There’s power in nourishing and flavorful meals — it inspires friendship and camaraderie and a healthy mind and body. In her essay “A Room of One’s Own,” English author Virginia Woolf said, “A good dinner is of great importance to good talk. One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.”

This year’s National Nutrition Month theme, Food Connects Us, is all about bringing people together through memorable meals. At Beatitudes Campus, we’re exploring the balance between cooking at home and dining out — and tackling the question: Is eating at home healthier? Plus, we’ll highlight the best spots to enjoy tasty bites and warm camaraderie, both on campus and in our Glendale Avenue neighborhood.

Benefits of Cooking at Home vs. Eating Out

Why is cooking at home healthier? It allows you to control the ingredients and preparation methods, making it easier to maintain a healthy diet. Home-cooked meals often contain fewer calories, less saturated fat and lower sodium levels than restaurant offerings.  Preparing meals at home can be more cost-effective, and you can experiment with new recipes and cooking techniques.

However, dining out offers convenience, social engagement and exposure to diverse cuisines. It’s an opportunity to enjoy expertly prepared dishes without the time commitment of cooking and cleaning. Resident Bonny noted in a Google review that our dining program offers incredible value, and the food credit is “such a blessing,” especially with rising grocery prices.

When considering eating at home vs. eating out, the key is finding a balance that suits your lifestyle and nutritional goals.

Weekly Shopping Tips for Home Cooks

For those who enjoy cooking at home vs. eating out, here are five tips to make meal planning and preparation more efficient:

1. Map out your meals: Decide on your weekly meals and create a detailed shopping list. This approach helps prevent impulse purchases and ensures you have all the necessary ingredients.
2. Shop smart: Check your pantry and refrigerator before heading to the store to avoid buying items you already have. Look for sales and consider buying in bulk for nonperishable items you use frequently.
3. Prep ahead: Dedicate time to wash, chop and portion ingredients after shopping. Prepping ingredients in advance can make cooking during the week quicker and less stressful.
4. Cook in batches: Prepare larger quantities of meals and store leftovers for future use. Batch cooking saves time and provides you with healthy meals ready to go.
5. Embrace versatility: Choose ingredients you can use in multiple dishes. For example, add roasted vegetables to salads and pastas or enjoy them as a side dish.

Dig Into Our Culinary Campus

At Beatitudes Campus, every meal is an opportunity for meaningful connections and joyful moments — whether dining in your independent living apartment with neighbors or on our bright and bold campus. From home-cooked favorites to chef-prepared specialties, flavorful fare is always on the menu.

Our culinary team, led by Executive Chef Cosmin Barbu, crafts daily meals, Sunday brunches, themed dinners and festive celebrations that bring residents together. With three restaurants, a coffee shop and a full cocktail bar, there are plenty of choices when you want to skip the cooking.

Elaine’s Fine Dining offers sophisticated cuisine like seared scallops, rack of lamb and chicken Wellington, with patio seating for alfresco evenings. For a casual meal, Town Plaza Bistro serves comforting favorites — soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches and pizzas — in a relaxed setting featuring local artwork and live music.

If you’re craving grill-style favorites, Buckwald’s Arizona Grille offers fresh seafood, steaks, and chops, plus flat-screen TVs to catch the game with friends. Need a drink? The Plaza Club is the go-to spot for happy hour cocktails, beer and wine. And when you need a caffeine fix or a sweet treat, Corner Perk serves coffee, milkshakes and pastries.

Beyond the exceptional dining options at Beatitudes Campus, the surrounding Phoenix neighborhood boasts an array of restaurants catering to every craving. Just minutes away, The Joy Bus Diner™ serves up delicious, feel-good breakfast and lunch options while supporting a great cause. Postino Central in uptown’s historic Windsor Square is a local favorite for its cozy atmosphere, hand-picked wines and tasty bruschetta boards. For an upscale dining experience, Durant’s offers classic steakhouse fare in a timeless setting. If you need a quick caffeine boost, hit the drive-thru at Better Buzz Coffee for a handcrafted cold brew.

Whether you’re looking for a casual bite, a fine dining experience or something in between, our campus and the surrounding neighborhood have something for every palate.

