blog

Older adults can get lonely. Family is far away, and you may be starting to outlive your friends. It can be tempting to stay in the house and hide. Acquiring a dog is one way to guarantee companionship and get you out and about. Dogs are one of the best pets for seniors because they encourage light exercise.

Not all dogs are good for seniors, though. We welcome dogs at Montgomery Place, and we are in the dog-friendly neighborhood of Hyde Park in Chicago - right on the lake and steps away from attractive parks. There are plenty of places for you and your dog to go, but what kind of dog should you get? Find out the best dog for seniors today.

The Best Dog Breeds for Seniors

You should choose a dog that is small and low maintenance. Larger dogs may be challenging for older adults to walk unless they are very well trained, which often requires an investment in both time and money.

Some of the best low-maintenance dogs for seniors include:

• Bichon Frise - moderate energy and grooming needs, but doesn't shed much.

• Boston Terrier - higher energy but very easy to groom...and love to cuddle.

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - these little dogs were bred to sit on ladies' feet to keep them warm on long carriage rides. They're affectionate, easy to train, and happy to sit on your lap forever.

• French Bulldog - quiet, doesn't need a lot of exercise, but is fashionable right now and can be expensive.

• Pomeranian - don't need too much exercise because of their size, but they do need a fair bit of grooming and can be noisy.

• Pug - affectionate, playful, and typically quiet, but can be stubborn.

• Yorkshire Terrier - tiny, barely shed, doesn't need much exercise or grooming.

There are lots of other breeds to consider, and, of course, you can also carefully select a mixed breed. Overall, you want low-maintenance pets that like to cuddle.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dog Breed for Seniors

One factor is size. For the most part, seniors should choose a small dog breed that is not going to be capable of dragging them around on the leash.

If you are still fit and healthy, by all means, choose a dog that has energy and needs exercise, such as a Boston Terrier or a small poodle. If you are starting to have mobility issues, pick a dog that doesn't need a lot of exercise, such as a Yorkshire terrier or pug.

Grooming can also start to get difficult. For some seniors, it's best to pick a dog with a short or otherwise easily-maintained coat. Poodles require regular trimming, which costs money unless you can do it yourself or get help from a family member.

Lastly, consider the cost. French Bulldogs can be ridiculously expensive right now. You may pay less for a purebred puppy of a less fashionable breed. You can also adopt. If adopting a mutt, look for the same traits in the individual animal...check energy levels, coat type, size, etc.

One great option for seniors is to adopt an older dog mellowing and losing energy levels with age. As small dogs can live over a decade, it's also worth considering an older dog to reduce the chances of the dog outliving you. Breeders sometimes have adult dogs retiring from showing or breeding available, and this can be a fantastic way to get an older dog with a known personality who is already fully trained.

Worst Dog Breeds For Seniors

There's no such thing as a bad dog, but there are some breeds seniors are best off avoiding. These include:

• Labrador Retriever. Everyone loves a lab. But they are a large, high-energy breed that needs a lot of exercise.

• Border Collie. Border collies are dogs that need a job and often require expert training, or they will become destructive.

• Pitbull. Avoid any of the bully breeds. Many are very nice dogs, but they are hard to insure and often not accepted in complexes.

• Australian Shepherd. Similar to border collies. In general, avoid herding breeds, as they are smart, high energy, and get bored easily.

• Cocker Spaniel. Lots of energy, lots of training, and lots of grooming. They're also very prone to ear infections.

• Rottweiler. Another large dog, and often over-protective.

• Dalmatian. They shed all year and are generally high maintenance. Also, all AKC-registered Dalmatians have a genetic flaw that makes them prone to kidney stones.

Avoid large, high-energy breeds that are "smarter than you."

Interested in Montgomery Place?

Montgomery Place offers fabulous senior living that is also completely pet-friendly throughout the community. We provide long-term independent living for you and your dog and other pets for the elderly. Contact us today to schedule a tour of our community.

Featured Image: Ground Picture / Shutterstock

Gardening is fun and has many health benefits, including for older adults. Gardening can alleviate stress, improve mood, and even help reduce blood pressure.

