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Senior Planning Services

Santa Barbara County

Call Now: 805-966-3312 Call Now: 805-966-3312

Ventura County

Formerly Known as Meditech Health Services Call Now: 805-644-0800 Call Now: 805-644-0800
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Santa Barbara County

Call Now: 805-966-3312 Call Now: 805-966-3312

Ventura County

Formerly Known as Meditech Health Services Call Now: 805-644-0800 Call Now: 805-644-0800
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Author Archives: amizelladmin

Sleep Lessons from Our Ancestors

Posted on June 15, 2022 by amizelladmin

With all the advances of modern medical science, it can still be useful to look at the health practices of our species over time. We evolved in a far different environment than most of us live in today, and our … Continue reading →

Posted in General, Senior Health

Controlling High Blood Pressure Is Good for the Brain

Posted on June 1, 2022 by amizelladmin

Why do older adults experience memory and thinking problems? For years, the assumption was that most dementia was caused by Alzheimer’s disease. But more recent research using advanced brain imaging and large collections of data has shown that it’s not … Continue reading →

Posted in Dementia Care, Senior Health

Spring Cleaning? Think About Downsizing!

Posted on May 15, 2022 by amizelladmin

This is the time of year when we open the windows and let in the light. Time to give everything a good dusting and vacuuming! And while we’re at it, we might decide to do a little decluttering, as well. … Continue reading →

Posted in General

Arthritis and Rainy Weather: Is There a Connection?

Posted on May 1, 2022 by amizelladmin

April showers bring May flowers…and according to an old belief, they also bring a worsening of arthritis. Some people even claim they can predict rain when their joints ache. But is that true, or a myth? May is National Arthritis … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Food Label Facts for Older Adults

Posted on April 18, 2022 by amizelladmin

Is your diet made up exclusively of dishes you create from scratch, using fresh ingredients? Most likely not! Most of us use plenty of canned, boxed, frozen or bottled products, and that’s just fine—so long as what’s in those packages … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Lifestyle Changes to Lower the Risk of Cancer

Posted on April 2, 2022 by amizelladmin

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, only following heart disease. Each year, almost 1,800,000 people will be diagnosed with cancer, and close to 600,000 … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

How Can We Avoid Spreading Health Misinformation?

Posted on February 15, 2022 by amizelladmin

Along with the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve been experiencing another epidemic—this one of misinformation! Spreading unsubstantiated rumors is never a good thing, and in the case of health information, it can be life-threatening. For most of us, it feels good to … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Self-Neglect Is an Underreported Type of Elder Abuse

Posted on February 1, 2022 by amizelladmin

During a visit to their hometown, Dan and Amy visited their great-aunt. Aunt Becky was glad to see them, but they were worried at what they saw in her home. Her usually spotless house was dirty and unkempt. Though she’d … Continue reading →

Posted in Caregiving, Senior Health

Did You Resolve to Lose Weight in 2022? Here’s Some Motivation!

Posted on January 15, 2022 by amizelladmin

Here’s a common question: “What’s your New Year’s resolution this year?” And a common answer: “To lose some weight … same as last year and, come to think of it, the year before!” It can be so hard to lose … Continue reading →

Posted in General

Protect Your Heart All Day Long

Posted on January 1, 2022 by amizelladmin

Experts from Greece offer insights that could provide a heart health boost morning, noon and night! Give your morning repast a makeover Does what we eat for breakfast, and how much, make a difference in the health of our arteries? … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Experts Offer Health and Safety Tips for the Holidays

Posted on December 20, 2021 by amizelladmin

The holidays are here! Festive lights and music cheer us up during these darkest days of the year. We reunite with loved ones—either in person, or perhaps online, as many of us did last year. Unwrapping our heirloom decorations bathes … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Insights from Finland About Senior Independence and Exercise

Posted on December 1, 2021 by amizelladmin

Finland is known for valuing healthy, active living. And did you know that with the exception of Japan, Finland has the fastest-growing percentage of older adults of any country? University researchers in Finland are drawing on many studies of its … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Tell Your Doctor About Alternative Medicine Practices

Posted on November 19, 2021 by amizelladmin

Today, many people are using health care approaches that are not considered to typically be part of conventional medical care. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), these products and practices fall into three categories: Complementary practices … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

