Life Expectancy After Fall In Elderly
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Life Expectancy After Fall In Elderly

More than 1 in 4 senior citizens fall each year, sometimes resulting in serious injuries. In the year 2018 alone, seniors reported almost 36 million falls, with 8.4 million resulting in injuries. Sadly, over 32,000 seniors pass away every year due to falling-related injuries.

At-home falls are one of leading causes of injury among senior citizens. At a certain point, it will be ideal to make some safety updates to your home. Many dangers can exist in the home like basement stairs, porch steps, and other obstacles that make it hard to navigate.

Aging adults who have lost a bit of balance may be at a higher risk of tripping and falling at home.

How Do Falls Cause Death In The Elderly?

Things like advanced age, pre-existing medical conditions, and frailty can contribute to long recovery processes after a fall. Ground-level falls, which seem quite innocent, can actually cause serious injuries for the elderly. One study concluded that older adults are three times more likely to die after a low-level fall than those individuals under the age of 70.

Another recent study collected by the CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control concluded that nearly half of fall-related deaths among people aged 65 and above involved an injury to the head. Even with less severe injuries that do not involve the head, prognosis and treatment is still quite difficult with the elderly.

Hospitalizations always come with some risks. Even when an elderly adult survives a fall and receives medical care, longer recovery time at the hospital could result in discharge to a long-term care facility. Longer hospital stays can increase vulnerability to diseases like pneumonia, for example.

Consequences Of Elderly Falls

The seriousness of a fall will depend on the nature of the accident. For instance, the way an individual falls could be the difference between a broken hip or traumatic brain injury (TBI). The most common fall-related injuries are soft tissue injuries and fractured bones.

Unfortunately, even minor trauma can lead to a hospitalization for seniors. It’s possible seniors may never regain their level of functionality after the fall.

Retirement In Youngtown, Arizona

There isn’t a more appropriately named setting for this lively community than Youngtown! Monthly rent at Ventana Winds includes three well balanced meals plus snacks, 24-hour staff, and a daily tidying of your apartment. The offerings don’t end there! Personal laundry is done weekly, transportation is provided for appointments or shopping, a 24/7 emergency call system is in place, as well as a full slate of exciting activities. Check out all of Ventana Winds’ offerings today!

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Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How To Build A Wheelchair Ramp Over Steps

How To Build A Wheelchair Ramp Over Steps

Use this step-by-step guide to safely build a wheelchair ramp for your loved one.

How To Plan Your Wheelchair Ramp

Start out with a list of tools/equipment you’ll need for this project. Gather the following things:

  • Hammer.
  • Drill.
  • Concrete anchor screws.
  • Wood glue.
  • Cutting tools like a hand saw, table saw, circular saw, or jigsaw.
  • Measuring tape and level.
  • Plywood or deck material for the ramp and landing.
  • Various lengths of screws.
  • Carriage bolts.
  • Lumber for posts, joists, and edges.

Steps To Building A Wheelchair Ramp

Before starting any project, check the ADA recommendations and requirements for wheelchair ramps. Next, carefully follow these steps to create your DIY ramp.

Step 1. Completely Clear The Area

  • DO NOT overlook this very important first step toward building a ramp.
  • Clear the area entirely.
  • Remove any debris or obstacles that could obstruct the DIY building process.
  • Ensure the ground is level at this time.
  • Pour the concrete foundation for the ramp.

Step 2. Build Your Frame

  • Construct a sturdy frame from the treated lumber you purchased for the project.
  • This frame will serve as the foundation of the ramp’s surface.
  • Make sure your frame is level and anchored securely to the ground using anchor footings.
  • Cut wood joists (2x6s are the recommended length) of your DIY ramp.
  • You must cut an angle along the bottom of the joists at the point where they will rest on the ground.
  • Secure them to the existing threshold using either brackets or sturdy screws.
  • You’ll have to construct posts in order to secure the ramp and any side railings by digging post holes or connecting the railings to the ramp for additional stability.
  • Make sure the posts are tall enough to support railings that are at least 34 inches above the surface of the ramp.
  • Always check your local codes for stability and safety regulations.
  • Use carriage bolts to attach posts to support joists and add cross-bracing, if desired.

