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Good Nutrition Tips for Seniors
The aging process requires all of us to review our nutrition regularly if we are to maintain a healthy body. The two mainstays, exercise and good nutrition, still hold true for the basics of good health. Below are some additional ideas that may guide you when considering a nutritional regimen for your elderly loved one:
1. Limit fat intake. Consume lean meats, low fat dietary products and no fried food.
2. Include eggs, poultry and fish in the diet. Eat products (or vitamins) with iron, as elderly tend to show low iron amounts in their chemical make-up.
3. Choose a variety of foods.
4. Keep saturated fatty foods and cholesterol in check.
5. An increase in fiber is generally called for - cereals high in fiber work well.
6. Illness or medications may require diet changes. Check with your health professional for guidelines.
If your aging family member is struggling to obtain nutritious food or prepare meals, Visiting Angels can help. Our private Caregivers can assist with grocery shopping, meal planning and meal preparation. Eating well is important at any age! By
helping the elderly with their nutritional habits you may be saving their life.
Visiting Angels 263-2273

Ignoring Hearing Loss can Cost You Money
by Nola Aronson
Hearing loss is the third most prevalent chronic health problem among older adults, and only about 20 percent of those who could benefit from treatment actually seek it, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Living with hearing loss brings more than just challenges in hearing speech. A 1999 study by the National Council on Aging found markedly higher rates of depression, anxiety and other psychological disorders in those with hearing loss that were not using hearing aids. Other studies have found links between hearing loss and cognitive decline and increased risk of dementia. The physical toll of these problems can result in increased medical expenses, negative effects on relationships and shortened life expectancy. For those still in their working years, untreated hearing loss can also have an effect on income and take a toll on one's career, as hearing is a key to communication and safety in the workplace. A Better Hearing Institute survey in 2010 found those with severe hearing loss had double the unemployment rate of their peers with good hearing. A BHI survey of 40,000 households also showed a $14,000 annual income difference between those with mild and severe hearing loss. It is true that purchasing a hearing aid can be a significant expense. Johns Hopkins Medicine reported that the average price per ear for equipment, fittings and evaluations can be about $2,200 and health insurance does not always cover the cost. That said, when weighed against impacted earning potential or a host of health problems, an investment in hearing aids should be viewed as a necessary expense. It is wise to seek the advice of a trusted hearing professional. A qualified audiologist can advise you on what type of hearing aid may be best for you, how to save money on your hearing aids and other steps you can take to care for your hearing. Your hearing health is important, and caring for it now is less expensive than dealing with a mountain of other problems later.
Nola Aronson, MA, CCC-A is the owner and founder of Advanced Audiology and has been fitting hearing aids for more than 30 years. 425-9330