Tips

Avoid excessive heat:

It can have a severe impact on the health of many elderly persons. Staying indoors in air conditioned settings, not overexerting yourself and drinking plenty of liquids, unless restricted by your doctor, is advisable.

Tell your doctor if your hands always seem to be cold:

It might be a sign of an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). One function of the thyroid gland is to regulate body temperature. When it's not doing its job, the body becomes tired and less tolerant of the cold. The signs of hypothyroidism can be vague, so be sure to mention even mild changes to your doctor.

Make your toothbrush easier to hold:

People with arthritis or other conditions that limit motion may want to attach their toothbrush handle to their hand with a wide elastic band, or enlarge it by strapping it to a sponge, Styrofoam ball or similar object. People with limited shoulder movement may find brushing easier if they lengthen the handle of the brush by attaching a long

piece of wood or plastic. Electric toothbrushes are helpful to many.

Improve the circulation of blood to the feet:

Wear comfortable shoes that fit well. Foot width may increase with age. Always have your feet measured before buying shoes. The upper part of the shoes should be made of a soft, flexible material to match the shape of your foot. Shoes made of leather can reduce the possibility of skin irritations. Soles should provide solid footing and not be slippery. Thick soles lessen pressure on hard surfaces. Low-heeled shoes are more comfortable, safer and less damaging than high-heeled shoes.

Follow a regular plan of exercise:

Exercise helps our bones, particularly our joint bones and the bones of the spinal column, rebuild and repair themselves as they should. Without exercise, they become thin and porous -- a condition known as osteoporosis. Strong muscles help protect your joints and spinal column, improve your posture and balance, increase your mobility, and reduce the likelihood of falls and other accidents, and give you a younger body image.

Home Safety:

Home modification and repair can help prevent accidents such as falls. Research suggests that one-third to one-half of home accidents can be prevented by modification or repair.