A Flu Shot Reminder for Heart Patients

Posted on November 3, 2021 by amizelladmin

When it comes to vaccines, most of the conversation these days concerns shots to protect us from COVID-19. People who are living with a heart condition are at higher risk of both contracting the virus that causes COVID, and experiencing … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Getting Your Inner Caveman Off the Couch

Posted on October 20, 2021 by amizelladmin

The Flintstones had all sorts of humorous labor-saving devices—a dinosaur lawn mower, a mastodon vacuum cleaner and so forth. But in reality, our ancient ancestors worked hard to survive. Anthropologists tell us this might be why it’s so hard to … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Avoid an Appointment with Dr. Google

Posted on October 2, 2021 by amizelladmin

Do you “doomscroll”? That word was coined to describe a habit many of us have developed over the past few years, obsessively clicking on links to bad news in our social media feeds or online news sites. “The biology of … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Pandemic Quiet Provided a Contrast to Our Noisy Life

Posted on September 20, 2021 by amizelladmin

As stay-at-home orders went into place, the streets were virtually deserted. Businesses and industries suspended production. Airlines canceled flights. Live music at bars and concert arenas ceased. Even the 4th of July fireworks were called off. That resulted in a quieter … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

A Labor Day Shoutout to Working Family Caregivers

Posted on September 2, 2021 by amizelladmin

During the pandemic, it has become more apparent than ever that working family caregivers are stretched thin as they balance caregiving with their job responsibilities. Much attention has been paid to the stressful situation of working parents, who were suddenly … Continue reading →

Posted in Caregiving

Vacationing With Your Senior Loved One

Posted on August 19, 2021 by amizelladmin

Last year at this time, few people were even considering hitting the road for a vacation. Even at the beginning of Summer 2021, there was some hesitation. But reports are that many people in the U.S. now are seeking to … Continue reading →

Posted in Caregiving, General

Eight Questions About Seniors and Dehydration

Posted on August 5, 2021 by amizelladmin

This summer, much of the country has been suffering under the blistering heat. High temperatures are especially dangerous for older adults, and dehydration is one of the big factors when they experience heat-related illness. Yet even during cooler times of … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Reduce Your Stress By Resolving Conflict

Posted on July 20, 2021 by amizelladmin

You’ve probably heard the old adage that couples shouldn’t go to bed angry. This advice could apply to other relationships as well, according to a new study from Oregon State University (OSU). The study authors also say older adults are … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Talking About Incontinence? Let’s Do It!

Posted on July 2, 2021 by amizelladmin

Last month, June 21 – 27 was World Continence Week. The Urology Foundation says this recognition week is to “highlight the impact urinary incontinence can have on our lives and encourage those living with incontinence to seek help so they … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Experts Learn From Seniors During the Pandemic

Posted on June 20, 2021 by amizelladmin

Older adults were hardest hit by the effects of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, facing the highest risk of serious illness and death from the disease. Social distancing helped protect them, but posed a threat to their physical and mental … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Men Get Osteoporosis, Too!

Posted on June 1, 2021 by amizelladmin

May was National Osteoporosis Awareness Month. Osteoporosis is a condition where bones gradually thin and weaken. It is common among older adults of all genders—yet many people mistakenly believe that it’s only a health concern of women. It’s true that … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Faster Stroke Treatment Is Everyone’s Job

Posted on May 20, 2021 by amizelladmin

May is National Stroke Awareness Month. During this month, the emphasis has been on ways to lower the risk of stroke and the latest research on stroke treatment. And one more thing that’s heavily emphasized: When it comes to stroke … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Is It Safe to Exercise With Arthritis?

Posted on May 2, 2021 by amizelladmin

May is Arthritis Awareness Month. Over 54 million people in the U.S. are living with arthritis, and with the aging of our population, that number will grow. Arthritis is the general term for a group of more than 100 conditions … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Protecting Our Brains During the Pandemic

Posted on April 20, 2021 by amizelladmin

While most people think of COVID-19 as primarily affecting the lungs, the data on millions of patients shows it can damage other body systems, including the brain. Some patients have experienced serious brain inflammation, delirium, hallucinations, psychotic symptoms, and strokes. … Continue reading →

Posted in Caregiving, Dementia Care, Senior Health

Could the Moon Affect Our Sleep?

