Health organizations, doctors and other medical professionals advise millions of patients every year regarding cholesterol. News reports and nutrition experts offer a wealth of recommendations for managing cholesterol through diet and exercise. Good cholesterol, bad cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, trans fat, saturated fats; these are the buzzwords most often heard, but not always understood.

Cholesterol Basics

The human body naturally produces cholesterol in the liver, as well as other body cells. This waxy fat helps transport important proteins, known as lipoproteins, during the production of certain hormones and other compounds. Cholesterol comes primarily in two forms, low-density and high-density, although a third type of cholesterol does circulate in the bloodstream.

Low-density lipoprotein, abbreviated as LDL, is the so-called bad cholesterol. LDL is the cholesterol best known for clogging arteries and contributing to heart problems. When too much is present, it sticks to artery walls and forms a plague.  Alternatively, high-density lipoprotein, better known as HDL, is the good cholesterol. HDL helps to police LDL by facilitating its movement through the body and preventing LDL from sticking to artery walls.

The body needs a proper balance between HDL and LDL to function properly, typically under 100mg/L for LDL and over 40mg/L for HDL, depending on gender. Too much LDL or not enough HDL cholesterol results in plague build up and more strain on the heart and circulatory systems. According to the American Heart Association, an HDL level under 40-50mg/L, depending on gender, increases the chances that an individual will develop heart disease.  On the other hand, not enough LDL or too much HDL inhibits the body’s ability to transport the lipoproteins a body needs.

Research further identified another type of cholesterol, known as lipoprotein (a) or Lp(a). Lp(a) is a genetic type of low-density lipoprotein. Scientists do not fully understand the purpose or function of Lp(a), although some suggest it helps coagulation in certain situations. Low Lp(a) levels do not, according to research, create any health risk. However, high Lp(a) levels have been linked to an increased risk of coronary heart disease and similar health problems.

But What About Triglycerides?

Although not a type of cholesterol, triglycerides are commonly associated with cholesterol. In fact, medical professionals typically test both cholesterol and triglyceride levels simultaneously. Triglycerides are another type of fat, or lipid, produced by the body. Unlike cholesterol, the purpose of triglycerides is to store anything the body takes in that it does not currently need.

For example, if a person takes in carbohydrates that are not immediately needed, the body produces triglycerides to store the surplus for later use. Generally, unhealthy cholesterol levels go hand-in-hand with unhealthy triglyceride levels. The same conditions and choices that raise cholesterol also raise triglycerides. Likewise, the treatment recommendations and lifestyle changes for high cholesterol also work for high triglycerides.

Dietary Factors and Cholesterol

The body produces as much as 75 percent of the cholesterol circulating in the blood stream at any given time. The remaining 25 percent is the result of an individual’s dietary choices. Without added fats from dietary intake, the body has the capacity to produce enough cholesterol to effectively transport all of the lipoproteins needed. However, certain inherited genetic traits cause some individuals to produce more cholesterol than required, regardless of dietary factors.

The primary culprit responsible for increased cholesterol is the intake of certain types of dietary fat. Nearly every food consumed by people has some amount of fat, even vegetables like lettuce or carrots. Not all dietary fats are bad, however. Primarily, unsaturated fats are good for the body, whereas saturated fats and trans fatty acids are bad.

Saturated, Unsaturated and Trans Fats

Unsaturated fats, such as those found in certain types of nuts, seeds and olive oil, have numerous beneficial effects on the body. These types of fat help to ease inflammation, keep heart rhythms in check, and even help lower bad cholesterol levels. When making dietary choices, unsaturated fats are the optimal choice, giving the body beneficial fats without increasing cholesterol levels.

Saturated fats occur naturally in most animal products. Saturated fats raise total cholesterol, including both good and bad forms, and therefore, should be eaten in moderation. Trans fats, such as found in hydrogenated vegetable oil and most convenience foods, are the worst in terms of cholesterol. These fats not only raise LDL cholesterol, but simultaneously lower HDL. Additionally, trans fats aggravate inflammation, contributing to numerous immune-related health conditions.

The Harvard School for Public Health (HSPH) has extensively researched dietary habits and their effect on cholesterol. The HSPH website offers helpful advice, as well as some staggering figures regarding diet, cholesterol and fats.  Likewise, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) offers tips and suggestions specifically for women regarding diet and cholesterol.

Exercise, Smoking and other Lifestyle Factors

In addition to diet, other lifestyle choices affect cholesterol levels. Smoking, drinking alcohol and an individual’s activity level all have a profound impact on cholesterol and associated health concerns. For example, studies link cigarette smokers with lower HDL cholesterol levels compared to the HDL levels of non-smokers. Female cigarette smokers showed a more significant drop in HDL levels than male smokers.

