Mental Health & the Holidays for Seniors

The holidays can be stressful for almost every age group, and each age group experiences holiday stressors differently. Children feel anxious about stressed-out parents. Older students worry about exams. Young professionals juggle overbooked work, social, and family calendars. Parents may fret about finances, gift lists, in-laws, logistical arrangements, and more. Although they often have fewer responsibilities overall, older adults ages fifty-five and older can suffer during the holidays too. Here’s why mental health in older adults becomes more important during these seasons.

Seniors and the Holidays

Depending on their individual situation, the elderly can experience anxiety, depression, or loneliness at this time of year for a number of reasons. Senior mental health issues aren’t necessarily limited to the holidays, but a little effort can go a long way during this particularly emotional time of year. Some common factors in senior mental health are:

  • Missing friends or family members. Friends or family members associated with memories of happy holidays past may have passed or moved away, and those they leave behind—particularly the elderly—may feel that special occasions will never be as joyful again without them.

  • Changes in holiday activities or traditions. As family and friends grow and get older, their needs, schedules, and capacities change. This may mean that activities or traditions that used to “make” a holiday for seniors have been altered or discontinued.

  • Feelings of general isolation or abandonment. As their younger family members’ lives get busier and more demanding in general during the holidays, seniors and the elderly can feel forgotten. These feelings may be more intense if an individual lives alone, has lost a spouse, or suffers from physical or mental illness.

Holiday Stress Management Tips for Seniors

Fortunately, there are ways both seniors and their loved ones can prevent or lessen anxiety and depression during the holiday season, including:

  • Be a diligent communicator. In order to make sure that your older loved ones feel valued and included, check in with them early in the season to find out how they’re feeling about it, what their expectations are, and how they’d like to prepare or celebrate. Continue visiting, calling, or video chatting with them at least once per week throughout the season to let them know they are in your thoughts and that the holidays aren’t complete without them. Plan some family activities that include them.

  • Encourage them to be socially active or engage in a hobby. Depending on how socially active they already are, it might be a good idea to encourage your senior family member to join a church or other local community organizations. Engaging in hobbies is also a good option for older adults, especially if anyone in the family wants to learn from them or would like a handmade product, such as knitted items. If your loved one seems unsure, do a little research and make suggestions tailored to their interests. 

    Staying busy and connected to their communities can help older adults from feeling depressed or anxious—but it may be a good idea to take this step well before the holiday season begins. This way seniors don’t feel as though new social activity is intended as an emotional stopgap or substitute for quality time with family. It will also feel more natural for older loved ones to stay socially engaged throughout the year rather than only during the holidays. 

  • Identify other ways to improve older adult mental health. Ask your loved one about their preferred ways to cope with complex emotions during the holidays. Consider things that have brought them comfort in the past. Perhaps they’d like to watch favorite movies with family or friends, assist in making treasured holiday recipes, craft ornaments, or receive new family photos or drawings from grandchildren. Keep seniors’ personalities and preferences in mind and incorporate those in plans as much as possible.

  • Consider and advocate for physical health. Determine when your loved one last had a physical checkup: sometimes a vitamin deficiency or other illness can affect mental health in older adults (as well as everyone else). Find out if they can benefit from a physician’s care prior to the holiday season. Encourage them to eat healthily, take walks, and get plenty of sleep to keep all systems functioning as optimally as possible.

Benefits of Senior Living and Socialization with Peers

You may not have thought of a retirement community as a factor in senior mental health. However, if your older family member currently lives alone, it’s worth considering a move to a community where he or she can connect more easily with others in the same age group. In addition to being safer and having less upkeep to worry about, adults in senior retirement communities benefit from regularly scheduled social activities built into daily life on campus. This can improve their mental health all year round, but particularly during the holidays.

