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Tips for Foot Health and Why It’s Important

Mobility is a vital ingredient to self-sufficiency, making the foot ailments that often trouble seniors particularly worrisome. While it may not come to mind as a major health concern, poor foot health can severely impact a person’s ability to live alone, work and engage in social activities.

Observing preventive foot health care has many benefits. At the top of the list is that it can increase comfort, limit the possibility of additional medical problems, and reduce the chances of hospitalization because of infection.

Here are some tips for keeping feet healthy:

Wear Shoes That Fit Properly
Many people don’t wear shoes that properly fit them or support their feet. Shop for shoes in the afternoon so you can avoid choosing shoes that are too small for your feet that swell during the day.

Regularly Take Walks
This is ultimately the best exercise for your feet.

Wear Seam-Free Socks
This will help with preventing any skin irritations from developing on your skin.

Have Corns & Calluses Professionally Treated
Never cut corns and calluses with a razor, pocket knife. Only use over-the-counter foot products with the advice of a podiatrist.

Bathe & Inspect Feet Daily
Apply lukewarm water and mild soap to keep your feet free of any dirt on a daily basis. If you notice any redness, swelling, cracks in your skin consult your podiatrist.

If you or your loved one needs assistance with foot care or any additional health care and support, contact The Orchard here. We provide 24/7 assistance that will keep your loved one happy and healthy!

5 Healthy Hobbies for Seniors

senior-hobbies-5Mental and social activities are just as critical as physical activities when it comes to ageing. And hobbies are an excellent way for seniors to become more active and engaged, which can improve their overall happiness. Here are a few of the Orchard activities and hobbies available:

1. Creating Art
Art is a great way to keep the brain stimulated and one of the best activities seniors can practice. Art can be especially beneficial when done in a social setting with friends and family. Art projects can include painting, knitting, sewing, scrapbooking, or photography. Here at Orchard, we have numerous artistic activities for your loved one to participate in and a dedicated crafts area.

2. Playing Cards and Games
Your loved one can join in at the Orchard game room for fun activities and friendly competition. Participating in games and playing cards can both help keep your loved one’s mind sharp. Sudoku and crossword puzzles are also great ways to keep the brain fit.

3. Gardening
Gardening is a rewarding experience that is not only enjoyable but has many health and therapeutic benefits. It encourages independence while also increasing mobility and flexibility. Our Garden Club meets and plants herbs and flowers every week to keep the garden and your loved one healthy and growing.

4. Golfing
Orchard has an excellent putting green that’s great for both enthusiastic golfers and those who want to learn. Golf has many benefits, for example, improving flexibility, hand-eye coordination, and overall satisfaction.senio

5. Socialising
This is the most important hobby to list, conversing and socialising with others is essential to happiness and the Orchard Difference means that we are dedicated to your loved one’s happiness. We have weekly and monthly calendars full of activities, on/off grounds, that develop conversations and bonds between residents.

If you are looking for an assisted living home in the Tucker, Georgia area or just want to ask questions about what we offer and the Orchard Difference give us a call at 770-938-5600 or contact us here.

Tips for Seniors to Avoid Heat Stroke/Exhaustion

Ways-Seniors-Stay-Safe-in-Summer-Heat-01-pg-fullHot weather can be dangerous here in Georgia, and seniors are more inclined to its threat. Elderly heat stroke and heat exhaustion are real problems. There are several reasons for elderly heat vulnerability. A person’s ability to notice fluctuations in their body temperature decreases with age. Many seniors also have underlying health conditions that make them less able to adjust to heat or medication that can cause dehydration. Fortunately, only a few simple precautions are all that’s needed to keep safe.

Here are a few tips for keeping cool in hot weather:

Drink Plenty of Liquids

Dehydration is the root of many heat-related health problems. Drink plenty of water or juice, even if you’re not thirsty. But remember to avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Wear Weather Appropriate Clothes
When it’s hot out, lightweight, loose-fitting clothes and consider a wide-brimmed hat.

Stay Indoors During Mid-day Hours
When it’s the hottest outside, the best time to run errands or be outdoors is before 10am or after 6pm, when the temperature is cooler.

Relax and Take it Easy
Avoid exercise and strenuous activity, particularly outdoors, when it’s very hot out.

Watch the Local Heat Index
When there’s high humidity, the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating is impaired. The heat index can be found online or also on local TV and radio weather reports.

Get Heart Smart This March

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There’s a big chance that someone in your life has, or will be, affected by heart disease. Since it’s the number one cause of death in the U.S., taking over 600,000 lives yearly, take a minute to familiarize yourself with heart disease in case of an emergency.

What is heart disease?

When people think of heart disease, they often think of a heart attack, and that’s with sound reasoning. While heart disease is an overarching term for numerous infirmities afflicting the heart and blood vessels, the most general example is coronary artery disease, which can cause heart attacks. Coronary artery disease is when the heart’s primary blood vessels become thick and small due to an accumulation of plaque. When blood flow, which brings essential oxygen to the heart, is reduced, a heart attack can transpire. Other types of heart disease include stroke, heart valve problems, and arrhythmia.

What are the signs of a heart attack?

The American Heart Association states while some heart attacks are unexpected and intense, they usually start gradually with moderate pain and distress. It may feel like rising tension or pressing, and it can disappear for several minutes then repeat. Chest pain is the most common sign of a heart attack along with other symptoms as well. Someone having a heart attack could also feel:

  • Discomfort in their stomach, neck, jaw, back, or arms
  • Shortened breaths or lightheadedness
  • Cold sweats
  • Nausea or vomiting

Women are more likely to experience non-chest pain symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain.

If you think you or someone else could be suffering a heart attack, contact 911 directly. Every second counts!

If you need assistance for someone who has experienced a heart attack or needs care contact The Orchard. We know every individual has unique needs and our professionals dedicate themselves to providing excellent care for you or your loved one. Contact us to learn The Orchard Difference.