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Aging in place with grace involves understanding and embracing six key dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and vocational.Vocational WellnessA sense of purp…
Aging in place wit…
Aging in place with grace involves understanding and embracing six key dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and vocational.Vocational WellnessA sense of purpose brings fulfillment. For many of us, vocational wellness might involve mentoring. Retirement is often seen as a time to relax and enjoy life’s freedoms but for some of my cohorts, it can feel like stepping away from a sense of purpose, leading to a feeling of being “retired from life.” The truth is, having a purpose—something meaningful to look forward to each day—can bring incredible…
Royce Shook
January 22, 2025 Aging in place with grace involves understanding and embracing six key dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and vocational. Each dimension plays an integral ro…
Aging in place with …
Aging in place with grace involves understanding and embracing six key dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and vocational. Each dimension plays an integral role in fostering a balanced, meaningful life for seniors and those who care for them.Emotional WellnessSpirituality and emotional health are like two threads woven into the fabric of aging gracefully, especially for those of us who want to age in place. They work together to provide comfort, strength, and a sense of purpose while fostering emotional balance and resilience. By embracing both, w…
Royce Shook
January 21, 2025 Aging in place with grace involves understanding and embracing six key dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and vocational. Each dimension plays an integral ro…
Aging in place with …
Aging in place with grace involves understanding and embracing six key dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and vocational. Each dimension plays an integral role in fostering a balanced, meaningful life for seniors and those who care for them.Spiritual WellnessSpirituality provides comfort, purpose, and resilience. Whether through religious practices, Meditation, or connecting with nature, spirituality helps seniors find peace and meaning. For instance, daily meditation can reduce Stress, while attending faith-based gatherings strengthens community ties…
Royce Shook
January 20, 2025 Aging in place with grace involves understanding and embracing six key dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and vocational. Each dimension plays an integral …
Aging in place wit…
Aging in place with grace involves understanding and embracing six key dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and vocational. Each dimension plays an integral role in fostering a balanced, meaningful life for seniors and those who care for them. Intellectual WellnessKeeping the mind sharp is as important as maintaining the body. Learning new skills, reading, or engaging in puzzles can stimulate cognitive function. For example, a senior might take up painting or learn a new language, finding joy in both the process and the accomplishment.Apps like Lumos…
Royce Shook
January 19, 2025 Aging in place with grace involves understanding and embracing six key dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and vocational. Each dimension is integral in foste…
Aging in place with …
Aging in place with grace involves understanding and embracing six key dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and vocational. Each dimension is integral in fostering a balanced, meaningful life for seniors and those who care for them.Social WellnessConnection is vital. We thrive when we feel part of a community or maintain meaningful Relationships. Regular social interaction reduces loneliness and can even improve cognitive function. Joining local clubs, participating in group activities, or Volunteering are wonderful ways to stay socially active.We…
Royce Shook
January 18, 2025 Aging in place with grace involves understanding and embracing six key dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and vocational. Each dimension plays an integral ro…
Aging in place with …
Aging in place with grace involves understanding and embracing six key dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and vocational. Each dimension plays an integral role in fostering a balanced, meaningful life for seniors and those who care for them.Physical WellnessPhysical health forms the foundation for aging gracefully. Regular Exercise, a balanced Diet, and managing chronic conditions are critical to maintaining strength and independence. For example, gentle activities like Yoga or tai chi can enhance flexibility and reduce the risk of falls. Addition…
Royce Shook
January 17, 2025 We are in the middle of the 20s an era that in 1900 was seen in retrospect as the good old days, a time of jazz, flapper dresses, and, for seniors, what could generously be described as a simpler li…
