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Southfield, Michigan 48033-7496

 

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Presbyterian Villages of Michigan is committed to serving seniors and communities. It’s our goal to be a first-line provider of resources, including information. Aging should be an adventure, not a scary trip!

In the PVM Blog, the experts at PVM will regularly publish articles and information. Topics may range from smart ways to age in place in your long-time home, to tips on how to shop for a senior community. We will have articles on transportation, wellness, nutrition, technology, activities, outlook-on-life, and more.

Please let us know your ideas for topics and comments on our articles. We succeed as seniors in our community have the best Aging Adventure!

As the seasons change from fall to winter and the daylight hours shorten, it’s common to feel a little blue. If, however, these feelings persist and intensify you may have Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that usually occurs between September and May. It’s characterized by constant sadness, extreme fatigue, social withdrawal, and cravings for starchy foods.

At times we all need the advice of experts. For seniors this is an opportune time to remember this. Fall not only brings out beautiful panoramas of fall colors, pumpkins and cider. It also attracts scam artists of all types. Do not respond to direct appeals by phone or mail. Unscrupulous people are standing in line to steal your money. Especially prevalent at this time of year are so-called contractors who will falsify needs that you could have for driveway and roof repair. Do not contract with anyone without seeking the advice of a trusted friend or family member.

The flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can have serious health consequences, especially for older adults. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control more than 60% of flu-related hospitalizations occur in people age 65 or older.  In the United States, flu season occurs in the fall and winter. It starts as early as October, peaks in January or February, and ends as late as May.

If April showers bring May flowers, what do May flowers bring? Pilgrims! That’s one of the earliest (and corniest) jokes I remember from childhood that still makes me chuckle, which as it turns out is a good thing.  Numerous studies have shown a link between laughter and better health.  A good, hearty laugh can boost the immune system, elevate mood, lower stress levels, reduce pain, relax tense muscles, and improve heart and brain function.  As a result, in addition to exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet, health experts are now beginning to recommend we add some humor to our daily routines.

Dear PVM Supporters: Please note this Action Alert from The Senior Alliance. The Older Americans Act is crucial to the work of the aging services network. Please help us raise the voices of seniors with policy influencers. Thanks for all you do for PVM and Michigan seniors.