Smart phones and electronic tablets, such as iPhones, Androids, Blackberries and iPads, are becoming a must have for seniors today.
It’s the application or “apps” that make these devices so useful. Apps turn our phones in to mini computers that put resources, information and amusement right in our hands. Here are some apps that many seniors find invaluable.
Simple Phone Seniors Phonotto
Today’s smart phones can be overwhelming with apps, widgets, and other things on the screen, some seniors want to turn their “smart” phone into a basic handset that is easy to use and easy to see. Simple Phone Seniors Phonotto makes using your smart phone easy. The large touch screen buttons allow you to quickly and easily make phone calls and send or receive text messages.
Skype
Make video calls to your children, grandchildren, or friends, wherever they live. You’re no longer confined to a video call from your computer. Using a smart phone capable of running the Skype app allows you to video call anyone who has Skype; regardless of whether it’s on their computer or mobile phone. Many newer smart phones have front facing cameras in addition to the camera on the backside of the device, so video calls are easy.
Valpak
Ever leave home to go shopping or head out for dinner and realize you left your coupons on the kitchen counter? Now you can download the Valpak app and bring local coupons up on your phone. Many retailers will accept the mobile version of their coupons and the app sorts them by category and location, so finding what you are looking for is easy.
Audio book – aging
This is an audio book that discusses the changes that people experience as they age. Physical and psychological changes occur as one ages and the chapters in this audio book discuss those changes as well as provide tips on maintaining health, life in retirement communities, protecting your skin, and how to cover up minor blemishes caused by aging.
iTriage
Feeling a bit under the weather or have an unusual pain and wondering what may be the cause? iTriage allows you to search symptoms and learn about potential causes. Information about diseases, procedures, and medications is also available along with a directory of hospitals, physicians, and pharmacies.
Senior Golf Guide
This app is designed to help seniors improve their golf game or for some, how to get started if they have never played. Whether you are a beginner or a pro ,this app provides all the tips and tricks to be a better golfer. It discusses the exercises you should do before hitting the course, the snacks you should take with you to keep your body fueled, and tips for warming up to avoid injury.
Brain Genius Deluxe
Exercise your mind, quiz yourself, and keep your brain active. This app has many fun exercises for your brain. The games analyze your observation, memory, calculation, and reasoning abilities. The more you play, the stronger you mind becomes. Just like muscles in your body, the more training you do the more brain power you develop.
Amazon Mobile
If you’ve ever shopped on Amazon.com you know there are deals to be had. Now, you can do your shopping on the go. Even better, if you are at a retailer and want to compare prices to make sure you’re getting the best deal, use your Amazon app to scan the barcode of the product. Compare their price to Amazon’s. If Amazon’s is better, with one click you can order the product and have it to your door within a day or two.
Before loading apps to your phone or tablet, keep in mind that some are free while others charge a minimal one-time fee. Further, some apps may not be compatible with certain smart phones. What’s available for an iPhones might not work on an Android, but most do work on all platforms. The fun part of apps is exploring and finding out what works best for your lifestyle.
Happy 2012! If getting to the gym more often is part of your New Year’s resolution, but you dread the idea of going nowhere fast on a treadmill, then try something different. One of the keys to a successful fitness routine is to make sure it’s not routine.
In fact, you’ll have better results if you mix it up by adding strength and flexibility to your cardio workouts. An exercise class can do just that. Here are some ideas that will take you beyond the treadmill and help fight fitness boredom.
1. Do a morning stretch. Start your day off with Flex & Firm, a class inspired by Yoga that targets your core by using standing and floor stretching as well as the use of a stability ball for strength and toning.
2. Travel the circuit. Flex your muscles using the resistance machines in the fitness room in a group setting. The Circuit incorporates all of the upper body and lower body machines along with various exercises utilizing dumbbells and other accessories.
3. Just add water. Nothing is more refreshing than a workout in the pool and Aqua Aerobics gets you motivated with cardio plus resistance training. For something a little more relaxing, try Ai Chi, a water-based, relaxation progression class that combines deep breathing with slow broad movements.
4. Become more social. Exercising in a group builds camaraderie, holds us accountable and keeps us motivated. Plus it’s fun when you’re with friends! Water Volleyball at Maple Knoll is a great way to be active and social at the same time.