Step 3. Install Plywood

  • Attach sturdy plywood to the frame’s top to create the surface of the ramp.
  • Ensure the plywood is fastened securely and level to provide as smooth a ride as possible.
  • Use your circular saw to cut sheets of 3/4-inch plywood for the ramp’s full length.
  • Glue and screw the sheets together for each segment of the ramp.
  • Place your plywood atop the ramp’s base and secure this using screws.

Step 4. Add Handrails

  • You may need to install handrails along the sides of the ramp depending on local building codes.
  • Top the side posts with your desired material.
  • You will also want to create a guardrail or bumper along the ramp’s bottom edge.

Step 5. Create Landings

  • Incorporate landing platforms at both the top and bottom of the ramp and at any other point where the ramp changes directions.
  • These platforms offer a resting area, which makes it easier to navigate turns on a wheelchair.
  • Cut sheets of 3/4-inch plywood into five-foot lengths to serve as landings on the top and bottom.
  • These must be at least as wide as your ramp and at least 60 inches long, allowing space for wheelchairs to completely turn around.

Step 6. Add Non-Slip Surface

  • Once the construction of the ramp has been completed, perform a thorough inspection to see if there are any loose screws or potential issues.
  • Once the ramp’s surface is even, you can add anti-slip tape or a thin rubber layer.
  • Make any necessary adjustments to ensure user safety at all times.

Wheelchair Ramp

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at 623-323-1796 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

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Regular Post
Written by Brian B

When Should Seniors Sell Their Home?

When Should Seniors Sell Their Home

A senior’s decision to sell their home can be a complicated one with many complex factors. We’ve compiled a list of 5 considerations for every senior thinking about selling their home.

Consideration 1. What Is The Cost Of Staying At Home?

While you may have already completely paid off your home, the cost of staying there may be a bit higher than expected. There are many big costs that come with maintaining your home, such as replacing an AC unit or adding a new roof. Older homes require more maintenance needs, and the longer you live in the home, the greater the expenses become.

Another important cost factor to be mindful of is property taxes. Even if you do not have a mortgage payment, you will continue to pay these taxes while owning your home. There are a few recurring costs to consider, including the following:

  • Utilities
  • Heating
  • Cooling
  • Lawn maintenance
  • Internet
  • Trash pickup
  • And more!

Consideration 2. Can You Move Around Your Home Safely?

At-home falls are one of leading causes of injury among senior citizens. At a certain point, it will be ideal to make some safety updates to your home. Many dangers can exist in the home like basement stairs, porch steps, and other obstacles that make it hard to navigate.

Aging adults who have lost a bit of balance may be at a higher risk of tripping and falling at home. Safety needs to be the top concern for every senior struggling to decide between selling their home or staying put.

Consideration 3. What Is The Current Housing Market?

Before listing your home, it’s wise to take into account what your current housing market looks like. A hot housing market could lead to a great return on your investment. A cold market, however, is not an ideal time to list your home.

If you are thinking of putting your house on the market, it’s always a good idea to speak with a local realtor who can discuss your options.

Consideration 4. Can You Handle All Home Maintenance Needs?

A lot of homeowners can simply pick up a phone and call a service to take care of maintenance projects like mowing the lawn. This is not always an affordable option, though.

Aging poses a serious threat to homeowners wishing to take care of maintenance needs themselves. Maintaining a house involves significant tasks like landscaping and gutter cleaning. Homes undoubtedly become harder to maintain as the years go on.

Consideration 5. Could You Benefit From Assisted Living Care?

The time may be right for you to enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle. Assisted living communities are great for seniors looking for less stress and household chores.

These communities provide personalized care to seniors in a residential setting. Here is a quick look at services provided by most assisted living communities:

  • Housekeeping
  • Meals
  • Medication needs
  • Laundry
  • Transportation
  • And more!

Why Should You Sell Your Home And Move Into A Senior Living Community?

Let’s take a look at a few of the benefits a senior living community can provide for senior citizens.

Lower Stress Levels For Your Loved One

Assisted living helps lover stress levels in your loved one and improves the quality of life for all involved. Seniors can enjoy their independence while receiving the care and help they require while the loved ones families no longer have concerns about fulfilling their loved one’s needs.

