Rightsizing: It’s The Thing To Do
How many different ways can your rightsize your life?
What is rightsizing? This was the common response when one would come across this word, which has now evolved into a thriving industry. At it’s core, rightsizing combines elements of organizing, cleaning, moving, and decorating into one extremely useful process. Rightsizing for seniors began due to the need to refurnish one’s environment as their age progressed and their needs therefore changed. Moving to smaller apartments, assisted living centers, retirement, making a current home more efficient, or just trying to organize one’s life are all reasons that demand for seniors to rightsize. The general public has become increasingly aware of this concept through great press like this article from USA Today! The more press the topic of rightsizing get the more the general public realizes that this concept will benefit more than just seniors. Below are a few tips that anyone can use to de-clutter, reorganize, and rightsize your lives!
1) Get Rid of That Huge Gas Guzzler: Let’s be honest…the 6.7 liter V8 Super Duty Truck was cool for a day, but that $100.00 pump fee is nothing short of painful. You don’t have to sacrifice space and utility for great gas mileage anymore. Car manufacturers are pushing every year to increase fuel efficiency, increase functionality, while also maintaining impressive performance standards. For example, the 2012 Ford F-150 V6 model has the best rated perfomance in it’s class (according to Motor Trend) while still getting about 23mpg on the highway! Sounds a lot better than that 8mpg you’re currently getting huh?
2) Clean Out That Closet of Yours: I do not want to hear that you don’t have anything to wear! There is no need for you to have 50 pairs of shoes, 20 t-shirts from 30 years ago, 5 coats you no longer wear, and a giant bin of apparel that you haven’t open since you got married. Prioritize your wardrobe by things you wear the most according to the seasons. It may be hard, but throw those things LOWER on the priority list into your car and take them to your nearest donation center. Trust me, those people need your extra pairs of pants more than you do. Also, throw out those stained, torn, and beat-up shirts that are your so called “favorites”. Make room in your space to invigorate your wardrobe with some fresh-new replacements…it’s okay…life will go on without that pair of sweatpants from 1980.
3) Update Your Library: I know how hard it is to get rid of an extremely good read. You think, “Wow, that was great. I will most definitely read this again”. You are most likely wrong in this case. This book will join an army of others that are experts at collecting dust and taking up space. Donate your previously read books to schools, community centers, and other charity groups that will benefit much more from their possession than your overly-packed bookshelf will. If you really have the urge to read the book again then you can treat yourself to a new edition at that time. Also, try replacing any hard books with an electronic version via a device like a Kindle. Stay on the tech train and stay organized with these fantastic electronic devices.
4) Clean Out Your Pantry and Fridge: We are all about being frugal here at TAD, but that can of sliced beets from 1960 has most likely seen better days. Grocery stores are in abundance these days, and they even offer home delivery, so stocking up for the next nuclear fallout (jokingly of course) can happen at a later date. Check expiration dates on EVERYTHING….even processed and packaged foods. Simplify you kitchen by organizing foods and storing them properly. Place dry goods in plastic-sealed containers to preserve foods longer. Food safety is also a priority here, so I wouldn’t risk trying that last yogurt that has been sitting in your fridge since last September…just a thought.
5) The Garage…It’s Not a Storage Unit: Ladies and Gentlemen…some fine architect designed your house with a garage in order for you to have a cozy place to keep your car safe, snow-free, and burglar resistent. Although the giant pile of random “goodies” in your garage is making a great home for Mr. and Mrs. Spider…I am positive you would like to evict these tenants and return your vehicle to it’s home. There are many businesses now that specifically focus on cleaning, organizing, and re-designing garages. If you would rather not pay for somebody to do much of this work for you then you can take on some yourself. Donate, trash, and/or recycle items that do not NEED to be in your possession anymore. Strategically placed shelving as well as plastic bins can help organize garage staples like tools, sporting goods, and other random household items. Less clutter = a home for your car!
Please visit our website at helpseniorsmove.com for more tips and tricks!
Valentine’s Day 2012: Do Something Different This Year
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and I bet your plans involve some type of chocolate, with some type of flower, and dinner at the same old restaurant. Boring! Let’s shake things up people…we only live once, so let’s show our loved ones how much we care as we tap into our creatives sides!
