In July, A Little Help, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping seniors at home, produced another “Tough Talk” series on “Keeping Mentally and Physically Healthy During the Pandemic” comprised of four speakers via their Zoom webinar.
Tim McElmore with Elderhaus of Fort Collins discussed the four pillars of care, which included social engagement, cognitive stimulation, safe physical activity, and good nutrition. These are the main concepts used at Elderhaus.
Ellen Heath with Fort Collins Open Spaces, a naturalist volunteer for Fort Collins and Loveland, talked about the many natural areas in these two dynamic cities. She mentioned the trail guides and knowing and following the trail rules of these natural areas. She focused on her favorite areas such as Arapahoe Bend and Fossil Creel Reservoir areas in Fort Collins and Rivers Edge in Loveland.
Melody Bettenhausen with Ensight Skills Center of Loveland discussed her organization’s mission that provides visually impaired people with low vision tools, counseling, and training that promotes independent and productive living. Ensight uses occupational therapists to help seniors with vision loss issues. There are a multitude of vision problems including dry and wet macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and retinopathy, among others. Most of these eye problems can be corrected with different medical procedures, therapy, or medicines. Ensight uses teleconferencing during these trying times to help seniors with vision problems.
Loree’ Beamer, a local psychologist, talked about “Choosing Your Life Lens.” She asked, “Are You Happy?” and about changing your perspective when dealing with the latest news on the pandemic. She recommends using five gratitudes to help cope with the pandemic include 1) journaling at least one item on a daily basis as a positive reminder, 2) use random acts of kindness by sending a positive message to fellow employees, friends and family, and 3) meditation which soothes the mind. She recommends doing these tasks twice daily for the next 21 days!
Thanks to A Little Help for helping seniors during the pandemic!