We are in the midd…
We are in the middle of the 20s an era that in 1900 was seen in retrospect as the good old days, a time of jazz, flapper dresses, and, for seniors, what could generously be described as a simpler life. But was it really simpler, or just harder with fewer options? My friends and I were talking about how life might have been in the Roaring 20s for seniors. So, I did some research (very little) so let's take a friendly stroll down memory lane to see how life for those over 65 in 1925 stacks up against their counterparts in 2025. Spoiler alert: nostalgia may not hold up to scrutiny!In 1925, he…
Royce Shook
January 16, 2025 It’s natural to miss the days when your home was buzzing with energy, and the sound of your children’s voices filled the air. As a retiree, you might find it challenging to stay connected with you…
It’s natural to mi…
It’s natural to miss the days when your home was buzzing with energy, and the sound of your children’s voices filled the air. As a retiree, you might find it challenging to stay connected with your adult children and grandchildren without feeling like you’re pleading for their attention. The key is to create a welcoming environment that draws them in naturally, offering love, warmth, and value without guilt or whining.One of the best ways to encourage family visits is to be someone your kids and grandkids genuinely enjoy. This doesn’t mean trying to be their best friend or solving al…
Royce Shook
January 15, 2025 Retirement is meant to be a time of freedom and joy, but it’s common to feel stuck or uninspired. If you’ve found yourself spending too much time on the couch, it’s okay, this can change! With a…
Retirement is meant …
Retirement is meant to be a time of freedom and joy, but it’s common to feel stuck or uninspired. If you’ve found yourself spending too much time on the couch, it’s okay, this can change! With a few small steps, you can rediscover purpose, regain energy, and create a fulfilling new chapter in your life.The first step to breaking out of the couch potato routine is to take small, manageable actions. Instead of jumping into a big change, focus on simple activities:Take a 5–10-minute walk around your neighborhood. Stretch your legs and arms during TV commercials. Swap one…
Royce Shook
January 14, 2025 Retirement can feel overwhelming if you lack the spark of inspiration. It’s common to feel uninspired, especially if you’ve faced challenges or unmet expectations in your career or personal life. …
Retirement can feel …
Retirement can feel overwhelming if you lack the spark of inspiration. It’s common to feel uninspired, especially if you’ve faced challenges or unmet expectations in your career or personal life. The good news is that inspiration can be rediscovered, and with it, a renewed sense of purpose and excitement.Every day has moments of success, and so does every life. Reflect on your achievements, big or small, and use them as a reminder of your resilience and talents. Your unique experiences have prepared you for this moment, offering a foundation to build something fresh and fulfilling.Work…
Royce Shook
January 13, 2025 Remember the classic slogan “Freedom Fifty-Five”? It promised a life of early retirement, comfort, and fun. For most of us today, that might feel more like a dream than reality. Many of us aim f…
Remember the class…
Remember the classic slogan “Freedom Fifty-Five”? It promised a life of early retirement, comfort, and fun. For most of us today, that might feel more like a dream than reality. Many of us aim for retirement at 65, but life often has other plans. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a fulfilling retirement—it just takes thoughtful planning and a little creativity.Here are strategies to help you retire smarter and embrace the retirement you want sooner rather than later.It’s simple math: spending less than you earn leaves room for savings, which could fund your retirement dreams.…
Royce Shook
January 12, 2025 Some of my friends do not do New Year's resolutions, but some do and one of the ones I know that they use is reconnecting with old friends. Friendships, like gardens, need care and attention to thrive…
Some of my friends d…
Some of my friends do not do New Year's resolutions, but some do and one of the ones I know that they use is reconnecting with old friends. Friendships, like gardens, need care and attention to thrive. Over time, life’s demands and changes may have caused you to drift away from cherished friends. If you're feeling the sting of neglect or even failure in some relationships, take a deep breath. This is a chance to grow and reconnectFirst, acknowledge the importance of your friends in your life. Friends bring laughter, support, and shared memories. If a friendship has been neglected, it doesn…
Royce Shook
