Spring has sprung here at The Saybrook at Haddam with warm weather and the appearance of countless buds and flowers. It is a welcomed time of the year that lifts our spirits and improves moods – and perhaps even affects our health. While residents and staff are all enjoying this new season, we thought it was interesting that experts have found a real, provable connection between weather and health. We wanted to share some advice to help seniors avoid turning a nice day into an uncomfortable one.
Scientists do believe that some folks coping with arthritis pain may really “predict” bad weather when they have flare-ups. To minimize this, seniors are encouraged to hydrate sufficiently, dress warmly, supplement with Vitamin D and fish oil, soak in warm baths, and maintain a healthy diet. We have hydration stations throughout The Saybrook at Haddam, so residents can readily take a rest and have a drink. We also serve plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and other healthy foods that help manage many different conditions, including arthritis.
Others who suffer from migraines may notice increased discomfort when there is a drop in barometric pressure (before a storm) or an increase in seasonal allergies. They are encouraged to take migraine medicine at the first sign of a headache – and perhaps even tap into today’s technology by connecting filtered earplugs with an app that sends an alert whenever there’s a drop in barometric pressure.
More time outdoors in the nice weather may lead to an increase in the chance of a fall from uneven pavement, sticks or debris on pathways, or slick walkways from misty rain. Wearing sturdy shoes with good traction is essential, as is making sure walkways are clear. We appreciate the hard work of our maintenance and grounds keeping team that keeps our entire community in such great (and safe) shape.
When it’s hot outside, some seniors may be at risk of heatstroke, which happens when the heart strains to produce sweat needed to cool the body. So, people with heart conditions should be extra cautious. Additionally, on humid days, people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or other lung diseases may notice an increase in symptoms such as shortness of breath, respiratory infections or wheezing.
Of course, spring is notorious for those bothered by asthma and allergies. Tree and grass pollen, high humidity, high winds, cold temperatures and other sudden weather changes can also worsen symptoms. In severe cases, seniors are encouraged to work with an allergist to identify triggers and develop a customized treatment plan. Residents can always start by talking with the wellness team at The Saybrook at Haddam.
In essence, paying attention to your body and health all year long will help you manage illness, pain or allergies anytime of the year – so you can really enjoy those great weather days. At The Saybrook at Haddam, we do all we can to support your wellness goals and keep you healthy to do just that. To us, it’s all part of gracious retirement living!
For a private tour of The Saybrook at Haddam or its Safe Harbor memory care neighborhood, please fill out the form below or contact David Downey at 860-345-3779.
anything, families want to know that their mom or dad, grandparent or other relative will be happy living here.Recently, the New York Times published 
We also use daily meals as an opportunity to promote happiness. Residents never dine alone, and they have many choices where they eat: in our beautiful circular main dining room, our elegant private dining rooms, our courtyard, the country kitchen, or in Safe Harbor’s family-style dining room. Residents and guests tell us our meals are delicious, and we know they are also nutritious, a little adventurous, and full of seasonal favorites. Good food goes a long way towards happiness!
The New York Times suggests spending time with seniors will change your perspective and increase your own level of happiness. Looking around at the smiling faces at The Saybrook at Haddam, we couldn’t agree more!
Having the “time for assisted living” conversation with an elderly parent or relative is likely one of the hardest things an adult child will ever do. Be sure to work closely with your preferred retirement community for advice on walking through this step in a kind, caring and respectful manner. Many communities will invite you to enjoy lunch or dinner, to attend a concert or other event, or even to try a short-term or respite stay. These simple steps take much of the fear and anxiety out of the decision-making and eases the transition from independent living in a home, condo or apartment, to retirement living in an assisted living or memory care environment.
Additionally, as difficult as assisted living planning may be, we can tell you that, in our experience, once residents are settled in to life at The Saybrook at Haddam, they often wonder why they waited so long!
Look for ways to help others. More than 11 million senior citizens engage in volunteerism each year which means there are millions of opportunities for seniors to get involved. They can team with local churches, senior centers or libraries, the Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts, national homeless or hunger relief organizations, or community-based activities to find a project that fits their interest and availability. By doing this, the true meaning of Christmas can come through and lift seniors’ spirits.
Practice forgiveness. Sometimes people do or say things that hurt us – and we have a hard time looking past those wrongdoings. However, holding on to bad feelings ends up hurting us and can affect our holidays. Forgiving all sorts of people – from our past, our work, or our families – will definitely heal the spirit.
Love, love, love. When we embrace love, we have a much better outlook on life. So, make an extra effort to love your family and friends, your home and environment, and even yourself for the best holiday season ever!