If you or your senior loved one is a Valparaiso, Indiana resident ready to make the move to a senior living community, consider choosing Pines Village Retirement Communities. At Pines Village, we celebrate life by enriching the lives of older adults. We pride ourselves on our culture, which is driven by a passion for serving the residents, visitors, and staff of Pines Village as well as the greater Valparaiso community. Explore our senior apartment availability, learn more about our assisted living options, or contact us with any questions today!

10 Healthy Tips for Seniors During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also bring about stress and challenges, especially for seniors. As we gather with our loved ones and indulge in delicious meals, it's important to prioritize the health and well-being of our older family members. In this article, we will explore some valuable tips to help seniors stay healthy, manage stress, and experience the holiday season to the fullest.

1. Prioritize Healthy Choices

During the holidays, it's easy to be tempted by rich and indulgent meals. While it's important to savor the flavors of the season, it's equally crucial to make healthy choices. Encourage seniors to plan their meals with consideration for other holiday events. For instance, if a big dinner is planned for New Year's Eve, opt for a lighter lunch of salad or soup. Moderation is key – you don't want to deny anyone their favorite holiday treats, but you also want to ensure they don't overindulge.

Staying hydrated is another vital aspect of staying healthy during the holidays. Seniors, in particular, should drink plenty of fluids as dehydration can lead to hospitalization. Make it easy for them to stay hydrated by having water easily accessible at home and keeping bottled water in their bag when running errands.

2. Follow Dietary Restrictions

Some seniors have dietary restrictions that they must adhere to, such as a low-sodium diet. It can be challenging to stick to these diets during busy and stressful times, especially if there aren't many healthy options available. Stress often leads to overeating and deviating from established dietary guidelines. To make it easier for seniors to follow their dietary restrictions, keep healthy options like fresh-cut vegetables and fruits readily available.

3. Moderate Alcohol Consumption

While it's common to celebrate with alcoholic beverages during the holidays, it's essential to remind seniors to drink in moderation. Drinking excessively can impair bodily functions, and for some seniors, alcohol consumption can have adverse side effects when combined with certain medications. Consider offering fun and alcohol-free drinks so everyone can enjoy the festivities without compromising their health.

4. Stay Active

The holiday season often coincides with cold weather and snow in many parts of the country. However, it's crucial for seniors to maintain their exercise routines. Encourage them to bundle up and go for walks around the block if the sidewalks are dry. If the weather is not suitable for outdoor activities, suggest a trip to an indoor shopping mall where they can walk a few laps while window-shopping. Staying active not only helps with physical health but also contributes to mental well-being.

5. Manage Stress and Rest

The holidays can be a stressful time for everyone, including seniors. It's important to prioritize self-care and stress management during this season. Encourage them to take breaks and rest when needed. If you're planning a full-day outing, make sure to include time for relaxation or a short nap. Practicing mindfulness techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or simply enjoying a cup of tea can help alleviate stress and promote a sense of calm.

6. Embrace New Traditions and Adaptations

As time goes on, traditions and activities may change due to various factors. Seniors may feel a sense of loss or sadness when beloved traditions are altered or discontinued. Help them embrace new traditions and find joy in the present moment. If an older relative typically hosts a big holiday meal but is unable to do so anymore, consider passing the torch to younger family members. Alternatively, suggest that younger family members volunteer to clean or prepare part of the meal to alleviate stress and make the holiday celebration a collaborative effort.

7. Combat Loneliness and Isolation

The holidays can be particularly challenging for seniors who may feel a sense of loneliness or isolation. They may miss friends or family members who have passed away or moved away. To combat these feelings, it's important to prioritize social interaction and engagement. Check in with older loved ones early in the season to understand their expectations and feelings. Plan family activities that include them and make them feel valued and included. Encourage them to join local community organizations or engage in hobbies that interest them. Staying connected and active within their communities can help alleviate feelings of abandonment and enhance overall mental well-being.