Posted on April 7, 2021 by amizelladmin

During National Sleep Month in March, sleep experts have been offering tips and advice for better slumber. Scientists know more these days about sleep and its role in health. When we sleep, our bodies might be resting, but our brains … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Rehabilitation for Our Most Important Muscle

Posted on March 20, 2021 by amizelladmin

Rehabilitation for Our Most Important Muscle This is a great time to learn about cardiac rehabilitation, an important healthcare resource for people who have heart problems. It includes exercise, education on heart-healthy living, and counseling to reduce stress and help … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Preserving Our Sense of Purpose—Even Now

Posted on March 3, 2021 by amizelladmin

Gerontologists tell us that feeling we make a difference in the world provides a powerful healthy aging boost. A 2019 study of 7,000 older adults published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science showed that those who engaged in … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Did You Resolve to Cut Down on Sugar?

Posted on February 20, 2021 by amizelladmin

Our New Year’s resolutions often include weight loss and healthy eating—and reducing our sugar intake can help us meet both of those worthy goals. USDA guidelines recommend that we take in less than 10% of our daily calories from sugar. … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Don’t Delay Reporting TMJ Symptoms

Posted on February 2, 2021 by amizelladmin

Among the other side effects of COVID-19 and the accompanying quarantine, dentists say that more patients are calling with broken or cracked teeth—a result of the stress we’re experiencing, which we often take out on our teeth with clenching or … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Talking to the Senior Men in Your Life About COVID-19

Posted on January 20, 2021 by amizelladmin

There is exciting news these days about the progress being made toward distribution of the vaccine targeting the virus that causes COVID-19, which has taken the lives of so many people worldwide. Older adults have been hardest hit by the … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Study Examines Older Adult Loneliness During the Pandemic

Posted on January 3, 2021 by amizelladmin

It looks as if there is good news on the horizon as research teams forge full speed ahead to develop and distribute a vaccine to control the spread of the coronavirus. But it will be some time before the pandemic … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

To Create Memories, Put Down Your Camera and Pick up a Pen!

Posted on December 18, 2020 by amizelladmin

These days, more and more people have a smartphone—and most of those phones come equipped with a camera. It’s become our impulse to whip out our phone or digital camera to take a photo of anything interesting we see. But … Continue reading →

Posted in Dementia Care, Senior Health

Seven Great Ways to Protect Your Immune System

Posted on December 1, 2020 by amizelladmin

During 2020, prevention has been top of mind for many of us! Though we can and should be immunized against seasonal influenza (“the flu”), a vaccine for COVID-19 isn’t available yet. The tools at our disposal for lowering our risk … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

What Is Prehabilitation?

Posted on November 21, 2020 by amizelladmin

After surgery or another medical procedure, patients often take part in a rehabilitation program to help them achieve optimal healing and function. Rehab helps them build their muscles, regain function, and cope with the emotional and cognitive aspects of recovery. … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

More Than Ever Before, Family Caregivers Need Our Help

Posted on November 3, 2020 by amizelladmin

November is National Family Caregivers Month During 2020, there’s been much focus on societal inequalities. Many people have been discussing the impact of racial, cultural, gender and economic discrimination on populations both in this country and around the world. Yet … Continue reading →

Posted in Caregiving

Pain Insights That Are Especially Relevant Today

Posted on October 20, 2020 by amizelladmin

Pain isn’t “all in your head,” as some people dismissively say. However, the way we think about our pain can make a big difference! In August 2020, a research team from Penn State University Center for Healthy Aging published a … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

The Right Car for Senior Drivers

Posted on October 5, 2020 by amizelladmin

As we grow older, we experience changes that can make it less safe to drive. Eye diseases, arthritis and memory problems can make it harder to steer, react and make good decisions behind the wheel. Even routine age-related changes in … Continue reading →

Posted in General

Staying Positive During Challenging Times

Posted on September 20, 2020 by amizelladmin

If you’re like most people these days, you’re spending a certain amount of time fretting. Given what’s going on in the world right now, that’s understandable. But what if you can’t stop the bad thoughts that are going through your … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

September Is Healthy Aging Month. What Does It Mean to “Age Successfully”?

Posted on September 5, 2020 by amizelladmin

Many studies show that ageism is a serious health problem, both in the U.S. and around the world. So today, there’s a big push to improve the way aging is portrayed. In place of the images of yesteryear—older adults walking … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Is It a Stroke, or Heat Stroke?