At our Chicago retirement community at Montgomery Place, we provide plenty of opportunities for older adults to "putter around in the garden" and enjoy the numerous benefits of gardening for seniors.

Seniors Gardening Helps Keep Them Active

As we get older, it becomes even more important to stay active. When seniors garden, it encourages them to get outside and do something physical without putting excessive strain on them. Even people with significant mobility issues can still garden with the right tools. Gardening for seniors helps preserve physical activity and, thus, overall health.

Gardening sessions should be kept short; seniors should stretch before gardening and stretch their backs and arms while working. But overall, gardening is a great way to maintain low, steady physical activity that supports health without straining an older adult's joints. It's a great way to work towards the recommended 30 minutes of exercise daily, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke and rebuilding strength and mobility.

It also "tricks" you into getting more exercise because you are focused on looking after the plants instead of "working out." This can help those who aren't particularly motivated to exercise.

Benefits of Gardening for Seniors

In addition to encouraging physical activity, gardening has several benefits for the elderly. Seniors gardening experience a variety of physical and mental health benefits, which include:

• Reduced stress. Gardening lowers levels of cortisol, which also affects blood pressure. Gardening is even better for reducing stress than curling up with a good book!

• Reduced depression. Gardening also increases levels of serotonin, a mood-improving chemical in the brain. Gardening is being used as therapy for people with mental illness.

• Increased levels of vitamin D. Spending time outside increases vitamin D levels. However, you should wear sunscreen to protect your skin. Increased vitamin D reduces the risk of heart disease, improves mood, and lowers the risk of calcium deficiency, which can cause depleted bone strength and increase the danger of a fall.

• Reduction in the risk of dementia. Studies have found regular gardening can reduce the risk of dementia by as much as 36%. Gardening can also help seniors with dementia experience an improved quality of life. We don't know why gardening reduces the risk of dementia, but it seems to work, and it probably has to do with improving dexterity, problem-solving, and sensory awareness.

• Potentially reduces isolation. In our community, seniors can work in community gardens, encouraging them to spend time with others.

• Improved bond with nature. Caring for plants helps people stay in touch with nature and the physical world. It also gives a sense of responsibility that can improve the mental health of older adults who may feel they have outlived their sense of purpose.

On top of these, there's also the benefit of getting out in the fresh air in general, which always improves mood and reduces agitation. Seniors in our community get access to private gardens and our greenhouses (allowing gardening even in Chicago's harsh winters).

Interested in the Montgomery Place Community? Contact Us Today to Schedule a Tour

Our community has beautiful grounds, including our private gardens and greenhouses, where seniors can benefit from gardening. If you are looking for a long-term home (we provide levels of care from independent living through skilled nursing and memory care), contact us today to schedule a tour of our community and amenities.

Featured Image: AlessandroBiascioli / Shutterstock

Deciding if it's time to move into an assisted living community can be challenging. It's important to consider their overall health, safety, and ability to care for themselves. Start noticing signs that indicate you may benefit from the additional support and services provided in assisted living. It might be time to talk with your family and friends about this transition. While resistance is common, addressing these signs early on can help ensure their well-being and quality of life moving forward.

There are several red flags to watch out for when determining if it's time for assisted living. Signs such as forgetfulness, changes in hygiene habits, difficulty managing medications, unexplained injuries, social isolation, neglecting household upkeep, and weight loss are indicators that your current living situation may no longer be suitable. Notice any of these signs occurring with more frequency or severity. It may be time to consider discussing the option of moving into an assisted living community where you can receive the care and assistance you need.

Is Your Home Becoming More Than You Can Handle?

Being unable to care for your home properly can be incredibly concerning. It creates an unsafe and unsanitary living environment and can also become at risk of burglary or other dangers. An unkempt lawn or cluttered home can make it difficult for emergency responders to access the home in an emergency, further endangering your loved one. Additionally, hazards such as rodents, insects, mold, and peeling paint can impede the ability of caregivers to provide necessary support and care.

Addressing these issues is crucial to ensuring safety and well-being. It may be necessary to enlist the help of professional cleaners or organizers to address the clutter and unsanitary conditions in the home. Making sure that the home is clean, organized, and free of hazards will improve your quality of life and ensure that you can receive proper care from home care services without impediment. Ultimately, addressing these issues is essential in providing a safe and comfortable living environment for your loved one.