8. Ensure a Safe and Accessible Environment

If older relatives are visiting your home for the holidays, it's crucial to ensure that your home is safe and accessible for them. Be mindful of any potential hazards, such as area rugs that could cause trips or falls. Consider accommodating them on the first floor if possible, or provide a room close to the bathroom to minimize discomfort. Install nightlights in hallways to prevent accidents in the dark. By creating a safe and accessible environment, you can help seniors feel more at ease and enjoy the holiday season without unnecessary worries.

9. Seek Professional Help if Needed

If you've tried various strategies to improve the mental well-being of your senior loved one during the holidays, but they still exhibit signs of depression or anxiety, it may be necessary to seek professional help. Don't hesitate to explore mental health resources and services available in your area. Professional counseling can provide valuable support and guidance for seniors who may be struggling emotionally during this time.

10. The Benefits of Senior Living Communities

Consider the benefits of senior living communities for older adults who may be living alone. These communities offer opportunities for socialization and engagement with peers. They provide a safe and supportive environment where seniors can connect with others who share similar experiences and interests. Senior living communities often organize regular social activities and events, which can greatly enhance mental well-being, not just during the holidays but throughout the year. If you or your senior loved one is considering a move to a retirement community, explore options that align with their preferences and needs.

In conclusion, taking care of the mental and physical well-being of seniors during the holidays is crucial. By adopting healthy habits, managing stress, embracing new traditions, and ensuring social engagement, seniors can enjoy this special time of year to the fullest. Remember, small gestures and acts of kindness can go a long way in making seniors feel loved, valued, and included. Let's make the holidays a joyful and fulfilling experience for every generation in our families.

Pines Village Retirement Communities, Inc. is a nonprofit senior living community in Valparaiso, Indiana, with two campuses: Pines Village and Meridian Woods. The Pines Village campus offers pet-friendly independent living apartments with the option to add assistive services à la carte or in packages. The Meridian Woods campus consists of maintenance-free paired homes and the Meridian Woods Community Center, which hosts events and acts as a meeting space for residents and local nonprofits. 

At Pines Village, we celebrate life by enriching the lives of older adults. We pride ourselves on our culture, which is driven by a passion for serving the residents, visitors, and staff of Pines Village as well as the greater Valparaiso community. Explore our senior apartment availability, learn more about our assisted living options, or contact us with any questions today!

Why Now is the Right Time to Make the Move to Senior Living

If you have been considering making the move to a senior living community for some time, there is no better time than now to begin acting. There are many benefits of downsizing to a retirement community. Please take a look at the four reasons below to see why it may be the perfect time to make your big move and enjoy all the benefits of senior living today!

You Can Get a Great Price for Your Home in the Current Seller's Market

The real estate market is currently experiencing a strong seller's market, characterized by high demand and low inventory. According to the National Association of Realtors, the median home prices have risen significantly due to this high demand (NAR, 2023). In Porter County, Indiana, specifically, home prices have increased by approximately 10% over the past year, providing an excellent opportunity for homeowners to sell at a premium price. However, market conditions are subject to change, and the current seller's market will inevitably end as inventory increases and buyer demand stabilizes. By selling your home now, you can capitalize on these favorable conditions and maximize your return.

You can consult a senior real estate specialist for advice. In addition, your realtor will make suggestions on how to get your home on the market and get top dollar. One way of doing so is to be sure to have the house tidy, organized, and spruced up. If something needs to be replaced, like broken appliances or wiring upgrades, you can use a home warranty company to save money and have a team of professionals take care of the work. Also, don’t hesitate to ask your family and loved ones to lend a helping hand to get your house market-ready and cheer you on in your big move!

Enjoy a Maintenance-Free Lifestyle

One of the most attractive aspects of transitioning to a retirement community is the maintenance-free lifestyle it offers. At Pines Village, all maintenance tasks, including landscaping, repairs, and upkeep, are handled by our professional staff. This means no more worrying about mowing the lawn, fixing a broken light, or raking leaves. Instead, you can enjoy a carefree lifestyle where your time is truly your own. According to AARP, homeowners typically spend between 1% to 4% of their home's value annually on maintenance and repairs (AARP, 2023). In contrast, senior living communities handle all maintenance tasks, including landscaping, home repairs, and appliance maintenance. This allows residents to enjoy more leisure time and peace of mind without the stress and hassle of home upkeep.

