by Leslie Sokol

Holidays mean fun activities to look forward to and time with family and friends. The holidays are usually a wonderful time for all ages, but they are an especially important time for seniors. Festive social interactions, where friends or family come together to celebrate together, do wonders for mental health and keep feelings of loneliness and isolation at bay. Time with others is critical at all stages in our lives but as we age, the holidays provide opportunities to reflect on our lives, share our experiences with loved ones and create new memories that will bring us joy throughout the year.

Suggestions for Making the Holidays Cheerful and Joyous

Share memories and traditions with the younger generations. Reuniting with children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren is a wonderful bonding opportunity. Some fun activities you can do together include driving around town and enjoying holiday lights and decorations, cooking and sharing a meal together, singing holiday and Christmas carols, looking through family albums, doing arts and craft projects, and watching holiday movies. All of these are great ideas for lifting spirits and sharing joyous times with loved ones!

Take time to reflect and look ahead. The holidays are a great time to think about the year that has just passed. Seniors can be very busy later in life or get lost in retirement. Make this holiday season a time to take a break, slow down, and reflect on what has happened during the year and begin to make plans that excite you for the upcoming year.

Reconnect spiritually with yourself and others. The holidays are a wonderful time to reconnect with your faith. Many families incorporate a religious or spiritual element into their holiday celebrations. This might be a great time to give thanks for all of the many blessings in your life.

Give back and help your community. Many seniors are involved in volunteer activities during the holidays. From caroling to coat drives, there are many opportunities to serve others less fortunate and in need. Volunteering is important because it provides you with a sense of purpose and allows you to be active and utilize your talents and abilities.

Stay active. During the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to feel drained and fatigued with all the preparations and added activities that come with this time of year. One of the best ways to manage the holiday season is to incorporate exercise into your daily routine. It will keep your energy levels soaring during this festive time. Regular physical activity is not only good for you, but it also gives you more stamina to get things done. Whether it’s a brisk morning walk, a quick workout, or a fun activity, you will reap the benefits throughout the whole day.

In my For the Young at Heart dance and fitness classes, which are specifically designed for seniors, I like to keep everyone’s spirits high and get fully engaged, especially during the holiday season. We begin with upper body exercises, calisthenics, stretches, and basic combinations with our arms and legs. Lively, festive and popular holiday music motivates us to do Jazzy dance steps and routines. Dancing with others is a great way to focus on your health while having fun and socializing with others. So, grab your partner and friends, head out on the dance floor and get your body and spirit moving to the beat. May your holiday season be joyous and full of health and happiness!

About the Author
Leslie Sokol is the creator and founder of the adult dance and fitness program For the Young at Heart. She has been teaching adults and children for forty-five years. You can watch For the Young at Heart by visiting her YouTube Channel or on TVSB. She also teaches in retirement communities throughout Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties. For more information, please contact Leslie at [email protected], by calling 805-312-8089 or by visiting her website: www.LeslieSokolsDance.com.

From the California Department of Aging

The holidays can be particularly difficult for seniors. A May 2023 report from the U.S. Surgeon General called attention to the health crisis caused by isolation, loneliness, and lack of connection in the United States, especially for older adults. Social isolation can lead to anxiety, anger, and emotional turmoil. Awareness of the risks of isolation and loneliness is growing, along with efforts to help people of all ages understand steps they can take to reduce loneliness and increase social connections. People are participating in the activities they enjoy – gathering with friends and family, traveling, participating in church or other social groups, or attending other events. But the effects of pandemic-related isolation may still linger.

Tips to Help with Anxiety

For those feeling unable to reconnect because they’re afraid or anxious, there are some simple steps to take. Licensed psychologist Corrine McIntosh Sako, president of the Sacramento Valley Psychological Association, suggests grounding yourself by taking deep breaths through your nose, inhaling into your belly, then slowly breathing out through your mouth. Next, she suggests, sit with the knowledge that you are experiencing fear or anxiety and ask yourself what you’re anxious about and how you can move forward, even with anxiety. The process helps you think more rationally. Remember, everyone experiences these feelings from time to time, so don’t be hard on yourself. Other breathing techniques can help too, including what is called the 4-7-8: Breathe in for four seconds, hold your breath for seven seconds, and slowly let your breath out for eight seconds. Like deep breathing, exercise can work as a psychological immune booster, releasing feel-good hormones called endorphins that can ease anxiety. Even a short walk around the block can bring your emotional temperature gauge back to normal.