Posted on August 20, 2020 by amizelladmin

Every summer, many Americans suffer from heat-related illness, and experts caution that 2020 will offer extra challenges. People who quarantine in a home without air conditioning can overheat quickly, and many of the traditional spots where we go to cool … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Prediabetes Is a Wake-Up Call

Posted on August 5, 2020 by amizelladmin

As experts are learning more about COVID-19, they’ve found that certain underlying health conditions raise a patient’s risk of serious complications and death. Diabetes is one of those conditions. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) explains that while having diabetes doesn’t … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Social Distancing Lures More Seniors Across the Digital Divide

Posted on July 20, 2020 by amizelladmin

To find a paradox in senior well-being, we need look no further than today! We know that staying socially connected is vital for the mental health of seniors. And yet, social distancing is the key ingredient to help them avoid … Continue reading →

Posted in Caregiving

Census 2020: Have You Been Counted?

Posted on July 5, 2020 by amizelladmin

So many events have been affected by this year’s coronavirus outbreak. The 2020 election will be more complicated, the 2020 Olympic Games were postponed for a year, and countless planned events were canceled. The 2020 Census has also been impacted … Continue reading →

Posted in General

Having Food Delivered During the Pandemic? Play It Safe.

Posted on June 20, 2020 by amizelladmin

Not wanting to risk exposure to the coronavirus at a public grocery store during the COVID-19 pandemic, more people are opting to have groceries, prepared foods, and meal kits delivered to their homes. And though restaurants are closed, many still … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Avoiding “Side Effects” of the Quarantine

Posted on June 5, 2020 by amizelladmin

By now most of us are well aware of steps we can take to reduce our risk of exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19. It’s top of mind for most folks when we think about our health at this … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Helping a Loved One With Dementia Manage Their Money

Posted on May 20, 2020 by amizelladmin

When a senior is living with Alzheimer’s disease or a related disorder, family members often worry about their loved one’s safety. Will Dad go to bed, forgetting the tea kettle is boiling on the stove? Will Mom get lost? Will … Continue reading →

Posted in Dementia Care, Fiduciary Services

Could Your Loved One Have an Anxiety Disorder?

Posted on May 2, 2020 by amizelladmin

These days, it seems like we have a lot to worry about! The coronavirus outbreak, politics, the stock market, all added to our usual worries about health, money, perhaps the problems of other family members … we can all be … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Remodeling the “Food Pyramid” for Seniors

Posted on April 21, 2020 by amizelladmin

Many people assume the nutritional requirements of seniors are the same as those for younger adults. But a report released by the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (HNRCA) revealed that it’s not that simple. The researchers … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Lowering the Risk of Dangerous Blood Clots

Posted on April 2, 2020 by amizelladmin

Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in a large vein, usually in the lower leg, thigh, pelvis or arm. This clot can cause temporary or permanent damage to the vein where it forms. And if a clot … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Brain Health: What Really Works?

Posted on March 20, 2020 by amizelladmin

Polls show that when it comes to aging, worrying about memory loss is a top concern of Americans. A recent study conducted by the University of Michigan Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation found that nearly half of middle-age residents … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Are Your Devices Making You Lazy?

Posted on March 5, 2020 by amizelladmin

By now, most of us know that getting enough exercise is vital for good health and optimal aging. More people today are at least making an effort, setting aside time several times a week to get some physical activity—a minimum … Continue reading →

Posted in General, Senior Health

Opioid Medications Raise the Risk of Falls

Posted on February 21, 2020 by amizelladmin

You’ve no doubt read of the terrible opioid epidemic that is ruining—and taking—so many lives. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that 40 people die each day from an overdose of opioid medications, such as hydrocodone, oxycodone … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

How to Treat a Winter Cold

Posted on February 7, 2020 by amizelladmin

It’s that time of year when our nose can be as red as Rudolph’s! Researchers have various theories about why we’re more likely to catch the common cold in the winter. One reason is that all the holiday travel and … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Avoiding “Elderspeak”: Respectful Communication with Older Adults

Posted on November 20, 2019 by amizelladmin

A nurse comes into a senior patient’s room and says, “Are we ready for a shower?” “How are you today, young lady?” says a senior care aide says to a 90-year-old resident. A volunteer at an adult day center watches … Continue reading →