Pines Village and many other communities provide transportation for doctor’s appointments, shopping, and enrichment. Additionally, on-site, restaurant-style dining options are available for your convenience. Should you need additional assistance, Pines Village offers packages and ala carte options for home health care services.

Get Settled in Before the Holidays

If you are debating about whether you should move now or later, think about the advantages of not putting it off. Moving now can help you settle into the comfort of your new community before the holidays and the new year. Coordinating family visits and celebrations during the holidays can be stressful enough. However, by considering a transition to senior living now, you cannot only enjoy the convenience of senior living but great activities too. It will also help you look forward to focusing on your family and holidays rather than having to deal with moving plans next year.

You Can Engage in Countless Activities and Beat the Winter Blues

One of the best perks of retirement communities is the countless activities available. There are plenty of opportunities for fun with fellow residents or in the local community, from games, movie nights, shopping trips, or visits to a local attraction. So you won’t have to worry about feeling lonely this winter or feel like you are itching to do something fun. Plus, there are so many friendly faces and ways to make new friends and connections to the greater community.

Transitioning to senior living may seem like a significant decision, but the benefits are clear. With the current favorable real estate market conditions, the financial and lifestyle advantages of downsizing, and the enriching environment of Pines Village, now is an opportune time to make the move.

If you’re ready to explore senior living options and learn more about what Pines Village Retirement Communities have to offer, contact us today. We're here to answer any questions you may have and schedule a personalized tour at your convenience. Embrace this new chapter of your life with confidence and excitement!

Comparing Not-for-Profit and For-Profit Retirement Communities

Individuals ages 65 and older account for 17% of the population of the United States—about 56 million people. Many of these individuals still live in their own homes or with family members, but senior living communities are becoming an increasingly popular option for older adults. It is important to understand one important distinction between senior living communities: those that are for-profit and those that are not-for-profit. This article will compare the differences between for-profit and not-for-profit retirement communities.

Ownership

The driving difference between not-for-profit and for-profit retirement communities is ownership. For-profit organizations are owned by an individual or group of shareholders who are looking to make money through their business. These individuals are often based far from the community and don’t know what is happening in local communities. Not-for-profit organizations are not owned by anyone and are instead overseen by a board of directors. These board members are individuals who volunteer their talents and their time in order to help the organization provide quality services and management. 

As volunteers, board members don’t accept any financial gain, which means that they are solely focused on and committed to managing the organization's financial resources, planning for the future, responding to needs within the organization, and staying true to the mission. These individuals are also from the local area and understand the community’s needs and expectations.

Price and Profits

By definition, for-profit organizations have to show a significant return on their owners’ investment. By charging the local communities management fees and paying dividends, the for-profit institutions move funds from their local community to the owners’ bottom line. On the other side of things, not-for-profit organizations are not owned by anyone and do not keep profits. Instead, they reinvest any profits back into the organization in order to continue carrying out their mission and improving the lives of their residents. 

Nearly 80% of all senior residential care communities are privately owned and for-profit. When giant corporations own hundreds of properties, they’re not necessarily worried about using profits to help people; they are worried about growing their own equity. This usually leads to them keeping rental rates as high as possible and costs as low as possible, which can affect different offerings from the community like dining, staffing, activities, transportation, and more. Combined, these can end up negatively impacting the residents' quality of life.

Commitment to the Community

Another key difference that separates not-for-profit retirement communities from for-profit ones is the commitment they offer. Nonprofit organizations are committed to their mission above all else. This commitment also factors into the quality of services that are provided in the community.

As mentioned earlier, for-profit communities generally try to keep costs low in order to maximize their profits. That doesn’t always result in a commitment to providing quality services for residents. For-profit retirement communities that do not have ties to the communities that they service may be more likely to fold when things get tough, leaving their residents scrambling to find a new home.