January 11, 2025 In 2025, the last of the Boomers turn 60, and some Gen Xers are hitting the big 5-0. Whether you're considering retirement or already making plans for your golden years, you’ve likely realized this …
In 2025, the last of…
In 2025, the last of the Boomers turn 60, and some Gen Xers are hitting the big 5-0. Whether you're considering retirement or already making plans for your golden years, you’ve likely realized this is a big transition. For those of us who have already taken the leap, retirement is what you make of it, and it can be both exciting and daunting.To make sure retirement isn’t just a long vacation but a rewarding new chapter, here are 10 pieces of advice to help you step into 2025 and beyond with confidence and a smile.Your time is now your own, use it wisely. Your working years were all about …
Royce Shook
January 10, 2025 My grandson has just turned 14 and is now a full-fledged teenager. Let’s be real, it's been so long since I was a teenager that I think teenagers are like a foreign species. One minute they’re ign…
My grandson has just…
My grandson has just turned 14 and is now a full-fledged teenager. Let’s be real, it's been so long since I was a teenager that I think teenagers are like a foreign species. One minute they’re ignoring you; the next, they’re asking deep questions about life (or if you have snacks). Being a grandparent is a joy, but it’s also a balancing act. We want to be respected, but sometimes our long-held habits can make us seem, well… less cool than we’d like.I have over 40 years of experience working with teenagers in my previous life, however, it has been over 12 years since I have worked…
Royce Shook
January 9, 2025 In recent years, we've seen a shift in how Technology helps older adults. Instead of just focusing on products designed specifically for "aging" or "elderly care," consumer electronics, like smartwatc…
In recent years, we'…
In recent years, we've seen a shift in how technology helps older adults. Instead of just focusing on products designed specifically for "aging" or "elderly care," consumer electronics, like smartwatches and earbuds, are starting to play a big role in improving life for older adults.Caring for the Frail: Many people believe that as soon as someone turns 65, they need products to help "care for them." This approach is important for those who are frail or need extra support, but it doesn’t reflect the reality for everyone.Living Vibrantly: Many older adults are vibrant, independent, and active…
Royce Shook
January 8, 2025 The Christmas rush is over and we are hunkering down waiting on the onslaught of bills to arrive in the post of online. However, we still have expenses that need to be met, so why not give your local …
The Christmas rush i…
The Christmas rush is over and we are hunkering down waiting on the onslaught of bills to arrive in the post of online. However, we still have expenses that need to be met, so why not give your local business a boost.When you shop at a local business, you're not just making a purchase you’re Investing in your community. Every dollar you spend helps support local jobs, community events, and the unique character of your town. For example:• A little girl can take dance lessons.• A family puts food on the table.• A student pays for college.Studies show that for every $100 spent at a local,…
Royce Shook
January 7, 2025 The following information is from Canadian Medication Appropriateness and Deprescribing Network, November 2024Falling for seniors can have serious consequences. Falls can change your life, or they…
The following info…
The following information is from Canadian Medication Appropriateness and Deprescribing Network, November 2024Falling for seniors can have serious consequences. Falls can change your life, or they can end your life. There are many risk factors that can contribute to falls. Among them, did you know that medications can increase the risk of falling? In fact, the more medications you take, the greater your risk of falling. This is a direct result of what is called “medication overload". Researchers have estimated that our risk of falling increases by 75% when we take as few as four medica…
Royce Shook
January 6, 2025 Some children are better off than others due to circumstances, life choices or other reasons, but as a parent or a grandparent wanting to help manage family dynamics should try to remember that family…
Some children are be…
Some children are better off than others due to circumstances, life choices or other reasons, but as a parent or a grandparent wanting to help manage family dynamics should try to remember that family dynamics can get tricky when one child is better off than another, but fairness doesn’t always mean equalityRecognize that each child has unique circumstances, strengths, and challenges. Avoid comparing them or making assumptions. Emphasize the values and principles that unite your family, such as hard work, responsibility, and generosity.Encourage your child to reflect on their own financial d…
Royce Shook
January 5, 2025 
