Articles and Information from GA Foods

Best known as conditions in the places where people live, learn, work, and play, that affect a wide range of outcomes, Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) are categorized around five key areas; economic stability, education, health and healthcare, neighborhood and built environment, and social and community context. And among these areas, are a number of issues that make up the underlying causes surrounding SDOH. From employment and education status to quality of housing, our health today is greatly influenced by these factors with one of the most prevalent being limited access to healthy food.

 This is part four of a four part series on socialization for older adults and attracting baby boomers to senior centers.

From the ability to connect with people all over the globe to sharing real-time moments, news, and messages with just one click, it’s fair to say that social media has not only transformed the way we communicate. It’s transformed life as we know it. And perhaps no one is enjoying this uber-connected world more than baby boomers.

 This is part three of a four part series on socialization for older adults and attracting baby boomers to senior centers.

This is part two of a four part series on socialization for older adults and attracting baby boomers to senior centers.

This is part one of a four part series on socialization for older adults and attracting baby boomers to senior centers.

Like all forms of activity, socialization becomes increasingly more important as we age. From stress levels and self-esteem to fitness and overall health, an active social life directly affects an older adults’ mental, physical, and emotional state, making it key to a longer life. But what’s more, are the cognitive benefits. Consistent social interactions and positive relationships don’t just keep seniors stimulated, they keep them mentally sharp and intellectually engaged, helping to prevent declines in memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease and various forms of dementia.

Most caregivers and healthcare professionals know how dangerous, and frequent falls are for older adults.  As we age, our bodies react differently, and a  fall can be life-threatening. Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries among older adults. Falls can lead to severe injuries and a rapid decline in health. As aging increases, the chances of falling also increases. One out of three people over 65 years old and one out of two people over 85 years old, experience a fall every year.  Falls are caused by many factors such as mobility problems, poor vision or hearing, conditions in the home, and malnutrition. 

Loneliness might mean something different to everyone, but one thing has become clear: it doesn’t just mean living alone. In fact, recent studies show loneliness is linked to social isolation and an experience of not fitting in or belonging. So while some people can live alone and feel completely fulfilled, others can live with or around many people and still feel isolated – and this is especially true for seniors.

More than 20 million Americans are now choosing a Medicare Advantage Plan instead of Original Medicare, and the numbers are predicted to continue to grow. In fact, Medicare Advantage enrollment has increased 50 percent of over the past five years. It’s estimated by 2028 that 42 percent of enrollees will select a Medicare Advantage plan.

It’s Medicare  open enrollment time! From October 15 to December 7, adults age 65 and over need to select the type of Medicare plan they want for 2019.  Since there are more choices than ever, it's  important to review your options carefully before making a decision.