One benefit to assisted living surroundings is that they permit seniors who may have physical issues or the early onset of Alzheimer’s or dementia to live a moderately independent way of life. The facility will usually have on-site medical care, but it will not be there 24/7. An assisted living facility will offer a care level that is suitable for seniors who do not need full-time care, but may require assistance with their meds, eating or food preparation, and other day to day activities.

Contentment And Your Loved Ones Protection

Members of the family will no longer will be concerned about their loved one getting used, falling down, getting lost because of wandering, not eating a healthy diet or taking the incorrect medication. The living facility will take every means they have to ensure your loved ones are continually safe and protected.

The Social Life Of Your Loved One

It’s not that surprising for seniors to start to become lonely as they get up in age. Loneliness in seniors may lead to a lot of complications, ranging from poor health or bouts of depression, problems being active and more.

In the assisted living facility, the residents belong to a part of a supportive, loving, and caring community. Your loved one will surrounded by seniors their own age and have numerous opportunities to socialize and take joy in the company of other seniors.

Increased Activity For Your Loved One

It’s very important that we stay active as we age. Assisted living seniors are offered a bunch of indoor activities as well as outdoor activities from strolling in the courtyard, to gardening, or picnics. Some assisted living communities will offer their residents transportation, so they can go on excursions, go to the corner market or visit the doctor’s office.

Assistance In Day-to-Day Duties

It’s very essential for seniors to have their independence, but also have the assistance they need. Assisted living communities provide their residents with help, only when needed, with daily living undertakings, such as dressing, preparing meals and eating or laundry duties.

Who Qualifies For Assisted Living

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at 623-323-1796 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

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What Are The 7 Stages Of Frontotemporal Dementia
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

What Are The 7 Stages Of Frontotemporal Dementia?

Frontotemporal dementia results from damage to neurons located in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. Also referred to as frontotemporal disorders (FTD), symptoms of this disease include unusual behaviors, as well as emotional issues.

The 7 Stages Of Frontotemporal Dementia

Frontotemporal dementia, like most forms of dementia, will ultimately progress slowly. According to NIA.NIH.gov, this disease often affects individuals aged 40-60. Let’s look at the stages of this disease.

Stage 1. No Symptoms

Stage one will see the individual exhibit no symptoms whatsoever.

  • During stage one, the disease has not progressed to the point where any changes are noticeable.
  • Individuals will present themselves as completely healthy and normal, at this time.

Stage 2. Mild Symptoms

Mild symptoms will pop up during the second stage of this disease. Most dementia patients will experience memory problems as the first sign of the disease. However, this is not the case with frontotemporal dementia.

  • Patients may experience some slight changes in both social interactions and overall personality.
  • Symptoms are still very subtle during this stage.
  • A diagnosis may even be missed during stage two.
  • Some symptoms could simply be classified as stress.

Stage 3. Some Cognitive Issues

This stage is where cognitive issues are generally noticed by friends and family.

  • Changes can include declining social skills and use of language.
  • Functional and working memory will also begin to decline.
  • Obsessive behaviors can occur at this stage of the disease.
  • Symptoms displayed during stage three typically alarm loved ones.

Stage 4. Visible Symptoms

There is clearly something wrong with the individual at this point in time. Previously unrecognized signs are now obvious.

  • The individual will have trouble with normal, everyday interactions.
  • Language skills continue to decline.
  • A diagnosis made at this point could still be considered an ‘early onset’ diagnosis.
  • It’s possible some treatments could be provided to the individual, which may not work during later stages.

Stage 5. Full-Time Care Needed

This stage is typically considered the disease’s mid-point. The individual will ultimately need round-the-clock care at this point.

  • Language will be on a severe decline.
  • Poor social skills.
  • The individual may not react appropriately to most situations.
  • The disease really starts to accelerate during stage five.

Stage 6. Severe Cognitive Problems

Loss of bodily control, cognitive issues, and a decline in judgement will all occur during this stage.

  • Poor impulse control is another symptom experienced, which calls for the 24/7 caretaking.
  • Pronunciations issues will persist.
  • Individuals may try to completely isolate themselves.

Stage 7. Final Stage

The final stage is, unfortunately, the most difficult stage for the individual and loved ones.

