Activities for the Elderly - Technology!

Silver Surfers:  It's inescapable nowadays that computers are everywhere. Using the Internet and computers have become a normal part of life and as such, many seniors have found that they have to adapt to this new way of communication. As such, there is an organization called the Silver Surfers. This organization teaches senior citizens how to surf the Internet, and how to use acquire basic computer skills. Not only can seniors learn how to send e-mails to their friends and family members, but they can also learn common computer programs, so that they can be useful in our computer-based world. Technology really is a fantastic way of keeping in touch with friends and families, go on, if you haven't tried it, then do it!

Activities for the Elderly - Clubs

Bingo/Cardgame/Boardgame Clubs  When people think about activities for the elderly, bingo, card games, and board game clubs aren't always top of the list. With the advent of computer games etc, the more traditional fun pastimes of boardgames/cards have been somewhat forgotten. But they are still as enjoyable as they were way back when so why not get together with your friends and start a club where you can meet once a week or more and enjoy some company with like minded individuals. As with other activities, for the more competitive, you can always start a league. You will find plenty of coffee shops/restaurants/pubs only happy to welcome you in during the quieter mid morning or mid afternoon times.

Similarly, if games aren't your thing, then start a book club just like Oprah did. Someone in the club chooses a book for everyone to read and then you meet up and chat about it. You are the reviewers!

Activities for the Elderly - Golf

Senior citizens like to play golf because it's a game that is relaxing on the one hand, and also invigorating. As anyone who has watched the Ryder Cup / Masters etc, you can also make it as competitive as you like. Most golf courses are situated where there is a great deal of beautiful scenery so visually a game of golf is not a good walk spoiled but a good walk very much enhanced. 

Golf is not a game that is strenuous to the body, so it is an ideal game for the elderly. Check out your local golf club, many offer discounts for senior citizens and/or reduced green fees on off peak days. What is particularly nice about golf is it is a game that you can enjoy by yourself, or as a group.

Safety / Security for the Elderly - Family & Neighbours

Family  Neighbours - know your neighbours and let them and your family know what your plans are each day:  One of the most important ways you can protect yourself is by getting to know your neighbours. Knowing who lives around you that you can trust is like extending your family. A tight neighbourhood keeps their eyes out on each other and checks up on things if they notice anything that doesn't look right. To get the best results in this type of friendly situation is to let your neighbours and well as family know if you are going to be away for a day or even a week. By making this a habit, you'll be making it easier your neighbours as well as loved ones to know if something doesn't seem right and to check up on you or your home.

Safety / Security for the Elderly - Door to Door Collections

Door to Door Collectors - who to answer the door to, who is safe, how to know:  It is a fact of life that some dishonest individuals and businesses prey on the elderly. In ensure your safety or the safety of an elderly relative, the best bet is to just not allow strangers in your door. Having a peephole installed is a plus because you won't even need to answer the door if you don't recognize your visitor. If it's a business saying something on your home needs fixing, don't reply. It's just isn't worth it. If something needs fixing, ask a neighbor for a referral. Best rule of thumb, when in doubt, keep them out.

Safety / Security for the Elderly - Tradesmen

Tradesmen - reliable, dependable, certified tradesmen:  The best way to hire professional tradesmen is to ask for referrals from friends or family. There are a lot of scam artists out there who are looking for a chance to take advantage of all of us but the elderly in particular. Asking for referrals is the perfect safeguard; however, you'll still want to interview them with another person present. You'll also want to get the estimate in writing and if possible take the time to get more than one estimate. When the time comes for the repair, also get it in writing to protect yourself from any discrepancies that may arrive.

Safety / Security for the Elderly - At Home

At Home - House alarms, dog, smoke alarms:  To assure the overall safety of the elderly at home, three things will be need be considered. First, for the very best protection, considering having a professional house alarm installed. They offer the optimal protection from unwanted guests. House alarms provide top of the line protection. Second, you must have smoke alarm and have them serviced regularly along with replacing the batteries when needed. Third, having a dog as a pet is a great way to ward off intruders as well as offering loving companionship. It is a proven fact that most intruders would rather move on to a home without a dog to commit their crimes.

Safety / Security for the Elderly - Out in Public

In Public - when out in public, how to increase your safety:  The Elderly can go a long way toward protecting themselves in public with just a few simple considerations. First, if you plan to carry a handbag or a wallet, keep it closed and your money out of easy reach and away from temptation. Next, whenever possible go out with a friend or even a group of friends. There's always safety in numbers. There are services that will pick you and your friends up and take you safely to and various destinations. Most senior residences also offer this service. Last but not least, just pay attention to what's going on around you. This will help you avoid unpleasant experiences and just have a good time. Lastly, think of carrying one of these personal alarms

Security / Safety for the Elderly - Pendant Alarms

Pendant Alarms: It's an unfortunate fact of life that 33% of individuals over 65 years old are more likely to be injured in a fall or in an accident at home. Many live alone so this can be a scary situation to be in. Even worrying about it can cause health problems and lack of sleep. Pendant alarms will give you peace of mind and the security you need to ensure you are protected if an accident should happen while you're home alone.

Just slip your Pendant alarm around your neck or clip it to a belt or pocket. If you need help and can't get to a phone, you can easily activate it and get immediate medical response 24/7. Have a browse around the security section of our store -> HOMELink Store