Concerns For Your Safety

It is important to address safety concerns as we age. If you have difficulty navigating the stairs in your home or if there has been forgetfulness and wandering, it may be time to consider alternative living arrangements or additional assistance. The National Council On Aging's statistic that an older adult is treated for a fall in an emergency room every 11 seconds is alarming and highlights the seriousness of this issue. Falls are not only a leading cause of injury deaths and brain injuries in America, but they can also result in severe physical and emotional consequences for our aging relatives.

In addition to the risk of falls, impaired memory can be a significant safety concern for older adults. Forgetfulness could be a sign of cognitive decline or even dementia, both of which require medical attention and monitoring. It is crucial to address any signs of memory impairment early to ensure you receive the appropriate care and support. By staying vigilant and proactive about potential safety concerns related to navigation difficulties and memory issues, we can help protect the well-being and quality of life while getting older.

The Right Community For You

At Montgomery Place, we understand the importance of finding the right senior living community for yourself or a loved one. We take a compassionate and understanding approach to help families transition to assisted living. Our team is dedicated to easing any tension and providing guidance as we share our senior lifestyle options and determine what would be the best fit for each individual. Visiting our communities is a crucial step in making an informed decision, so we encourage families to come and explore our amenities and care programs firsthand.

During a visit to Montgomery Place, guests can meet our team members, ask questions about our services and programs, and get a feel for what life is like in one of our communities. Our staff is welcoming, knowledgeable, and eager to provide information to help make decision-making easier. Whether you are looking for independent living, assisted living, or memory care options, scheduling a tour at a community near you today can give you peace of mind, knowing that you are making an informed choice about yourself or your loved one's future living arrangements.

Photo Credit: Monkey Business Images / Shutterstock

Water aerobics is a fantastic way to stay active and healthy without putting excessive strain on your joints. It provides a low-impact workout that can help improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, flexibility, and overall well-being. You can benefit greatly from water aerobics as it allows you to move freely and comfortably in the water while enjoying the many benefits of exercise. As people become seniors, water aerobics becomes even more useful and essential to having an active lifestyle.

Here are a few simple and fun water aerobics exercises that can be incorporated into a fitness routine: water walking, leg lifts, and arm curls. These exercises are easy to perform in the water and can be modified based on individual fitness levels. By engaging in regular water aerobics sessions, seniors can improve physical fitness while reducing pain and discomfort associated with arthritis. It is important to find enjoyable ways to stay active as anyone ages, and water aerobics provides a refreshing and fun option for maintaining health and wellness.

Simple Water Aerobic Exercises for Seniors

Arm curls are a great water exercise for seniors as they help strengthen the arms and shoulders muscles without putting too much stress on the joints. Water weights create resistance, which is essential for building muscle strength. This exercise can be easily modified to suit each individual's fitness level by changing the weight of the water weights or the number of repetitions.

To perform arm curls, seniors should stand in shoulder-height water with their water weights held down at their sides, palms facing up, and elbows close to their bodies. By keeping a slow and controlled motion while lifting and lowering the arms, seniors will feel the burn as they work their biceps and forearms. Consistently incorporating arm curls into a water exercise routine can help seniors improve their upper body strength and maintain muscle mass as they age.

Leg lifts are a great water exercise that can help strengthen the muscles in the legs while also improving balance and core strength. By utilizing the resistance of the water, leg lifts provide a challenging workout for all leg muscles. To perform leg lifts in the pool, stand with one leg out to the side and slowly lower it before crossing your other foot over it. Repeat this motion ten times on each leg to fully engage and work those muscles.

Water (aqua) walking or jogging is a fantastic way to improve cardiovascular health and circulation while being gentle on joints. Walking in water provides resistance, making it a great workout for strengthening muscles without stressing the knees, hips, and ankles. It's a perfect exercise for individuals with arthritis or joint pain who still want to stay active. Starting off slow by walking back and forth in the pool's shallow end can help build up stamina and gradually increase endurance.