  • Individuals will become withdrawn and struggle to communicate.
  • Assistance will be needed for every task.
  • Motor and verbal abilities will disappear.
  • Refusal to cooperate is quite common at this point.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

More Articles About Senior Living

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How To Improve Memory After Stroke
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How To Improve Memory After Stroke

If you are currently recovering from a stroke, use our 5 tips below to improve your memory.

Tip 1. Stimulate Your Brain Regularly

Try to play as many games as you can that require you to use your brain. The game could be as simple as checkers or as tough as chess. Engaging in any sort of game like this can help you regain your memory.

If you don’t have any board games, there are always several apps that feature a series of brain exercises. Some apps specialize in improving memory and cognitive function in individuals recovering from strokes.

Tip 2. Make Up Mnemonic Devices

Mnemonics are unique ways to remember specific things. Oftentimes, they take the form of an acronym like RICE: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. This is just an example, used by individuals to remember how to treat a sprain. It’s suggested to make up your own mnemonic for daily routines in order to personalize them for ease of memory.

Tip 3. Leave Reminders For Yourself

Leave notes in visible and often visited areas of your home. For example, you could leave a quick reminder note on the refrigerator to take your medication. Use your smartphone or standard clock alarm for more reminders.

Tip 4. Stay Organized

Making it easy to see items needed for daily activities will ultimately help you remember what you need to know and when it has to be done. One easy way to stay organized is to lay out your clothes the night before. Keep both your keys and phone in the same spot at home.

Tip 5. Stay Active

The experts recommend moving around as much as you can daily. A recent randomized control study looked at the impact exercise had on 40 chronic stroke survivors. Researchers concluded that the individuals who exercised saw significant improvement in their memory, cognitive function, and overall recovery.

Other tips to improve memory include:

  • Eating a healthy diet.
  • Repeating information several times.
  • Working with a speech specialist.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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How Wide Is A Wheelchair
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How Wide Is A Wheelchair?

While there is no set industry standard for wheelchair width, most models will range from 21-40″ in overall width. Let’s go over each and every factor that may play a role in figuring out which size wheelchair is best for you.

How Wide Are Wheelchairs?

You are actually the most important thing to measure when it comes to shopping for a wheelchair. After all, you will be sitting in the chair, so deciding what is comfortable for long periods of time is step number one.

It’s recommended to take your own measurements prior to choosing a wheelchair. For instance, measure your hips, then add a few more inches for extra comfort. Once you have taken your measurements, you’ll be equipped to accurately choose the right size chair for your needs.

Wheelchair Size Considerations

How wide a wheelchair is cannot be your only consideration. Always be mindful of the following items.

Seat Depth

Start by measuring the length of your leg from the back of the hip to the back of the knee. Next, subtract one inch from this measurement. This number will indicate the desired seat depth to sit comfortably in your wheelchair.

Door Size

Always consider the size of the doorways in your home before purchasing a wheelchair. Household doorways aren’t always as standardized as you may have guessed. Some doorways measure between 23-27″, which means they are not wide enough for most wheelchairs. Doorways that meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines will be at least 32″ in width.

Back Height

A properly sized seatback will help you remain comfortable for longer periods of time. Measure your shoulder blades to the base of your spine. This measurement will tell you how high your seatback needs to be.

Armrest Height

To be comfortable in the chair, you should be able to sit straight up with your arms resting at a 90-degree angle. Sitting in this position, measure the distance between the bottom of your arm and your chair. This is the ideal height of your armrests.

Seat To Floor Height

Most big and tall wheelchairs range between 18-22″ in height. You’ll want to purchase a chair that’s at least 18″ off the ground if you are a taller individual. Start by sitting in a regular-sized chair and using that as your guide moving forward.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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Fall Prevention Exercises
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Fall Prevention Exercises

More than 1 in 4 senior citizens fall each year, sometimes resulting in serious injuries. Performing regular fall prevention exercises can reduce accident risks by strengthening key muscles and improving balance.

Best Exercises To Prevent Falls

Always remember safety is paramount with any of these exercises. Have someone nearby at all times if you feel as though you may need some assistance. Try these fall prevention exercises below.

Toe To Heel

  • Start by holding onto a countertop or sturdy chair back.
  • Stand with good posture, rising up on your toes with heels in the air.
  • Lower your feet flat onto the floor.
  • Rock back on your heels to lift your toes into the air.
  • Try to repeat this motion 10 times.

