()We use our senses to understand and experience the world around us, whether we are reading a favorite book or taking in the fresh-cut grass smell. Although our senses are essential to our lives, we often take them for granted.

Sensory loss is a difficult reality that is more evident in seniors. According to a survey conducted by Home Instead, Inc., nearly 83 percent of Americans over the age of 65 have at least one impaired sense. The COVID-19 epidemic has made it more difficult for people with sensory loss to connect with loved ones.

“As we age, it’s normal to experience some changes or decline in our five senses,”Lakelyn Hogue, gerontologist at Home Instead Senior care, is a caregiver advocate. “Early detection and empathy can significantly increase the ability to manage symptoms and help create a supportive environment at home that allows you or your loved one to continue living a normal, fulfilling life.”

Hogan suggests the following tips, whether you are helping someone you love navigate these problems or trying to reduce the impact of aging on yourself.

1. Keep active. Even if you only do it a few times per week, physical activity can have a positive impact on your health and senses. You can do simple movements in your living space, take part in online classes or walk around your subdivision. Regular exercise can improve cognitive function, prevent common diseases like diabetes and heart disease and strengthen bones. It can even increase blood flow to vital areas like the eyes.

2. Healthy eating habits are essential. A well-balanced diet will not only make you feel better but also provide the nutrients and vitamins that we need to sustain and enrich our senses. When possible, plan healthy, nutritious meals that include fruits, vegetables, proteins, grains, and other nutrients. More colors means more flavor. You can use delivery services such as Instacart or Uber Eats if you are unable to go to the grocery store. Or, take advantage of the free tips, tricks, and recipes at www.FoodForSeniors.com.

3. The volume should be turned down. Turn it down now if you don’t wish to continue cranking the volume up as you age. To minimize hearing damage, take a 15-minute break from loud noises and wear earplugs when necessary.

4. Protect your vision. Home Instead, Inc. found that vision is the most dangerous sense to lose. It is also the most widespread. You can save your eyesight by taking advantage of low-cost options. To protect your eyes from the UV rays of the sun, make it a habit to wear sunglasses. You can also use blue-light filtering sunglasses to minimize eye strain.

5. Do not be afraid to ask for assistance. It doesn’t mean you have to suffer sensory loss all by yourself. Set up a network with doctors you trust to schedule routine checks-ups. A general practitioner or geriatrician can benefit from regular visits. Even online video appointments can be helpful in keeping track of your symptoms and identifying any changes in your sensory loss. It is worth speaking with a specialist, such an ear, nose, and throat doctor or occupational therapist to determine the exact cause and severity.

Visit www.AgingSenses.comContact your local authority for more information regarding sensory loss. Home Instead Senior Careoffice