Increase Social Connections

Perhaps the most important thing is social connections, like phone calls with friends or family, or attendance at a church or community events. California’s network of 33 Area Agencies on Aging, located in communities throughout California, offers nutrition and health services and group activities that may include exercise and art classes, writing, or yoga. Transportation to and from programs may also be available. In addition, adult day services programs – in which older adults can socialize and receive help with daily tasks – are designed to help people stay mentally and physically active. These programs feature a variety of therapeutic and other activities, as well as meals and snacks, health monitoring, and other services.

You Are Not Alone

For those unable or not ready to leave their home, Friendship Line is there. Anyone can call 888-670-1360 to have a friendly conversation by phone. Caregivers seeking support can access Family Caregiver Support Services through their local Area Agency on Aging. Learn more about the variety of services available to older adults, their families, and caregivers by visiting the California Department of Aging website or calling the California Aging and Adult Information Line at 800-510-2020.

Visit aging.ca.gov for more information and links to the resources listed in this article.

From the National council on Aging (ncoa.org)

With all the talk about COVID-19 and the flu and how they impact older adults, sometimes the common cold can be overlooked. So what exactly is a run-of-the-mill cold? It refers to a mild infection of the nose and throat that produces a series of uncomfortable symptoms, such as a runny nose or congestion.

Common cold causes in the elderly are viruses such as rhinovirus, coronavirus, or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Most adults experience an average of 2 to 4 colds a year. The typical cold season runs from September to May.

Are colds worse for older people?

As we get older, our immune system can’t fend off infections as well as it did when we were younger. That’s why cold and flu season, also known as the fall/winter virus season, is a particularly dangerous time of year for people age 65 and older. Even a seemingly mild cold can pose a health threat to older adults. It can lead to pneumonia, an acute illness that takes the lives of thousands of people in the U.S. each year. Additionally, if you have a chronic condition such as asthma, COPD, or emphysema, a cold can intensify the symptoms from those conditions for several weeks after your cold symptoms have resolved.

How to tell the flu from the common cold

When you get a stuffy nose or a tickle in your throat, the first thing you might wonder is whether you’re suffering from a common cold, the flu, or COVID-19. Here is a quick guide explaining the differences between the three.

Cold symptoms are usually milder than the flu or COVID-19 and tend to come on gradually. Key symptoms include:

• Congestion
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Mild cough
• Headache

Flu symptoms usually have a more sudden onset. Some key signs of the flu are:

• Persistent high fever and chills
• Muscle aches and/or headache
• Pronounced fatigue and weakness
• Dry cough

COVID-19 symptoms can overlap with many cold and flu symptoms—but this illness also has some distinctive signs. These include:

• Loss of smell and/or taste
• Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or heaviness

While the section above provides guidelines on how to tell the flu from the common cold or COVID-19, you should always call your doctor to describe your symptoms. They can advise you on the next steps.

What are the best cold remedies for older adults?

What helps the elderly with a cold? If you’re wondering how to treat a common cold at home, it’s important to understand there are no medicines to “cure” a cold. Rather, most colds run their course and naturally resolve within a week or two. In older adults who are in poor health, symptoms may last longer.

That said, there are things you can do to help reduce your symptoms and make yourself more comfortable while you’re battling a virus. First of all, try to get as much rest as possible to allow your body to heal. This means abstaining from social outings and activity if you can and making sleep a priority. If you’re a smoker, make an effort to quit or at least cut back on smoking until your symptoms have eased.

Certain over-the-counter medications such as NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen, acetaminophen), decongestants, and antihistamines can provide short-term relief from your symptoms. However, it’s best to talk to your doctor first to find out what they recommend. Some natural, at-home cold remedies include:

• Chicken soup, shown in one study to ease inflammation, improve rehydration, and even slow infection
• Tea with honey and lemon, which soothes throat pain
• Adding a cool-mist humidifier to your home, which can help reduce nasal inflammation
• Gargling with salt water, which can help loosen mucus and ease throat pain and nasal congestion
• Applying a vapor rub to your chest to help calm a cough
• Applying petroleum jelly to soothe an irritated nose or chapped lips
• Sleeping or resting with your head at a 45-degree angle, which helps prevent mucous from accumulating in your sinus cavities (an adjustable bed can elevate your head)

How can older adults prevent colds?

Colds are very contagious. They spread through droplets of virus-containing fluid, such as the ones you produce when you sneeze or cough. While colds largely spread through the transfer of these droplets by touch, they can also be inhaled.

