Onset hearing loss is usually gradual, so it can take a long time for people with hearing impairments to realize there is a problem. While starting a conversation with a loved one experiencing hearing loss may be difficult, it’s a key step towards a solution. Strategies for having productive conversations include: *Aim to have serious discussions early in the day before navigating daily activities. *Ask helpful questions to create an open dialogue and make everyday communication easier. For example: “Should we have this conversation in a quieter location?” * Focus on facts and specific symptoms and encourage them to get a professional evaluation.
Community News
I Hear You
Ensuring effective communication is crucial for valued relationships. Here are five reasons to prioritize a hearing test: 1. Enhanced intimacy and build trust through shared stories. 2. Create lasting memories by actively participating in social gatherings. 3. Improve happiness by avoiding frustration and anger caused by hearing difficulties. 4. Make moments count by eliminating the need for repeated conversations. 5. Demonstrate love by addressing hearing concerns and acknowledging others’ worries. Contact us today for a free consultation and hearing test to strengthen your connections.
Sunshine and Health
Sunshine is believed to increase the release of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin, often referred to as the feel-good hormone, is associated with boosting mood, lowering feelings of anxiety, and helping a person feel calm and focused. Exposure to sunshine and light during the day and darkness at night helps us maintain a healthy circadian rhythm, which is essential for good mental health. Sunshine also helps your body make vitamin D. Vitamin D is an important nutrient for your bones, blood cells, and immune system and helps with the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. Go out and enjoy the sunshine safely; it is good for your health!
Simple UV Safety Tips for Seniors
Sunshine naturally provides our skin with Vitamin D, which has many health benefits! Sunshine can also be harmful, so we need to protect our skin. Keep these tips in mind year-round, especially in these sunny summer months! * See the dermatologist annually. It is a great idea to also self-check during a shower. Apply sunscreen liberally and often. It is recommended that you reapply a minimum of SPF 30 every two hours. Use “broad spectrum,” which protects from both UVA and UVB rays. Cover yourself; clothing is a great option for sun protection. Vivid colours offer more protection than pale ones. Stay safe out there!
Senior’s Job Search Testimonial
When I was job searching recently, I found that no matter how many applications I sent out, there was no response from employers. What was I doing wrong? I’d worked in employment services years ago but wondered if I needed a new approach. When I joined Gray Skills, I learned how to target my resume, how to conquer my interview butterflies, and even how to use ChatGPT. The 6-week program boosted my confidence, connected me to a group of committed job coaches, and supported me in finding a job that I love. Register today; you may just find your perfect job!
Summer Friendships for Seniors
Spending the summer in a senior home offers a wonderful opportunity to forge new friendships. Seniors often have fascinating life stories and wisdom to share, creating a rich tapestry of experiences. Participating in group activities like bingo, gardening, and arts and crafts fosters camaraderie and shared joy. Daily walks, exercise classes, and game nights provide regular bonding moments. Holiday celebrations, cultural events, and communal meals further deepen these connections. Seniors support each other emotionally, offering encouragement and understanding. Through mutual interests and new hobbies, friendships blossom, creating a vibrant, supportive community where everyone feels valued, safe, and less alone.
Enter for a Chance to Win
A Soulful Mexican Yoga Retreat. Experience a transformative retreat at Copal Retreat’s ocean-front villa in the Riviera Maya, featuring panoramic Caribbean views from the rooftop studio. Deepen your yoga practice amidst stunning cenotes and ocean breezes. Included: a health and wellness-focused welcoming ceremony, accommodations, meals for any dietary restrictions, 2 daily yoga or meditation sessions, one-hour therapeutic massage, bikes, paddleboards, snorkelling gear, travel assistance, and several excursions.
Summer Safety Tips
Follow these tips to stay healthy and well this summer: *Stay Hydrated: Drink 8 or more glasses of water per day. *Know the Side Effects of Medications: side effects may include drowsiness or sun sensitivity. * Stay Cool: Use A/C, stay indoors, and go swimming. * Wear light, loose-fitting clothing. Wear breathable clothing and light colours that reflect the sun. * Have Emergency Contacts: Have a list of people to call in case of an emergency. * Know the Weather Forecast: Plan your days according to the weather. We wish you a happy and safe summer.
Drink Up to Stay Hydrated
Summer is here and so is the heat! At this time of year, dehydration can become a serious health issue for anyone and especially seniors. Many seniors are chronically dehydrated so hot weather is especially dangerous. Dehydration can result in symptoms such as confusion, sluggishness, fainting or worse. It is extremely important to drink plenty of water and eat foods with a high water content such as cucumbers and watermelon. If you find water boring, add juices or cut-up fruit to your glass for a refreshing summer drink. Have fun, stay safe and drink up this summer!
Heat Exhaustion & Heat Stroke
Heat exhaustion can occur if the body loses an excess amount of fluid through sweating and does not have it replenished. As your body becomes dehydrated, it begins to overheat and you may start to feel faint, dizzy, and lightheaded. If left untreated, heat exhaustion may progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition. At this stage, your temperature rises to a dangerous level and you may no longer sweat due to extreme dehydration. A person suffering from heat stroke may be in a state of confusion and disorientation. If you suspect someone is experiencing a heat stroke, press their Lifeline Personal Help button or call 911, get them out of the heat, and apply cold compresses on the body to lower body temperature quickly.
Hearing Aids & Summer
As temperatures rise, it’s important to understand how to take care of your hearing aids. Beware of Heat! Avoid putting your hearing aids in places that attract heat quickly – like the glove compartment or console in your car. Stay Away from Moisture! Remember to take your hearing aids out before swimming or if you’re caught in the rain. Keep ‘em Clean! Warm, humid weather creates a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. You can use a soft, damp cloth to wipe away dirt and debris from your hearing aids. Follow these simple tips and get outside to enjoy the warm weather.
