A Longer Life Span is in Our Future

Ruby Hawk says "How long will our life span be in the future? Scientists say it will be at least a decade longer and maybe more. The goal is to keep seniors living a healthy lifestyle, remaining independent, and working as long as possible. Robert Butler, scientist, says "nonsense" to the dooms day prophesy that baby boomers will bankrupt the nation.

By 2050 scientists say our life span will be at least a decade longer. Robert Butler, scientist expert on aging, founded the International Longevity Center to maximize the benefits of aging two decades ago. He is now 82 and works 12 hours a day." For more see: A Longer Life Span is in Our Future

How to Lower Your Odds of Alzheimer's

Many of us know someone that is affected by Alzhiemer’s Disease. Not only is it difficult for the person afflicted with the disease, but it has a dramatic affect on family members as well. According to Ruby Hawk, “Everyone should be interested in how to lower your odds of Alzheimer’s and dementia. It is the most dreaded disease of the aging population. Researchers have found there are ways to decrease your odds. But to get the best preventive results you must start taking these steps in your forties. Although it wouldn’t hurt a thing to start earlier and might be even better.” For more on this article see: How to Lower Your Odds of Alzheimer's

Aging, Retirement and Nursing Facility Options

Nursing home facilities emphasize privacy. They normally allow just immediate family members to visit. Many times nursing home facilities focus on rehabilitation and extending life. Hospice settings allow patients to die at home, but they are there to control pain and keep them comfortable. Friends and family members are allowed to visit at any time. Care providers, friends and family are including in the plan of care process. Many family friends come and provide service to the family such as cooking, cleaning and maybe some yard work and emotional support. Prices vary on nursing homes and hospice based on the patient’s need. This was the biggest barrier to pricing. According to Autumn Journey Hospice, “Hospice affirms life and regards dying as a normal process. It neither hastens nor postpones death.” My wife’s friend passed away last summer from brain cancer. Her family had chosen hospice for last month of her life. The family claims that it was the best thing for her and the family as they were able to say their goodbyes. Although it was still a painful grieving process as expected during the passing of a loved one, they believe they have been able to adjust and move ahead in their lives. Many people do not chose hospice as they may not have the time or emotional support to care for their loved ones.

One of our most respected nursing facilities is Whidbey Island Manor. “Whidbey Island Manor is a family-owned and operated 57-bed skilled nursing facility located in Oak Harbor, Washington.” Their mission and core values incorporated skilled care, compassion and “dignity”. They are able to care for young and elderly including adults with developmental disabilities and mental illnesses. They work towards restoring independence in efforts to return the patients to their families. If that is not possible, the goal still remains to help them be as self sufficient as possible.

I never had any misconceptions of the aging families as caring for the elderly has been part of my job for the last seven years. However, I used to believe that once the elderly checked into a nursing home, there was no return and their lives soon end. I haven’t heard of many elderly people left nursing homes after rehabilitation. I would have to say that my past research did not change any preconceived views I had. The materials seems to correlate to what I have experienced working in elderly group homes and nursing homes.

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