For-profit communities are mainly focused on making money, while not-for-profit communities are committed to providing quality care to their residents above everything else. While there are many individuals at the for-profit communities that are deeply committed to their residents, the organizational commitment at for-profits will always start with the financial return.

Growth and Improvement

Two other areas that differentiate not-for-profit communities from for-profit ones are growth and improvement. This comes back to the commitment and quality that not-for-profit communities offer, as they are committed to growing and improving so they can continue to provide quality services to their residents and seniors in the surrounding community—now and in the future.

In fact, many not-for-profit senior organizations have been around for over 50 years. These organizations have been at the forefront of improving and changing the field of aging services to better help older adults. 

In comparison, some for-profit organizations start with a financial goal in mind and then cash out once they’ve hit that goal. This leaves the older adults in those communities vulnerable to changes that may be brought with new owners.

Not-for-profits, on the other hand, don’t usually have an exit strategy. Instead, they are built for the long-term benefit of their residents and the overall community, not short-term financial gains. This includes tailoring the housing, health care, and community services they offer to residents to address specific needs within the community. 

Ultimately, not-for-profit retirement communities are different from for-profit communities because they are committed to their mission of providing the best service possible to their residents, and they reinvest the money from residents directly back into serving them and the community. This creates better living options for older adults where their quality of life is always the top priority.

Porter County’s Only Not-for-Profit Retirement Community

Pines Village Retirement Communities, Inc. is a nonprofit senior living community in Valparaiso, Indiana, with two campuses: Pines Village and Meridian Woods. Our nonprofit status means we put people before profits; quality before earnings. Our funds are committed exclusively to running and improving the Pines Village community, enhancing services for our residents.

Pines Village is privileged to give back to the Northwest Indiana community in many ways, including:

The Pines Village campus offers pet-friendly independent living apartments with the option to add assistive services à la carte or in packages. The Meridian Woods campus consists of maintenance-free paired homes and Campbell St. Cafe, which, in addition to being a restaurant open to the public, hosts events and acts as a meeting space for residents and local nonprofits.

At Pines Village, we celebrate life by enriching the lives of older adults. We pride ourselves on our culture, which is driven by a passion for serving the residents, visitors, and staff of Pines Village as well as the greater Valparaiso community. Explore our senior apartment availability, learn more about our assisted living options, or contact us with any questions today!

The Benefits of Having A Pet for Seniors

Pets can be a huge part of people's lives. Of American households, about 68% have a furry family member under their roof, and about 55% of seniors report owning a pet themselves. There are many positive benefits to owning a pet, and they can be especially advantageous for seniors in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Whether it’s a cat or a dog, a pet can improve your quality of life and keep you involved in your local community. Here are some benefits to owning or adopting a pet as a senior.

 

Establishing a Routine

Keeping a routine is very important for both people and pets. As we age, structured days can be a great way to keep both your mind and body healthy. Seniors who keep to a daily schedule are less likely to develop memory issues and find that establishing a daily routine encourages the motivation to complete tasks and projects. Keeping a routine also helps reduce stress during the day and promotes a more restful sleep later in the evening. Additionally, pets need structure in their day. Creating a schedule that involves your pet can help keep you on track and focused during the day as you hit milestones with them. To support your schedule, you can plan a time every day to take your dog or cat for a walk, play with toys, or simply spend some quality time with them. Pets also benefit from set meal times and a consistent sleep schedule. You can keep your pet on the same schedule for eating and sleeping as you keep for yourself; ensuring you always make time for a meal and have a furry friend to remind you to go to bed at a reasonable time.