Take a Seat at Our Table

At Beatitudes Campus, our services and amenities promote an active and healthy lifestyle, including culinary excellence. Whether you prefer the convenience and social aspects of dining out or the control and creativity of cooking at home, we support your choices. Explore our dining experiences and join us for a meal!

Dementia is a term that describes a set of symptoms affecting memory, thinking and daily functioning. It commonly results from conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia or other cognitive disorders. At Beatitudes Campus in Phoenix AZ, we believe that understanding the progression of dementia helps families and caregivers provide better support for their loved ones. Below, we will explain the seven stages of dementia, potential timelines and how to navigate care options.

Dementia Stage 1: No Recognizable Cognitive Impairment

During the first stage of dementia, no visible signs or symptoms of cognitive decline are present. Individuals continue managing daily tasks, social activities and job responsibilities without issue. If a doctor conducted tests, they might not notice any problems at this stage.

Although there are no obvious symptoms, this stage reminds us that dementia can develop quietly. It is beneficial for older adults to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced nutrition and social engagement, all of which are part of life at Beatitudes Campus. These habits may reduce the risk of cognitive issues or delay the progression to more advanced stages.

Dementia Stage 2: Very Mild Memory Lapses or Cognitive Decline

During the second stage, an individual may start experiencing slight forgetfulness, like misplacing everyday items or occasionally searching for words. These lapses often go unnoticed by friends and family, as they can easily be attributed to normal aging.

At Beatitudes Campus, residents can benefit from lifestyle programs that keep the mind active. Activities such as puzzles, games and social events help keep cognitive abilities sharp. Because the memory lapses are subtle, it is rarely possible to identify whether they’re a normal part of aging or signs of early dementia without medical evaluation.

Dementia Stage 3: Mild Cognitive Decline

In the third stage, changes in cognition become more noticeable. The person might struggle to remember names, find the right words or keep track of appointments. Friends and relatives may start noticing lapses or repetition in conversations. While these challenges can be frustrating, individuals can often continue managing most everyday tasks.

Progression From Early Dementia to a Definitive Diagnosis

How quickly mild cognitive decline transitions into an official dementia diagnosis varies widely. For some, this progression may take years, while others move to more advanced stages more quickly. Early detection and consultation with healthcare professionals can help. Residents at Beatitudes Campus who suspect they are experiencing mild cognitive issues can work with our wellness team to monitor changes and discuss possible interventions.

Dementia Stage 4: Moderate Cognitive Decline

Stage four involves more pronounced memory challenges. Individuals may have trouble planning activities, handling finances or recalling recent events. They might rely more on notes or reminders to function independently and may avoid complex tasks like managing finances or cooking elaborate meals.

Families and caregivers often notice frustration or occasional mood swings due to these growing difficulties. At Beatitudes Campus, residents in this stage can benefit from increased support within their homes or through transitional care options. Assisted living services can help them maintain a sense of independence while offering the level of help needed.

Dementia Stage 5: Moderately Severe Cognitive Decline

In the fifth stage, daily routines become more difficult to manage without help. Disorientation about time or place may occur, and individuals might need significant assistance with personal hygiene or choosing appropriate clothing. Short-term memory gaps grow larger, with loved ones forgetting important details like an address or a family member’s name.

Caregivers at Beatitudes Campus may introduce more structured routines to reduce confusion and support residents in maintaining their daily routines. This stage underscores the importance of regular supervision to ensure safety and comfort.

Dementia Stage 6: Severe Cognitive Decline

By stage six, memory issues and communication challenges become more profound. Individuals may recognize familiar faces but struggle to recall names. Your loved one may experience mood swings, aggression and wandering behaviors as a result of their confusion and disorientation. They often need help with virtually all activities of daily living.

At this juncture, Beatitudes Campus recommends specialized memory care for residents experiencing severe cognitive decline. Such programs offer a secure environment with staff who are trained in dementia support, and structured routines that reduce anxiety and improve quality of life for those in advanced stages of dementia.

Dementia Stage 7: Very Severe Cognitive Decline

Stage seven represents the most advanced stage of dementia. Speech becomes very limited, and individuals often require round-the-clock assistance with mobility, personal care and eating. Your loved one’s connection to the world around them may become minimal, and their physical health can deteriorate quickly.

