Jack’s Cabinet of Curiosities: Technology and the Workforce

Positive role models are a good thing for young people. Hopefully, those models can be established in a young person by observing a family members lifestyle. Let us apply this role model to how a family takes care of the daily living activities; how much "smoother" a day can go if everyone "pitches in." If all have a positive attitude

How to Plan for Long Term Care

Female nurse in mask with man in wheelchair and mask outside.

As we reach older adulthood, we may begin to struggle with daily activities and chores that used to be second nature. Some people may only need long-term care for a few months, while others may need it for a few years, or longer. Although long-term care can be provided at home by family and friends, there are other options, too,

Mental Health for Older Adults

Older woman in blue shirt laughing on brick background.

Mental health awareness is important for people of every age. However, it’s especially important to spread awareness about mental health problems in older adults. As we age, we have an increased risk of developing neurological disorders, mental disorders, substance use problems, or other significant health issues, like diabetes and osteoarthritis. As we get older, it’s possible we may develop several

Jack’s Cabinet of Curiosities: Automation

Automation is taking it out of the hands and letting technology do the work. I had the good fortune to work at many part-time jobs during the high school and college days. This gave me a good understanding of the world of work. Some of these jobs are now automated. One of those jobs I worked at during evening hours

The Best Ways for Older Adults to Stay Active

Exercising is a key part of living a healthy lifestyle. There are so many benefits associated with exercise, and taking advantage of those benefits becomes even more essential as we get older. No matter your age, the best exercise for you is the one that you enjoy. There will always be reasons that make you hesitate to stay active, whether

Jack’s Cabinet of Curiosities: Encounter with the Circus

As a kid, you had the whole summer to look forward to.  It seemed as a never-ending time.  What kind of experience could I envision in the weeks to come? I had a recent reminder of one of those experiences, when I observed a poster advertising a coming indoor circus.  To relive the real circus of years past came to

The Difference Between Nursing Homes and Assisted Living

It can be difficult to choose between nursing homes or assisted living facilities for a loved one, especially if they require residential care. All senior living homes are different; there is no universal approach for aging loved ones. Many people think of “nursing homes” and “assisted living” as synonyms. However, these two terms aren’t as similar as they used to

Volunteering Experience at The Good Shepherd Community

I started volunteering at The Good Shepherd Community at the beginning of this year for a communication studies course I am taking at St. Cloud State University. I was hesitant at first because I did not know what to expect and what the outcome from this experience would be like. Throughout this year, my experience has made a great impact.

Caregiver Stress Relief: 10 Minute Mood Boosting Exercise

Caregiving is an extremely stressful job, which is why it’s so important to have a variety of stress relief techniques. By having multiple stress release techniques, it won’t matter whether you’re at home, in line waiting to pick up medication, or taking a break at work because you’ll have practices for a variety of situations. Below you will find a

The Benefits of Gardening and Houseplants for Seniors

Senior woman breeds cacti and transplants them into new pots
Growing gardens and tending to plants can provide many benefits. The primary benefits of gardening for seniors are the feelings of accomplishment and independence. Gardening can even improve mental health. Sometimes, however, whole gardens are not always the best idea for seniors due to space or abilities. In these situations, a smaller solution is required.   Improve the Air Quality