Southeast Florida, Spring 2022

How to Stay Healthy and Motivated after 65

One of the biggest challenges people face as they age is staying mentally and physically motivated to lead healthy lives. There are many factors that get in the way, including thoughts about security, independence, health, and social activity. There are currently about 49 million U.S. citizens that are 65 and older and it is projected that many can lead healthy lives into their 80s. The biggest hurdle is their desire and dedication to stay active socially and physically in as many ways possible to improve their quality of life.

Safe Ways to Get Started Being Active

You may want to jump right into an activity that will get you moving. But you need to consider taking things slow. Even if you feel you have the physical ability to take on a challenge without harming yourself, you may have underlying risks that could lead to injury. Start with shorter sessions a few times a day, a few days a week. Starting slow can prevent muscle strains, ankle sprains, and falls. Aim to reach at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day and then increase your sessions incrementally over a couple of weeks. No matter what activity you choose to start with, pacing yourself will help you make safe transition toward leading a healthier lifestyle.

Great Ways Seniors Can Make Exercise Fun

One of the ways for seniors to look forward to starting an exercise routine is to do so in groups. Some activities can be done with just one other person (walking, hiking, tennis, etc.) but there are numerous activities that would be more fun with groups of people. Working out with at least one other person can improve your mental health because you can feel connected through conversation. You can cheer each other on, challenge one another, and make better commitments toward meeting up the next. If you work out in a group, you may get to meet new people which can make exercising even more beneficial.

How to Stay Motivated and On Track

You may have heard the saying “Variety is the spice of life.” This is true for most activities people do throughout the day. Exercise is no different. Try doing something different each day. If you are working out with a partner or in a group, you may find that you can enjoy different activities with different people. This is a great way to socialize and increase your circle of friends. Try to set goals for yourself and others, celebrate with rewards, and be flexible when it comes to when and where you will exercise. Adding variety will keep your routine from becoming stale. You’ll enjoy your time and feel like you are experiencing new things each time you meet up.

Exercises to Get Started With

Getting regular exercise a few times a week is important for seniors. But it can be difficult to know where to start. If it’s been a while since you have been regularly active, you need to start slow with a few safe exercises and be aware of how your body responds and recovers. Here are a few that can be done alone or as part of a group exercises you might want to consider:

• Chair Stretching / Yoga – These are low-impact activities that have many benefits. They can improve balance and flexibility, mobility, and muscle strength. It can also improve your mental health, sleep quality, and lower stress levels. You can do these alone at home or you can sign up for a class. The latter is much more fun because you get to meet new people while getting fit.
• Resistance Band Workouts – If you are unable to lift weights but still want to incorporate resistance workouts into your routine, resistance bands are great. Resistance band workouts are particularly good for beginners and are quite cheap. There are different resistance levels that can help you strengthen a variety of muscle groups in your body. Some of the most popular and safe exercises for seniors include: bicep curls, triceps presses, pull aparts, lateral raises, and leg presses.
• Water Aerobics – This is a great type of exercise for people of all ages, but it’s particularly beneficial for seniors because there is a relatively low risk of injury while still able to help improve balance, flexibility, and strength. Exercising in the water puts less strength on the joints which makes it great for anyone experiencing joint pain due to certain types of arthritis or injury.

It’s a good idea to check with a physician before starting an exercise routine. Always follow your physician’s advice and make sure you discuss how your body reacts to determine whether you are ready to increase the amount of activity you do regularly.

Thank you for following our OurSeniors.Net website, Facebook page, and blog. Our goal is to give you informative content we hope will enrich you. We encourage you to explore our other articles to learn more about the benefits of leading a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Seniors Caring For Elderly Parents: How Does It Work?

You may be a senior who also has the responsibility of taking care of your parents. Or you may just be aware that you, yourself are getting older and you’re curious about how it all works; when you’re aging and possibly having to take care of aging parents. It is not only important to be aware of the resources and benefits that are available to you when taking care of aging parents but also the other aspects involved with providing them with care.

To help your aging parents you must enable them to openly communicate how and when they would like you to help them, be patient and respectful as reversed dependence can often be shocking and take time to get used to, and always prioritize their overall well-being. About 17% of adults usually end up providing care for their aging parents so it is important to have a long-term plan for your parents that may need long-term care.