Which activity will best help prevent the common cold? The steps to prevent colds are very similar to the ones we’ve been taking during the pandemic to prevent COVID-19. Most important is washing your hands frequently using soap and water, for at least 20 seconds. If you’re somewhere without access to soap and water, use hand sanitizer with a minimum of 60% alcohol. Other essential cold-prevention tips include:

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, since this is an easy way for germs to spread. Wash your hands thoroughly after blowing your nose.
• Disinfect your environment regularly, paying close attention to countertops, doorknobs, light switches, and handles of appliances (e.g. fridge).
• Keep your distance from or limit your contact with people who are ill.
• Avoid large crowds of people, especially indoors in poorly ventilated spaces.
• Ensure you’re getting enough protein in your diet, since lack of protein can hinder your immune system. Great protein sources include eggs, lean meats, legumes, and dairy products.
• Make an effort to stay hydrated every day, since being well-hydrated helps us fight off germs and viruses.

It’s also a good idea to incorporate regular exercise into your routine. Even moderate physical activity can help give your immune system a boost.

Getting a cold is not 100% preventable. But by taking some basic precautions, you can increase your chances of staying healthy and happy all winter long.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this article.

The Holidays can be challenging for many seniors, particularly when living on a fixed budget or coping with loneliness. Many local churches and places of worship offer opportunities for connection and celebration during the holiday season, catering to seniors and the broader community. Contact your local places of worship directly or visit their websites to learn about specific upcoming events and activities.

Ventura Missionary Church
2024 Christmas Supper for Senior Adults
VenturaMissionary.com
500 High Point Dr, Ventura, CA 93003
805-642-0550

Thursday, December 5, 5:00-6:30 pm. Christmas Supper for Senior Adults in the Family Room. There is a suggested donation of $10. Visit the website to sign up or call 805-642-0550.

Trinity Lutheran Church
Young at Heart Senior Lunch
www.tlcventura.org
196 N Ashwood Ave, Ventura, CA 93003
805-644-7474

Thursday, December 19, 12 pm to 2 pm. A delightful lunch for seniors filled with good food, laughter, and great company. Whether you’re catching up with old friends or making new ones, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a warm meal and wonderful fellowship. Call the office: 805-644-7474 or swing by to add your name to the sign-up list at the Welcome Desk.

Ventura’s Senior Nutrition Program

The City of Ventura’s Senior Nutrition Program (SNP) is comprised of the Westside Cafe and the Home Delivered Meal Program (HDM). The program is made possible by a financial partnership between the City of Ventura, the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging (VCAAA), and the California Department of Aging (CDA).

The Westside Café, located at the Ventura Avenue Adult Center (550 N. Ventura Avenue), is open for congregate meals, Monday – Friday, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. All individuals aged 60 years or older are welcome to participate in Congregate meal services. A special Winter Holiday Luncheon will be held on Friday, December 20. To learn more, call 805-648-3035.

Home-Delivered Meals
Home-Delivered Meals (HDM) are available to frail, homebound seniors age 60+ and their spouses. Recipients must be unable to travel to a congregate site. To determine eligibility for the Home-Delivered Meal component, local meal providers schedule a friendly in-home visit to begin meal service, which includes an assessment of the type of meal appropriate for the participant in his/her living environment. Participants are reassessed quarterly, and along the way staff make referrals for any additional needs for nutrition-related supportive services, such as outreach, transportation, food shopping assistance, and escort to congregate nutrition sites. This program is not income based. Suggested donation is $3.00 per meal. Waitlists are common and other eligibility requirements apply.

For general information about the Senior Nutrition Program, contact the VCAAA at 805-477-7300 or [email protected].

From the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)

As much as we wish they could stay young forever, a greying muzzle or slower pace might be signs that your pet is growing older. This also means their care needs may be changing. While there’s no specific age to determine when a dog is considered a senior, some guidelines based on size can help. Small dogs are often considered seniors around 9 to 11 years, medium-sized dogs at 8 to 10 years, large dogs at 8 to 9 years, and giant breeds around 6 years.

Though your pet may be slowing down, there’s still plenty of time to enjoy together. In fact, senior years can be a reminder to slow down and savor the little moments. Here are five tips to help keep your pet feeling their best as they age.