1) Go Relive Times Past: Do you remember your first date? What is your favorite memory together? Try re-creating some of your favorite moments together this Valentine’s Day. Go back to the first place you had dinner together, watch the first movie you ever saw together, go on your first date all over again, or if you’re feeling really adventurous, travel back to one of your favorite places. Make new memories from the old ones!
2) Do Something Together You Would NEVER Do: Keep things exciting this year! Show each other how much you support each other by guiding one another through some of your biggest fears. Skydiving, hiking, eating a new food, or whatever it may be (all of these health permitting of course). Who better to watch you shake in fear than your loved one?
3) Check It Off The List: How long is your list of things you want to do in your lifetime? Pick one of those items off of your significant other’s list and help that dream become a reality. Whether it is traveling to a foreign country, writing a book, or learning how to cook…help make it happen for each other!
4) Find Your Inner Chef: Instead of having some fancy chef cook you a meal on Valentine’s Day go take a cooking class. Even better, take a class in a cuisine you have never tried before. Schools offer classes including Spanish Cuisine, sushi, Mexican Cuisine, French Cuisine, Thai Cuisine, and American comfort foods. Cooking together will provide endless amounts of fun and connection. Bring home some new skills to use way after the holiday of love is over!
5) Avoid The Crowds: Does anyone really want to battle the herds of people that will be shopping, dining, and romancing all over the place on the 14th? Here is a crazy idea…hold your own Valentine’s day on the 19th, or the 23rd, or tomorrow. You will beat the crowds, save money, and enjoy some privacy. It will be like your own personal holiday!
Get Your Drink On: Healthy Beverages Quench More Than Your Body’s Thirst
The human body is made up of about 60% water, so it is obviously important that we stay hydrated. From our morning “fuel” to our thirst quenching beverages, we are constantly consuming liquids. Many of us will just blindly choose whatever may be at hand…cough cough…sugary soda. These oblivious choices are filled with empty calories and little nutrition. What are the better choices you ask?
1) Green Tea: It is time to go green in more ways than one! Green tea is loaded with flavanoids and polyphenols, which are natural antioxidants that protect your cells from cancer-causing carcinogens. The antioxidants found in green tea have also been shown to strengthen teeth and bones as well as reduce the risk of heart disease by relaxing blood vessels. Delicious hot or cold, this tasty-floral beverage can be enjoyed year round. Try replacing your afternoon coffee with an invigorating cup of green tea.
2) Soy Milk: High cholesterol meat your maker! This super-drink comes packed with soluble fiber and soy protein, which have been shown to lower levels of LDL’s (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides in the blood. Choose soy milk fortified with calcium and vitamin A for an extra boost of nutrition. Don’t like the taste? Try vanilla or chocolate flavorings, great flavor alternatives that will make you make you forget all about the soy milk stereotypes!
3) Orange Juice: I know you are not surprised to see this nutritional staple on the list, but are you drinking the BEST orange juice you possibly can? Orange juice contains vitamin C, folate, and antioxidants, which all promote a better state of wellness. Vitamin C can protect against can protect against cell oxidation, fortifies eye function, and helps strengthen your immune system. Look for varieties with added calcium for a bone-strengthening combination. Feeling even more healthy? Opt for high-pulp varieties for an added dose of fiber!
4) Coffee: Yes, I said coffee! Also known as “rocket-fuel” to many, this morning staple is keeping you healthy in more ways than one. Coffee has been shown to increase levels of happiness (dopamine release), increase mental sharpness, and also fight cancer-causing free radicals. So hit your local coffee shop and feel good about it!
5) Kombucha: Here is the wildcard on our list! Kombucha in the United States is often found in the form of an effervescent-chilled beverage. This fizzy beverage has been extremely popular recently due to it’s many health claims. Kombucha has been said to promote liver health, increase energy, and fortify digestive function. How you ask? Kombucha is a fermented beverage, wich means it contains good bacteria much like that of yogurt. Combine this good bacteria with an assortment of B-Vitamins and you have a tasty and healthy powerhouse. Just be careful not to shake the bottle!
