Education

What Is Memory Care?

When it comes the time when a loved one needs extra care and assistance to remain happy and healthy, the words "memory care" may come up as an option. As our loved ones age, they lose not only physical capabilities, but also mental ones.

How Is Memory Care Designed?

Memory care communities are designed for those with Alzheimer’s or other memory related illnesses in mind. They aren’t too different from assisted living communities, They provide many fundamentals such as housekeeping, meal preparations and aid with daily needs, but also pays specific attention to those with memory loss and their unique needs. Memory care communities prioritize keeping seniors involved and mentally active. Even with the loss of cognitive abilities, seniors can continue to engage with others and take part in many activities and hobbies that staff provides. Many care communities have social calendars filled with a variety of activities to get seniors excited. For some communities, that means cognitive abilities like brain games.

Are All Memory Care Communities The Same?

Just like every senior is different, so is the memory care provided. When you choose a new community, the care plans you get customized to fit the needs of your loved one. Often, seniors with memory problems are placed in a solely memory care community that best enables care workers to assist our loved one's unique needs. Memory care units can also be separated for those with early dementia or late stage dementia. Staff in memory units are also highly trained and equipped as well as usually having undergone additional training for dealing with those who have memory related diseases.  During the COVID pandemic, memory care communities are taken the safest measures possible. Memory communities are a secure and safe environment for your loved ones who deal with Alzheimer’s or memory related diseases where they can continue to enjoy life while also getting the best care possible. Regardless of your choice, your mom is good hands. Whether in Barrington, Lake Barrington, North Barrington, Lake Zurich, Deer Park, Naperville, Bull Valley, Crystal Lake, Schaumberg, and the City of Chicago, senior living communities care options for your loved ones. Contact us to get in touch with a certified advisor who knows your area.

This holiday season, it’s important to observe how your senior loved one is doing when visiting them. Often, after the holidays, we get calls from families who have noticed some changes in their family member that have caused them to think a more supported lifestyle may be in store.Here are some things to look for:Is your loved one still active and participating in the events that they have always enjoyed?Is their personal hygiene being done on a daily basis?Are they eating proper, nutritious meals?Have they had recent falls?Are they mentally alert and making safe decisions for themselves?Are they seeing their doctor regularly?Is their home safe to navigate? (Laundry on main level, walk in shower?)If after seeing your senior in the next several weeks, you feel they are in need of more support, give Senior Living Experts a call. We can talk over the options with you and educate you on the senior living level that would benefit your senior the most. Perhaps, it would be for a respite stay during the difficult months of winter, or for a permanent transition. Either way, we can assist in helping to make your senior successful and fulfilled in their newfound lifestyle!

supportive living facilities (SLF) are a relatively new concept in senior care.  The first one in Illinois opened up in 1999 and in 2005 the state enacted to make SLF a permanent program.

See, what was happening was that there were seniors living in nursing homes that did not require 24-hour care.  Maybe they needed it when they first got there, but then the got better, yet going home alone was not an option.   These residents were on Medicaid and the state figured out that it would cost less for them to live in an “assisted living” model than a nursing home that cost more to operate.  The state has saved about 40% in Medicaid costs and is preventing premature placement in nursing homes.

The definition of SLF is affordable, independent living for seniors in need of some assistance with daily living (ADLs), such as medication management, bathing, grooming, etc.  As a state program, financial assistance is available for those who qualify.  But you can also live there and pay privately.  Or move in as a private pay and spend down.

Most of the SLF buildings in the Chicagoland area are brand new construction or rehabs!  Each person has their own apartment, which has to have at least 300 sq of living space, closets and a full bathroom of their own.  The doors lock from the inside for privacy and there are emergency call systems in each apartment.  Also, they are wired for private phone lines, access to cable and include a sink, microwave and a refrigerator.  (Kitchenette.)

Services included are 3 meals a day, housekeeping, laundry, health and wellness checks, activities, group transportation and assistance with ADL’s if needed.