Numerous reports also expound the benefits of drinking a glass of wine or beer a day to raise HDL cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease. However, the American Heart Association and other organizations do not recommend using alcohol as a means to control cholesterol, due to the risk of stroke, liver cirrhosis, and other health problems caused by moderate to heavy consumption of alcohol. In the case of light alcohol consumption, healthcare providers offer mixed recommendations regarding its use, since there are positives and negatives involved.

Exercise and physical activity are, however, always recommended for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Experts suggest that part of the benefit of exercise lies in maintaining a healthy weight, since obesity is directly linked to high LDL and triglyceride levels. Additionally, exercise releases certain chemicals in the body that help facilitate the expulsion of excess LDL cholesterol particles. Combined with dietary changes, exercise is one of the most commonly recommended options for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.

Getting older can often mean giving up one’s independence, but new options for senior care are changing that reality. Monitoring systems can now allow senior citizens to remain independent and socially connected to family and friends without the usual concerns about health and safety that often arise from living alone.

• The expense and trauma of moving to long-term care make it unattractive for many seniors who require only a low level of care.
• Independence and social connectedness are important factors affecting the long-term health of seniors, and can affect health outcomes after surgery or other medical treatments.
• Many seniors need help remembering when to take medications, but don’t require the kind of skilled medical facility that nursing homes and assisted living facilities provide.
• There are times when elderly spouses may not be best equipped to monitor one another’s medical needs, but there are many other reasons why the two should continue living together in their own home.
• Although systems such as LifeAlert have for decades given seniors an option for independent living by providing an alert system, they can only help if the patient is conscious and able to call for help when it’s needed.
• Families who live far away may find it difficult to rest easy without regular updates, but constant contact is often impractical.
• Living alone can be dangerous for seniors with medical conditions that could endanger their safety, but electronic monitoring can provide a safety net.

How it works:

• Motion detectors are installed throughout the home, and the data is tracked online.
• Family members are given access to the system, and can see when the medicine cabinet door was opened, for instance, or simply verify that their loved one is up and moving about the house.
• Medication reminders can alert patients when medication times are upcoming, and the online system will notify family members in case of a missed dose.

There are privacy concerns for most families when choosing to use such monitoring systems, but the trade-offs can be huge. The financial and economic costs of moving to long-term care can have lasting negative effects, and families must undertake the decision carefully. There are many cases where electronic monitoring would provide an effective alternative that supports both independence and safety.

Pets are not just cute and cuddly creatures. They are sometimes known to be quite the little miracle workers, too. While there are many known health benefits to spending time with dogs and cats, the impact of pet ownership for seniors goes even further.

1. Pets offer the prospect of a relationship with individuals who are too often starved for companionship. One of the hardest things about getting older is losing the people who have shaped and touched our lives in meaningful ways. Entering new relationships with humans is often difficult, but pets have a way of breaking through our defenses and connecting with us, even when we’d rather shut down.
2. They won’t judge you when you’re having an “off” day or complain about their stressful lives. This is not to say pets aren’t needy. Many dogs and cats need exercise, but healthy seniors can easily take the dog for a walk or play a round of fetch. The beauty of pet ownership is the unconditional love they offer.
3. They listen and provide support without psychoanalytics, and they offer comfort through the basis sense of touch. Everyone needs a listening ear sometimes, but many seniors keep too much to themselves. Whether this is out of fear that others will minimize their problems or swing completely the other direction and overreact, supplementing human listeners with comforting animals is known to relieve stress.
4. Pets can give seniors a sense of purpose, which is especially helpful when one’s usefulness is other areas of life is thrown into question. Self-esteem is a vital part of mental health and wellness. Having someone else to take care of gives us a sense of duty. When we are responsible to others, we belong not only to ourselves anymore. Having obligations gives us purpose in life, which translates into better self-esteem. At its best, pet ownership can affect geriatric depression.
5. Dogs especially are known for their innate ability to show concern for their humans. The lives of many seniors can be filled with concerned people, but humans aren’t always adept at showing it in palatable ways. When pets show their concern, the feeling is more genuine, and often less threatening.
6. Many dogs and even some cats can alert their owners when medical or environmental emergencies are imminent. While having a pet is not the same thing as using an assistance animal, many animals require no training at all to be tuned into the warning signs most humans can’t sense.

Senior care can be greatly enhanced when pets are in the equation. Find more information on pets and seniors here.

Getting older comes with its ups and downs. For some people, life after 65 represents the golden years, but for many, those years are filled with aches and pains, unexplained symptoms, and a plethora of doctor visits that can make life itself a real drag. While there are many options for senior care, one of the best ways to feel better is also the simplest: laughter.

