What do Senior Citizens in Nursing Homes “really” do all day?

(January, 30, 2015)

Almost every person who is fortunate not to be in a nursing home must have pondered at least once the “Million Dollar” question of “What do people in nursing homes do all day?”. Most people would say since a nursing home is, for the most part, a place of recovery from injury or illness, that the residents just eat, sleep and “get better” and then leave when they are healthy enough to do so.

This is a huge misconception.

Contrary to popular belief, there is a general daily schedule followed by most nursing homes across the United States that is provided for the residents. It includes more than just eating and sleeping and includes activities such as classes, outings and programs. Most nursing homes offer optional classes that cater to most senior citizen’s interests such as art, music and exercise. The nursing homes also try and maintain their activity by taking them on walks on or around the grounds of the home or to, for example, the supermarket. Later in the day, they have the option of attending a workshop or a performance such as a magic show or just relaxing in their room and before they know it, its already dinner.

Nursing homes vary with their schedules sometimes because each nursing home incorporates new activities into their daily schedules each year. The most important thing to remember is just because they are senior citizens does not mean that they do nothing with their day, and that is clearly evident in the eyes of a nursing home.

The Top 7 Air Travel Tips for Seniors | Morris Park Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

One’s retirement years are the perfect time to travel leisurely and explore the world. Each year more and more seniors are travelling by plane to reach their destination. Whether you are an avid traveler by air, or enjoy taking a trip every once in a while, these flying tips will ensure your trip is a safe and enjoyable one.

1. Consult with your doctor before planning a trip by plane. Ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding your health and traveling, and discuss any concerns prior to your trip.

2. Leave an ample amount of time to get to the airport and go through the check-in line and security line. Nothing can start off a trip on the wrong foot than being stressed about time, as it will cause unneeded anxiety. Most airlines suggested arriving to the airport at least 3 hours before international flights, and at least 90 minutes before domestic flights.

3. Always keep your bag nearby, never leave it unattended or with somebody you do not know personally.

4. Keep any medication or essentials needed throughout the trip in your carry on bag, this is just in case your checked-in baggage is delayed in reaching your destination.

5. When traveling with your passport or any other important irreplaceable documents, make sure they are in a safe place. Additionally, make copies of your passport and other documents, leave one copy at home or with a relative, and bring another with you.

6. Pack Light! Many seniors may experience unnecessary muscle strain from carrying heavy luggage and bags. This can happen while putting your belongings in the overhead bin, or even taking your baggage off the carousel. If your luggage is heavy it is best to rent a luggage cart, and ask an airline employee for help when needed.

7. Be aware of your seat options. Many seniors feel that it is necessary to sit in the aisle seat of the aircraft due to accessibility. If you feel like you need a specific seat, or if you are placed in the emergency exit row, contact an airline employee as soon as possible. Depending when seat assignments are given out, make sure your seat is right for you either before you arrive at the airport or at the flight-gate.

g a trip every once in a while, these flying tips from Morris Park Nursing and Rehabilitation Center will ensure your trip is a safe and enjoyable one.

1. Consult with your doctor before planning a trip by plane. Ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding your health and traveling, and discuss any concerns prior to your trip.

2. Leave an ample amount of time to get to the airport and go through the check-in line and security line. Nothing can start off a trip on the wrong foot like being stressed about time, as it will cause unneeded anxiety. Most airlines suggest arriving to the airport at least 3 hours before international flights, and at least 90 minutes before domestic flights.

3. Always keep your bag nearby. Never leave it unattended or with somebody you do not know personally.

4. Keep any medication or essentials needed throughout the trip in your carry on bag. This is a smart move in the case your checked-in baggage is delayed in reaching your destination.

5. When traveling with your passport or any other important irreplaceable documents, make sure they are in a safe place. Additionally, make copies of your passport and other documents, so you can leave one copy at home or with a relative, and bring another with you.

6. Pack Light! Many seniors may experience unnecessary muscle strain from carrying heavy luggage and bags. This can happen while putting your belongings in the overhead bin, or even taking your baggage off the carousel. If your luggage is heavy it is best to rent a luggage cart, and ask an airline employee for help when needed.

7. Be aware of your seat options. Many seniors feel that it is necessary to sit in the aisle seat of the aircraft due to accessibility. If you feel like you need a specific seat, or if you are placed in the emergency exit row, contact an airline employee as soon as possible. Depending when seat assignments are given out, make sure your seat is right for you either before you arrive at the airport or at the flight-gate.

Armed with these seven traveling tips, Morris Park Nursing and Rehabilitation Center wishes you a safe flight and a relaxing trip!