Pickleball: Get Your Sport On Seniors
Are you in an exercise pickle? Are you looking to have a little more fun in 2012? You are looking for a new activity to increase your health and have more fun? Well, do we have the perfect solution for you! Stop stuffing your face with kosher half-sours and pick up a different type of “pickle” instead…
Pickleball: No, you don’t need to go get your glasses checked (well, maybe you do)!! It does in fact say pickleball. Pickleball is the ingenious combination of tennis, badmintion, and table tennis. What do you play on? A court much like that of tennis court, but smaller. What do you swing with? An oversized table-tennis-like paddle. What type of ball do you use? A special whiffle-ball…not a pickle. So, after you stuff your face with pickles from your local deli, go work up a sweat at your local pickleball court(Arlington, VA has some dedicated outdoor courts)! Click on the links below for more information:
CLICK HERE to visit the USAPA’s “What Is Pickleball?”
Technology Tuesday: QR Codes
What The Heck Is A QR Code?
This boxy-squared-blurred-checkered-weird looking thingamabob is what is known as a quick response code aka QR for short. These 2-dimensional codes represent certain types of data ranging from nutritional information, locations, events, recipes, ingredients, and more. These codes are beginning to appear on products and locations all throughout the United States. To read a QR code one must first. download a QR code reader (some are free) to their smart phone. Then, open the QR reader and point it at the desired QR code. The reader will snap a picture of the code, which will then be processed to display the desired data on your screen.
QR codes can serve as a very effective aid for aging seniors. Those with special diet needs can easily check ingredients and nutrition information to monitor intake. QR codes can also be used to remember your favorite products at a certain store or confirm medications before using. These codes are becoming more popular every day and can often be seen in wayfinding situations, making directions that much easier.
Do You Know What To Ask Your Doctor?
So, you want to be healthier in 2012 right? You have started eating healthier, exercising regularly, and taking your daily vitamins. You even managed to schedule an appointment with your physician for a check-up, but you have no idea what to expect. It is important to be informed about your health and to have the ability to ask the right questions. We try to help with our short list of some essential questions that you should be asking your medical professionals.
Back Pain: What is causing my back pain?
A sore back can be caused by a variety of things, but it is important not to ignore the possible severity of what is causing this pain. Back pain can be associated with common injury and often arthritis, but in some cases it can be a sign of kidney stones or even prostate cancer. There are specific tests that will screen for these possibilities, so make sure to explore all avenues with your physician.
Did You Study? Time To Pass Your Tests! What tests should I get done yearly?
As we age it becomes increasingly important to make sure our bodies are functioning as they should, and if not it is essential to start treatments early. There are certainly some common tests that both aging men and women should have done with their yearly physicals. These tests include blood count, glucose tests, thyroid tests, and chest X-Rays top the list for our yearly checkup. Men should plan on getting a prostate exam and prostate antigen test every year to screen for prostate cancer. Women should plan to add mammagrams, pelvic exams, and bone mass scans to screen for osteoporosis.
How Is Your Vision?
How effective are you glasses. It is important to get your eyes properly examined by an OPTOMETRIST to evaluate your eyeglass needs. Make sure your doctor checks for proper fit and weight. Uncomfortable eyeglasses can be a fixable issue if one speaks up. Also, check to see if prescription sunglasses are needed as UV rays can be especially damaging to the aging eye.
What comes next? L,M,N,O….PEE!
Urodynamics: The assessment of how the bladder and urethra are performing in their jobs of storing and releasing urine. These types of tests will evaluate how well your bladder and sphincter muscles are working, which can help explain things like frequent urination, sudden-strong urges to urinate, problems urinating, recurrent infections, etc.
This is just a short list to help get you started to keep you as healthy as possible in 2012! Make sure to ask as many questions as you can…your doctors are there to help you!
Learn How To Rightsize Your Life With Susan Danick of TAD!
Learn how to right-size your life!
Come join guest speakers Susie Danick, professional move manager and owner of Transitional Assistance and Design and Eric Stewart of Llewellyn Realtors and the host of Pointing You Home on January 24 at 2PM. The two will be providing information this Tuesday at Ingleside at Rock Creek in Washington, DC on the latest real estate trends, staging your home for the spring market and information on downsizing to help you prepare for your upcoming move. Susie Danick, Washington Dc’s expert in move management will help you to “Rightsize’ your life. Go to www.helpseniorsmove.com and arrange for your free one hour consultation if you cannot join us this week.