Here you’ll find out just how common it is for seniors to have the responsibility of taking care of their aging parents, you will become more aware of benefits and resources that are available to you as current or potential caregivers and you’ll get an overview of how to properly take care of your aging parents. Keep reading to find out the most important things to consider throughout this process.

How Common Is It For Seniors To Take Care of Elderly Parents?

It is not uncommon for seniors to have to take care of their elderly parents. That is just the cycle of life. women are more likely than men to provide primary care to elderly parents. Individuals that aren’t married are about 8% more likely than those that are married to provide primary care for an aging parent. It’s important to note that if you are not able to offer your aging parents adequate care and assistance that it may be best to hire professional caregivers to act in your place. Always keep this in mind if your aging parents have serious medical conditions that require a significant amount of attention and coordination.

So yes it is very common for seniors to find themselves in the situation of taking care of their elderly parents. Not all seniors are physically able to accommodate what elderly parents mini so it is always important to be able to recognize when you may potentially be biting off more than you can chew. Stay aware of the health conditions of your aging parents and knowledgeable about useful assistance if needed.

How Do You Care For Those Older Than You When You’re A Senior?

How you care for someone older than you when you are a senior yourself is quite simple. The actual job isn’t simple in itself but the general guidelines are. When faced with having to take care of aging parents you always want to assess their initial needs. You want to make sure that you can accommodate the care that they require.

You also want to determine whether or not they can live alone anymore or if they would have to live with you and if that’s the case whether or not you have the space within your home to give them. There are multiple factors involved when you alter your life as you know it to allow someone to be dependent on you again. Recognize the top opportunities that you may be presented with as a caregiver.

If you have an aging parent that is unable to drive or does not have a lot of social exposure, take an interest in their socialization, and sign them up for an adult day program or a club with people that share the same interests as they do. Possibly research volunteer senior companion programs within your area and look into hiring in-home caregiving if you have the space to offer your aging parents and don’t feel comfortable putting them into a nursing home or retirement community.

The key here is to care for your parents as they did for you because the cycle will continue and your children will have to do the same for you at some point. Being able to properly take care of your aging parents is accepting the cycle and approaching it in the way that you would want someone to approach it if you were in the same position; with comfort, openness, guidance, and reliability.

Useful Resources For Seniors Caring For Seniors

Everyone needs help now and again. Taking care of your aging parents as a senior can show to be quite challenging at times, especially in terms of finances. If you are caring for an elderly parent there are a few key resources that you should consider to assist with managing any costs of care. A few of these resources are:

• Meal Services
• Frequent Home Monitoring
• Available Benefits
• Support Groups
• Utilizing Other Family Members

Finding yourself in a financial bind when taking care of multiple family members or households can be taxing. Thankfully there are several beneficial resources that you can easily access to assist with any related situation. Taking care of elderly parents can sometimes be seen as a burden but they don’t have to be. You must know when to hand over the reins to another caregiver if you are not able to provide what they need.

Due to the high levels of stress that taking care of an older loved one can cause on a person, you should consider support groups or appropriate therapeutic methods to keep yourself grounded. Depending on where you live you may qualify for some form of financial aid or benefits to assist with the finances involved with taking care of aging parents.

Now You’re More Prepared

The longer that we live the more likely it is that we will end up caring for our parents who obviously would be older than we are as seniors ourselves. This is just a natural staple of life and it is essential to have a primary care plan for your aging parents if you are aware that you may become a potential caregiver. At least 10% of adults between the ages of 60 and 69 whose parents are still alive often operate as their primary caregivers. About 12% of adults who are caregivers to older parents are 70 or older.

Keep in mind, that you do not have to forfeit the rest of your life to take care of an elderly parent. There are numerous resources that you can take advantage of to keep from stretching yourself or your family too thin. Never underestimate the significant amount of help that utilizing other family members can provide and if you don’t have to do it alone, don’t.

As you age, your parents will age, and providing them with adequate care may be challenging but, if you take proactive steps into planning Their assisted care opportunities you can make the process more simple for you in the long run.

