Tag Archives: Retirees
Take Precautions in Summertime Heat
Summertime is full of wonderful opportunities to enjoy beautiful weather with friends and family. But with sunny days come some extra health risks for senior citizens. Plus, preexisting conditions such as heart disease and diabetes can make you extra prone to heat-related issues. Here are some things to keep in mind as you enjoy your summer!
Protect skin from the sun. You should wear sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 and apply it at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. You can also choose to wear a long-sleeved, light-colored shirt. If you do happen to get a sunburn, soothe skin with aloe vera and take either aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen.
Enjoy some cool treats. When the weather is sweltering, it can help to indulge in some sweet treats. There are plenty of iced options for those who have special dietary needs, such as sugar-free offerings. Some treats you should avoid? Anything including caffeine or alcohol.
Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated on hot days is crucial to being and feeling healthy. You should aim to drink at least 8, 8 oz. glasses of water each day. Not a fan of water? Sports drinks are also great for helping you stay hydrated.
Examine your medicines. Some medicines make you more sensitive to ultraviolet rays. Be sure to check the labels on your medications and check with your doctor about any precautions to take.
Wear sunglasses. Not only can the sun damage the skin on your eyes, but your actual corneas and lenses, too. To avoid any damage, you should look for sunglasses that block 99 to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays.
Watch for heat stroke. If you or someone else begins to feel nausea or dizziness, it may be heat stroke. If heat stroke begins, it is important to get this person in a cool area, have them lie down, remove any tight fitting clothes, apply ice packs and call for medical attention. Don’t take any chances!
Check in with friends and family. If you’re going to be doing an activity outside all day, be sure to stay cool and let friends and family know where you are. They will feel better knowing that you’re happy and safe.
Remember, if you are suffering from any heat-related problem, you can visit Sherwood Oaks Retirement Community’s health care center – located right on campus!
Research Shows Reasons Why Retirees Don’t Move to a Retirement Community
Recently we discussed that the #1 reason why retirees move to a retirement community is the guarantee of health care.
But, what about those who choose to stay in their homes? Our research shows that these are the reasons why retirees stay where they are:
1) Cost – You may think that a retirement community PA has is costly, yet you may also be surprised to learn the value of services that are included in the monthly fee. Many costs that you now pay separately are paid for in the monthly fee. For example, utilities, housekeeping, home maintenance, transportation and some meals are included. Residents at Sherwood Oaks no longer pay real estate or school taxes, and receive a tax benefit because they’ve pre-paid much of their future medical expense. Most importantly, retirees have the financial security of not having to set aside money for the high cost of extended health care.
2) “I’m Too Young” – Most residents I’ve spoken with wished they moved sooner, not later. The younger you are when you move, the more you can benefit from the health care plan and enjoy the lifestyle and activities.
3) “I Don’t Know Where to Begin my Move” – That’s where we can help. We’ve assembled a complete package of services to help you move. From realtors to moving companies to estate sales, we work with a solid, professional team who understands what you are going through. We even pay the cost of a professional moving organizer to meet with you in your home and get you started.
If you have a personal circumstance that you’d like to discuss with a member of my staff, contact them at marketing@sherwood-oaks.com. One last thought – putting off a move to next year does not make it any easier.
Research Shows #1 Reason Why Retirees Move to a Retirement Community
Our most recent survey of residents shows that the #1 reason why retirees move to Sherwood Oaks is the availability of guaranteed, on-site health care. “Retirees really want to plan for their futures,” remarks Mark D. Bondi, President and CEO of Sherwood Oaks, “and securing convenient and top notch health care is a prime consideration for where they want to live.”
In 2009 Sherwood Oaks undertook a major expansion of health care services. The Oak Grove Center, a 30 bed care facility was recently completed that offers private, personal care to persons suffering with memory loss. In addition, renovation is currently underway to the community’s skilled nursing facility. These changes will provide residents with private rooms that are organized in a home-like setting. The renovations to nursing care are expected to be completed in 2011.
“These renovations are a wonderful benefit to persons considering a move to Sherwood Oaks” concludes Bondi, “although you may not need health care now – you want to be prepared for what life has in store for you in the future.”
Our next story will discuss the reasons why retirees decide not to move to a retirement community-PA facility. Stay tuned.