Understanding the Length of Advanced Dementia

The duration of this end-stage dementia varies greatly. Some may remain in this stage for months or longer, but many experience rapid health decline. Compassionate care that emphasizes comfort and dignity is crucial. Beatitudes Campus embraces a person-centered approach, ensuring physical and emotional comfort during this stage.

The Pace of Dementia: How Quickly Does It Move Forward?

The pace of dementia progression varies widely based on factors like the type of dementia, your loved one’s overall health and genetics. Alzheimer’s disease typically follows a slow progression, whereas other forms like Lewy body dementia may escalate more swiftly. Early medical intervention and lifestyle choices may influence progression, giving families and caregivers more time to plan and adapt.

Life Expectancy in Dementia Cases

Predicting lifespan in dementia can be complicated. Many people live five to 10 years after diagnosis, although some may survive longer. Factors such as having other medical conditions, age at onset and the quality of care can all influence your loved one’s outcomes. Residents at Beatitudes Campus have access to comprehensive support that helps maintain comfort and quality of life during each stage of dementia.

Supporting a Loved One With Dementia

When a loved one faces dementia, families should consider personalized support strategies. This can include home care, adult day programs or specialized memory care services. Creating a routine, offering encouragement and focusing on activities that match the person’s abilities can help them retain a sense of identity.

At Beatitudes Campus, we suggest involving family and friends, consulting medical professionals and staying abreast of changes in cognitive function. This team approach ensures residents receive consistent, compassionate care.

Memory Care Options: Finding the Right Place

Memory care programs offer a structured environment, skilled staff and specialized activities that cater to individuals who are experiencing moderate to advanced stages of dementia. Beatitudes Campus in Phoenix provides a memory care setting that promotes comfort, safety and emotional well-being. Staff members receive training in dementia care techniques, ensuring residents are engaged and supported.

Choosing a memory care program can be a heartfelt decision. Families should visit potential communities, speak with caregivers and observe how staff interact with current residents. A facility that fosters community, respects individuality and prioritizes well-being is typically the ideal option for someone who is coping with dementia.

Whether someone is in the early stages of mild cognitive impairment or confronting advanced stages of dementia, understanding what to expect allows loved ones to plan and ensure proper care. At Beatitudes Campus, we strive to support families through every step, from initial signs to advanced stages, offering expertise, empathy, and a compassionate environment that helps residents maintain dignity and comfort throughout their journey. Contact us to learn more about Comfort Matters®, our award-winning and nationally recognized memory care program.

Featured Image: Pixel-Shot / Shutterstock

February is here, bringing with it the season of love — and what better way to show yourself some love than by getting your financial house in order? As tax season approaches, it’s the perfect time to organize your paperwork, uncover those potential tax benefits and maybe even fall head over heels for a lower tax statement.

Many seniors and their families are surprised to learn about the tax breaks that come with living in a retirement community. If you’ve chosen — or are considering — an entrance fee senior living community like Beatitudes Campus, some opportunities could positively impact your tax situation.

Are Entrance Fees for Retirement Communities Tax Deductible?

One of the most notable benefits of entrance fee communities is the potential tax deduction. When moving into a community like Beatitudes Campus, a portion of the fee may qualify as a medical expense deduction.

Why? Because some of the entrance fee is often allocated toward future healthcare services, making it a prepaid medical expense. This falls under the IRS guideline allowing deductions for medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI), the key figure used to determine your eligibility for tax credits and deductions. (To calculate your AGI, begin with your total gross income from all taxable sources, including wages, interest and retirement income. Then, subtract eligible adjustments such as alimony payments, deductible IRA contributions and self-employment taxes.)

Is Independent Living Tax Deductible?

Even if you’re living independently at Beatitudes Campus, you may still benefit. A portion of your monthly service fees may also qualify as a prepaid medical expense. This means you could claim deductions even while enjoying the vibrant, independent lifestyle our community offers.

Are Assisted Living and Memory Care Expenses Tax Deductible?

For those residing in assisted living or memory care, the answer is often yes. The cost of assisted living and memory care can be tax-deductible if a doctor certifies that you need these services due to a chronic condition or cognitive impairment. These expenses, which may include help with daily activities like bathing, dressing or medication management, can also be considered medical expenses.