• As we age, we often lose touch with the people that enriched our lives the most when we were younger. Friends move away for retirement or have medical problems of their own that can make it harder to stay in touch. Just as friendships and community participation are important parts of growing up, they are also essential for us as we grow old.
• Loss of a spouse or partner can be devastating in our later years because we’ve spent so much of our lives with that cherished other, and no one can replace the vacuum left in the wake of their death. It’s important to remember, though, that life does indeed go on, and if we want to live happy, healthy lives, we must find ways to reconnect with others.
• Many retirement communities and assisted living facilities emphasize community participation because of its beneficial health effects, but getting involved can be hard at first. Try focusing on activities you’ve always enjoyed, and look for others with similar interests. You’re bound to meet someone who can make you smile.
• Churches and community groups frequently offer activities designed for seniors that can help you make new friends while enjoying an afternoon or evening out. Most of these events are free or very inexpensive, and many times transportation will be provided.
• If you tend to take things too seriously, you may need reminding that life isn’t supposed to be a constant struggle. It’s not too late to start letting the little things go, and look for opportunities to make light of silly situations.
• Going out to a comedy club or watching stand-up comics on television are good ways to enjoy a good laugh, but it doesn’t have to end there. You can also read comics and online funny papers to get your daily dose of chuckles.
• The people you have around you can easily influence your outlook and attitudes. If you have negative friends, family members, or caretakers, they could be harming your health. Look for ways to connect with people who have a slightly skewed – even ridiculous – take on things. They will bring you more joy and help you take things less seriously.

Many seniors feel they have little control over their circumstances, but simply changing your focus can bring welcome relief. Try reminding yourself every day of the importance of laughter, and you may even be able to affect change in those around you.

As we reach elder-hood; the phase in our life proceeding childhood and adulthood, it is apparent that many things in life are not quite as they used to be.

Wrinkles appear as the skin looses elasticity, bones and joints are injured more easily and seem to take longer to heal. Osteoporosis, arthritis, cancer, and heart disease are all most common among seniors, as well as decreased eyesight, hearing, and memory.

Taking into consideration these effects on the aging body, it is not hard to correlate an increased risk of unintentional injuries to the body. Some of the more common accidents among seniors include; house fires from cooking or candle use, poisoning from household chemicals, cuts from common chores such as can opening, motor vehicle accidents, near drowning from swimming pools, bicycle accidents, and lawn care accidents such as riding mowers tipping over. The most common cause of injury among seniors is falling, and the highest percentage of falls happen in the bathroom.