The difference between assisted living that we already talked about and an SLF is that the SLF does have financial assistance to those who qualify.  Requirements include that the resident MUST be at least 65 or older (not always the case with private pay AL).  They must require help with at least one ADL (unless paying privately).  They cannot have a primary or secondary diagnosis of Mental Illness or be developmentally disabled.  And must receive a minimum monthly income of Social Security (SS) of $603 a month.

So how much does it cost?  Well if you want to pay privately, the rates are lower than most assisted living buildings – usually falling in the range of $2500-2900 a month for a single person.

If you qualify for financial assistance then your SS check goes directly to the facility toward payment of your rent and the state makes up the difference.  The resident receives $90 of their SS check back to use for miscellaneous expenses.  (In a nursing home the reimbursement is only $30! – What in God’s name can you do with a dollar a day? – just my 2 cents..)

Where are they?  Good question!  The state has a website www.SLFillinois.com that will give you list of locations that are open and those that are pending.  There currently are about 50 open and operational sites and over 90 pending in the state.   They also include the addresses and phone numbers so you can call and get more information or schedule a tour.  Some of them have waiting lists so it’s good to call sooner rather than later.  The website also goes into great detail than I just did as to how it works! 

Photo by Jahnae Neal from Pexels

Someone just sent me a link to an article that was in Monday's edition of USA Today.  I am just getting around to reading it now.  Its a great article and it speaks of all the different kinds of situations we come across in our business.  I have included the link here USA TODAY article on Elder care shifting away from nursing homes.

When I went to the site though, it appears they are doing different articles on the subject all week so its a great place to browse.  Also, they had a link to the ABC caregiving articles and stories including the one I mention below where they wanted caregivers to send in video clips!  Check it out!

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Photo on Unsplash by Sam Mcghee

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An exciting night in television history for us last night! Dominic Chu from CNBC did report for PBS' Nightly Business Report that featured a clip with Senior Living Experts Founder, Lisa Sneddon.In the beginning of the month, we were contacted by a producer from CNBC regarding the show.  Lisa was asked numerous questions about the state of the industry and the current costs for care.This was part three of a four part series, Aging in America and this segment focused on the companies to watch for stock purposes.  Our nations aging population is going to need senior living and related resources so the gist is that you want to watch out for the big players in the industry and think about investing in their stock.  I actually spoke about one of the main reasons and benefits of choosing assisted living over home care which was the socialization aspect.

Unfortunately, none of the other questions or answers fit into the focus (or the time frame!!) of this particular segment, but it was such an interesting experience from start to finish, and we hope to get the opportunity to do it again!Here is a link to the featured segment on the show : "Aging in America: the companies that benefit"And here is Lisa, sitting in front of a magical green screen for the first time!

How should you choose Chicago assisted living facilities?Senior Living Experts offers free assistance in helping you find the best fit for you and your needs.

Tips to Help Choose Chicago Assisted Living Facilities

We are here to serve you in finding the right fit for senior living options. First, we want you to understand our services as explained here. We guide you by evaluating your situation and then providing you with options for YOU to choose.

5 Tips to Help You Choose Chicago Assisted Living

1. Types of Living Choices – This article explains the various types of senior living. There are a number of options available for seniors and we can assist you in finding the best options available for your financial situation, abilities, needs, and desires.
2. Illinois Financial Aid – Unfortunately finances will play a big part in your decision; but you have options. Illinois offers various state financial aid programs that can help.
3. National Financial Aid – There are also a variety of National financial aid programs that can help with the costs of senior living. This Eldercare Financial Assistance tool can help you find programs that you may qualify for on a national level.
4. Location – According to the Paying for Senior Care website, searching for senior living in the outer areas of the urban Chicago area costs decrease. Moving further away from the cities and into more suburban areas can help decrease costs by as much as 25% in some instances.
5. Ability to Accommodate – Your needs will change as you age; especially if you currently have a degenerative disease. Take your worst case scenario and make sure that the facility you are choosing has the ability to change with your needs.

