Category: Senior Health and Wellness

Medicare Open Enrollment: What Older Adults and Families Need to Know

Posted on Posted on: | Updated: by Optalis Healthcare
hands holding wooden cutouts of medical equipment and a stick person
Every fall, Medicare Open Enrollment gives millions of older adults an opportunity to review their current health and prescription drug coverage and make changes for the year ahead. With plan information arriving by mail, advertisements appearing on television and online, and numerous options to consider, the process can sometimes feel overwhelming. The good news? Taking... Read more »

Fire Safety for Older Adults: Simple Steps That Can Save Lives

Posted on Posted on: | Updated: by Optalis Healthcare
image of fire matches
October is Fire Prevention Month, making it an ideal time to talk about an important safety concern for older adults and the families and caregivers who support them. Older adults face a significantly greater risk of serious injury or death in a home fire than younger adults. That risk increases substantially with age, making fire... Read more »

The Importance of Good Oral Hygiene for Seniors: Protecting Your Smile and Overall Health

Posted on Posted on: | Updated: by Optalis Healthcare
As we age, taking care of our teeth and gums becomes an important part of maintaining overall health and quality of life. Good oral hygiene can help seniors prevent tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss and other oral health problems that can make eating, speaking and enjoying everyday activities more difficult. But oral health isn't... Read more »

Vaccines for Adults Over 50: What You Should Ask Your Doctor About

Posted on Posted on: | Updated: by Optalis Healthcare
female getting a vaccine from doctor
As we get older, staying up to date on vaccinations becomes an important part of protecting our health. Certain infections can be more serious for older adults, particularly those living with chronic health conditions or weakened immune systems. If you or a senior loved one is over 50, it may be helpful to review your... Read more »

9 Fall Activities to do With Your Senior

Posted on Posted on: | Updated: by Optalis Healthcare
close up view of pumpkins
Fall is a wonderful time to slow down, enjoy the changing season, and spend meaningful time with the senior in your life. From colorful leaves and crisp mornings to apple orchards and cozy afternoons, autumn offers plenty of opportunities to get outside, stay active, and create memories together. Whether your loved one lives at home,... Read more »

Meaningful Activities for Seniors Living with Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Posted on Posted on: | Updated: by Optalis Healthcare
Memory care activities
Caring for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia can leave families wondering, “What can I do to help?” You want to make each visit meaningful. You want your loved one to feel connected, comfortable, and engaged—but knowing which activities are appropriate as their abilities change isn’t always easy. The... Read more »

Keeping Your Senior Safe in the Summer Heat

Posted on Posted on: | Updated: by Optalis Healthcare
senior holding a fan to cool herself down
When the mercury soars, seniors in the Midwest are at greater risk for heat-related problems. These can range from minor sun poisoning to life-threatening dehydration or sunstroke. Being aware of potential issues can help you keep the older adult you love safe this summer. Summer Safety Tips Seniors Hydration: Encourage the older adults in your... Read more »

Home Safety Checklist for Seniors

Posted on Posted on: | Updated: by Optalis Healthcare
image of checkmarks and lines
If you chose to spend time visiting a senior loved one at their home over the holidays, you may find yourself wondering how safe they are living alone. Adult children often find themselves in the position of trying to evaluate an older family member’s home environment for safety. Do the stairs have strong handrails? Is... Read more »