1. Stander: Often times seniors find that they could benefit from a helpful hand in and out of bed, or aid in repositioning while sleeping. A bed-rail may be just the solution; however, entrapment in a bed-rail is not an uncommon injury among users. Read this site’s tips on preventing bed-rail entrapment, along with other information on bed-rails in general.
2. Unintentional Injury Prevention: This blog site is dedicated to unintentional injuries among all ages and races. It does specify particular accidents which are more common among the elderly, along with ways to prevent them.
3. Senior Journal: An interesting article on this page sites walking canes and walkers as a cause of accidental injury to elderly, sending over 47,000 per year to the emergency room. Read some helpful tips on avoiding this type of accident in the house as well as out and about.
4. Missouri Senior Report: Find out what your community can do to decrease elderly risk of injury from falling on this Missouri senior site.
5. Oasis: Learn what the most common causes of falls in the home are, along with tips to making your home a fall-free zone.
6. Maine Health: Healthy aging is the focus of this site, with a strong emphasis on fall prevention.
7. PCHRD: Sports injuries are a common type of unintentional injury among seniors. Read through this article to find out which types of sports have higher rates of injury, along with the common types of injury, and how to prevent them.
8. The Injury Board: Fall prevention is the focus of this blog-site article.
9. Senior Magazine: A great checklist is included on this site highlighting all areas of the home which pose potential accident hazards.
10. Working Caregiver: This caregiver site features a home safety checklist, to help prevent common in home injuries among the elderly.
11. Macon: Accidental poisoning by household chemicals is a common mistake among the elderly. Read some facts on this site about avoiding this type of injury.
12. Cooper Health: It has been reported that more than one-third of American seniors suffer from a fall each year. Follow this blog to get prevention and home safety tips.
13. Heavenly Helpers: Senior citizens consume 40% of all prescription drugs in America, unfortunately, these prescription drugs can sometimes lead to accidental injury. Read this blog post, and learn how to avoid medication mishaps.
14. Euro IPN: This study from Greece lists the five most common unintentional injuries that led to death among seniors in their country.
15. Drugscope: Substance misuse among the elderly is a topic discussed on this blog.
16. Seabridge Bathing: This blog dedicated to the elderly celebrates June as home safety month, with several tips on how to prevent in home accidents.
17. Weitz & Luxenberg: Hip fractures, are the most serious fall injury among seniors.
18. Suburbanite: The Safety Seekers Coalition is a program that was created to focus on the prevention of injuries to the senior community in Summit County.
19. Space Coast Medicine: Visit this blog for home safety evaluations and steps to reduce risk of falls in the home for seniors.
20. Be in the Know: Project Healthy Bones, a 24-week course featuring education and exercise for seniors at risk of osteoporosis, was started in New Jersey in the hopes to decrease falls among the elderly.
21. Senior Living Blog: Statistics show that 1/3 of accidents in the home could have been prevented. This senior blog includes some tips to increase the safety of your home.
22. Arrive Alive: This insurance blog has several posts about the safety of elderly drivers.
23. Flaxman Law Group: See what steps the state of Florida has taken to reduce the risk of motor vehicle accidents among the high population of elderly.
24. Asia Healthcare: This blog site features articles stressing the importance of knowledge as it pertains to the healthcare of the elderly. A study highlighted in the post expresses the usefulness of identifying the cause and most common location of injuries to help reduce these risks.
25. Reeves Law Group: Read this law groups reasons why the elderly are more at risk of a fall injury than the younger population, and ways to prevent falls from happening.
26. Target Health: This is an interesting study stating that the fear of falling may increase the risk of falls among elderly, regardless of their actual risk.
27. InfoSplat: Find out if exercise increases or decreases the risk of falling for elderly.
28. Aging Care: This home healthcare blog site features articles on how to prevent accidents and falls around the home of the elderly.
29. NewsPlex: This article showcases funding awarded to analyze some of the most common injuries sustained by the elderly in motor vehicle accidents.
30. Software Objects: See what advancements in technology have done to aid in preventing medication mishaps among seniors.
31. West Metro: This helpful checklist for fire and fall prevention is available to senior citizens.
32. Anapol Schwartz: Burns from home fires prove to be one of the more common unintentional injuries among seniors. Here is information on the most common types of burns and how to avoid them.
33. Home Security Action: How to prevent accidents in the home for elderly safety.
34. Georgia Injury Law: This blog features an article focusing on an awareness campaign for attention on slip and fall accidents among senior citizens.
35. Dr Driving: This study focuses on fatality statistics among elderly car accidents.
36. Senior Journal: This article describes why seniors who fail to take their medication correctly are at a higher risk of falls.
37. Aberdeen Safer Community Trust: This site features a section titled, “Older and Wiser” geared toward keeping the elder community safe.
38. Cliffview Pilot: View opinions on the safety of senior drivers, and the likelihood of them in auto accidents.
39. Grossman Law Firm: Read what researchers suggest to help prevent the rate of elderly slip and fall accidents.
40. Self Help: This site features home care tips for the elderly, including avoiding and dealing with falls.
41. Chalik & Chalik: One of the posts on this blog tells the story of an elderly South-Florida man who suffered from a slip and fall accident.
42. Jacksonville Injury Lawyer Blog: Carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the accidents senior citizens are at risk of, read this post on avoiding this mishap.
43. Senior Citizen Journal: Learn how sleep disorders among senior citizens may increase the rate of falling accidents.
44. Westbrook: Review this home safety checklist to help prevent injuries at home.
45. Qigong Chinese Health: This article lists several benefits to senior citizens doing qigong; including lowering their risk of accidents.
46. Brown County: This senior safety document is handy for preventing and identifying some of the more common accidents among seniors.
47. Creative Small Business Ideas: This post describes how being a senior citizens safety consultant can help to prevent situations which may lead to accident and injury amongst the elderly.

Image Credits: tuppus

Owning a pet is a great choice for older people; offering a range of benefits from companionship and protection, to physical and mental health improvements. But before deciding to purchase a pet, senior citizens and their families should look at the practical implications – thinking carefully about who will feed, exercise and care for the pet, how pet related bills will be paid and what will happen if the owner needs to travel or even move?

Once these questions are answered there are a range of pets available with something to suit the needs of every senior.

