In her series, “What to Expect When Your Parents Are Aging,” Seniors Guide writer Terri L. Jones looks first at the stages of aging. After all, foreknowledge better equips us for the road ahead.
Until my 50s, my parents were relatively healthy and active, and so were my aunts and uncles. One of my grandmothers actually lived alone (with her cats) into her 90s.
However, as if overnight, the older generation of my family turned a devastating corner. My father was diagnosed with vascular dementia, and an aunt and uncle went to live in a nursing home, where they both lived out their days. My mother succumbed to her COPD. I was blindsided.
I don’t think I am the only one who wasn’t prepared for the dominos to fall for my family members – nor is my family the only one to be surprised. By knowing what to expect as your loved ones age – and understanding that others are going through the same challenges – you can better manage what’s ahead, practically and emotionally. You’re not alone on this stressful, yet important journey.
Part 1: The Stages of Aging
No two people age exactly the same. Some older people will experience a crisis situation and decline quickly, whereas others will age gradually and almost imperceptibly over many years. However, most people go through fairly predictable transitions as they get older. As a potential caregiver, it’s essential that you’re aware of the stages of aging. By knowing what may be ahead, you can be better prepared.
Read the entire article HERE for more detailed information.
This information provided courtesy of Seniors guide By Terri L. Jones.
About eight million Americans have balance problems and one in three Americans over age 65 will fall every year. Injuries from falls, like a fractured hip, can change a senior’s life in ways senior fear most—isolation and loss of independence. For seniors and caregivers, understanding balance disorders and fall prevention along with knowing when to get help can go a long way toward avoiding falls and the devastating consequences that may come with it.
Today’s 55+ communities offer more advantages to active adults and seniors than ever before. They are also easy to find. In fact, chances are good that you currently live near an age-qualified retirement living community. But, even if you don’t, it’s fun to contemplate the many exciting locations and lifestyle opportunities that such communities are known for. They frequently offer a no-fuss style of living that’s ideal for vital adults who want to keep experiencing some of life’s greatest joys.
As we age, some of us eventually lose the ability to handle our own affairs. That’s why you’re smart to find out how to get power of attorney (POA) for a parent who is sick, disabled, or experiencing mental decline. But even if your parent is in good health right now, it’s wise to plan ahead for potential challenges. You simply never know when an injury or illness may take away your mom or dad’s capacity to manage finances or make important decisions about medical care. In fact, the best time to start considering power of attorney is before a parent requires any caregiving.
A recent study on moving patterns for retirees in the United States found that hundreds of thousands of Americans who retire each year are choosing to move somewhere other than where they currently live. That’s especially true in the past year, as 30 percent more people moved for retirement in 2020 than did the year before, a continuation of a trend in place since 2012. Roughly one-fourth of those chose to move away from cities and metropolitan areas, and about 40 percent moved to a different state. Florida has long been the number one destination for Americans leaving their state for retirement, although Virginia was the most popular destination in 2020.