CLICK HERE for more information about Ingleside at Rock Creek
CLICK HERE to contact Ingleside at Rock Creek
A Healthier You In 2012: Supplementing For Seniors
It is the second week of January and everyone is sticking with their resolutions right? Getting healthier is at the top of many lists, but what else can you do to increase you overall sense of wellness? Although there is no substitute for a balanced diet and regular exercise, supplements can be a great addition to fill in the holes. Check out our list of top supplements for senior citizens and remember to always consult a physician before you start any type of supplement regimen.
1) Vitamin D: Drink your milk! Vitamin D is critical in proper calcium absorption in the body. Vitamin D can be found in foods like fortified milk, yogurt, fatty fish, and fortified fruit juices. Vitamin D is also synthesized when UV rays from the sun contact the skin. Winter seasons often limit UV exposure and therefore one may require supplementation of vitamin D. Proper consumption of vitamin D can strengthen the musculoskeletal system, increase neuromuscular and immune function, as well as reduce inflammation. Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin, so make sure that you are getting enough healthy fats.
2) Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Some consider Omega-3′s to be the holy grail of the supplement world. These fatty acids are essential to healthy human function, but have to be consumed since our bodies do not produce them naturally. Consuming proper amounts of Omega-3′s has been shown to support healthy brain function, reduce inflammation, and reduce heart disease. These healthy fats can be found in foods like salmon, olive oil, walnuts, almonds, and basil. Omega 3 supplements come in a variety of doses, so it is important to consult your physician based on your dietary needs. Also, check out the Mediterranean Diet for more Omega-3 food choices.
3) Fiber: Street names…roughage and bulk. Dietary fiber is good for more than just helping relieve constipation. Adequate amounts of dietary fiber have been shown to lower blood sugar, reduce cholesterol, and maintains healthy bowel function. Fiber can be found in two different form, soluble and insoluble, where soluble fiber dissolves in water and insoluble does not. Dietary fiber can be found in foods such as whole wheat flour, vegetables, oats, nuts, and barley. Fiber supplements may be the perfect solution if you do not consume enough in your normal diet. CLICK HERE for some high-fiber recipes.
4) Calcium: Sticks and stones will most certainly break your bones if you are not getting enough calcium in your diet. Often considered to be one of the most important minerals in the body,calcium has been shown to fortify bones and teeth, clotting of blood, nerve function, and maintenance of a normal heartbeat. Calcium can be found in foods such as broccoli, milk, yogurt, salmon, nuts, cheeses, and kale. Calcium supplements can be found in tasty chewable bites, but correct dosing should be assessed by your physician.
5) B-Vitamins: This complex of vitamins plays a supporting role to a variety of essential functions in the human body. B-Vitamins have been shown to support healthy metabolic function, maintain healthy skin and hair, support immune and nervous system function, and promote cell growth. Good food sources of B-Vitamins include potatoes, whole grains, beans, and bananas. B-Vitamin supplements should be taken sparingly as most will get required amounts in their normal diet, but it is essential to confirm adequate absorption with your physician.
Technology Tuesday: Cars For Seniors
What To Drive In 2012?
The New Year is upon us, which means new technology for all! In this first post we chose to focus on one of the most important pieces of technology in most of our lives, the automobile. Choosing a new vehicle can seem like an overwhelming task. There seems to be an endless variety of choices these days…from colors, models, equipment, etc. We try to make the process a little easier for you new car shoppers out there with our brief list of top picks for 2012.
NOTE: It is important to understand that as we age our needs obviously change. Therefore, our needs in a vehicle may change as well. The following list will try and cover a variety of important features and amenities, but is completely subjective in nature.
1) (Ultimate Luxury) Mercedes-Benz S550 4MATIC Sedan: You get what you pay for! Mercedes-Benz is no stranger to luxury category and their flagship S-Class takes our prize for the luxury category. Safety, comfort, options, and reliability all come together in the ultimate package here. Highlights: Night Vision, Attention Assist, Blind-Spot Assist, Powered Trunk Function, Heated and Ventilated Seats, Parking Sensors, Back-Up Camera, Top Safety Ratings, Bluetooth Connectivity, Excellent Navigation System, Satellite-Based Emergency System, and Massage Seating. Other popular choices include the Audi A8, BMW 5-Series, and the 2012 Jaguar XF.
