, your longevity is extended by 10 years.

How to Quit Smoking as a Senior

Easier said than done; quitting smoking can sometimes be a long and tough battle for most people, especially for individuals who have been smoking for decades. However, you can split it into three stages so that you can make your journey easier and wiser.

  • Step One: Prepare to Quit

First off, list all the reasons that make you want to quit, and the possible elements that trigger it. Be specific and look at them frequently. Then, envision your life without cigarettes. Imagine yourself as a non-smoker, and see how you deal with various social situations that may trigger you to start smoking again.

You can also tell your family and friends about your decision and let them motivate you through the process. It is also helpful to tell your doctor and plan it together.

Then, set a date, and get started!

  • Step Two: The Quitting Process

On the quitting day, throw out all of your cigarette and ashtrays, and anything else that can remind you of smoking. The point is that quitting all at once is always better than slowly cutting back. Then, after you realize the circumstances that made you want to smoke, fill them up with other things. For example, if you smoke when you don’t feel like sleeping, try playing a video game to keep your hands busy. Make a list of things you can do as alternatives to smoking, and whenever you are craving a cigarette, do these things one by one to take up your time.

Finding a support buddy is also helpful; it’s good to have someone that was successful at quitting smoking. They will know how to help you out when you are going through similar situations that they have been through. You can also set aside the money you would spend on tobacco, watch it grow in a jar, and reward yourself with this money after a while.

  • Step 3: Preventing Relapse

Relapse may happen, even for the people who have quit smoking for years. The most important thing to know about relapsing is that you learn each time so you can handle it better the next time. When you realize you are about to smoke again, there are 4Ds to prevent it:

  • Delay: No matter whether you are quitting smoking or stopping binge-eating, remember that the urge only lasts for a short while. Delay what you want to do for 10 minutes. In most cases, your craving will go away after a few minutes on its own.

  • Deep Breaths: Take a deep breath before the “evil” possesses you. It will make you relaxed and clear-minded so you can make a better choice on what to do next.

  • Drink Water: Drinking water also helps you to relax and calm down and help you to focus on things that are healthier.

  • Do Something Else: As we mentioned, distracting yourself from smoking is necessary. List what you can do instead of smoking: sometimes even washing your hands and face can help, too.

Some Withdrawal Symptoms You Should be Aware Of & What To Do About Them

  • Craving & Urges

It’s normal to have urges, and sometimes they can be strong and overwhelming. One important way to deal with your urges is to identify them, which means knowing that you are in a state of craving, and it doesn’t mean you “need” it immediately. Try the 4Ds prevention methodology to see how it works!

  • Getting Easily Irritated

Quitting a habit may feel like taking a part of your routine away, so it is very common to feel irritated and grouchy sometimes. Again, notice it, identify it, and let it go.

  • Feeling Restless

Feeling agitated and having a hard time concentrating is the same as feeling irritated. It is because your body is not used to getting not recieving the nicotine it used to. The best way to deal with restlessness is to do some physical activities, and cut back on caffeine, too.

  • Gaining Weight

Some people may experience a rise in appetite when they quit smoking. This is because of the stress of quitting a habit, and your taste has heightened after quitting, too. If you really want snacks, snack smart. Avoid those high-calorie foods and getting more exercise will help you to balance the urges as well.

  • Feeling Anxious and Depressed

People who smoke are more likely to have mood swings than people who don’t, and it happens mostly after quitting smoking. Nicotine does help to ease your anxiety for a short amount of time, but the withdrawal effect makes it worse. Remind yourself of why you are quitting, and learn how to deal with emotions in a new and healthier way. It will all pass in the end.

References: 

https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/quit-smoking/7-common-withdrawal-symptoms/index.html

https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/mental-health-substance-use/quitting-smoking/seniors-and-tobacco

 


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Nothing feels better than retiring, and Jay has been working decades just for this moment to come for their “senior vacation”.