As one of the best online magazines for seniors, OurSeniors.net works to provide our readers with truly inspiring stories from our “amazing seniors”. When we feature our amazing seniors, we are allowed to share their stories with the hope of encouraging others. We decided to take a look at two amazing military veterans that have done everything they could to show those that looked up to them, and those around them that anything is possible, and that if you can be anything that you strive to be—if not more. OurSeniors.net presents:

Colonel Juan Armando Montes

Born in Cuba on October 27, 1936, Colonel Juan Armand Montes dedicated close to 30 years of his life to the Army. He fought valiantly in combat as a ranger and rose through the ranks, becoming one of the most highly respected officers in the military. His destiny was to command and lead hundreds of troops, and that is exactly what he did during his illustrious career.

Colonel Montes got to witness the dedication and hard work of his father at a young age. His parents encouraged him to be a scholar, and he did exactly that; graduating magna cum laude with a B.A. from La Luz College in Havana, Cuba. He later received his Juris Doctor in Civil/Criminal law from St. Thomas Villanova Catholic University in Havana as well.

John Wayne pictures, and other war-time movies, inspired Colonel Montes to pursue a career in the military. As time went on, he was faced with the need to escape Cuba after Fidel Castro took control of the country.

As a Cuban immigrant, Colonel Montes found his calling in the U.S. Army when President Kennedy started the Cuban combat assault Brigade 2506. After arriving in the states, he dedicated his life to protecting and honoring the country that acted as a haven for him once living in Cuba was met with turmoil and difficulty.

The integrity, honor, and dedication that Colonel Montes had could never be questioned as he spent 25 years as part of the Green Beret Special Forces. As an incredible leader, he was honored with various awards including the Legion of Merit, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm for valor in combat in 1971.

As someone who has jumped out of airplanes to protect American freedom, and as someone that has been presented with various badges including the Combat Infantryman Badge that showed his participation and dedication during the 1965 invasion of the Dominican Republic that led to the successful freeing of Dominicans from Cuban-communist oppression. Colonel Montes served as a platoon leader during that time and his courage was of no question.

Colonel Montes is seen as an image of bravery, dedication, and strength. Throughout his life, he has shown those that looked up to him that no matter what life throws at you, you can always overcome it if you have enough courage and strength.

Jerry Krueger

Jerome “Jerry” Krueger was born in Miami, FL in 1922. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps and became a flight radio operator. After completing testing in Miami, he traveled to Sioux Falls, SD for radio school. Upon graduating, Jerry was assigned overseas to support the Flying Tigers in Kunming, China. Jerry flew more than 600 hours and received an Air Medal and a Flying Cross for his heroism. In addition to his military accolades, Jerry also received a medal from the Chinese government honoring his service.

Jerry is a man that has exemplified great determination and resilience. In 1945, the war had just ended and he only had two years of collegiate experience. However, that didn’t stop him from attending Rutgers University Law School. He was driven to achieve his goals and obtain his law degree. After working hard for two years, he met his wife Esther – a Cadet nurse who had also trained to be a registered nurse during the war. After meeting his match, Jerry and Esther began a relationship and friendship that would last more than 70 years.

After he worked in a law firm for two years, he decided to start a personal practice in Linden, NJ. What’s more, while he was actively working at his practice, he was asked to run for councilman of Linden, NJ. It’s safe to say that he won the position and he stayed within it for two years. Jerry is the type of person that goes above and beyond and he showed everyone exactly that after he was elected as the president of the city council.

He was also later elected to the state of New Jersey legislature for a year. Jerry gained unmatched experiences which led him to become the city attorney for the city of Linden. He stayed within his position for 30 years, all while maintaining his private practice. Jerry did not retire until he reached the age of 91. As the inspiration that he is, he and his wife Esther remained active within their community.

Jerry Kruger is someone to be celebrated and he’s the oldest surviving Jewish war veteran in the Daytona Beach area which he received an award for. Jerry and his wife Esther are perfect examples of strength, teamwork, and drive.

Jerry himself not only reached multiple milestones in his military career, but in his career in law, public policy, and his joy of being a family man. As of today when this article was written our young Jerry is only 97 years young, and his beloved wife Esther is only 95 years young.

Colonel Juan Armando Montes

Esther in 1944 & Jerry in 1943

OurSeniors.net knows that retirement can come with some unexpected financial challenges. Unplanned medical or dental expenses, home maintenance or car repairs can wreck even a carefully planned budget. Seniors living on fixed incomes are especially vulnerable to these financial mishaps. Unfortunately, seniors sometimes turn to high-interest, unscrupulous lenders to meet these needs, paying too much for the financial services they deserve.