Personalized Fit for How to Choose Chicago Assisted Living

Many people forget to think that part of what you are looking for when you choose Chicago assisted living is the “living” part! You need to choose your senior living with these 5 main points in mind for your current situation and the future:

• Physical – The physical needs for now and the future need to be met. If you or your loved one has Alzheimer’s; will the living style you choose be able to meet the care needs for dementia? If you have diabetes, will there be a way to ensure you get healthy snacks and meals as you age? Simply put, you need to sure that your physical aging needs can and will be met in the future.
• Social – Are you a highly social person or someone that enjoys hobbies? Remaining socially active is a large part of aging successfully. Make sure that there are enough interesting events and functions available to keep you busy.
• Mental – You need to remain mentally stimulated as you age. You also need to have access to therapies and care that can deal with different possible mental aspects of aging (dementia care, depression, memory stimulation, focusing on a clear mind that can think well for as long as possible).
• Financial – You need to ensure that you will be able to afford services currently and into the future. We can help you find out what amenities are included and what will be additional as you need them. These additional amenities could end up doubling your bill (or more) as your needs change. Be sure you find a place that you can afford if your needs change.
• Health – You want to be sure that your choice for senior living facilities will help you keep active and as healthy as possible. You also want to be sure that as your health changes the facility can keep up with your needs. This can include having on site physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychological therapies, on site nursing staff, and even a facility physician.

The New Senior Lifestyle

Today’s seniors are active, hands-on, knowledgeable and wanting to age well.When you’re finding your way to the future of your golden years go with your heart. Let us assist you when it’s time to choose Chicago assisted living facilities so that you can find the place that will continue to feel like home, filled with happiness every day.Unsplash Photo by Tiago

Senior Living Experts understands that promoting healthy nutrition in the elderly can be difficult. March is National Nutrition Month; a time to focus on healthy eating habits at every age.

Eating Habits Change in Seniors

We can help you find the services you need to help promote healthy nutrition in the elderly person(s) in your life.As we age our bodies change and so can our eating habits. Seniors who have dementia can be especially difficult. Here are some interesting ways to address changes in eating habits and promoting healthy nutrition in the elderly…

• Consistency – Being consistent and having a regular schedule can be helpful. Many seniors like being on a schedule, even if it isn’t to the minute. It can also be especially helpful when dealing with dementia patients to have a common, regular day to look forward to.
• Limit Choices – While you may think that having a multitude of choices can be an effective way to a way of meeting the nutritional needs of a senior, it can be overwhelming for those who have dementia issues. While you want to have options, keeping them limited.
• Sneak in Veggies – Sometimes it’s best to keep things simple. Instead of spaghetti and a salad, you can sneak some of the fresh veggies into the sauce by finely mincing vegetables & adding it to the sauce while cooking (even blending the sauce with fresh spinach, peppers, etc. in a blender). Your meal becomes a simple dish of spaghetti, less fuss, less conflict. Click here for 40 ways to add healthy ingredients to your meals.

3 Things to Ask Chicago Assisted Living Facilities

If you’re looking to find a senior living facility and that you want to be sure is promoting healthy nutrition in the elderly you’ll want to ask a few questions.

1. Variety – Ask to see a menu, current & past, to see if the types of food they offer. You’ll want to be sure there is not only a variety of entrée options but also the ability to fulfill the nutritional needs of your senior loved one. Ask how they handle when a resident doesn’t like the options or request something different. How accommodating are they?
2. Rules – Find out what the dining room “rules” are and how they handle various situations. If your senior loved one has shown problems with eating, whether from health issues, dementia, or simply because of the changes they’ve experienced from aging, ask how the facility handles these problems.
3. Staffing – Having a registered dietician or nutritionist will help promote healthy eating habits. Having meals prepared for the residents will provide options that can address particular needs of your senior loved one (diabetes, thyroid issues, dementia, etc.). Keeping a medical staff on hand will also be helpful if there are changes in eating habits, inability to eat/swallow or changes in ability, or weight (gaining or losing).

Find the Right Senior Living for Your Needs

Senior Living Experts can help you find the right kind of senior living facility to help you be sure your elderly loved one is eating healthy! Making sure you understand the nutritional needs of your senior is important, especially those battling Alzheimer’s. Join us in promoting healthy nutrition in the elderly this month by sharing this page with others!Photo by OakleyOriginals

April is National Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month and a time to reflect upon the disease and some important things to remember.