The first thing he plans to do is to take his wife traveling – which is one of the most popular pursuits for people who have just entered a new phase in life. Jay wants to find a place that’s convenient, budget-friendly, yet still a perfect getaway from his hectic lifestyle, while his wife prefers something luxurious and dreamy so they can make this memory last a lifetime.

Finding a perfect destination for them seems daunting, and we know it may be happening to you and your partner in this busy season as well. However, we have collected a few senior-friendly cities that deserve a place on your post-pandemic bucket list. Without further ado, let’s see where there’s no regret in visiting!

Senior Vacation – Enjoy Natural Scenery:

Sedona, USA

Located just two hours from Phoenix, Arizona, the breathtaking red rock scenery makes Sedona the perfect destination for a day trip. If you enjoy hiking, make your way to the Devil’s Bridge on a sunny day;you’d be amazed by the magnificent view from the top. Be careful of your shoes: the “red” is caused by oxidation of the thin layer of rocks, so make sure to avoid wearing light-coloured shoes or they will get stained by the mineral.   

Tuscant, Italy

There are a thousand reasons to visit Tuscany – Art, History, Food, Wine … and certainly, the view. There are a few “must-dos” in the beautiful Tuscany: go for a hike on mountain La Verna, do truffle tasting in San Miniato, explore the ancient hill town on the Valdichiana Plain, and of course, don’t forget to visit a few wineries! One thing to remember before heading to Tuscany is to rent a car. Beautiful and well-preserved areas are mostly less connected by trains and subway, so renting a car is how you explore the place more efficiently.

 Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, also known as the “Lost City”, is considered to have the most heritage sites in the world, and is also the most visited tourist destination in Peru. October through April is the rainy season, so it’s better to visit Mach Picchu in the summer. It is an especially perfect destination if you like hiking, given that there are many mountains and valleys around there. But if you do not feel like doing a lot of walking, driving in Machu Picchu or taking buses are just fine to capture the beauty of the city.

 Zermatt, Switzerland

Who can resist Switzerland? When it comes to the famous spots in Switzerland, Zermatt is definitely the one worth visiting. Don’t worry if you can’t go skiing, the train through the Alps is one of the most beautiful routes in the world. There are also numerous bars, cafes, and coffee shops on the mountain, so you can just sit back and enjoy the stunning view of the Matterhorn.

Senior Vacation – Beach Lover:

Tulum, Mexico

For those who are looking for a tranquil and laid-back destination, Tulum should be included on their bucket list. Unlike Cancun, Tulum doesn’t give much “party vibes”. Instead, you can find high-end bars that allow you to enjoy the breeze and music on the beach.

Key West, USA

If you are like many snowbirds from the north, you will like Florida in the wintertime. Nature reserves and renowned walking tours make Key West an excellent beach city for anyone who wants more than just palm trees, and it has more peaceful surroundings than Miami. As a senior, you can do many low-impact activities like snorkeling and swimming with dolphins in Key West, or visit Earnest Heminway’s house for more history.

Ocho Rios, Saint Ann, Jamaica

You can relax and experience Jamaican culture in this city that resides on the northeastern coast of the island. After lying on the beach for days, you can choose to take a hike in the forest, swim with dolphins, or just walk in the city and you’ll explore a lot of interesting things.

Ocho Rios is a cruise ship destination, so it makes it a popular place to stop for long vacations.

Patong, Thailand

Thailand is generally an affordable place to visit, and Patong beach in Phuket is a far cheaper option than other tropical destinations. Patong is especially suitable for senior couples to stay: imagine walking on the beach and sharing beers. It could be a wonderful memory for you two to reminisce.

Senior Vacation – City Views:

New York City, USA

“In New York…

Concrete jungle where dreams are made of!

There’s nothin’ you can’t do…” 

This is what the Big Apple (New York City) looks like in Jay-Z’s song (Empire State of Mind). New York City’s skyline may be the most recognizable and glamorous one in the world. There are two popular spots to view the NYC skyline:

  • Top of the Rock Observation Deck: Located in Rockefeller Plaza, Top of the Rock could be one of the most popular attractions in NYC. From there, you can get an unobstructed view of the Empire State Building, Manhattan’s midtown, and Central Park.