Questions to Ask Your Financial Advisor or Tax Professional

Navigating tax deductions can feel complex, but your financial advisor or tax professional can provide clarity. Here are five questions to ask:

1. What portion of my entrance fee is tax-deductible as a medical expense?
2. How do I determine which part of my monthly fees qualifies as a medical deduction?
3. Are moving expenses tax-deductible for retirees?
4. What documentation do I need to substantiate these deductions?
5. How does my living situation affect my eligibility for deductions? For example, is memory care tax deductible? Is the cost of assisted living tax deductible?

Why Consider an Entrance Fee Community Like Beatitudes Campus?

An entrance fee senior living community provides peace of mind with a plan for future care and offers potential financial advantages. These benefits can add up significantly over time, from the CCRC tax deduction for entrance fees to ongoing deductions for monthly costs.

Choosing Beatitudes Campus means you’ll enjoy a supportive, active lifestyle while knowing you’re making a financially informed decision. With options for independent living, assisted living and memory support, Beatitudes Campus caters to a variety of needs, ensuring you or your loved one can age with dignity and confidence.

Discover Your Happily Ever After

At Beatitudes Campus, we’re here to help you fall in love with the potential financial advantages of moving into an entrance fee senior living community. While we can’t offer tax advice, we’re happy to play matchmaker by connecting you with resources and providing all the details about how our community supports a fulfilling, stress-free lifestyle you’ll adore.

If you have additional questions related to tax or other financial benefits, our residency counselors are here to assist you in finding the answers you need. Start the conversation today!

Featured Image: Inside Creative House / Shutterstock

As spring continues to paint Arizona’s desert landscapes with vibrant colors, graduation season also signals the blooming of fresh possibilities for high school and college seniors.

It marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication and growth for students. For grandparents, it’s a time of pride and joy for their achievements and nostalgia for memories you’ve shared.

Advice from grandparents can profoundly influence and help shape the paths of new graduates as they navigate these transitions to adulthood. Before watching your loved one cross the stage, diploma in hand, you can celebrate their accomplishments, shower them with support and offer valuable life lessons in a heartfelt letter.

“I sat down at my desk last year and wrote everything I was thinking and feeling in a letter of encouragement to my granddaughter when she finished high school,” said Joan, a Beatitudes Campus resident. “Later that month, I wrote another letter of encouragement to my grandson, who graduated from college and landed his first job.”

Love Letters and Life Lessons

When writing a letter to a grandchild going to college or pursuing another post-high school path, start by sharing special memories, milestones and inside jokes you’ve shared. Boost their confidence by expressing belief in their abilities and telling them how proud you are. Let them know you’re always there for them to offer unwavering love, support and a listening ear. Encourage them to dream big and pursue their passions.

The best advice from grandparents comes from the heart. Here are 10 wisdom nuggets worth passing on as a road map for their future success:

1. Treasure education: Encourage them to stay on a continued learning path as the key to endless opportunities.
2. Welcome change: Teach them to embrace life’s twists and turns fearlessly.
3. Pursue passions: Fuel their drive to chase dreams — it’s what makes life fulfilling.
4. Stay true: Remind them to stay authentic and never compromise their values.
5. Hustle hard: Instill the value of persistence and a strong work ethic.
6. Foster relationships: Guide them in building meaningful connections with loved ones.
7. Practice self-care: Stress the importance of caring for their mind, body and soul.
8. Money matters: Teach them about financial responsibility and its importance for a secure future.
9. Embrace failure: Show them that setbacks are growth opportunities.
10. Enjoy the ride: Remind them that life is the ultimate adventure, to savor every moment and to create lasting memories.

Gifts for Grand Times Ahead

In addition to getting advice from grandparents, graduation season also marks a time for gift-giving. The most meaningful high school graduation gifts from grandparents are those that foster connection and allow loved ones to share cherished memories.

Here is some inspiration for granddaughter graduation gifts or grandson graduation gifts to make their big day even more unforgettable:

1. Personalized keepsakes: Engraved jewelry, customized photo frames, artwork, quilts, ornaments or recipe books filled with family favorites.
2. Tech gadgets: Laptop, tablet, e-reader, smartphone, noise-canceling headphones, portable Bluetooth speaker, smartwatch or fitness tracker.
3. Travel experiences: Weekend getaways, road trips with friends or family, study abroad programs, guided tours of historical sites, outdoor adventures like hiking or camping, volunteer travel experiences, culinary tours, music festivals, wellness retreats or cruise vacations.
4. Education and entertainment: Online course or streaming service subscriptions, educational software or apps, or gift cards for online bookstores or digital content platforms.
5. Fitness and wellness: Gym or exercise studio memberships, meal delivery service, personal training sessions, massage or spa gift certificates, outdoor gear for activities like hiking or biking.
6. Gift cards: Visa, Mastercard, Amazon, Target, Walmart, Starbucks, DoorDash, Uber Eats, iTunes, Google Play, grocery stores or gas stations.