 

Keep Your Body Moving

Remaining physically active is extremely important as we age. Whether going for a walk, going to the gym, weight training, or simply stretching, your body will benefit from the exercise. Seniors who keep active tend to sleep better, have lower blood pressure, lower their chances of developing heart disease, and have better balance to reduce the risk of falling. Having a pet in your life can help you keep active and help you feel more energized. As we discussed, making time to take your pet for a walk is a great start, but it doesn’t have to be limited to just walking. Taking time to play fetch with your dog or using toys to play with your cat can help keep your joints mobile and reduce the chance of inflammation. You can also sign up to take Doga classes and have a fun time learning to do yoga with your pup. No matter what you choose to do, getting up and out with your pet for some fresh air gets your blood pumping and your body feeling young.

 

Taking Care of Your Mental Health

One of the hardest subjects to talk about for people of all ages is mental health. There are so many wonderful changes and experiences later in life, but there are also struggles. Most people will experience anxiety and depression at some point in their life, and mental health can hugely impact seniors' lives. It is always important to talk to your doctor, or a trusted loved one if you are finding yourself having a hard time. While doctors can support you from the office, your pets can offer comfort and support when you get home too. It has been proven that pets help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression in their owners. Both cats and dogs are extremely intuitive and can easily pick up on your mood, feelings, and body language. They can offer unconditional love at any time and can help reduce feelings of isolation or loneliness.

A Constant Companion

Life changes a lot as a senior. People move away or travel, grandkids go off to college, and you yourself may be downsizing or moving to a new area. Joining a new community and making new connections can be daunting, but developing and maintaining meaningful connections with others is essential to a healthy life. Having a pet can offer companionship, especially during times of change or long spans of time when you cannot see friends or family. You can find joy in caring for them, and they will be by your side like a shadow. You can also take your pet out with you as you meet new people in your community. You can socialize at dog parks, nature trails, and community centers. Taking a pet on adventures with you is a great way to break the ice, and your pet will be there for you every step of the way.  

Tools for a Long Life Together

Whether you already have a furry friend or are considering adopting, there are a few things to consider to make your life with your pet easier and more secure. The first step is to establish a relationship with a vet. Your pet will need care from time to time, and having a reliable doctor will help keep your pet healthy and happy. You can also look into your budget and consider if pet insurance is worth having for your circumstances. Depending on the health and age of your pet and your own personal finances, having pet insurance can ensure your pet gets the best care without putting a strain on your savings. While at the vet, you can ask what food is best for your pet. For convenience and safety, look for a site or service that can deliver your pet’s food to your door. Most pet food comes in large bags or boxes that can be hard for most people to lift or carry upfront steps. Having their food delivered right to your door will ensure that you do not injure or strain yourself. To help with safety outside, take time to research different types of leashes and harnesses that would work best for your pet type and your personal strength. Some dog leashes attach around the mussel to allow for better control, and others have better handle options if you’re struggling with arthritis or joint issues.

Pets can be a wonderful addition to the lives of seniors. They keep us active and engaged with our personal lives and our communities. There are so many options out there to help you and your pet live a long and safe life together, so don’t be afraid to do some research or ask your family and friends about what they love about being a pet owner. Once you find your perfect match, you will have years of love and bonding to look forward to together.

At Pines Villages, we promote the importance of keeping healthy and establishing a lifestyle that leads to wellness and happiness. Keeping your health a top priority allows you to enjoy all life offers, which is one of the reasons we allow pets at both campuses.

Pines Village Retirement Communities, Inc. is a nonprofit senior living community in Valparaiso, Indiana, with two campuses: Pines Village and Meridian Woods. The Pines Village campus offers pet-friendly independent living apartments with the option to add assistive services à la carte or in packages. The Meridian Woods campus consists of maintenance-free paired homes and Campbell St. Cafe, which, in addition to being a restaurant open to the public, hosts events and acts as a meeting space for residents and local nonprofits. 

At Pines Village, we celebrate life by enriching the lives of older adults. We pride ourselves on our culture, which is driven by a passion for serving the residents, visitors, and staff of Pines Village as well as the greater Valparaiso community. Explore our senior apartment availability, learn more about our assisted living options, or contact us with any questions today.