One-Leg Balance

  • Stand in front of a counter or between two chairs of equal height.
  • Hold on to the supportive surface, bending the knee to raise one foot and balance on one leg.
  • Bring your foot back down to a resting position then repeat with the other leg.
  • Try to balance for 10-15 seconds with each leg.

Foot Taps

  • Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart either in front of a step or low furniture piece.
  • Raise one foot slowly to tap the step in front of your body.
  • Now, return this foot to the ground.
  • Do 15-20 taps with each foot.
  • Hold onto the wall or a steady furniture piece, if needed.

Head Rotations

  • Once again stand tall, feet hip-width apart.
  • Move your head from side to side then up and down all while keeping your body still.
  • Do this rotation for 30 seconds at a time.
  • If you start to feel dizzy, you can either pause or stop the motion altogether.

March In Place

  • Stand with good posture while holding onto a countertop or chair back.
  • Bring your knees up to your chest as if you are marching in place.
  • Do this motion slowly and deliberately.
  • Try to rack up 10 knee raises for each leg.

Side Leg Raise

  • Stand with good posture while holding onto a countertop or chair back.
  • Raise one leg out to the side while keeping toes pointed ahead toward the countertop or chair.
  • Use muscles instead of momentum as you do this slowly and deliberately.
  • Refrain from dipping your upper body to the opposite side while raising the leg.
  • Go for 10 repetitions on each side.

Side Twist

  • Stand between two chairs of equal height.
  • Place your feet about shoulder-width apart.
  • Turn, using your upper body and head, then touch the chair on one side.
  • Turn and touch the chair on the opposite side now.

One-Leg Side Twist

  • Do the same exercise listed above, but attempt it while balancing on one leg.
  • Keep hold at all times or have someone nearby ready to help, if needed.

Senior Exercising

Retirement In Youngtown, Arizona

There isn’t a more appropriately named setting for this lively community than Youngtown! Monthly rent at Ventana Winds includes three well balanced meals plus snacks, 24-hour staff, and a daily tidying of your apartment. The offerings don’t end there! Personal laundry is done weekly, transportation is provided for appointments or shopping, a 24/7 emergency call system is in place, as well as a full slate of exciting activities. Check out all of Ventana Winds’ offerings today!

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Aging Jokes
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

50 Aging Jokes

Bob Hope once said, “I’m so old they’ve canceled my blood type!” Let’s take a look at some of the best aging jokes below.

Best Jokes About Aging

1. “It’s not that I’m afraid to die, I just don’t want to be there when it happens.” – Woody Allen

2. “Talk about getting old. I was getting dressed and a peeping tom looked in the window, took a look and pulled down the shade.” – Joan Rivers

3. “People ask me what I’d most appreciate getting for my 87th birthday. I tell them, a paternity suit.” – George Burns

4. “The first sign of maturity is the discovery that the volume knob also turns to the left.” – Jerry M Right

5. “Middle age is when you still believe you’ll feel better in the morning.” – Bob Hope

6. “When I was a boy the Dead Sea was only sick.” – George Burns

7. “You can live to be a hundred if you give up all the things that make you want to live to be a hundred.” – Woody Allen

8. “There is no pleasure worth forgoing just for an extra three years in the geriatric world.” – John Mortimer

9. “Looking 50 is great if you’re 60.” – Joan Rivers

10. “The terror is to wake up one morning and discover that your high school class is running the country.” – Kurt Vonnegut

11. “How young can you die of old age?” – Steven Wright

12. “By the time a man is wise enough to watch his step, he’s too old to go anywhere.” – Billy Crystal

13. “So far, this is the oldest I’ve been.” – George Carlin

14. “Whatever you may look like, marry a man your own age – as your beauty fades, so will his eyesight.” – Phyllis Diller

15. “You know you’re getting old when the candles cost more than the cake.” – Bob Hope

16. “As you get older, the pickings get slimmer, but the people sure don’t.” – Carrie Fisher

17. “I’ve learned that life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.” – Andy Rooney

18. “As a graduate of the Zsa Zsa Gabor School of Creative mathematics, I honestly do not know how old I am.” – Erma Bombeck

19. “At my age, flowers scare me.” – George Burns

20. “My grandmother was a very tough woman. She buried three husbands and two of them were just napping.” – Rita Rudner