Parkinson's Disease Awareness

Awareness of the disease can help you not only learn how to deal with it but what may possibly be expected in your future. You will learn about the symptoms, the procedures, the medications, the holistic treatments and so much more when it comes to figuring out the body with PD.

What is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's disease is a progressive, chronic disease that affects the ability of movement. It causes nerve cells within the brain (neurons) to die off or malfunction; causing decreased or loss of control over movements and coordination as it progresses.

Parkinson's Facts:

• Approximately 1 million people in the U.S.are affected yearly
• The Average age of Parkinson's onset is 60 and increases with age
• Early onset PD can can affect a person aged 50 & younger (accounting for approximately 4% of those diagnosed)
• Cause is unknown; however it is thought that both genetics and environment play a vital role in this disease
• Parkinson's Disease is a progressive disease; however it can also be a slow moving disease taking 20 or more years to fully progress
• Men are more likely to be diagnosed than women (50% more men have Parkinson's than women)
• On average doctor's diagnose as many as 60,000 new PD cases each year
• Genetics may play a factor in the disease, with 15-25% of those diagnosed having a relative who is diagnosed also; however this does not mean that you must have someone else in the family diagnosed (or someone may have had it without diagnosis)
• There is NO SPECIFIC TEST to determine if you have Parkinson's Disease
• There is currently no cure for PD; only a way to manage/treat the symptoms

4 of the Most Prominent Motor Signs of Parkinson's Disease

1. Tremor usually begin in the head, hands, arms, legs & face
2. rigidity or stiffness of the body
3. slowness of movement (referred to as: bradykinesia)
4. instability of the posture, impaired balance and coordination

Living with Parkinson's Disease

You can have a full life with Parkinson's disease and Parkinson's Disease Awareness is how it begins.

1. Health Team - Find a physician/specialist who works with Parkinson's Disease (often neurologists will specialize in this field)
2. Reduce Stress - Stress only increases the symptoms of the disease (learn yoga, take walks, running, reading, etc.)
3. Trials - Keep in touch with the new clinical trials that you can participate in.
4. Caregiving - As time goes on a professional caregiver can be helpful and will help reduce the stress of everyday needs & chores
5. Socialize - Remain socially active with local Parkinson's groups, friends or family. Depression can be a side effect of the disease.
6. Diet & Exercise - Your body will always benefit from an excellent diet and exercise; let us help you obtain both.

This article is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Parkinson's Disease Awareness and Senior Living Experts can help you live life to the fullest.Cited Works:Florida Hospital - Parkinson's DiseaseMichael J. Fox FoundationParkinson's Disease Foundation

‍Photo by jp26jp / Pixabay

We're here to help you learn how to compare pricing between different assisted living facilities because making a decision about where to place a loved one or live as an aging senior isn't easy. We're here to help you if you are looking for assisted living in the Chicago area; making it easier for you to make an informed decision.

The Facts About Assisted Living Pricing

• Prices Aren't All Inclusive - The price you pay entering a facility won't be the price you'll be paying later in life as needs change.
• Size of Apartment - It's imperative that you choose the right sized apartment for now and for the future. Like any apartment, price is partially based on size.
• Price Shock - Most people have price shock when listening to the "menu pricing" of assisted living costs; assuming that this is not a feasible choice. Understanding how to afford assisted living is just as important as understanding how to compare pricing between different assisted living facilities.
• Additional Fees - You need to be fully aware of additional fees that can apply throughout the entire time you choose and live in assisted living. Every place has their own fees and how they apply, so every place you look at will be slightly different.

