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You may have noticed your mom or dad getting more forgetful with the passing years, repeating a story they told you last time you talked, or forgetting what day of the week it is. Moments of forgetfulness happen to all of us, and can become increasingly common with age. Dementia is different, however. Dementia is a term that refers to changes in the brain that can interfere with daily life, such as diminished focus, loss of language skills, or difficulty with problem-solving. Knowing the difference between occasional forgetfulness and the […]

With colder temperatures and shorter days, it can be tempting to hibernate during the winter months. But finding ways to keep moving all year long is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. Regular physical activity plays a significant role in healthy aging, helping older adults live independently longer, reducing the risk of falls, and protecting against disease. While even a little bit of physical activity offers health benefits, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that older adults get at least 150 minutes a week […]

From your pet’s microchip to the minicomputer in your hip pocket, technology is everywhere, and older adults are making the most of it. At Friendship Village, we’re finding new ways to use technology for seniors, with an innovative approach that supports residents’ health, safety and overall well-being. Improve Balance, Prevent Falls Through Technology Falls are a leading cause of injury for adults over age 65, with 3 million seniors receiving emergency treatment for fall-related injuries every year. To address this concern, Friendship Village has adopted a new technology — VSTBalance […]

Your parents have worked hard to teach you the skills it takes to be a successful adult, so it’s safe to say they know a thing or two about remaining independent. However, when it’s time to consider where to live during retirement, they might not see the big picture when it comes to the benefits of senior living communities. Look at these four ways senior living can help your aging parents maintain their independence and achieve a healthy, happy and long retirement: 1. Senior living helps older adults stay active […]

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Americans spend almost two hours a day on household activities. That’s 56 hours a month dedicated to things like cooking, food clean-up, yardwork, home maintenance and repair, laundry, cleaning and everything else in between. Besides maintaining your home, you need to pay for it. Mortgage payments, homeowner’s insurance, property tax, HOA dues, routine and unexpected maintenance costs, appliances, security systems and more can take a big bite out of your retirement budget. If you’re ready to save time and money for pursuing […]

No one knows you quite like your parents. They’ve supported you through life’s most challenging moments and celebrated your biggest achievements, which is why you’d do anything to ensure their health and happiness. So when your aging parents refuse help, it can be particularly frustrating. If you’re struggling to communicate with your parents, you’re not alone. In fact, 77% of adult children believe their parents are stubborn about getting extra help with daily tasks. Read why your parents might refuse help and learn six tips on how to have a […]

You know you love to spend time with your grandkids. How could you not? They’re so darn cute! As it turns out, hanging out with your grandchildren is also good for you — and for them. Studies show that it supports your cognitive health and their emotional well-being. If you’re looking for ways to spend more time together, here are some fun things to do in St. Louis, Missouri: 1. Grant’s Farm Owned by the Busch family and home to the world-renowned Budweiser Clydesdales, this 281-acre estate is a refuge […]

If you’re a caregiver for an older loved one, you likely have a lot of responsibilities — and a lot on your mind. One of the things you may worry about is who will take care of your loved one if you become ill or incapacitated. While it may be tempting to tuck those concerns away in the back of your mind, creating an emergency caregiver plan can ensure your loved one gets the support they need if you experience a health setback, and it will give you some much-needed […]

The holidays are that special time when we gather with family from near and far, exchange gifts and holiday cards, and fill our homes with cheerful decorations. But what about adding another holiday activity to your list of festivities? If you have a loved one who’s considering a move to a senior living community — or if your holiday visit has made you realize that your loved one may need the extra support available in a senior living community — this is the perfect time of year to tour communities […]