The winter solstice (Dec. 21st) plays a role in vitamin D deprivation. Often seniors will suffer from bone softening, nausea, cognitive difficulties and frailty. Each of these symptoms can be mistaken for any number of illnesses but could quickly be identified as a lack of Vitamin D by a physician.

The CDC has determined that osteoporosis affects 16% of all seniors. The condition carries serious health risks, potentially leading to falls and other home safety hazards. The clear connection between vitamin D and bone health in the elderly helps defend against bone softening. Vitamin D improves senior mental health, combating prevalent issues like elderly depression. A 2017 study of more than 5,600 older adults found a link between lower levels of vitamin D and depressive symptoms, such as loneliness, lack of enjoyment, and restless sleep.

Study participants with the least amount of vitamin D reported more pronounced mental health concerns. As a result of this emerging science, researchers continue to investigate a potential vitamin D antidepressant.

There are several ways to attain vitamin D benefits:

Sunshine is one of the best natural sources of vitamin D. Take an afternoon walk or invest in a UV lamp for colder months.

• One tablespoon of cod liver oil supplements 170% of daily vitamin D.
• Four or five sliced, white mushrooms make up half of the needed vitamin D intake.
• Three ounces of cooked salmon account for more than 80% of necessary vitamin D.
• A cup of milk, which is fortified with vitamin D, contains 20% of the daily recommended vitamin D value.

Beyond these natural sources, a doctor or dietitian may recommend a vitamin D supplement, after ruling out medication interactions or other health risks.

Sources:

Madi M, et al. “The association between vitamin D level and periodontal disease in Saudi population, a preliminary study.” 
sciencedirect.com

Yao P, Bennett D, Mafham M, et. al. “Vitamin D and calcium for the prevention of fracture.” 
jamanetwork.com

Kweder H, Eidi H. “Vitamin D deficiency in elderly: Risk factors and drugs impact on vitamin D status.” 
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.

aplaceformom.com

Here at Everbrook Senior Living we like to make you aware of companies who we believe align with our vision and offer resources that can help aging adults in our communities.

One such company is Medicare Advantage Plans. At MedicareAdvantagePlans.org, their mission is to help current and future subscribers develop their understanding of Medicare so that they can navigate this complex system with confidence. Their most recent guide was designed to walk seniors and their families through the different medicare plans to find the best one that meets both their medical and financial needs. 

You can learn more about some of their helpful guides here: 

• What is Medicare?
• What does Medicare Part C cover?
• How do I pick the best Medicare Advantage Plan for me?

Figuring out if you qualify for Medicare Advantage and what benefits you’re entitled to can be confusing. Medicare Advantage Plans can help you figure out if you’re eligible.

What we have learned during Phase I

Researched based on Everbrook Senior Living Communities

• Senior Living proved a safer alternative than seniors living with home care
• Resident to resident transmission risk is low
• In-home caregivers present increased risk due to high exposure
• Senior Living staff are subjected to preventative protocols
• Senior Living in communities were able to help residents maintain a quality of life throughout the pandemic

Benefits of moving into an Everbrook Senior Living Community

• Strict environmental controls
• Vigilance at tracing staff activities outside of work to identify risks
• 24-hour nurses monitoring for signs of illness
• Socialization with peers who help one another cope
• Essential and non-essential services including chef-prepared meals
• A robust exercise program that helps reduce risk of falls and injuries

Contact us today to schedule a visit.

Everbrook Senior Living was proud to host our first virtual event on May 20, 2020 featuring Pamela Atwood, MA, CDP, CLL, and the founder and owner of Atwood Dementia Group. Atwood led the group with ideas and exercises to practice at home, as many daily activities and plans have shifted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Atwood gave insight on strategies to connect with seniors in meaningful ways with items you can find in your home.

Were you unable to join us for the presentation? No worries! You can watch the following videos at your convenience to learn the tips and tricks from professionals. We'll be offering a virtual event each month. So check back soon for new and different educational webinars with top professionals in the field.