Benefits of Water Aerobics

Water aerobics is a recommended exercise for seniors because of its low-impact nature and numerous benefits. One of the main advantages is that it offers a cardiovascular workout without stressing the joints, making it suitable for those with arthritis or other joint problems. Water's resistance also allows for a comprehensive workout to enhance muscle strength, endurance, flexibility, and range of motion.

Water aerobics offers both physical and mental health benefits for seniors. Exercising in water can be calming and reduce stress and anxiety. Participating in classes can create a sense of community and belonging. It is a fun and effective way for seniors to stay active and improve their fitness levels.

See The Amenities We Have to Offer at Montgomery Place

Montgomery Place offers an array of amenities to enhance residents' lifestyles, including a 24-hour fitness center and heated indoor pool, various spaces for intellectual and spiritual activities, a library, an art studio, and private gardens. The community is pet-friendly and equipped with Wi-Fi. Dining options feature chef-prepared meals with flexible dining points. Transportation services, like a daily shuttle and private car service, ensure convenience. Comprehensive services include 24/7 security, maintenance, housekeeping, and all utilities, with options for additional personalized services.

Ready to take a look? Tour our award-winning community today! You can contact us at (773) 753-4100

Featured Image: Ground Picture / Shutterstock

Welcome to a journey of health, flexibility, and peace explicitly tailored for those with needs for low-impact fitness activities. If you're seeking a gentle yet effective way to enhance your well-being, you've found the right place. At-home chair yoga for seniors offers an accessible path to maintaining physical activity and promoting mental health, all from the comfort of your home or the supportive environment of Montgomery Place. This article delves into the essence of chair yoga, demonstrating why it's an ideal practice for adults seeking to improve their lifestyle without the strain of traditional exercises.

At Montgomery Place, we believe that it's never too late to embrace a healthier lifestyle. Chair yoga is just one of the many ways we are helping our senior community to live independently and thrive. By prioritizing the physical and emotional well-being of our residents, we are creating a nurturing environment where seniors can enjoy a fulfilling and active lifestyle.

By residing at Montgomery Place, you're not just exploring a practice; you're connecting with a community dedicated to senior wellness in Chicago. Ready to transform your daily routine with a practice tailored to your needs? Let's embark on this journey to wellness together, embracing the beauty of aging with grace, strength, and vitality.

Why to Try Chair Yoga

Chair yoga emerges as a beacon of hope for seniors striving to maintain an active lifestyle without overtaxing themselves. It stands out for its adaptability, ensuring everyone can partake regardless of mobility or fitness levels. This form of yoga mitigates the risks of falls and injuries, offering a safe haven for those concerned about balance and stability. The benefits extend beyond the physical realm; chair yoga is a conduit for mental serenity, reducing stress and enhancing cognitive function. Its low-impact nature, paired with significant health benefits, makes chair yoga not just an exercise but a lifestyle change worth embracing.

The practice of chair yoga also offers an excellent opportunity for social interaction and community building. Although it can be done individually, we encourage our residents to engage in group sessions, either virtually or in person, following health and safety guidelines. These sessions not only promote physical health but also help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, fostering a sense of belonging and support within the Montgomery Place community.

Chair Yoga Poses for Adults

Embarking on the chair yoga journey unveils a variety of poses designed to stretch, strengthen, and stabilize the body, all while seated or using a chair for support. Begin with the seated mountain pose to ground your energy and improve posture. Transition into the seated cat-cow stretch, a delightful way to enhance spinal flexibility and relieve back tension. Don't overlook the seated spinal twist, a simple yet profound pose that revitalizes the spine and stimulates digestion. For those looking to fortify their lower body, the chair-assisted warrior poses offer a way to build strength and balance without the fear of falling. Lastly, the seated forward bend invites you to deepen your practice, stretching the back and legs while calming the mind. These poses, among others, form the foundation of a practice that is as nurturing as it is empowering.

Senior Communities in Chicago

At Montgomery Place, we are committed to providing our residents with the tools and resources they need to lead vibrant, independent lives. Offering a variety of wellness programs, including chair yoga, Montgomery Place is a beacon for seniors seeking a balanced and enriched lifestyle. We understand that embarking on a new fitness journey can be daunting, especially for seniors who may be new to yoga. That's why our team at Montgomery Place is here to guide and support you every step of the way. In Chicago, communities like ours play a crucial role in providing the support and resources necessary for a fulfilling life.