1. Bringing Pets in Need of a Home and Seniors in Need of a Friend Together Article looking at one program connecting older people and pets.
2. Help for Seniors with Pet Care One program helping older pet owners ensure their pets are happy and healthy. Includes great example of some of the services on offer.
3. Some Facts About Senior Pet Ownership A look at the facts and figures behind the senior pet ownership trends. Explores the benefits for both owners and animals.
4. Pet Adoption for Seniors The advantages and disadvantages of taking on a pet in old age. A realistic look at the interesting issues affecting mature animal-lovers.
5. Pet Therapy Can Help Seniors Article examining the benefits of animal contact for senior citizens. Highlighting some of the positive emotional and mental effects of pet ownership.
6. Adopting a Pet with the Purina Program Advice for seniors on an exciting pet adoption program perfect for mature animal lovers. Details and advice included.
7. Seniors’ Pets Get Meals on Wheels A look at an initiative to help older animal owners keep themselves sand their pets well nourished. Includes information on the benefits of pet ownership for seniors.
8. Helping Seniors Afford Pets A case study of one program helping seniors to enjoy animals without the additional expense.
9. Seniors with Pets are Fitter A look the health benefits of pet ownership for seniors. Explanation of why pet owning elders fare better physically that their pet-free peers.
10. Senior Pet Benefits Explained A look at the many positive effects of pet ownership on senior citizens. With links to pet care advice for older owners.
11. Best Dog Breeds for Older Owners A look at some popular breeds and how they will fit with the senior lifestyle. Explains temperaments and exercise needs.
12. Helping Seniors Choose a Dog A guide to good choices of dog breed for the older owner. Looking at the specific needs of a pension age pet owner.
13. Choosing a Dog for an Elderly Owner Things to consider when seeking a companion for a senior citizen. Helping match older owners with their perfect pets.
14. Good Companion Dogs A look at the best breeds of dog to keep older owners company. Insight into breed personality traits and care needs.
15. Pets and Nursing Homes Advice for pet owning seniors and their families considering a move to assisted living. With links to additional resources.
16. The Benefit of Pets to Retirement Home Residents Article examining the pros of nursing home pet ownership. A balanced look at the issue of pets in residential care environments.
17. Advice on Elderly Pet Ownership An interesting examination of the issue of pets for senior citizens. Includes list of things to consider before going ahead with a pet purchase.
18. Travelling With Pets A guide for seniors wishing to take their animals away with them. Covers air travel, car travels and the importance of checking entry requirements.
19. Why Senior Citizens Need Pets Explains what older owner can gain from pet ownership. A look at the physical and mental benefits of animal ownership for older people.
20. Safe Dog Breeds for Seniors A look at the safest breeds of dog to choose as pets for older owners. Helping senior citizens choose the safest pets.
21. The Importance of Allowing Elders Their Pets Looking at the importance of not separating owners and pets in later life. Looking at the options of keeping elders and companions together
22. Separating Seniors and Pets Causes Trauma Argument for keeping pets and elderly owners together.
23. Pets For All the Family Advice on pets for multi generational homes. With recommended breeds for pensioners and children.
24. Helping Seniors Keep Their Pets Practical steps to help older pet owners hold on to their animals. Tips and suggestions of how to help.
25. Older People’s Pet Ownership Rights Article about the legal right to retain pets in old age. Looking at legislation for older pet owners and their rights to keep their animals in assisted accommodation.
26. Being Parted from Pets Causes Distress What families should think about when considering residential care for elderly pet owners. How to avoid unnecessary upset.
27. What to do With Pets When Senior Citizens Need Care? A look at the issue of pets and residential care and what should be done when living situations change.
28. Are Plants or Pets Better for Senior Citizens? A study of which hobby will best benefit older people. Looking at the pros and cons of each option.
29. How Can Pets Help Elders? A look at the positive effects of pet ownership on senior citizens. Explains how to maximize benefits of pet owning.
30. Help With Vets Bills Advice for seniors needing financial aid to care for their ailing animals. Includes list of organizations to contact.
31. Retiring With Pets A guide for older owners seeking a lifestyle change in later years. Examines to option available to elderly animal owners.
32. Helping Older Owners Care For Their Pets Advice on how to support pensioners with pets to ensure the best animal care as well as a positive pet owning experience. With links to additional resources.
33. How to Prepare for a Pet Sitter Advice for older owners needing a little help with pet care while out or away. Great examples of how to make the transition easy for everyone.
34. Choosing a Dog Walker Advice for older owners who may need a little help exercising their animals. Help matching dogs and dog walkers for a healthy and happy pet care partnership.
35. Who Can Help Seniors Care for Their Pets? Some profiles of pet care professionals offering seniors services to ease the burden of animal care.
36. Poop Scoop Service Perfect for Pet Owners With Mobility Problems An overview of innovative service for pet waste removal. Includes details of rates and services
37. Hearing Dogs For Deaf Seniors How pets can help older people who are hard of hearing to enjoy a full and active life. Article about the hearing dog movement and those who it benefits.
38. Service Dogs Improve Quality of Life for Elderly Owners Many dogs perform amazing services for their older owners. A look at some of these amazing animals and what they do for their owners.
39. All About Assistance Dogs When seniors animals are more than just pets. Interesting insight into dogs that provide a lifeline to older or infirm owners.
40. The Role of Service Dogs in the Lives of Senior Citizens Some of the amazing thing animals do for their older owners explained.
41. Stroking Cats Reduces Stress Older people enjoy stroking their cats on their laps – this article explains how this simple habit offer amazing health benefits for older pet owners.
42. Alternative Pets For Older People – Rats A look at rats and how well sited they are to the needs of the older pet owner. With information on necessary equipment and what commitment is needed from older owners.
43. Birds are Great Pets for Older People Budgies are a popular choice of senior citizen pet. A guide to owning and caring for a budgie.
44. Pet Therapy for Older People All about the positive effects of pet ownership on older people. A heartwarming story of the positive power of pets.
45. Zen Seniors Choose Pets How animal ownership can increase the peace in older owners’ lives. A discussion of how pets bring peace.
46. Training a Guard Dog Advice for isolated seniors looking for a pet to protect them at home. Important information for responsible guard dog ownership.