  • Empire State Building: Your NYC trip won’t be complete without seeing Empire State Building. There are two options to see the city from the Empire State Building: one is from the 86th floor, and the other one is from the 102nd floor. The view is not so much different between the two, but you can look through ceiling-to-floor windows instead of fences on the 102nd floor.

 Toronto, Canada

On the northern shore of Lake Ontario near the US border lies the most culturally diverse city in Canada – Toronto. In the downtown area, you can capture the city’s iconic CN tower nearly everywhere you go, which makes an identifiable view of Toronto’s skyline. There are a few places to appreciate the beauty of the city: Riverdale Park, Trillium Park, Polson Pier, etc. If you love having some cocktails while experiencing the spectacular views with your partner, try the One Eighty, which is located on the 51st floor of the Manulife center. Just as the name suggests, it lets you enjoy 180-degree views of the megacity.

Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong is best known as a shopper’s paradise. You can experience western life and Chinese customs all together at once. Here, you can enjoy abundant local dishes, or go shopping in duty-free shops, and more importantly: reach the summit of Victoria Peak to enjoy breathtaking harbor views and the majestic skyline.

Kuala Lumper, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur is another business center in southeastern Asia. As the capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur boasts a blend of Chinese, Indian and English cultures. You can visit all the highlights of the city in just three to five days. The cost in Kuala Lumpur can be more expensive than in some cities in Thailand, but it is still possible to make it budget friendly if you go window shopping. The must-sees in Kuala Lumpur include the Petronas Twin Towers, Merdeka Square, Batu Cave, etc. KLCC Park is also a great spot to view the city’s skyline, which makes zero regret to visit.

References:

https://www.tripstodiscover.com/best-travel-destinations-for-seniors-retirees/

https://www.theseniorlist.com/travel/best/

https://keepasking.com/5-beach-vacations-perfect-for-seniors/

https://carestory.ca/senior vacation/


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Pets offer us many benefits as we age – companionship, exercise, and the delight that comes from taking care of another living thing. Though there isn’t extensive research on the direct correlation between pets and human health, it is undoubted that the little creatures can promote senior people’s wellbeing and quality of life.

Having a pet can surely lower your level of anxiety, and lessen depression and feelings of isolation (Senior Isolation). Choosing a pet that matches your energy level and lifestyle becomes very important in this case.

In today’s topic, we are going to introduce you to a variety of pets – from pets that require a moderate level of energy to keep up with, to mellows pets that suit your laid-back lifestyle. Let’s get started!

Best Pets for Seniors

Dogs

Dogs make excellent lifelong friends for people of all ages, and they’re especially great for those in later years. Most of the best dog breeds for the elderly are those that are low-maintenance, small in size, and require less activity. Here are a few dog breeds recommended for seniors to have:

1. Bichon Frise

As a playful yet affectionate dog, the Bichon Frise has earned its reputation as an excellent all-purpose companion. They are, in genera,l very low maintenance, however they do need to go to the groomer on a regular basis so their fur doesn’t tangle.

Bichons are also known for their gentleness and cuddliness, making them ideal for elderly persons living in apartments and retirement communities.

2. Pug

Who can resist the gaze from a pair of big, innocent, and emotionally expressive eyes? Pugs are one of the most sweet-natured and kindest dogs among all breeds. They are small, loving, and match the energy level of most seniors. 

Pugs learn tricks fast and love food, so you never need to worry about wasting too much time training them.

Pugs are also suitable for living in a long-term care home, since they don’t bark a lot, and spend at least half of their day sleeping.

3. Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are another popular dog breed for seniors. They require less attention, don’t shed much, and don’t need to be constantly groomed.

Given their compact size, they are easy to be carried around, and they make great companions for both seniors and children. So, if your grandchildren constantly visit your place, a miniature schnauzer would be their new best friend.