5. Start dancing! Zumba anyone? Dance your worries away with Zumba Fitness. This class uses high energy and motivating music with unique moves and combinations. It is based on the principle that a workout should be “fun and easy to do” allowing you stick to the Zumba Fitness program and achieve long-term health benefits.
Fact: Thinking about going to the gym burns between 0 and 0 calories!
This year, add an exercise class to your fitness routine. Contact the Hemsworth Wellness Center on the campus of Maple Knoll Village at 513.782.4340 for more information.
Filed under: caregivers, older adults, Resident Life, Resources | Tags: caregiver, holidays, stress
Today, most older adults are vibrant and full of energy, but the holidays can be stressful for every one:
1. Set realistic goals
We know visiting family and friends is always on the to-do list during the holiday season, but traveling and meeting with people all day can be physically and mentally exhausting. Make sure to schedule ample rest time throughout and allow for plenty of transportation time in between visits so that there’s no rushing around to see last-minute guests.
2. Keep set schedules
If your senior parent or friend is used to waking up at a certain time, eating at a certain time and going to bed at a certain time, make sure to respect those schedules. Staying up later to accommodate family visits or having to eat later in the evening because of a difference in meal times can be difficult and stressful for a senior to acclimate to, so make sure you know beforehand what their schedule is like.
3. Keep expenses to a minimum
Many older adults are on fixed incomes, so keeping costs low can help ease any financial stress associated with the holidays. Travel, gifts and food can all start to take their toll on the checkbook, so make sure to create a realistic budget and stick to it.
4. Plan appropriate activities
A six-hour shopping trip may not be the best idea for a senior who has difficulty walking or standing for long periods of time. If these types of activities are unavoidable, make sure that a walker or wheelchair is available to make activities easier and more comfortable. Many seniors have circulatory problems or other illnesses that can make standing for long periods difficult.
5. Keep friends or family around
Along with the fun and happy aspects of holidays comes sadness for many older adults – especially those who’ve lost loved ones. Be sure not to be isolated.
Finally, Unfortunately…50% of the seniors over the age of 80 suffer from Alzheimer’s disease…holidays are very stressful for people with memory issues…if you are planning a large family event encourage relatives to wear name tags, it can be very intimidating for people who can not remember a relatives name. Long term memory is usually intact, so this is a wonderful time to go down, “Memory Lane” and share old pictures.
Finally, encourage seniors, as we do at THE KNOLLS, to “LIVE LIFE”
Filed under: caregivers, older adults, Resident Life | Tags: caregiver, holidays, older adults
Today, most older adults are vibrant and full of energy, but the holidays can be stressful for every one:
1. Set realistic goals
We know visiting family and friends is always on the to-do list during the holiday season, but traveling and meeting with people all day can be physically and mentally exhausting. Make sure to schedule ample rest time throughout and allow for plenty of transportation time in between visits so that there’s no rushing around to see last-minute guests.
2. Keep set schedules
If your senior parent or friend is used to waking up at a certain time, eating at a certain time and going to bed at a certain time, make sure to respect those schedules. Staying up later to accommodate family visits or having to eat later in the evening because of a difference in meal times can be difficult and stressful for a senior to acclimate to, so make sure you know beforehand what their schedule is like.
3. Keep expenses to a minimum
Many older adults are on fixed incomes, so keeping costs low can help ease any financial stress associated with the holidays. Travel, gifts and food can all start to take their toll on the checkbook, so make sure to create a realistic budget and stick to it.
4. Plan appropriate activities
A six-hour shopping trip may not be the best idea for a senior who has difficulty walking or standing for long periods of time. If these types of activities are unavoidable, make sure that a walker or wheelchair is available to make activities easier and more comfortable. Many seniors have circulatory problems or other illnesses that can make standing for long periods difficult.
5. Keep friends or family around
Along with the fun and happy aspects of holidays comes sadness for many older adults – especially those who’ve lost loved ones. Be sure not to be isolated.
Finally, Unfortunately…50% of the seniors over the age of 80 suffer from Alzheimer’s disease…holidays are very stressful for people with memory issues…if you are planning a large family event encourage relatives to wear name tags, it can be very intimidating for people who can not remember a relatives name. Long term memory is usually intact, so this is a wonderful time to go down, “Memory Lane” and share old pictures.
Finally, encourage seniors, as we do at MAPLE KNOLL, to “LIVE LIFE”