21. “I’m at an age when my back goes out more than I do.” – Phyllis Diller

22. “When you are dissatisfied and would like to go back to youth, think of algebra.” – Will Rogers

23. “Regular naps prevent old age, especially if you take them while driving.” – Unknown

24. “The only reason I would take up jogging is so that I could hear heavy breathing again.” – Erma Bombeck

25. “We could certainly slow the aging process down if it had to work its way through congress.” – Will Rogers

Jokes About Aging

Funny Jokes On Aging

26. You’re not getting older, you’re just becoming classic.

27. Old age isn’t so bad when you consider the alternative.

28. Allow me to politely suggest this be the year you start lying about your age.

29. These are not gray hairs! They are wisdom highlights!

30. Why am I getting older and wider instead of older and wiser?

31. The older we get, the earlier it gets late.

32. What goes up but never comes down? Your age!

33. At my age, the only pole dancing I do is to hold on to the safety bar in the bathtub.

34. Aging gracefully is like the nice way of saying you’re slowly looking worse.

35. You know you’re getting older when you have a party and the neighbors don’t even realize it.

36. How are stars like false teeth? They both come out at night!

37. A very happy birthday to someone who is now taking drugs on their birthday for actual serious medical reasons.

38. At least you’re not as old as you will be next year!

39. This year, may you always get up off the couch in two tries or less.

40. Did you know that there’s a prize for getting older? Yep – you get atrophy.

41. Do you want to know the secret to having a smoking hot body at your age? Cremation.

42. Age is a relative thing. All your relatives keep reminding you how old you are.

43. Don’t let your age get you down. After all, at your age, it’s hard to get back up again.

44. This whole birthday thing is getting old, don’t you think?

45. You and wine are the perfect pair. Wine improves with age, and you improve with wine.

46. Age is a number – keep yours unlisted.

47. I’m not saying you’re old, but if you were whiskey you’d be expensive.

48. You’re so old, I heard your social security number is 3.

49. Fabulosity has no age.

50. In wine years, you are extra fine.

Jokes On Aging

More Aging Jokes:

Old Age Jokes

Aging At Home

Aging And Healing

Memory Care In Youngtown, Arizona

There isn’t a more appropriately named setting for this lively community than Youngtown! Monthly rent at Ventana Winds includes three well balanced meals plus snacks, 24-hour staff, and a daily tidying of your apartment. The offerings don’t end there! Personal laundry is done weekly, transportation is provided for appointments or shopping, a 24/7 emergency call system is in place, as well as a full slate of exciting activities. Check out all of Ventana Winds’ offerings today!

Memory Care Package:

  • Three meals per day plus snacks
  • 24-hour care
  • Diverse program of activities
  • Transportation to appointments
  • Bathing and oral care
  • Dressing and grooming
  • Daily tidying of your apartment
  • Laundry service
  • Weekly deep cleaning of your apartment
  • All utilities, including cable TV
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What Age Can You Stop Filing Income Taxes
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

When Can You Stop Filing Taxes?

You may stop filing taxes at age 65 if:

  • You are at least 65 years old, unmarried and making less than $14,250.
  • You are at least 65 years old, married, filing jointly and making less than $26,450.
  • You are a qualified widow, earning less than $26,450.

The IRS will want individuals to file a tax return whenever your gross income surpasses the total of the standard deduction for your specific filing status, in addition to one exemption amount. The filing rules still apply to seniors who are living off their social security. If you are a senior citizen, though, you don’t consider your social security as your gross income. You will not need to file a tax return if social security is your only source of income.

When Do Seniors Have To File Taxes?

For the current tax year, you must file a tax return if you are 65-plus, unmarried and your gross income is at least $14,250. However, if you live on your social security benefits, you will not need to include this in your gross income, according to TurboTax. You do not need to file if this is your sole source of income, meaning your gross income comes out to zero dollars. If you do earn additional income, that is not tax exempt, then you must figure out whether the total exceeds $14,250.

Whenever you and your spouse are at least 65 years old, married and filing jointly, you have to file a return if your combined income is $27,800 or more. If your spouse is below the age of 65, then the threshold amount decreases to $26,450. These figures were implemented during the 2018 tax year, so make sure to check if the amounts have increased.