1. Visit the vet regularly.
   Regular veterinary checkups are essential, and as pets age, consider multiple visits per year. Senior pets are more likely to develop health issues, so early detection is key. Schedule at least two vet visits annually for senior pets, and more frequent visits may be necessary if they’re being treated for a health issue. During these exams, vets monitor changes in weight, dental health, eating and drinking habits, mobility, heart health, and run lab tests for kidney or liver function changes.
2. Be consistent with exercise.
   Like humans, pets tend to slow down as they age. However, it’s important to keep them active with age-appropriate exercise. Regular exercise helps prevent muscle loss, weight gain, and joint stiffness. The right amount depends on your pet’s recent activity level and health status. If they haven’t been very active, start with short walks and gradually increase them. Consistency is key.
3. Make adjustments for mobility.
   Mobility issues are common in senior pets, so consider some home modifications. If your pet enjoys lounging on the couch or bed, stairs can make it easier for them to reach their favorite spots. Alternatively, moving their bed closer to where you sleep or relocating their food and water bowls to the main floor can make life easier. Using a ramp for outdoor steps can also be helpful.
4. Update their diet.
   As pets age and slow down, their metabolism does too. Weight gain can be hard on senior pets, so consider a diet formulated for older animals and opt for lower-calorie treats. Fortunately, there are many options to meet senior pets’ dietary needs.
5. Keep up with grooming.
   Senior pets’ grooming needs often change. They may struggle to clean themselves, so more frequent baths or trims may be necessary. Regular brushing can prevent their coat from tangling, which can cause discomfort. Check their nails regularly, as overly long nails can make movement difficult, especially on hard surfaces.

By following these tips, you can help keep your senior pet comfortable, healthy, and happy in their golden years.

by Leslie Sokol

The holiday season is upon us, bringing plenty to do. Between work, chores, shopping, meeting deadlines, and family obligations, it’s easy to feel anxious, overwhelmed, tired, and stressed. However, a simple shift toward gratitude can lift your mood. By fostering thankfulness within ourselves, we strengthen positive emotions and train our brains to focus on life’s good things. This practice can help you feel better as you go about your day, making challenges more manageable.

As seniors, we can be grateful for our longevity and savor our leisure time — we have certainly earned it! Reflecting on the positives in our lives and expressing gratitude is incredibly energizing. It offers perspective that’s surprisingly easy to overlook. No matter the circumstances, there are always things in life we can value and appreciate.

Deliberate gratitude strengthens bonds with friends and family. Think about how you feel when someone says, “thank you.” It feels good to be appreciated. When we express appreciation, we meet others’ needs, lift their spirits, and make them feel validated. These moments build connections, boost positivity, and help us all enter the season of thankfulness more joyfully.

Ways to Practice Thankfulness in Relation to Exercise

• Before a workout: Thank your body for showing up, for the chance to use it, and for your health.
• After a workout: Be grateful for what your body has accomplished.
• Throughout the day: Thank your body for all it does for you, from breathing and moving to helping you stay active. Say things like, “I am so grateful I can exercise and push my body. I feel so much better when I’m done. I know this will help me live longer and improve my quality of life.”

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to empower feelings of thankfulness. During joyful gatherings, we reunite with friends and family to share special moments. Try practicing gratitude daily. Every day can be a day of thanksgiving because there is always something to be thankful for! Stay grateful, stay healthy, and have a very Happy Thanksgiving!

About the Author

Leslie Sokol is the creator and founder of For the Young at Heart, an adult dance and fitness program. She has taught adults and children for 45 years. Watch For the Young at Heart on her YouTube Channel or TVSB. She also teaches in retirement communities throughout Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.

For more information, contact Leslie at [email protected], 805-312-8089, or visit LeslieSokolsDance.com.

Thursday, December 5, 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m. at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center

The Golden Future 50+ Expo is back, showcasing a wide range of products and services designed for aging, retirement, and lifestyle enhancement. This event will feature both local and national businesses offering free samples and the latest innovations for positive aging. Attendees will find learning opportunities around every corner, from medical breakthroughs to enhance health and longevity, to volunteer options, job-seeking resources, financial strategies for retirement, and advice on home improvements, aging in place, or moving to senior living communities.

Pre-register today to join this annual Ventura County event focused on rejuvenating the mind, body, and soul. Not comfortable online? No problem! Register at the door. This event is open to the public, providing a valuable resource for Southern California’s baby boomers, seniors, caregivers, and families.

Event Details:
Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard, CA 93030
Thursday, December 5, 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

Highlights include:

• Free admission
• Free self-parking
• Complimentary Golden Future tote bag with goodies
• Over 60 vendor booths to explore
• Expert speakers and workshops
• Health and wellness screenings
• Bingo with cash prizes
• Hourly door prize drawings
• Mini makeovers (haircuts and manicures)
• Jewelry-making class
• Tech education workshop for all your device questions
• Fun fitness class

Visit www.GoldenFutureSeniorExpo.com for a complete schedule.