These ideas also apply if you’re wondering, what is an appropriate college graduation gift from grandparents. Other graduation gift ideas for a grandchild are a well-tailored suit or business casual essentials to help them confidently step into the working world.

For a more practical college grad gift, consider arranging a session with a financial planner or contributing to their retirement fund. You can also help them transition to living independently with gifts like cookware or subscriptions for meal delivery kits and services.

Cracking the Code on Monetary Gift Giving

Money is one of the most common gifts for graduating seniors, offering flexibility for different needs like college costs, travel or essential purchases. You may wonder how much money to give a grandchild for college graduation or how much do you give a grandchild for high school graduation.

While the amount varies depending on geographical location, cultural norms, financial means and personal relationships, grandparents typically give between $50 and $500 to high school graduates and $100 to $1,000 or more to college graduates.

Here are some tips to help you decide on the amount:

• Consider your own financial situation and give within your means.
• Gift with purpose and decide if you’re offering financial support or celebrating their achievement.
• Ask other family members if they’re giving money and adjust your amount accordingly.
• Think about how they’ll use the money — loans, living expenses or future plans.
• Let your bond shine and consider giving a little extra if you have a close relationship.
• Bonus tip: Make the most of holiday breaks with your college-bound grandkids by preparing meals, sharing recipes and cooking together. It’s a rewarding way to share knowledge, create memories and strengthen your relationship.

Seniors Connecting With Seniors

Beatitudes Campus residents recognize the importance of education and connecting with younger generations not just during cap and gown season, but throughout the year. For more than 20 years, our Community Outreach Committee has fostered meaningful connections between students at Washington High School through our Beatitudes Scholars Program.

Beatitudes residents actively mentor students, nurturing their academic growth, community involvement and leadership skills. Each month, we recognize exceptional high school seniors as Beatitudes Campus Students of the Month for their academic, service and leadership achievements. These students can apply for college scholarships supported by the Community Outreach Committee.

The partnership between WHS and Beatitudes Campus exemplifies the transformative power of education, service and collaboration. Together, we empower students to excel and celebrate bright and bold futures ahead. Contact our community to learn more about our local partnerships.

Featured Image: sirtravelalot / Shutterstock

Among the misunderstandings, assumptions and myths about aging and there are many — the ones surrounding seniors and sex are probably the least addressed. Whether we don’t believe it or don’t want to believe it, the answer to the question, “Are they …?” is “Yes.”

Yes, they can. And, yes, they are.

If you’re squirming while reading this, relax. No one has ever died of embarrassment from reading a blog, and we’re not going to change that today.

“Sexuality, sexual health and sexual awareness are part of overall physical, emotional and psychosocial wellness,” said Nina Louis, vice president of health services for Phoenix, Arizona, senior living community Beatitudes Campus. “When it comes to topics around sex and sexual health, we did a fairly good job of normalizing conversations with our teens and young adults. But for some reason we seem to revert backwards with seniors,” she added. “No one wants to talk about sex among older adults!”

If you’re wondering why it matters, consider this: The youngest of the Boomers turn 60 in 2024. We have an entire generation of Americans who grew up during the sexual revolution of the 1960s and 1970s. Many sex experts (yeah, there are researchers and physicians whose expertise is sexuality) believe these Boomers will not only be more comfortable with conversations and policies related to their sex lives and their sexual health — they are going to demand them.

So what does that mean for you? Whether you are a senior yourself, an adult child helping your elderly parent navigate life or a caregiver in a senior living community — it means it’s time to get uncomfortable: Let’s talk about sex.

Why Are You Blushing?

“I think our hesitancy to talk about sexual health openly is related to society’s general views on sex,” said M. Aaron Guest, Ph.D., an assistant professor of aging at the Center for Innovation in Healthy and Resilient Aging at Arizona State University. “In American culture, we don’t talk about sex broadly, so it makes sense we’re reluctant to address older adults and sex.”

