How often should you clean out your refrigerator?

How often should you clean out your refrigerator?

by OurSeniors.net Staff Writer Comment Closed
When we clean our home, the last thing we think about is our refrigerator. It’s hidden, and there’s typically food in it at all times, making it hard to take the time to empty it for cleaning. What many of us may not know is that bacteria can linger in there from things leaking or spilling. There are also temperature zones within the fridge where bacteria can grow faster than others. Areas such as the doors that are exposed to warmer temperatures when opened are more prone to bacteria growth. This means it's important to consider when to clean it out and make sure the items inside are not making you sick. So, how often should you clean out your fridge? At least every 3-4 months. This is a great timeframe to take a look at any spoiled food, ensure your items are stored properly, and, of course, wipe it down and clean it from top to bottom. A great way to...
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When should you stop driving?

When should you stop driving?

by OurSeniors.net Staff Writer Comment Closed
It’s no decrease that as we age, our ability to do certain things starts to decrease. So, the thought of; “When Should I Stop Driving” may have crossed your mind at some point. As we age we may experience a decrease in our vision, our hearing may be impaired and our motor skills and reflexes might also slow in comparison to what they were. Another concern is that any health conditions that we possess may be worsening or may pose a general threat to operating motorized vehicles at all. It's never what anyone wants to hear but it's something that everyone will have to think about at some point. As we age we will also experience a reduction in our strength as well as our coordination and flexibility. The important thing is to think about all relatable factors in conjunction with the general safety precautions you would have to take to control a car. Remember that everyone ages and everyone ages differently...
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Preparing for hurricane season before it’s too late

Preparing for hurricane season before it’s too late

by OurSeniors.net Staff Writer Comment Closed
Hurricane season lasts from June to November of each year. NOAA predicted an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season this year with 13-20 named storms. Now is the time to prepare and here are some preparations you can start now: Your medicines - It is possible that prescription medication may not be attainable for a long period after a major storm. Have a full supply of all necessary medications; do not wait to the last minute to get prescriptions filled. Also, make sure that you have a good supply of any over-the-counter medications you take, as well as first aid supplies. Water and food - This is an obvious preparation for all people including seniors. Food should be non-perishable items for at least three days for each person in the house. Experts recommend at least one gallon of drinking water per person each day. Think of your pets - Dogs and cats are important parts of many senior households. Preparing for them is an important...
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This is a great option for short-term care

This is a great option for short-term care

by OurSeniors.net Staff Writer Comment Closed
| Written by Dr. Regina Asihene | Being a caregiver can be hard.  In fact, we all burn out at some point and will need a break.  When a primary caregiver needs a break, respite care can provide short-term relief.  Respite care is basically time off so that the primary caregivers can get away from their responsibilities for physical and emotional relief.  Respite can be arranged for a few hours, several days or even weeks.  Respite care can be done in different settings:  at home, in a nursing home, or at an assisted living facility. How much does respite care cost? Respite services charge by the hour or by the number of days that services are provided. Most insurance plans do not cover these costs.  You must pay all costs yourself that are not covered by insurance or other funding sources.  If you choose respite in a hospital or a skilled nursing facility, then Medicare will pay only five days in a row. Majestic...
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Feeling Lonely? Adopt a Pet!

Feeling Lonely? Adopt a Pet!

by OurSeniors.net Staff Writer Comment Closed
There is no question that loneliness is one of the most common problems faced by seniors. It’s a serious problem too; loneliness can lead to increased stress, more frequent use of alcohol or tobacco and a number of medical problems. Unfortunately, the isolation made necessary by the Covid-19 pandemic has made this problem all the worse. Adopting a pet may offer seniors at least a partial solution to the problem of loneliness. Having a pet gives seniors both companionship and a purpose in life. Pets depend on their human companions for care, making a senior feel needed. Some pets provide increased security and the opportunity for exercise and social interaction. Seniors benefit physically and emotionally from having a pet companion, and the new adoptee finds care and a loving home. It can be a win-win situation, but there are some things to think about before jumping in. The first consideration is commitment. A senior must understand that pet ownership involves a long-term...
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Here are a few tips for getting rid of summer pests