Posted in General

Supporting Caregivers Is Everybody’s Job

Posted on November 4, 2019 by amizelladmin

November is National Family Caregivers Month. In the U.S., more people than ever before are providing care support for older relatives and friends. They are helping loved ones manage their health care and medications, assisting with the activities of daily … Continue reading →

Posted in Caregiving

Studies Confirm Sensory Loss Raises Risk of Dementia

Posted on October 23, 2019 by amizelladmin

Vision problems, hearing loss, and a diminished sense of touch, taste and smell all become more common as we grow older. And so do Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Is there a connection? Scientists have long suspected that … Continue reading →

Posted in Dementia Care, Senior Health

Experts Offer New Insights into Senior Driving Safety

Posted on October 7, 2019 by amizelladmin

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to prevent traffic deaths and injuries through research and education. The foundation has conducted many studies on older drivers, with the two-fold mission of extending the driving … Continue reading →

Posted in General

Hospital Delirium: What Senior Patients and Families Should Know

Posted on September 21, 2019 by amizelladmin

A senior goes in for a routine surgery and afterward, family are dismayed to see that their loved one isn’t themselves at all! Their loved one might be agitated, confused, or barely awake. They might not know where they are, … Continue reading →

Posted in Caregiving, Senior Health

Labor Day Special: Working Caregivers Are Having a Tough Time of It

Posted on September 2, 2019 by amizelladmin

This Labor Day, more workers in the U.S. than ever before are juggling two jobs—their paid work, and caring for a disabled spouse, their parents, or other older loved ones. Did we say two jobs? Make that three! According to … Continue reading →

Posted in Care Management, Caregiving

Denial All Around: Many Avoiding the Conversation About Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted on August 20, 2019 by amizelladmin

University of Michigan experts recently released a study titled “Thinking About Brain Health,” in which they polled people in their 50s and early 60s about their thoughts about dementia. They found that people worry about memory loss a lot. Almost … Continue reading →

Posted in Dementia Care, Senior Health

Seven Great Reasons Seniors Should Add More Music to Their Lives

Posted on August 5, 2019 by amizelladmin

Every human culture has a musical tradition. Why do we love music? If you think about it, isn’t it remarkable that among all the many noises in the world, we perceive certain tones, patterns and intervals as “music”? Brain scientists … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

At Every Age, We Want to Make a Difference

Posted on July 20, 2019 by amizelladmin

Seniors have a lifetime of wisdom to share—and yet, say experts, today’s older adults may have few opportunities to do so! Said University of Toronto professor Markus Schafer, “While the average 65-year-old may well have more wisdom than the average … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Safer Walking for Senior Pedestrians

Posted on July 5, 2019 by amizelladmin

Most of us know that exercise is a—if not the—top way to promote healthy aging. A good exercise program for seniors includes aerobic, muscle strengthening and balance activities. And it’s good to know that walking is a great way to … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Oral Health: It’s Not Just About a Nice Smile

Posted on June 22, 2019 by amizelladmin

June Is Oral Health Month Our teeth and gums change as we grow older. Years of wear and tear take a toll, often causing thinning enamel and broken or lost teeth. Teeth with repairs such as crowns, fillings and root … Continue reading →

Posted in Senior Health

Meeting the Needs of LGBT Seniors With Dementia

Posted on June 13, 2019 by amizelladmin

This month, we celebrate Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Pride Month. This recognition takes place in June to mark the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Uprising, an event that is symbolic of the ongoing battle for LGBT rights. This … Continue reading →

Posted in Dementia Care

Recent Posts

  • Sleep Lessons from Our Ancestors
  • Controlling High Blood Pressure Is Good for the Brain
  • Spring Cleaning? Think About Downsizing!
  • Arthritis and Rainy Weather: Is There a Connection?
  • Food Label Facts for Older Adults
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Senior Planning Services - Santa Barbara

402 East Carrillo, Suite C | Santa Barbara, CA 93101
P: 805-966-3312 | F: 805-963-7146 | Email Us

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Everywhere in Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties

Senior Planning Services serves Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties.  Our 2 offices provide support for families who need assistance from Santa Maria to Camarillo including Montecito, Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez, Lompoc, Solvang, Hope Ranch, Oxnard & Ventura.

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