We invite you to become a part of our community, where wellness is a way of life and every individual's needs are met with care and expertise. Whether you're interested in chair yoga or seeking a supportive environment to call home, Montgomery Place offers an unparalleled experience for seniors in Chicago.

Contact us to learn more about our programs and how you can join a community that celebrates wellness and independence daily. Together, we can embark on a journey toward a healthier, more vibrant future.

Featured Images: n.k.junky / AlenaDziachuk | Shutterstock

Chicago is a great place to live. With legendary attractions like Millennium Park, Wrigley Field, and the Magnificent Mile, the Windy City draws thousands of tourists each year. Many attractions in Chicago offer free admission all year long or discounts for seniors on certain days.

These are some of the activities seniors can enjoy around Chicago, as well as activities offered at Montgomery Place: Senior Living Community in Chicago.

Activities Around the Chicago Area

Chicago is filled with interesting things to do and see. Activities that seniors can enjoy include:

Museums

Chicago has some of the greatest museums in the nation. Many offer free admission to everyone all year long, and some feature free days for citizens of Illinois.

Chicago museums with free admission include:

• Hyde Park Art Center

• Museum of Contemporary Photography

• Smart Museum of Art

• Jane Addams Hull-House Museum

• National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture

• Chicago Cultural Center

• National Veterans Art Museum

• Loyola University Museum of Art

• National Cambodian Heritage Museum

Public transportation from Hyde Park where Montgomery Place is located is provided by Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and Metra.

Animals

Animal lovers have access to two great attractions in Chicago. The Lincoln Park Zoo is always free and open 365 days a year. Featuring massive waterscapes that house marine mammals, brightly colored fish, octopuses, sharks, and other water creatures, the Shedd Aquarium provides a glimpse into the wonders of the aquatic animal world.

The Great Outdoors

Chicago is home to lakeside beaches and some of the best public parks in the world. Chicago Botanic Garden encompasses 365 acres of nature and beauty and offers free admission days.

Shopping

Chicago's Magnificent Mile includes more than 450 retailers, all within walking distance of Downtown Chicago. Chicago Premium Outlets offer discount shopping right outside the city.

Music

Millennium Park on Michigan Avenue hosts the Chicago Gospel Music Festival, the Chicago Blues Festival, the Chicago Jazz Festival, and the World Music Festival. Visitors can also enjoy shows, talks, exhibits, movie screenings, and more.

Activities You Can Find at Montgomery Place

Montgomery Place offers a wide range of enriching and entertaining activities and community amenities for residents to enjoy. Examples of popular events include:

• Chess Club: Chess tournaments with other residents and student volunteers are held in the game room

• Tai Chi: Instructor-led classes are available to all

• Film Committee Movie: The film committee selects English-language movies that can be watched in residents' apartments or in the lounge where popcorn is included

• Yoga: Instructor-led classes for everyone

• Hewson Swift Concerts: Residents select music from their own collections

• Friday Night Speakers: The speaker's committee selects individuals to speak on a variety of topics

Senior living activities at Montgomery Place focus on residents' physical, spiritual, and social well-being.

See Why People are Coming to Chicago in Their Retirement Years

One of the reasons Chicago is a prime location for retirement is that there is so much to do here. Those who want to remain active in their retirement years have access to outdoor activities, museums, world-class restaurants, a vibrant art scene, excellent public transportation, and so much more.

Chicago also offers seniors a variety of incentives, including:

• Good Healthcare

• Retirement Income Tax Exemption

• A Four-Season Climate

• Central Location

• Wonderful Neighborhoods

For those who enjoy city life, Chicago is one of the most exciting locations in the country.

See What Chicago Has to Offer

If you're looking for a place to retire, or your loved one needs help with relocation, Chicago has a lot to offer. Montgomery Park is a not-for-profit organization with a 5-star CMS rating, recognized for short-term stay rehab and skilled nursing care.

Contact us for more information or to schedule a tour.

Featured Image: Sean Pavone/ Shutterstock