How to Compare Pricing Between Different Assisted Living Facilities

1. Create a List - Begin by creating a list of your current needs for assisted living. This list will change as you begin visiting because various amenities will be brought to your attention as you visit different assisted living facilities.
2. Assume Nothing - Ask questions about everything and it's cost because hidden costs and fees are what can put you above the price level you can afford.
3. Assistance - Find out what type of assistance is available in your area. Certain facilities may also offer price reductions for everything from income levels to other qualifications that can help you afford a place that you may think you can't.
4. Long Term Care Benefits - Purchasing long term care benefits is one of the best options for before the need arises. We can assist you in purchasing these type of benefits which can be extremely beneficial when the time comes to search for assisted living.
5. Costs - There is no question that assisted living can be overwhelming. Here in Chicago the cost of assisted living can be as high as $5,000 a month.
6. Government Funding - You may be surprised to find what Medicare covers for long term care costs in seniors. Become acquainted with the funding that is available to you in your area (something that Senior Living Experts can help you with).
7. Reverse Mortgages - There are pros and cons to reverse mortgages, which can be used to help pay for assisted living. Get informed!

If this all seems overwhelming to you then you really should seek out the professional expertise that Senior Living Experts can offer. We want you to fully understand how to compare pricing between different assisted living facilities and help you if you're in the Chicago area. Photo by steinarhovland (Pixabay)

Supportive Living Facilities (SLF) are basically assisted living communities that are subsidized by the State of Illinois. The Department of Healthcare and Family Services oversees the program which provides services that are usually not covered by Medicaid including personal care needs, medication reminders, laundry assistance, activities, transportation, three meals a day, and outings. When a senior has around $100,000 or less in total assets, and they need supportive services on a daily basis (bathing, dressing, etc), this is a good time to think about Supportive Living as an option. SLF’s are typically around $4000 per month for all of the services listed above. The senior will privately pay their monthly rate, and once their assets are spent down to $2000, the State will take the seniors’ Social Security check, and leave the senior with $90 per month.The community will assist in applying for Medicaid on behalf of the senior. The senior does not change apartments. Simply, the way in which the care and support for the senior is funded is the only difference.Often, we encounter families who may choose to use home care services at home, or continue to have their senior loved one reside in a private pay senior living community, but our message to them is to NOT run out of funds before moving to a SLF. Some SLF’s want private pay funds for a certain amount of time before they will allow the senior to go on Medicaid once funds run out. If the funds are exhausted while using home care services at home, or while privately paying a senior living community that does not have Medicaid on the campus, you are running the risk of not being able to get into a SLF at all. Even some campuses that have private pay assisted living, but have skilled nursing Medicaid as the financial “safety net”, require 18 months to two years of private pay funds before they will allow someone on Medicaid to reside on their campus.Once your senior loved one has about $100,000 in total assets left, give Senior Living Experts a call. We can walk you through this process, and make sure that you are considering the timing involved when it comes to moving your senior at the right time, with the right amount of finances. Do not run out of funds without first being in the proper level of care, at the right time, and at the right type of community.

Take Action: Prioritize Senior Living Residents for COVID-19 Response

Argentum, the leading national trade association serving companies that own, operate, and support professionally managed senior living communities, is calling on Congress to take swift action to ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents and staff of the communities as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Please join us in this effort and send a pre-written letter to your member of Congress and Senators here.

We urge our senators and congressmen to commit to providing these communities with the protective equipment, virus testing, and financial support they will need to continue providing care.

Seniors are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 and their caregivers are working around the clock on the front lines to protect them and keep them out of the hospital. But they need more protective equipment and a lack of testing makes it challenging to stop the virus from spreading. It is critical for communities to be able to test residents and staff. How can NBA players get immediate testing, and senior living residents and workers cannot? They aren't able to see their loved ones and must spend all day in their room, unable to join others for dining or activities. As we look to return to normal, senior living should be prioritized for testing, PPE, and the resources they need to fight the virus and help the community get back to the place our seniors call home.

Restaurants, hotels, airlines, and Airbnb owners have received federal financial support, and they are not caring for the most important people in our lives. Senior living communities need your support to keep providing the exceptional care that is needed now more than ever.I urge you to consider the needs of our most vulnerable and precious- seniors and their caregivers by prioritizing our communities for PPE, testing and federal financial support.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic presents unique challenges to the senior living industry, as individuals who are at the greatest risk from the virus include people aged over 60 years and those with underlying conditions. Timely access to testing is the most critical component to prevention and response, and we recommend that forthcoming legislative packages provide for adequate supplies to prevent, test for, and respond to any outbreaks, ensure regulations support the ability to care for residents, and that communities have the resources able to maintain operations throughout this pandemic and beyond.