Image Credits: IMLS DCC

Deciding what to do with the future of family, who dedicated their lives to molding your future, can be a daunting task. There are several options out there, each one catering to different requirements, depending on individual needs.  One of these options is in home care. Consider the following list as a compilation of 50 sites dedicated to in home care, voicing their own views on its benefits.

1. Eldercare ABC Blog: This informative website and blog was created by a married couple who took care of both of their parents and wished that they had known of a place to turn for answers.  The “ABC” stands for About Being Connected, it’s a great place to find informative articles along with personal opinions on the topic of elder care, including the benefits of in home care.
2. Aging Home Healthcare: “Maintaining independence and dignity aging in familiar surroundings” is the motto of this site.  Containing a vast array of helpful resources, articles, and blogs on the topic of in home healthcare.
3. Caring for Aging Parents: Listing the types of services, processes, costs, benefits, and products available; this site is very informative for anyone with questions on caring for elderly in their home.
4. Livestrong: This article lists 5 specific benefits to home care for the elderly.
5. My Elder Advocate: This site titles itself “The meeting place for elder care concerns”.  It contains many articles on various topics pertaining to seniors.
6. Interim Healthcare: The website for this franchise, who specializes in home care and health care staffing services, includes a learning center and a blog.
7. Me and My Caregivers: Short article containing 5 benefits of elderly home care.
8. Home Care Options: Good size article titled “Why Home Healthcare.”
9. NHVTRC: Dedicated to healthy living tips, this site includes a few informative articles on why they believe in home care is the best choice for elderly care.
10. Gordon’s Estate Services: Interesting article focusing on the options for those facing a decision about care for elderly parents who may not be in good health.
11. Blog Long Term Care: A blog site for a book based on the choices that arise when deciding on the care of your elderly family.
12. My Health Bridge: Senior care blog for this Texas based in home care company.
13. Andel Care: Explore this site to discover why they believe that life is sweet at home.
14. Care At Home: This 1990 founded company based their company on the desire to assist older people who wished to remain in their homes during their later years.
15. Home Care 4 Seniors: See why this company believes that it is best for the mental and physical well being of seniors that they remain in their home.
16. The Senior’s Choice: A large list of the benefits of in home care for the elderly.
17. Home Care Assistance: Check out this company’s blog, which is open to anyone interested in senior home care.
18. Aspen Senior Care: Utah Valley based company dedicated to providing superior in home care.
19. Tender Hearts At Home Care: This company blog features a video titled “Why Home Care”.
20. Vida Senior Resource: Senior care question and answer forum for in home care and assisted living.
21. Care Giver List: Ask an expert, caregiver checklists, senior care options, and caregiver blog are all features on this site.
22. Ladolce Living: “Senior care made simple and sweet” is the motto of this site dedicated to homecare services.
23. Home Care Phoenix: Aging care industry experts with a blog like site.
24. Aging Parents and Elder Care: A collection of articles and support groups for caregivers of seniors.
25. Work on Internet: This article puts home care into perspective.
26. Center for a Just Society: An article featured on this site explains why caring for your loved ones at home is less expensive than alternative options.
27. Right At Home: Blog for company who specializes in in-home care and assistance.
28. Home Care: This site defines what they think home care is.
29. Care Givers Home: Large resource directory and online archive for elderly and their caregivers.
30. Age UK: Advice guides and fact sheets for the aging community.
31. Home Care Profile: A non-medical in home care site featuring a state look up for finding in home care along with a description of what in home care entails.
32. Home Instead: Helping you care for the senior in your life is this sites purpose.
33. Medic 8: A guide to elderly care which claims to be complete and easy to understand.
34. Gilbert Guide: A part of Caring.com, offering information on health care options for seniors.
35. Later Life: Later life guide to caring for elderly parents.
36. Aging Care: A community for caregivers with expansive content.
37. With a Little Help: Washington state company listing 5 goals or benefits of the in home care business.
38. First Stop Care Advice: Advice for older people including a little bit of help at home.
39. Boca Home Care Service: A Florida company featuring an article on the benefits of using a professional care manager.
40. Elder Care at Home: Helping elders in remaining active and healthy while living out their senior years, is this sites theme.
41. Housing Care: Guides to growing older, including staying put and staying home.
42. Crystal Links: Interesting perspective on caring for the elderly.
43. BMJ: A study comparing the quality of life of elderly living at home versus elderly living in nursing homes.
44. Love to Know Seniors: Definitions of the different types of in home care.
45. Care Crunch: Blog including topics on in home care for the elderly.