4. French Bulldog

French bulldogs are the most cheerful dogs among all breeds. They are small, muscular, and active. However, they are easy to handle given their intelligent and understanding nature. They are especially great for seniors who like to dress up their dogs.

As a result, French Bulldogs are excellent companions for elderly people with limited mobility or anyone who simply prefers a slower pace of life.

  • Cats

If you want a friend who doesn’t need to be walked every day, cats arw a wonderful choice. Cats are more predictable and are generally more happy staying indoors. Also, cats don’t make a lot of noise and require less medication than dogs, meaning they are suitable for anyone who just wants a companion and is not willing to spend much time taking care of their pets.

Different breeds have different personalities; some are independent, while some prefer to stick close to their human. Some need a lot of grooming, while some are relatively low maintenance. Here are three cat breeds that are very welcomed by seniors:

1. Ragdoll Cat

Because of its laid-back characteristics, Ragdolls are an excellent choice for seniors.

Ragdolls are well-known for their friendliness, making them a good option for elderly people who are looking for a pet to get along with their family and caregivers easily.

Note that Ragdolls are larger than common cats, and as a result, may need additional living space and a big litter box. If you have a small and crowded living space, a Ragdoll may not be the best choice.

2. Russian Blue

A good temper, intelligence, and loyalty have made the Russian Blue a popular breed among cat owners. They are suitable for people who prefer low activity since the most they want from a human is companionship. Even though Russian Blues are shy around people, once they build strong ties with their owner, they become very sensitive to the owner’s emotions and feelings.

3. British Shorthair

As one of the oldest recognized cat breeds, British Shorthair cats are very commonly presented as domestic cats in many families. They are very relaxed and independent, and not so active, making them good for seniors and beginners.

British shorthairs are very kind, loyal, and loving. They are independent by nature so don’t worry about sticking with them all the time. The only health problem of British Shorthairs is that they are prone to obesity, so feeding them right and watching their weight becomes very important.

  • Fish

Most pet fish are extremely low maintenance and don’t require much investment. All you need is a small freshwater aquarium, a filter, an air pump, lighting, and some fish food to have them. Freshwater fish are less expensive and easy to care for than other types of pet fish. Watching your fish can calm you down and improve your mood, meaning it is especially beneficial for people with high blood pressure and heart diseases to keep pet fish. Here are some aquarium fish for beginners to have:

1. Goldfish

Goldfish are very good beginner pet fish to keep since they are very resilient and easy to care for. They eat vegetables, algae, and other foods high in carbohydrates and low in protein. Note that goldfish tend to grow very large so it’s better to purchase a larger tank that has extra space for them to live.

2. Betta Fish

Beta Fish are pretty, small, and very beginner-friendly. Betta fish have very vivid coloration and beautiful fins. Although they don’t require complicated caring procedures, Betta Fish should be kept in high-quality water, so make sure to use a good filter and water conditioner before you put your little fish in there.

  • Rabbits

If you want a quiet, fluffy little animal to be your companion, get a rabbit! Just like dogs and cats, rabbits can be used for animal therapy, too. Taking care of a pet rabbit can help lower high blood pressure and potentially delay some dementia symptoms. Also, believe it or not, rabbits can bond with humans and can be litter trained. So, if you just moved into a downsized home, but still want to have an animal to build connections with, a rabbit would be a perfect choice. Holland Lops, Rex, and Mini Lops are all small-sized, calm-tempered, and easily cared for rabbits to have as pets.

 

References:

https://www.thesprucepets.com/best-dog-breeds-for-seniors-4138298

https://www.senioradvisor.com/blog/2015/05/best-pets-for-seniors/

https://www.hepper.com/best-cats-for-seniors/

 


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It takes time to adjust to living in a smaller place, such as an Assisted Living apartment. Especially when all of your beloved furnishings is crammed into a single cot. Helen is facing the same situation, too. After she finished placing all her stuff in her new apartment, her friend came to visit.