MSRP: $93,000 – $158,050
2) (SUV) Honda CR-V: This Honda makes getting into the world of SUV’s very manageable for senior citizens. The CR-V offers greater ride-height while still allowing for easy entering an exiting. This compact SUV also comes loaded with safety features, easy-to-read gauges, and one of the best resale values on the market. Overall, the CR-V provides great value while still combining safety, ease of use, and reliability. Other popular choices include the Chevrolet Equinox, Volkswagen Tiguan, and the Toyota RAV4.
Base MSRP: $22,475
3) (Hybrid) Toyota Prius: Can you really argue with 50mpg? The Prius is no newcomer to the “green scene”. This mid-size hybrid offers a spacious cabin, option for hands-free parallel parking, and a very smooth ride. The price tag won’t leave your wallet screaming “Uncle” either! Other popular hybrid choices include the Chevrolet Volt, Ford Fusion Hybrid, and the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.
Base MSRP: $23,810
4) (Large Sedan) Ford Taurus: The Ford Taurus has come a long way in the past decade. The large sedan is no longer an extreme eyesore, but rather a sharp and practical daily driver. The Taurus provides a very smooth and quiet ride thanks to its V6 power and seating options. The Ford Taurus offers unique features like MyKey, which limits radio volume, and Ford’s Cross Traffic Alert, which senses oncoming traffic when pulling out of the driveway or parking spot. Other popular choices include vehicles like the Hyundai Azera, Chrysler 300, and the Buick LaCrosse.
Base MSRP: $25,995
5) (Sports Car) Nissan 370z: It’s okay to have a little fun! The Nissan 370z is a great choice for injecting some fun into your life without breaking the bank. The 370z offers tons of power, aggressive lines, and a comfortable ride all for under $40,000. Other popular choices include cars like the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Ford Mustang, and the Mini Cooper Coupe
MSRP: $31,450 – $43,500
A Healthier You In 2012: Foods You Should Be Eating
The holiday season is all about extravagance and indulgence. You have stuffed your face with endless amounts of honey-baked ham, mashed potatoes, and apple pie. I hope you enjoyed because now it is time to focus back on creating that healthier you 2012. Eating right is an essential piece in the puzzle that is life. Check out our list of healthy foods you should be eating below and get a jumpstart on your resolutions for 2012!
1) Apples: It is true what they say…”An apple a day will keep the doctor away”. Apples a great crunchy snacked loaded with nutritional value. One medium apple is packed with about 14% of your daily value of vitamin C, 4 grams of fiber, and is quite hydrating due to the high water content. The soluble fiber and antioxidants in apples has been shown to lower “bad” cholesterol levels.
2) Salmon: There is nothing fishy about it…salmon is GREAT for your heart! Oily fish like salmon and tuna are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. These omega-3′s have been shown to lower triglyceride levels in the blood, as well as lower blood pressure levels. It is recommended that one should about two servings of omega-3 rich fish into their diet per week.
3) Chocolate: No, it is not a typo, I said chocolate! Unfortunately, this does not mean diving into a bag of M&M’s on a regular basis. Turn to dark chocolate options as a healthy alternative. Dark chocolate is chocked full of flavanols, which have been shown to support health blood vessel function. Stressed out? Dark chocolate can help you there too. Studies have also shown that the consumption of dark chocolate (cacao) may be linked to reduced cortisol levels.
4) Cinnamon: The spice that makes everything nice, right? Well, at a minimum consuming cinnamon has been shown in studies to help control blood sugar and reduce levels of LDL’s in the blood. The active polymers in cinnamon have been shown to increase cellular metabolism of sugar up to 20 percent! Sprinkle some of this “magic dust” on your oatmeal or mix some in your morning cup of Joe!
5) Sweet Potatoes: Carbs are bad right? Wrong! This super carbohydrate is loaded with vitamins and is the perfect fuel for your brain and body. It is a misconception that sweet potatoes are high in calories due to their sweetness, but they are actually have quite a low glycemic index. This “super vegetable” comes packed with vitamins C and A, potassium, and lycopene. Try slicing one up and baking it until golden brown to make delicious sweet potato fries. Drizzle on some heart-healthy olive oil before baking to add more flavor and omega-3′s.
CLICK HERE to find healthy salmon recipes from eatingwell.com
CLICK HERE for more sweet potato recipes from cookinglight.com
CLICK HERE for creative apple recipes from foodnetwork.com