While communities are taking preventive measures against the virus, there is no doubt that support is needed from the federal government to help keep our residents and team members safe. It is imperative that lawmakers hear not only from industry leaders, but from constituents who are most directly affected by this crisis and why Congress must prioritize senior living communities.

‍Please take a moment to send your federal legislators a note on the urgent need to prioritize senior living in the COVID-19 response.

Do you know someone who loves to read, but can't anymore because they have lost their eyesight?

The National Library Service (for the Blind and the Physically Handicapped), Library of Congress has a national network of libraries that can send eligible borrowers in the U.S. audio materials via postage-free mail.

In addition to books, they also offer magazines and musical scores. They also provide the playback equipment. Those that are hard of hearing may also be eligible for an amplifier for the head phones!

I have met many seniors that loved to read, but can't enjoy this past time anymore because of macular degeneration or blindness.  So they end up listening to the television all day.  I think this is a great idea, and I actually found out about it when I was reading my copy of AARP magazine.  (Don't all 37 year old's read that?)

For more information, visit their website at www.loc.gov/nls or call 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323)

The following is a list of rights that everyone moving into an assisted living facility should have:

• Privacy
• Control of personal finances
• Retain and have use of personal possessions
• Freedom of religion
• Control of health related services (and freedom to choose their doctors)
• The abilty to organize a resident council
• To be treated with dignity and respect (shouldn't we treat everyone especially seniors with dignity and respect?)
• The freedome to interact freely with others withing the assisted living home and the community

Photo by CDC/Unsplash

Join the Greater Illinois chapter of the Alzheimer's Association for a very fun event on the evening of March 1.During the evening there will be unlimited opportunites to sample wines from different vineyards as well as participate in a silent auction.  I will be there as a volunteer.  Last year was a lot of fun.For all the details (how to register, whats up for auction, where the money goes..) please check out the official Wine and Roses website.

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Photo by Edu Carvaho/Pexels.

My good friends at the Alzheimer's Association asked me to post this information: The Alzheimer's Association is proud to announce our first annual family forum, to be held Sunday, August 26, 2007 from 10am - 4 pm at the Hyatt McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois. The forum will be an incredible opportunity for family members and friends of persons with dementia to come together and discover the resources that are available to them, learn about advances in Alzheimer research, gain knowledge of caregiving practices, and build camaraderie with other families facing this disease. This one day forum includes presentations on scientific research as well as information that will assist family members and friends in coping with the many aspects of the disease. Click on "family forum" above to get more details!  Its a long way off, but if you are coming from out of town its better to plan early.

Photo by Humphrey Muleba on Unsplash

Join the Alzheimer's Association on Sunday, August 26 for a special one-day session just for family caregivers. We'll discuss the unique issues that face individuals and families who are adapting to the changing needs of loved one with dementia. Dementia care experts will lead sessions on topics that include accessing appropriate dementia care; communicating with a person with dementia; and creating safe living spaces for a person with dementia. Our opening speaker, Ann Davidson, is the author of multiple books about the 12 years she spent caring for her husband, Julian, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's at age 59. Ann will tell their story and describe how together they faced Alzheimer's with a positive outlook.Your$30 registration fee includes a boxed lunch and beverage breaks. Throughout the day you’ll also have an opportunity to browse our exhibit hall, which will host representatives from dozens of Alzheimer and care-related organizations. They will be on hand to answer your questions and give you information about how their services can benefit and support your caregiving duties. Don't miss this opportunity to meet hundreds of other family caregivers who know what you're experiencing - and professionals in the field who can provide helpful tips and guidance. Register today!

