Beat the Winter Blues: Staying Healthy and Happy Through Minnesota Winters

Winter in Minnesota can be harsh—with its frigid temperatures, icy sidewalks, and shorter days, it’s no wonder many people experience the “winter blues.” Seniors are especially vulnerable during this time of year as isolation, lack of physical activity, and limited exposure to sunlight can take a toll on their overall well-being. But the good news is that there are ways

Navigating Holiday Stress as a Caregiver for Aging Adults

The holiday season is meant to be a time of celebration and joy, but for caregivers of aging adults, it can often be overwhelming. Balancing caregiving duties with holiday obligations can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that you don’t have to do it all on your own. With some planning, self-care, and support, you can navigate the holidays

Embracing Spiritual Beliefs As We Age

As we age, the significance of spiritual beliefs—regardless of whether one identifies with a particular religion—becomes increasingly evident. Here are several key reasons why nurturing a spiritual perspective can be beneficial: Sense of Purpose: Spiritual beliefs often provide individuals with a sense of purpose and direction in life, which can be particularly important as one navigates the challenges and transitions

Pain Awareness Month & Chronic Pain Tips

When you feel pain, it’s your body signaling that something isn’t right. Seeking medical support is the first step to ease pain. Together with your doctor, you will hopefully discover the underlying cause of the pain and work to resolve the issue. However, some conditions and injuries can result in persistent pain. If your pain lasts six months or longer,

Prepare For Your Aging Journey

Are you prepared for the next step in your aging journey? It’s crucial for older adults to have a plan in place before the need arises. Making these decisions when you are well allows your wishes to be carried out when you need extra care. This proactive approach ensures that your preferences are respected and reduces stress for both you

Senior Skin Safety

older woman showing sunscreen bottle

UV Safety Month The warm sun in July reminds us to protect our skin from the harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation while outdoors. It’s easy to forget that protection is important year round and for all ages. It’s even more important to protect aging skin from environmental factors. Since people are living longer, those that reach the age of 65 can

Muscle Building for Older Adults

Aging adults working out with The Good Shepherd Community Logo

The body is like a machine: it needs attention and effort to stay in the best shape. This is true at all stages of life, but especially in older age. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that all adults do strength training exercises at least twice a week and this includes aging adults. It’s never too late

Signs You Should Think About Memory Care for Your Loved One

Older woman holding the hand of a caregiver

Moving a loved one into memory care is often a difficult and emotional decision. Knowing when to move to memory care can leave caregivers feeling concerned and overwhelmed about the well-being of their loved ones. When to Move From Assisted Living to Memory Care For those making this important decision, it’s important to know the signs that it’s time for

Financial Planning for Long-Term Memory Care

Graphic of older senior couple with money and planning concepts.

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia, most family members’ first thoughts are anger or sadness—not how they’ll pay for their loved one’s care. Unfortunately, this means many families are unprepared for the financial burden of memory care. As your loved one’s condition progresses, it will become clear how expensive it can be to get your loved

Handling Resistance from Loved Ones While Moving into Memory Care

There are few things tougher than coming to terms with transitioning your loved one to a memory care facility, but you’re not alone. Memory care is a 24-hour, long-term residential care solution for older adults who are suffering from progressive memory loss diseases, like Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. When your loved one’s memory declines to the point that