“You shouldn’t have your bed facing the washroom because it will disrupt the flow of energy”, Helen’s friend said.

“What energy? What direction do you think it should be facing?” asked Helen.

“You should do some research on Fengshui. It’ll help you a lot” replied Helen’s friend.

Even though many of us have heard of Fengshui, few of us have a firm grasp of its meaning. In today’s article, we are going to discuss the principle and some basic rules of Fengshui, and hopfully it will guide you during your transition.

What Is Fengshui & Why Is It Important?

Fengshui, also known as Chinese geomancy, is an ancient Chinese practice of arranging pieces in living spaces in order to create balance with the natural world. Ancient Chinese wisdom states that selecting or configuring an object or location can harmonize with the spiritual energies that surround. Since our physical environments can play a major role in our feelings and comfort, this is what perpose Fengshui serves – a supportive Fengshui layout encourages the optimal and even flow of energy throughout the space. It is especially vital for seniors or others who spend a great deal of time at home or in long-term care homes. 

There are five elements in Fengshui: Wood, Earth, Water, Fire, and Metal. Each element is associated with certain qualities in your home. A full analysis requires calculations based on where you are living, the design of a single room, placement and materials of the furniture, etc. This can be very complicated. However, there are general guidelines that we can follow to enhance how you feel in your living space, even if it’s just a room in a long-term care home.

Simple Fengshui Tips for Seniors:

  • Clear the Entryway

In Fengshui, your front door serves as a portal of energy, and your entryway represents the way that the energy enters your home and your body. As a result, it is crucial to keep the main entrance area clean and welcoming, so that more energy can enter and nourish you and your home. So, get rid of garbage, bulky furniture or anything that can obstruct the energy flow as much as possible.

  • Declutter

It’s understandable that older people’s homes are typically cluttered because it might be tough to let go of a lifetime’s worth of memories. The problem with clutter is that it may make homes feel overwhelming, cause tripping hazard, and obstruct positive energy.

Maintaining a clutter-free environment can reduce the risk of tripping and other health complications related to bacteria as well. So, make a list of the things you use most frequently, and for the rest, you can consider discarding or donating them (if you only have used them once or twice and don’t see yourself using them anytime in the near future).

  • Make Use of Mirrors

Placing a mirror in a dark corner can brighten the space and bring energy in. The mirror can face your favorite things or reflect the scenery outside your window. However, never place mirrors in front of a door, as this will deflect the incoming energy.

  • Incorporate Plants

Plants embody life energy, as they’ll add freshness and vitality to your home. Too much darkness and not enough fresh air might have an adverse effect on elderly people’s living spaces. So, simply add some plants to infuse your home with life and good vibes, and check out our blog post on “Simple Gardening for Seniors” to find out some easy gardening tips.

  • Limit Phones, Televisions, and Other Electronic Devices

Fengshui practitioners believe that electromagnetic imbalances caused by electronic devices can interfere with sleep. Research from sleep experts also supports this suggestion, and the experts advise keeping bedrooms as screen-free as possible.

Of course, televisions and phones may be an important source of entertainment for someone who’s physically disabled or bedbound. Consider a compromise: put a shade on the TV so it can easily be moved out of sight and turn off your phone before bed so it won’t interrupt your sleep.  

 

References:

https://www.thespruce.com/feng-shui-tips-for-beginners-1274536

https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/simple-ways-to-use-feng-shui-in-your-home

https://www.seniorhousingnet.com/advice-and-planning/get-lucky-apply-feng-shui-to-your-senior-living-space

 


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Shelly has had some serious issues recently. Her left calf has been so itchy that she can’t even fall asleep. It’s especially severe when she forgets to shower for a few days. Shelly has consulted her family doctor and the doctor told her that it’s because of aging. Shelly has never thought that getting old would change her skin, given that she used to have oily skin and pimples were her “best friend” when she was young. Now she realizes that it’s time to change her skincare routine as an aging adult.