How we look at aging simply compounds the reluctance. In other words, how we see sex as a culture intersects and oddly mirrors how we view aging: we know both are essential parts of life but we’d prefer not to talk openly about either. Mix the two topics, and, from many people, you have a big helping of No Thanks.

The role media plays in perpetuating age stereotypes is widely known. A study from the World Health Organization that looked at TV programming, works of fiction, and magazine and newspaper articles found negative descriptions of older adults outnumber positive ones by six times. Negative descriptions tend to be physical and focused on mood: “Gran is so slow.” “Gramps is so cranky.” While positive ones tend to center on behavioral or personality traits: “Nana is so wise.” “Pops is so kind.”

“When we have such firm beliefs about how older people in our lives are or should be, it’s hard to view them any other way,” Dr. Guest said. But the best way to reduce ageism, he explained, is building connections with older adults — spending time and creating meaningful interactions. This, we know, can lead to not only accepting but also acknowledging that older people are vibrant, and their contributions to the world and at all levels is vital.

Seems relatively straightforward. But when the way we view seniors and the way we view sex collide, we end up with a sociological conundrum of pure discomfort that is spelled with two simple letters: ew.

But why does it matter? Who does it hurt to pretend you don’t know (or, more accurately, don’t want to know) that your 80-year-old mom is sexually active? Turns out, pretending ignorance is what further perpetuates those negative stereotypes about aging. And believe it or not, it contributes to unaddressed health issues for seniors.

Are Seniors Having Sex?

Just like any other age demographic, statistically speaking, a major factor in whether someone is sexually active is whether they have a partner or not. Single in your 30s? Unattached in your 40s? Widowed in your 70s? A yes answer to any of these means you’re less likely to be experiencing intimacy with another person.

“It’s really no different for seniors. If they’re not in a relationship, chances are they are not having sex,” Dr. Guest said. “Because many older people are widowed, separated or divorced, or otherwise not partnered, many older people may not be sexually involved.” But it doesn’t mean they don’t want to be or cannot.

Although there is not widespread research on sexual activity and sexual desire among retirees, in an AARP Healthy Aging Poll of 65- to 80-year-olds, two-thirds said they were interested in sex, and more than 50% said sex was important to their quality of life.

According to Dr. Guest, sexual activity is an integral part of health and well-being and it correlates with greater enjoyment of life for older adults. “Sex changes as we age. How we think about it, how we feel about it and how we do it,” he said. “People may modify their sexual activity because of physiological changes, but it doesn’t make it any less important to them.”

How Is Sex Different as We Age?

“There is no doubt individuals who are in better health are having more sex,” said Dr. Guest. “But we see this across all populations, not just older individuals.” Things that tend to slow us down — not feeling well, aches and pains, a chronic illness or condition — in general may slow us down in intimate situations. Sex after 60 may change a bit if we are not at our physical best.

Arthritis makes hands a bit stiffer and not as adroit in touch. Tightness in joints causes us to move in different ways than we did as younger people. Weight gain or even weight loss affects how we interact physically with one another. Medicines we take can also have side effects that impact our desire, mood and body in ways that make sex less appealing or more difficult.

The physiological changes to our bodies certainly change how we approach intimacy as we age and may change sex techniques after 60, 70 or 80. Dr. Guest pointed out that biological shifts can impact both sexual desire and sex itself. So answering the question, “Can a 70-year-old woman be sexually active?” is easy: Of course she can, but perhaps she and her partner approach it differently. For women, the vaginal wall becomes thinner, making sex sometimes uncomfortable. For men, sperm production continues into their 90s but maintaining an erection can be more challenging. Accommodating these physical changes and overcoming the challenges our bodies present to us is possible, but it requires communication with your partner and even with your healthcare professional.

Unfortunately, the societal reluctance to talk about sex and sexual health extends into the medical profession. “Doctors aren’t always asking the right questions of their senior patients,” Dr. Guest said. “Our hope is that with better education, this is changing. But there are fewer geriatricians practicing now, so sexual health for seniors is something we all have to work on together as a society and as a community.”

Larger hospital systems, senior living communities and long-term care facilities, community senior centers, YMCAs and YWCAs all have a role to play in supporting seniors in feeling their best. And sometimes that means offering information about sexual health and becoming more comfortable addressing questions and concerns.