Here are a few tips for getting rid of summer pests

by OurSeniors.net Staff Writer Comment Closed
Imagine yourself waking up bright and early to make a fresh cup of coffee. Sleepy-eyed you reach for sugar and notice dozens of little ants crawling over your counter! Welcome to summer in Florida, when the weather is perfect for creepy crawlers. Sugar ants (Linepithema humile), also known as Argentine ants, are one of the toughest bugs to get rid of. Their diet consists mainly of sweets and once they find some in your home, they leave a scent trail for others to find it. Only measuring 2.2 to 2.8mm, these ants will come back even after insistent cleaning and killings. So, what can you do to keep them away and off of your counters? Here are a few home remedies to help you keep the little buggers away from your snacks: Keep your counters, stove, and cabinets squeaky clean and dry After every meal you make, use a sponge with soap and water to wipe down all surfaces rather than just using a paper...
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What to ask before considering aging in place

What to ask before considering aging in place

by OurSeniors.net Staff Writer Comment Closed
The term, “Aging in Place,” has become a popular catchphrase for modern seniors. However, its meaning may vary widely, depending on who is using the term and for what purpose. A government agency defines aging in place as, "the ability to live in one's own home and community independently, regardless of age, income, or ability level." Generally, “aging in place” is the first preference for most seniors; a survey by the American Public Health Association indicated that 90 percent of seniors want this option. However, this does not tell us if the term, “in place” refers to their longtime home in the old neighborhood or to a totally new environment. No matter the location, aging in place can work well only with good planning and preparation. To successfully age in place, seniors sometimes need the help of skilled professionals, as well as family members (if available) and a support network. Seniors and adults of all ages should bear this in mind...
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Florida is growing. Here is what that means for you

Florida is growing. Here is what that means for you

by OurSeniors.net Staff Writer Comment Closed
If you can recall the Florida of the 1950s, you remember a small-population state with only three urban areas that could be called “cities.” Miami, Tampa-St Petersburg and Jacksonville have now been joined by fast-growing communities like Orlando, Ft Lauderdale, Ocala and Kissimmee. For decades, our state’s growth has seemed phenomenal, beyond reasonable expectations. Many people have predicted that this growth would slow or end, but that is not happening. The pandemic of 2020 has actually sped this trend. From July 2019 to July 2020, Florida is estimated to have added 241,256 new residents. Some estimates project state population to reach 26 million by the year 2030. This would make the state of Florida bigger than the nation of Australia. What does this mean for the current and future senior residents of the Sunshine State? To begin, seniors cannot complain too much about Florida’s growth without seeming hypocritical. After all, retirees and seniors account for a big part of that trend. Florida...
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Five tips for home organization this spring

Five tips for home organization this spring

by OurSeniors.net Staff Writer Comment Closed
If you’re like most people, you appreciate an organized home. With everything else going on, we tend to let household organization get to the point where it becomes somebody else’s problem and the junk drawer becomes invisible to the naked eye.  Unfortunately, it’s not going to take care of itself. Not to mention the number of unsurprising psychological benefits to being organized.  Clutter and chaos create stress, fatigue, and an overall feeling of discord that translates to your everyday life.  Getting things in order can lead to comprehensive, large-scale improvements in your lifestyle, and the energy expended taking care of the matter can be satisfying and constructive. Proper organization can offer you the luxury of time and serenity:  not spending 30 minutes trying to locate that pair of scissors “you know you left on the counter right here!” is worth its weight in gold!  Ridding yourself of disorder provides peace and knowing everything is in its place provides security, all of which is...
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These are some basic internet skills for beginners

These are some basic internet skills for beginners

by OurSeniors.net Staff Writer Comment Closed
For decades, seniors have been stereotyped as being “technologically backward,” not willing to adopt new ways of communicating or learning. This may have been true in the past, but it is far less so today. According to the Pew Research Center, 67% of all seniors were using the internet in 2018. That was before the pandemic, and this event has surely made the internet and mobile digital devices, tablets and smart phones, more used than ever. Basic internet and digital skills are now as important to seniors as they are to younger people. These skills can help to keep seniors safe, connected, mobile, informed, even well educated. They are as important today as a telephone connection was in the 1950s or basic reading was in the early 1900s. Still, many seniors do not feel confident doing basic digital tasks like instant messaging, completing a Google search or using a social media platform like Facebook. These skills can make daily life far...
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