Barbara Fradkin – FLORIDA TODAY

Q:  I love the different programs at One Senior Place. Have you ever thought about presentations by a nurse that works with seniors?

A: A program with a nurse?  You are reading my mind! Nurses are knowledgeable, caring, compassionate and great listeners. For the last 20 years, nurses have ranked first in Gallup’s annual poll of most trusted professionals. So (drum roll please), One Senior Place is launching a monthly program on Senior Health issues with our own registered nurse and Certified Care Manager, Lisa Conway. We have had many requests to discuss more issues of health and wellness and Lisa is very qualified to talk on these subjects. She may even bring in other health care specialists in her network to address topics of special interest. “Senior Health Friday” events will also be a great complement to our popular “Ask the Doctor” series.

It is not easy getting older. Many people have issues with cognitive decline, balance issues, incontinence and the list goes on. It is estimated that 25 percent of adults aged 65 and older have Type 2 diabetes! What about hearing loss (or for men- selective hearing!)? Our vision declines and the risk for some types of cancer also increases with age. Collectively, these are sometimes referred to as geriatric syndromes. Although seen more in people who are older and frailer, they affect countless people in their 60’s and 70’s as well.

When I consult with a client at One Senior Place, I often talk about “quality of life.” It’s important! Chronic conditions will affect your ability to socialize and be physically active — and you may lose the ability to take good care of yourself.  Learning about and addressing these issues early will enable healthier aging.

Unfortunately, not everyone is comfortable talking with their doctors. Unless your doctor is psychic, this might mean a delay before they realize what is really going on! Managing your health properly starts with education and communication. It can help you not only feel better, but perhaps even live longer.

Healthy aging is not just about preventing problems. It is also spotting them and addressing them before they drag you down and take away your independence. So, let One Senior Place help. Join us for Senior Health Friday with Nurse Lisa.  The first seminar will be on Friday, February 11^th at 10am.  Lisa has some great topics for each month and you will have lots of time to ask questions. In the meantime, do something you enjoy, eat that last piece of cake, and maybe learn a foreign language.  L’Chaim!

One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Questions for this column are answered by professionals in nursing, social work, care management and in-home care. To submit a question, send an email to askOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging at OneSeniorPlace.com. Barbara Fradkin is a Social Worker, Certified Care Manager and the Director for One Senior Place, Viera.