Why Does Talking About Sex With Seniors Matter?

Although the rumor that senior communities are breeding grounds for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is false, it is true that as people age their immune systems tend to weaken, making them more susceptible to contracting any disease — including STDs. If doctors are not asking and seniors are too embarrassed to share concerning symptoms, the likelihood of spreading disease is higher. Allowing a health issue to go untreated also can have serious consequences for the person experiencing symptoms and possibly their partner.

“Sexual health is part of overall health,” Beatitudes Campus’ Nina Louis said. “It really is important for us, as a society, to be ok with talking with seniors about sex.”

Given the aging of our population and the availability of drugs and devices to enhance sexual function, healthcare professionals must be prepared to address sexual concerns with older patients and to answer the question, “Is sex healthy for seniors?” Discussions about sex are infrequent, partly because physicians might, themselves, unwittingly accept misconceptions about the sexual function of older adults.

Senior living communities can play a significant role in normalizing these conversations. Offering educational materials and resources on sexual health for seniors, providing access to condoms and encouraging care providers on staff to be open to questions from residents are all impactful ways to make a difference.

When Intimacy Doesn’t Always Mean Sex

The frequency of sexual intercourse may decline with age, but that doesn’t necessarily mean older adults are not sexually active or intimate in other ways.

In her career as a healthcare administrator in senior living, Louis said she has seen a greater importance on “expressions of love” between older individuals. “Sexuality changes as we age,” Louis said. “Expressions of love outside of sexual interactions sometimes become more important.” Think: holding hands, hugging, kissing and simply holding one another close. All of these forms of affection can satisfy the need for intimacy as we grow older.

A Different Kind of Fall Risk

One other aspect of finding love (or physical attraction) later in life is the time it takes to become smitten. “Courtships for seniors tend to be quicker,” Dr. Guest said. “Mature adults are aware they have limited time, so they may appear to fall for one another too fast.” Which, he points out, can be difficult for adult children who see their 80-year-old mom falling in love after six weeks. Watching movies, sharing a meal, going for walks — all without the stresses they carried when they were much younger can create the perfect opportunity for connection between seniors. Those connections are very real and so important for satisfaction with life as we age.

At Beatitudes Campus, Louis said she sees residents falling in love and seeking out romantic relationships at all ages and stages of life. “We see residents finding companionship and affection in our community, and we embrace it.” Staff do, from time to time, talk with residents and family members about residents who meet and fall in love at the community and subsequently want to move in together on campus. But interestingly, she said residents generally choose to maintain their own residences even in committed relationships.

“More often than not, everyone is happy to stay in their own apartment and continue a romantic relationship,” Louis added. “One of the great advantages of finding love later in life is that you do not have to accept a traditional arrangement. You can stay independent and spend time together on your own terms.”

Finding love later in life also means things that bothered you in relationships as a younger person — dirty socks on the floor, not helping enough around the house — don’t matter anymore. “Perspectives shift for older adults,” Dr. Guest pointed out. “They’re more willing to live with differences.”

Late-Life Love Is Still Love

Dr. Guest references a book by literary critic, Susan Gubar, “Late-Life Love” as offering a great perspective on how seniors feel about love and sex as they progress in life. The memoir, according to Amazon reviews “offers a resounding retort to ageist stereotypes, appraises the obstacles unique to senior couples and celebrates second chances.”

For residents at Beatitudes Campus, celebrating love and romantic bonds has become an important part of the community these vibrant seniors and supportive staff have created for themselves.

Commitment ceremonies are celebrated widely, as couples — both opposite and same sex — stand before one another and their neighbors and friends to declare their union sacred. “On this campus, people turn out to support love,” Louis said. “There is a ton of support for a couple — from their own neighbors and our team members. We show up for them because we have close relationships with the residents and are intentional about showing that level of care.”

To experience life at Beatitudes Campus, come see us. Call for a personal tour: (602) 833-1358.

Featured Image: Yuri A / Shutterstock

Reading enthusiast Margaret was one of the most active participants in her monthly book club meetings. But lately, she’s cupping her hand around her ear, leaning in closer to others to catch more words or looking around the room for visual cues from others’ reactions. The 78-year-old, who took pride in living vibrantly and self-sufficiently, pretended to follow along in the discussions while wondering, “How do I know if I need a hearing aid?”