When To Include Social Security In Gross Income

Certain situations will call for seniors to add social security benefits in their gross income. If you are married, filing an individual tax return and residing with your spouse, 85% of your social security benefits will be deemed gross income. In this case, you may need to file a tax return. An allotment of social security benefits will be included in your gross income, regardless of status, in any year the total of half your social security, including all other income, tax-exempt interest, exceeding $25,000 or $32,000 as long as you are married and filing jointly.

When Do You Stop Paying Taxes On Social Security?

You are allowed to stop paying taxes on social security at 65 as long as your total income is not a high figure. You can read all about taxes and social security rules right here courtesy of Turbo Tax.

Tax Credits For Seniors

Even if you must file a tax return, there are a few ways to decrease the amount you’ll pay on your taxable income. As long as you are 65-plus years old and your income from alternative sources than social security are not high, then tax credits for seniors can lessen your tax bill. This tax credit is only useful when you owe the IRS.

Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at 623-323-1796 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

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Types of exercise for people with dementia
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Types Of Exercise for People with Dementia

Local community or sports centers usually provide an assortment of organized exercise and physical activity sessions, like seated exercises, ball games, dance and music, indoor bowls, or indoor/ outdoor swimming. You might be able to use a personalized budget, in a type of a direct payment from your city council for paying for these. Many of the below activities can be altered and carried out at home. Briskly walking, gardening, and housework are also good types of day-to-day physical activity.

Those in the early stages of dementia might experience no new challenges in sports and other physical activities they appreciate. They should be urged to continue these activities when possible.

What is the proper amount of activity in the beginning to middle stages of dementia?

There is no conclusive answer to this question and the proper amount of exercise is going to vary by individual. The Department of Health suggests one hundred and fifty minutes of somewhat strenuous physical activity each week. This equals to thirty minutes of activity each day, for at a minimum of five days a week. This can be broken up into smaller sessions during the day, with each session lasting a least ten minutes. For instance, it might be a brisk fifteen-minute walk to the local thrift store, and then gardening duties or housework later in the day.

Kinds of exercise for those with dementia

Below are some instances of the kinds of exercise that a person may carry out. This is in no way a comprehensive list – any kind of exercise is beneficial.

Gardening

Gardening is a physical activity that offers the chance to get outside and is enjoyed by a lot of individuals. The activity degree can be diverse to fit someone’s abilities. It might be something that requires less effort such as weeding or pruning, or a more laborious activity such as raking or mowing the lawn. These activities can help firm up the body’s muscles and strengthen breathing. Gardening can be a pleasant activity for individuals at every stage of dementia.

Indoor bowling

Some individuals could keep their bowling talents or continue to take part in other ball games, and so might appreciate indoor carpet bowling. Many local recreation centers provide indoor bowling sessions, or sets can be bought at toy or sports outlets.

Dance

Dancing may vary from tea dancing and couple or group meetings to more improvised movement including ribbons, balls, or balloons. Dancing can also be carried out in seated positions. This is a very social activity and an enjoyable way to participate in exercise. Dancing can increase strength and flexibility, assist with staying balanced and nimble, and decreases stress.

Seated exercises

Those suffering dementia can benefit from a routine program of seated exercises at home or with a class at a local course. It is usually wise to see these exercises shown at least once by an instructor or through a video. These exercises are intended at building or fostering muscle strength and balance and are less demanding than exercises in standing positions. They can be part of a growing program, with the number of repetitions of each exercise increasing over time. Some instance of seated exercises can comprise of:

  • making circles with the arms
  • raising the arms upwards to the ceiling
  • marching
  • practicing moving from sitting to standing.
  • bicycling the legs
  • bending the legs
  • raising opposite arms and legs
  • clapping under the legs
  • raising the heels and toes
  • turning the upper body to and fro

Swimming

Swimming, through supervision, is a perfect activity for those with dementia. A lot of individuals find the sensation of being in the water comforting and calming. Many studies have shown that swimming can improve balance and decrease the risk of falls in the elderly.

Walking

Walking suits all capabilities. It’s totally free, does not require special equipment, and can be done anyplace. The distance and time taking walking can be differed to suit fitness degrees. Some local recreational centers and other organizations plan group walks, assisted by a walk leader, of differing lengths, so it can also be a good social activity.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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