Image Credits: Ethan Prater

Growing older does not have to mean withering away at home. No longer do the retired members of society have to live out their lives in quiet and mundane ways. Senior citizens of today live very active lifestyles, full of activities and opportunities. Technology has also opened up a new world of retired living to senior citizens.

Whether you need information on housing, activities, technology or another area of senior living, there are many available resources. The following blogs provide much-needed advice and information on being a senior citizen in modern society and the choices and opportunities available.

1. Senior Living Information Blog – Information and resources for the Chicago area about assisted living.
2. Senior Lifestyle Concierge – Helpful blog about senior living and the changes that seniors face.
3. Seniors for Living – Helpful blog for seniors containing various resources and information.
4. Optimum Life Blog – Blog provided by the Brookdale Senior Living communities, with information, resources and q/a board for readers to ask a doctor questions.
5. Silver Census Blog – Information and resources about senior living and other related issues.
6. Real Life After 55 – Information and resources for senior citizens about various senior citizen issues.
7. Younger Next Year – Information, advice and stories about things seniors can do to keep themselves young.
8. Primrose Senior Living – Blog about senior living, including resources, wellness programs and assisted living information.
9. Everyone is Aging! – Positive blog about being a senior and life as a senior.
10. Lifestyles – Helpful information for seniors, including health tips for better living.
11. Financial News – Discussion of life after retirement and the financial planning seniors need to do.
12. Lifestyle Lounge – Information for seniors, including exercises that can be incorporated into everyday life.
13. Abandon the Unwanted, Etch Golden Thoughts – Information about enhancing memory capabilities with age.
14. Senior Citizens Bureau – Information and resources for senior citizens and their caregivers.
15. Seniors Aloud – Blog dedicated to senior citizens, offering advice and tips on senior living and allowing readers to share their experiences.
16. Online Relationship Guru – Information about senior citizen dating.
17. Online Degree Talk – Information about senior citizens furthering their education using the internet.
18. My Life, My Thoughts – Useful information about how senior citizens are using the internet to educate themselves, keep in touch with family and other ways.
19. MindTalk – Discussion about how senior citizens can fulfill their dreams.
20. Disabled World – Information about ways to improve the quality of life for senior citizens, with an in-depth discussion of changes in the American health plan.
21. Cell Phone Plans – Helpful information about senior citizens using cell phones and how to pick a plan and phone for a senior citizen.
22. What You’ve Heard – Information about senior citizen cruise ship vacations.
23. Caring Space – Information about healthy eating, exercising and a lifestyle guide for senior citizens.
24. Swank Pets – Information about the benefits of a small dog for senior citizens.
25. Life Means Health – Useful information about ways for senior citizens to preserve their mental health.
26. Pets for Older People – Importance of pets for senior citizens.
27. SelfGrowth – Information about the rising use of the internet by seniors and useful sites for senior citizens.
28. UforPrez – Discussion of the importance of senior citizens bringing on change in politics.
29. Seniors and Credit cards – Discussion of the problem of credit card debt for seniors in today’s society and ways seniors can manage their debt.
30. Senior Citizens Consortium Blog – A blog for seniors to discuss their thoughts about politics and the effect on their lives.
31. Margaret and Helen – Personal blog of two aging seniors that are best friends and their active lifestyles.
32. American Retired Seniors – Upbeat blog about life as a senior citizen, along with tips, advice and resources.
33. Wend Blog – Information about senior citizens and camping.
34. Corporate Eye – Discussion of social networking for senior citizens.
35. Jibber Jobber – Discussion of employment issues facing senior citizens.
36. All Voices – Discussion of being a senior citizen in modern society.
37. Think Progress – Discussion of senior citizens and the AARP.
38. Senior Ark – Useful information for senior citizens, including hobbies, crafts and activities.
39. Miss Cellania – Discussion about senior citizens and continuing their romantic relationships after retirement.
40. Future of Aging – Inspirational blog about aging in modern society, including tips and advice for senior citizens on improving their lives.
41. Animal Shelter Tips – Information on the importance of pets for senior citizens and how to help seniors keep their pets.
42. Crimscout’s Blog – Personal thoughts on becoming a senior citizen.
43. Gordon Mac – Discussion on why seniors should have a wonderful lifestyle and how to achieve this goal.
44. The Senior Exercise Blog – Useful information for seniors about keeping fit, even with age.
45. Carlton Senior Living – Suggestions for senior citizen activities to help them live a healthy and happy life.
46. Senior Health and Lifestyle Blog – Tips and advice for keeping fit and healthy as a senior citizen.
47. CareBuzz – Helpful blog with resources and information for aging citizens, including activities and avoiding fraud.
48. Brain Health Blog – Focusing on the brain health of senior citizens, with tips and advice on keeping a brain healthy and focused during the aging process.
49. The Smirking Chimp Senior Citizen’s Blog – Informative blog about issues that senior citizens face and what they can expect as time passes.
50. Geezer Guff – Lighthearted blog for senior citizens on a variety of subjects, including travel and health, all with a positive spin.