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Photo by Humphrey Muleba on Unsplash

Dutiful Daughters is a free monthly support group for caregivers struggling with the emotional and physical challenges of caring for an elderly parent or spouse while often times balancing the demands of other family members and career. Each month at Sunrise Assisted Living of Lincoln Park, they hold a discussion hosted by their Director of Community Relations, Jennifer Joers and their Reminiscence Coordinator, James Thomson, who has been certified by the Alzheimer's Association to lead support groups.  (I mentioned this group before briefly in my post about Alzheimer's support groups.)  Above is a picture I took of Jim and some of the residents and caregivers at Sunrise from last year's Memory Walk. Each month they have a different topic or theme.  For May, the theme is "Difficult Decisions: Funeral Planning - Planning ahead to honor your parents according to their wishes. "Date:  May 29thTime: 6 - 7 PM Place:  Sunrise of Lincoln Park2710 N. Clark Street, Chicago, ILRSVP to Jennifer at 773/244-0005

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Photo by Raychan on Unsplash

May is Healthy Vision Month and we're focusing on healthy eyes for seniors; sharing some interesting facts and information about maintaining healthy eyesight as you age.

Healthy Vision Information

• By 2030 approximately 11.4 million people will have diabetic retinopathy; especially as the numbers of seniors increases.
• Your genes play an important part in being "at risk" for health problems; in particular those who have a family history of glaucoma and/or any other genetic eye diseases should be extra diligent about having regular eye exams.
• Some excellent food choices that can help you reduce your risk of eye disease include dark green leafy vegetables, fish, eggs (the yolk in particular), carrots or any food high in beta-carotene, almonds (studies show that they can be beneficial against age-related macular degeneration -AMD- and cataract), and fruits high in vitamin C (berries, citrus, etc.) are a few of the foods known to help reduce your risk of AMD or cataracts.
• Half of Americans 75 years of age and over have cataracts; many may not only realize they have it in the early stages when it removal is usually more successful.
• Poor eyesight can attribute to increased fall risk in seniors; it's important to reduce your risk of falls and this includes keeping your eyesight in check.
• Low vision is not a part of aging; this means that if you are experiencing low vision symptoms it is from an eye injury (current or former) or eye disease.

Tips for Seniors - Encouraging Healthy Vision

1. Overall Health - Remember that your overall health is relevant to your eye health. Diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and many others can affect eye health; so it's important to visit your physician regularly and practice healthy lifestyle habits.
2. Sleep Habits Affect Eye Health - Your sleep patterns can affect the health of your eyes and it's common to experience changes in sleep habits as we age. During sleep your eyes perform certain healthy functions like flushing out the irritants and pollutants and exposure to natural light affects your eyes' ability to perform properly; making sleep an important factor to healthy vision and your overall health.
3. Protective Eyewear - It's important to wear protective eyewear (not just your regular glasses) during home improvements, when in the sun, and when using chemicals to garden or clean. Statistics show 44% of eye injuries occur in the home.
4. Know What To Expect - It's important to understand what "normal" is as you age. Eyesight does change, but not all things are normal; the AAO explains what to expect with your eyesight as you age.

Safe surroundings, assistance in everyday living and regular eye exams can all be some of the most important factors in healthy vision and safety for seniors.Photo by simonwijers / PixabayCited Works:American Academy of OphthamologyNational Eye Institute (NEI)

Set your VCR's or Tivo's!  Last month I was interviewed for the cable access TV show, "The Vintage Times."  This show is a monthly cable television program for senior citizens (and those who care for senior citizens.)  It is produced by the Township of Downers Grove in cooperation with the Village of Downers Grove.

I was asked to speak about the different options in senior living, and how to know when its time to make the move.  Betty from Senior Home Sharing (one of our partners) was also there to talk about their unique senior living options.  Hanna is the host of the show and the whole experience was really cool. 

The Vintage Times is show on channel 6 in Downers Grove on Mondays and Fridays at 10:30 am.  Our show will air in JULY!!  The program is also shown the following month on COMCAST channel 19 Thursdays at 6pm in 39 communities including: Burr Ridge, Clarendon Hills, Elmhurst, Hinsdale, Lombard, Lyons, Maywood, Oakbrook, Oak Park, River Forest, Rosemont, Westchester, Westmont, Willowbrook and Woodridge to name a few!

Photo by Askar Abayev from Pexels

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