Tips for Winter Wellness
![](https://cmss.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/pexels-olga-lioncat-7245307-1024x683.jpg)
In the Chicagoland area, the winter can be beautiful but also cold, snowy, and a little unsafe if we are unprepared. Older adults are especially vulnerable to the risks that severe winter weather poses. These Tips for Winter Wellness can help you keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
Building Social Connections to Combat Loneliness
![](https://cmss.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SC1-1-1024x683.png)
Learn more about CMSS’ Senior Connections program that matches volunteers with older adults to create mutually beneficial friendships that reduce loneliness and social isolation.
How Older Adults Can Practice Gratefulness Ahead of Thanksgiving
![An elderly woman and a young woman smile while looking over an art project](https://cmss.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Practicing-Gratefulness.jpg)
2020 brought significant challenges for most of us, but as we approach Thanksgiving, it’s important to take a step back and reflect on the good that has entered your life this year. These could be small acts of kindness you’ve experienced or large feelings of joy; both should be acknowledged and reflected on. Here’s how […]
Sounds of Healing Series: Incorporating Similar Therapeutic Music Practices into Your Holiday Celebrations
![A group of musicians perform with stringed instruments in front of an audience of seniors in a common area of a residential care facility](https://cmss.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/CMSS-musicians-Sounds-of-Healing.jpg)
For the last few months, we’ve been discussing the benefits of therapeutic music and Chicago Methodist Senior Services’ (CMSS) Sounds of Healing program for older adults. Now, with the holiday season upon us, you might be wondering how to bring the joy of music into your holiday celebrations with your parents, grandparents or any other […]
Three Benefits of Art Therapy for Seniors
![Close up of hands drawing with a yellow marker](https://cmss.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Benefits-of-Art-Therapy-for-Seniors.jpg)
Have you ever found comfort in painting a picture, creating pottery or even discussing an artist’s work you enjoy? Art therapy is a creative form of therapy for older adults with memory loss, or people experiencing mental or physical stress. Unlike a regular art class, art therapy sessions are led by professional art therapists. They’re […]
Master These Mental Health Screening Tools to Stay Healthy
![Two women with arms around each other discuss mental health screening](https://cmss.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Screen-Shot-2017-05-26-at-10.54.11-AM.png)
Most of us have participated in annual physical checkups, allowing our doctors to check on various aspects of our health, like our blood pressure or weight. This is an important way to determine the quality of our health and help us make improvements as needed.
The Importance of Spiritual Health As We Grow Older
![A man with his hand under his chin, as if in contemplative thought](https://cmss.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Spirituality-1-Dollarphotoclub_86222212-1024x682.jpg)
Do you view aging as a spiritual journey as well as a physical one? Spirituality can help older individuals approach aging in a meaningful, positive way.
Looking Forward: Embracing the New Year as an Older Adult
![four women laugh in the midst of engaged conversation](https://cmss.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/5907960975_de4c3564c8_z.jpg)
With so many of us feeling refreshed and optimistic after the holiday season, there’s no better time to start planning to make 2016 your best year. Whether or not you are a fan of making New Year’s resolutions, the beginning of the year is a great time to set up a game plan to make […]
5 Smart Ways to Take Care of Your Mental Health as You Age
![A patient consulting with her doctor](https://cmss.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/cms_15005_-_blood_pressure_360x270.jpg)
Even if you aren’t diagnosed with a mental illness, your thoughts, emotions and attitude affect your energy, productivity and overall health. It’s imperative to take care of your mental health as you age in order to strengthen your ability to cope with everyday hassles as well as more serious crises and challenges.
How to talk to your doctor about your mental health
![A patient consulting with her doctor](https://cmss.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/doctor_consults_with_patient__7__495x330.jpg)
Talking to your doctor about your mental health can be tough. The topic isn’t easy to bring up, but as you age, it will become increasingly important to discuss.
Four Early Warning Signs of Mental Illness to Watch for in Older Adults
Mental illness is a common, though often ignored, malady in older adults. The World Health Organization found that, as of 2013, approximately 15% of adults over the age of 60 suffer from a mental disorder. Unfortunately, many people confuse symptoms of mental illness with normal signs of aging. Mental illnesses are diseases that cause mild-to-severe […]
2015 Health Resolution #1: Strengthen the Mind
Five tips to help your mind stay sharp throughout 2015.