As the largest organ in our body, our skin does change drastically, just like other parts of our body when aging progresses – it becomes thinner, rougher, and loses its shine. These changes are not only from an aesthetic point of view, but your skin generally becomes much more susceptible to diseases, which could cause more problems to your health. There are a few common skin problems you may face if you are over 60, which we will outline below

Common Skin Concerns in Older Adults

  • Dryness and Itchiness   

Seniors generally have issues with dryness and itchiness, especially the skin on the lower legs, elbows, and lower arms. The skin around these areas usually feels rough and scaly. There are many things that cause dry skin:

  • Not enough liquid intake

  • Excessive sunbathing

  • Being in a dry environment

  • Smoking

  • Stress

  • Losing function in sweat and oil glands

  • Diabetes

  • Kidney problems

  • Skin Infections

Bacterial infections are more likely to occur on dry skin since people with dry skin have more fissures and fractures, giving bacteria more chances to enter and cause surface infections. Elderly persons in crowded places, such as long-term care homes, are particularly vulnerable to the infestation’s proliferation.

  • Wrinkles

This one goes without saying; our skin is doomed to have wrinkles as it ages. Sunlight and other environmental factors, such as pollution, can cause the skin to lose its elasticity, and the skin itself droops because of gravity. Smoking and other bad habits can accelerate this process as well.

There are a lot of claims on how to get rid of wrinkles, and you can see them everywhere in the media. Unfortunately, most of them don’t work. There are methods that work, but they can be harmful or even painful, and must be performed by a doctor.

  • Age Spots and Skin Tags

Age spots, also as known as “liver spots”, are caused by chronic exposure to sunlight. Face, arms, back, and even feet are popular locations for these larger-than-freckled brown spots.

Skin tags are pieces of flesh-colored skin with a raised surface. It is common in older adults, especially in females. The eyelids, neck, and body folds, including the armpit, chest, and groin, are the most common places to find them.

Skin tags and age spots are usually benign, unless they become irritated. Talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about age spots or skin tags.

  • Bruises

As we become older, our skin gets thinner, and our veins and bones are more visible, making them more vulnerable to injury.

Senile purpura, or bruises caused by ruptured blood vessels, is a common complication with aged skin, and forearms are the most prevalent place to them. In addition, aging causes the skin to take a longer time to heal after injury. It could be also either be a sign of a deficit in vitamins or a blood problem.

  • Skin Cancer

Seniors who have had more sun exposure earlier in their life may develop skin cancer. As we age, we are more likely to develop basal and squamous cell carcinomas, which are the most dangerous facial skin problems. They usually begin as tiny lumps and grow in size over time. So, if you notice any increasing skin growths or a sore that won’t heal, see your doctor.

How to Take Care of Your Skin as You Age

  • Cleanse

Cleansing your skin twice daily is a critical step for everyone, no matter what age you are. Cleansing the right way can also help relieve dry skin. Avoid hot baths, frequent showering or bathing, and excessive skin scrubbing. Choose cleanser that removes the oil, makeup, and pollution without stripping your skin of moisture.  Instead of using harsh soaps and alcohol-based products, there are many mild cleansers to use instead:

  • CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

  • Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

  • Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser

  • Moisturize

Using a moisturizer is especially vital for people with dry skin. Consider double-duty formula moisturizers that can “draw in water” and “seal the water in”. Some seniors prefer using oil; just remember to apply serums beforehand. If you are living in a dry environment, using a humidifier is also useful in adding moisture to the room.

  • CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

  • Vichy Aqualia Thermal Rich Cream Moisturizer (Rich)



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    Call us

    1-647-243-2981


    Visit us anytime

    294 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada


    Send us an email

    info@emersewell.com



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    Sign up for Medicare newsletter to receive all the news offers and discounts.




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      Copyright by Emersewell Inc. 2020. All rights reserved.



      Copyright by Emersewell Inc. 2020. All rights reserved.