There is an alternative, a much-needed service for seniors. BMG Money is an established, well-respected financial institution that provides valuable financial resources to seniors. BMG Money specializes in personal loans for retirees.  While other financial institutions consider the senior market a risk, BMG Money embraces retirees. BMG Money’s “Loans for Retirees” program gives seniors access to emergency loans and financial resources they cannot get from other lenders. It is truly a financial safety net for retirees.

Founded in 2009, BMG Money has been protecting retirees from predatory loan operators for 13 years. BMG now operates in 36 states and Washington D.C. This fine company has earned a 5-star rating on Trustpilot, Google and Facebook, and BMG is accredited by the Better Business Bureau. Just as importantly, BMG Money has earned the confidence and gratitude of its clients, seniors who needed financial advice and services. Here is a comment from one of those clients:

“I had NO CLUE that I was eligible for refinancing, but the BMG Money phone representative induced awareness to satisfy a hidden need for additional funds. They stayed on the line with me while I completed the application, and a few minutes later, I was approved. WOW, WOW, WOW! He also created astute awareness regarding BMG’s referral program and a win/win for me and BMG.”

Please take time to learn about BMG Money’s Loans for Retirees program.  BMG Money provides the tools and resources that seniors need to secure their financial wellbeing. BMG Money understands that retirees who have been rejected by banks or credit unions still need access to emergency loans and financial solutions. Consider these BMG Money advantages-

• It is Quick and Convenient. BMG Money services are accessible 24 hours a day through the BMG Money website. Retirees may apply by logging on to the website. It takes only a few minutes through any mobile or computer device. Once the needed forms are submitted, it takes 2 or 3 business days to review and get a decision.
• There is An Easy Application Process. The application process is short, taking about 10 or 15 minutes. Applicants will be asked for only 2 or 3 documents. These forms may be sent via email, text, or uploaded through the BMG Money website.
• BMG Money has great Customer Service. BMG phone support representatives are attentive to every call and every client. They are trained to communicate with seniors and retirees who may not be computer savvy or familiar with financial terms. BMG support representatives can even assist in installing WhatsApp, the free messaging and video calling app. This free program will provide both sound and video assistance to those who need it.
• Instant Funding is Available. After the needed paperwork is complete, the funds will be readily available within 1 to 2 business days. If the application is signed on a standard business day before noon Eastern Time, the turnaround for loan approval can be that speedy! Because there is no required credit score, the process is fast. Sometimes the money can be available as soon as the same day!
• No Credit Score is Required. BMG Money does not require a credit score at the time of loan application. This means fast, 24-to-48-hour approval for senior applicants. Jose Patino, Vice President of BMG Money, explains BMG’s policy this way-“Loan eligibility depends on current income – not credit history – a needed relief for consumers who have low credit scores or are otherwise denied by traditional lenders and shut out of the financial mainstream.”
• Easy Repayment Options are Available. Once qualified for a retiree loan, BMG Money arranges repayments directly from the deposited account. These scheduled payments benefit the retiree, preventing seniors from missing a payment and helping to improve credit scores.
• Referrals Can Help Pay Back Loans. Retirees can earn money through BMG Money’s referral program, helping others. There is no limit to the amount that can be earned through referrals. Retirees can earn additional bonuses based on the number of referrals sent to BMG Money. Sharing your great BMG Money experience with others helps them and you at the same time.

BMG Money makes applying to the Loans for Retiree program easy! These loans are available in amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000 and terms of up to 2 years. Interest rates are competitive and instant funding is available. Retirees can apply online from a smartphone, computer or any mobile device.  Customer service representatives assist consumers Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Loan applications are available at www.bmgmoney.com, and client support is available at 866.316.4916.  All loans offered are subject to eligibility, underwriting and approval. Terms and conditions apply.

Banks and credit unions may be unwilling to help, but BMG Money offers loan programs that manage unexpected expenses, allowing retirees to borrow responsibly and repay over time with affordable installments. It does this regardless of credit score. BMG Money is here to help retirees enjoy those years meant for family, leisure and fun.

OurSeniors.Net and BMG Money are happy to be collaborating, providing the financial services and knowledge crucial for retirement. As a leading financial institution, BMG Money offers an array of financial services to enrich the retiree community. Please stop by at www.bmgmoney.com and take the first step towards moving forward financially with BMG Money.