Finding a good in-home health care provider can be one of the most important decisions a senior citizen can make. Wherever possible, all family members should be involved in the process. This is the best way to ensure that fear, uncertainty, or other emotions do not color your decision. Not all in-home health care providers are made alike. Here, we’ll discuss several factors to consider in selecting a home-health service that’s right for you.

Since state law varies for home-health and hospice providers, it’s important to consider what local providers can do for you based on where you live. For instance, some home-health providers offer massage therapy to their patients, which is permitted in certain states. This isn’t universally the case, however. Your local hospice and home-health provider can discuss care options with you that may be specific to where you live. This also applies to medicare coverage.

1. Know the difference between home-health and hospice. Hospice care is palliative care for the terminally ill and those at the end of their lives. This kind of care, like in-home health care, involves home visits, but the purpose is not curative. Hospice care is designed to make the terminal patient more comfortable and ease some of the burdens on caregivers. In-home health care services allow seniors to receive the health care they need if they are unwilling or unable to leave their homes for doctor visits.

Remember that, while some businesses provide both hospice and in-home health care, and many of the services provided are the same, they aren’t synonymous.

2. In-home health care services are businesses, providing services on a free-market basis just like a medical center or hospital. They have every incentive to earn your business, even if your services are paid for by Medicare or some third party. Don’t take it for granted, then, that all in-home health care providers are made alike. Keep this in mind as you comparison-shop.

3. The World-Wide Web can be your best friend when it comes to consumer information. There are several resources for seniors looking for reliably good services and facilities. One such site is www.seniorsapprove.com, the web site of Senior Approved Services. Services and facilities that can boast being Certified Senior Approved have received a 90% or greater approval rating from actual customers.

There are many other such consumer information sites, but these can go a long way in taking some of the guess work out of choosing a provider. Remember that not all providers are included in the surveys, so don’t, necessarily, take the absence of a certification as a bad sign.

Dealing with the natural changes that come along as life goes on can be difficult, and having to look for an in-home health care provider is no different. Following a few smart tips, however, and doing your research will help you feel confident you are making a good decision.

When a senior citizen moves into a nursing home or any private care facility, it is very important that the family and care-givers help them to preserve their memories. Adding familiar things to their room at their new home can make the transition much easier and can help them to keep their past memories alive. Leaving the comfort of their home is not easy for them, but there are ways to make it easier for them to adjust.

Hang up Family Photos

Family members should make copies of their most cherishes family photos and frame them for the care-giver to hang on their walls. Seeing the familiar faces of their loved ones can bring them great comfort and help them to remember how much they are loved.

Take Their Own Bedding

Make it easier for them to adjust to their new bedroom by taking their own bedding. Many elderly people have certain blankets, pillows and/or comforters that they like to sleep with.

A Favorite Chair

Elderly people often have a favorite chair that they spend a lot of time in each day. Moving this chair into his/her room at the nursing home can be very soothing for them and bring contentment to them.

Visiting and Talking with Them

It is a best to visit them on a scheduled basis, therefore they know what day and time they will be receiving visitors. This gives them something to look forward to and tends to make them stay up with what day it is. Talk to them about past memories of family and friends, for this well help them to keep these memories alive.

Good memories and comfort go hand in hand. It is possible to make a loved one’s transition to a Senior Citizen’s home a bit easier by bringing along some of their most treasured memories and by surrounding them in their own familiar comfort.