Though some older adults might view an assistive device as a sign they’re giving in to the aging process, the reality is quite the opposite. Hearing aids can seamlessly blend into daily life while helping you enhance independence and engage socially and interpersonally. Plus, modern hearing aids are more discreet, user-friendly and technologically advanced than ever.

In Margaret’s case, an audiologist’s visit confirmed moderate hearing loss. With her sleek new hearing aids, she felt more engaged and socially connected than she had in months. At the next book club, she heard every word, laugh and gasp. She went from asking herself, “Do I need a hearing aid?” to “I can’t believe I waited this long to have my hearing checked!”

When Should You Get Hearing Aids?

The first step in determining when to get a hearing aid is recognizing the signs of hearing loss. Seniors struggling with hearing tend to do things like nodding along without fully understanding, appearing confused or becoming quieter in conversations. They might misinterpret what’s being said, respond inappropriately or speak louder than necessary. You may notice them watching lips to read them, frowning in frustration or positioning themselves closer to the speaker. If you have a senior loved one who seems withdrawn and is pulling away from social activities, it can also signal that they are having hearing issues.

Here are five indicators of when to get hearing aids:

1. Frequently asking people to repeat themselves or finding it hard to follow conversations in noisy environments.
2. Constantly needing to increase the volume on your TV or radio to hear clearly.
3. Struggling with phone calls and difficulty hearing conversations.
4. Avoiding social situations because it’s too hard to keep up with conversations.
5. Tinnitus, or persistent ringing or buzzing in your ears.

What Level of Hearing Loss Requires a Hearing Aid?

Hearing loss is measured in decibels (dB) and categorized into different levels that can help answer the question, “How do I know if I need hearing aids?”

• Mild hearing loss (26–40 dB): People with mild hearing loss may hear some speech sounds but have difficulty with soft sounds. They might need a hearing aid if they struggle in noisy environments or frequently ask others to repeat themselves.
• Moderate hearing loss (41–55 dB): With moderate hearing loss, understanding speech becomes challenging, especially in group settings.
• Moderately severe hearing loss (56–70 dB): Hearing becomes difficult without assistance at this level.
• Severe hearing loss (71–90 dB): Seniors with severe hearing loss will struggle to hear even loud speech. Hearing aids, possibly in combination with other assistive listening devices, are necessary.
• Profound hearing loss (91+ dB): Most sounds are inaudible without powerful hearing aids or other assistive devices.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Hearing Aid?

Hearing aids and assistive devices are now more accessible and affordable. Getting one is straightforward but involves several steps to ensure it meets your needs. Here’s a general timeline:

• Hearing evaluation: The first step is a comprehensive hearing test by an audiologist or hearing specialist to assess your type and degree of hearing loss.
• Consultation and selection: After the evaluation, the audiologist will help you choose a hearing aid that fits your lifestyle, preferences and budget. You will be surprised at the variety available!
• Fitting and adjustment: During this appointment, the audiologist will program the hearing aid to match your specific hearing loss and ensure it fits comfortably.
• Trial period: Most providers offer a 30-to-60-day trial period for hearing aids, allowing adjustments with your audiologist as needed.
• Follow-up: After the trial period, a follow-up appointment is usually scheduled to make any final adjustments and address any concerns.

Saying Goodbye to Silence

Today’s hearing aids are far superior to the bulky, conspicuous devices of 20 years ago that were a hassle to use and left users self-conscious. Back then, they had poor sound quality, limited customization, no connectivity, constant feedback and required frequent battery changes.

Modern hearing aids are discreet, often virtually invisible, and use digital technology for superior sound quality, noise reduction and personalized settings. Many are Bluetooth-enabled for direct streaming from smartphones and other devices. They feature directional microphones, feedback cancellation, automatic environmental adjustments and rechargeable batteries. Their customizable designs ensure a comfortable fit for every user.

If you or a loved one are experiencing signs of hearing loss and wondering, “Do I need hearing aids?” consider scheduling an evaluation with an audiologist. The American Academy of Audiology can help you find one. Using a hearing aid or assistive device isn’t a sign of defeat; it’s a chance to fully enjoy the sounds of life while living brightly and aging boldly.