Aging in Place: Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities The desire to age well in our homes tends to drive us to explore ways to safely remain in the community as long as possible. But safety isn’t the only concern: we hope to be independent, engaged, empowered, connected, and have access to resources when we need them as well. Naturally occurring retirement communities (NORCs) offer an opportunity to coordinate livable communities that ensure we can comfortably age in place. Read more
Caregiving for Older Male Loved Ones Every caregiving journey is unique, and there are so many factors that can change the experience. Your loved one’s family history, age, diet and ethnicity are all things that can affect his or her wellness, while their temperament, ability to communicate, values and beliefs can all impact the smoothness of providing care. Biological sex can also play a role. Those who care for the important men in their lives—fathers, spouses, partners, brothers, uncles, grandfathers, and many more—may experience different challenges than those caring for women. Read more
Tackling Fears of Aging Alone as a Solo Ager or Elder Orphan If it has done nothing else, the COVID-19 pandemic has taught many – if not most – of us a lesson or two about social isolation and its impact on physical and emotional well-being. We were suddenly cut off from friends, co-workers and community interactions that defined the rhythm of our lives and provided predictability and connection. The pandemic caused particular concern for those living alone, as it forced many to think about who would care for them should they contract the virus. Read more
Practicing Mindfulness as an Older Adult There’s no question that caring for our physical health is one of our most important concerns as we age. But maintaining physical wellness comes with concerns and sources of stress that can leave us feeling worse for wear. Whether it’s a disheartening doctor’s appointment or worries about flu season, our stress can start to impact our overall wellness, and the strain on our mental health can put strain on our physical health. But how can we cope with stress, when it feels like such an inescapable part of daily life? Read more
