According to a recent poll on healthy aging, 1 in 3 older adults express a feeling of loneliness. As a care manager I know that social isolation, a lack of access to socialization opportunities, and loneliness is a major and growing problem in older adults. Part of this is due to evolving technology which has impacted how we communicate, with decreased direct personal interaction. There is often a disconnect between the younger generation and some older adults in this regar

We wanted to share some upcoming events in the local DC Metro area to start off the weekend right! Take a moment to enjoy all that Spring has to offer! National Cherry Blossom Festival (It is almost over!) There is still time to enjoy the festivities as the festival ends on April 14th Checkout all the events at https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/all-events/ National Cherry Blossom Festival- PETALPALOOZA Dates: April 6, 2019 Time: 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM Admission: FREE Lo

It was truly a pleasure to speak to Great Falls older adults and family members last weekend at the Seminar for Savvy Seniors and Their Families event! Thank you Bill Canis and the Great Falls Citizens Association for coordinating another terrific program! We had an exceptional turnout for a cold and rainy morning! Unfortunately, due to time constraints we were unable to answer every question, so I have decided in follow up to post some answers to questions posed on my blo

Winter is approaching, and with the oncoming cold weather comes flu-like illnesses and gastrointestinal viruses that affect everyone, especially older adults. There are many proactive measures that can be taken to prevent becoming infected with these viruses. The best way to prevent contracting flu-like illnesses is to get yearly vaccinations that can be done at most local pharmacies. There are also flu antiviral drugs that can be used to prevent and treat these viruses. E

I was in a physicians office the other day and I noticed a mother and daughter interacting. The receptionist of course had some questions and additional forms for completion in preparation for their appointment. The daughter was rushed, impatient, and kept drilling her mother with questions, speaking quickly, and asking multiple things in almost one breath. As the daughter continued on, you could see the growing look of embarrassment and frustration come over her elderly mot

I was recently asked to share these informative articles. The articles contain a great deal of information on and ideas for preventing senior loneliness and isolation. Loneliness in seniors is a national epidemic that we can all help to change one person at a time! Volunteer to help at your local senior center, center or agency on aging, division for aging, church, temple, or synagogue! Even a little time can make a big impact on others! Enjoy the articles below and fee

Deciding on memory care placement for a family member can be a taxing and emotional experience for many families. This is not a trivial decision, as the timing, location and transition plan are all critical to success. A move to memory care must be planned for properly and well thought out. There is also the uncertainty of the decision for most. Is it really needed? Is it time for memory care or is it too early? If they need memory care, what will be the best community f

The summer is a terrific time to vacation and enjoy the sun! However, once the July heat and humidity sets in, we are often struggling and desperate for some relief! We are fortunate that, even in the summer heat, there are endless activity options for seniors in the DC metro area! So approach the heat as an opportunity to try something new or encourage a loved one to do the same. Try some indoor classes such as water aerobics or enjoy a relaxing swim in a lap pool. Tai

One of my clients shared with me a recent New York Times Article, "Its Almost Like A Ghost Town, Most Nursing Homes Overstated Staffing for Years". This article sadly does not provide any information that I am surprised about as a care manager. I work very hard to help my clients to live fully and avoid needing nursing home skilled care. I refer primarily to assisted living when possible and more recently I also like the options in many of the smaller personal care homes.

#dementia #alzheimers #seniors #dementiaeducation #elderly

I receive new client calls each week regarding family members that have been at home, living independently, whose lives are suddenly changed by the urgent need for hospitalization. Many issues are due to falls resulting in fractures and the need for short term rehab or longterm nursing home placement for convalescent care. Families are usually left feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, confused, and upset, not knowing what to do next. If possible it is best for some planning to

I have heard from several clients this week for a variety of reasons, one being the recent stock market changes. Whenever we have a significant change in the market people become concerned for obvious reasons! Seniors are especially impacted as they need and rely upon their savings to often times pay for medical care and other expenses. However, most seniors have a more conservative portfolio which is often times shielded a bit from such variability. In reading all the re

Caring for a loved one is never an easy or predictable experience. Everyday is a new adventure and sometimes not in a good way. Caregivers as a result become stressed out, overwhelmed, and develop problems in coping day to day. If you are feeling this way try your best to follow the step below to assist in keeping things on track and finding your perspective. - Work the problem! So many people let problems pile up or go in a constant circle when having challenges. Focus

Winter weather presents many challenges for seniors. Be aware of these issues and be proactive in protecting yourself during the cold winter months! Be Proactive! Check the daily and 5 day forecast and show good judgment. If inclement weather is expected that could present a hazard for walking, driving, or being outside in general, reschedule appointments and other engagements for another time. Prevent what you can! Winter-related injuries are a huge issue for seniors!

I was working with the husband of one of clients in choosing a memory care facility for their loved one. Although a difficult decision, the time had come and we were together making the best choice for the client and family long term. She would benefit from a more structured, secured, environment with social opportunities and memory care programming. In addition, the family would be able to enjoy time with their loved one more rather than focusing on direct care and tasks.

Cost: Hiring a GCM for a one-time consult, an evaluation or for ongoing support will likely overtime help in maximizing your funds and reduce overall expenses. GCM’s will assist in planning ahead and help you to limit or avoid costly care related decisions. If the goal is to keep a loved one at home, then a GCM can help you to decide which home care services may be best, can assist in interviewing and training caregivers and in forming a customized care plan to ensure that

Healthcare in the news... It's all we can talk about this week with warranted concerns. Despite the recent GOP win, nothing is as if yet set in stone as this is just the beginning! The bill still needs to head to the Senate for approval. Soon we will hopefully see some reports regarding how this bill will truly impact Americans if it indeed does pass the next stages of hopefully heavy scrutiny. Will the Senate members listen to their constituents? I sure hope so! We

As we grow older we want to maintain our health and minimize risks for injury. This is a constant balancing act in terms of decision making. How do we maintain dignity and respect loved one's wishes while keeping them safe. Sometimes people are resistant to change and do not want to adapt their lifestyle or home environment. I hear family members often say: "She will never allow me to change that" "The rugs will need to stay in place" "He will be very upset if I get rid o

#seniors #estateplanning #elderly #planningforthefuture #olderadults

I wanted to share this terrific link with helpful information: "If you’re currently caring for a person with Alzheimer’s, here are some tips that can help," says Cynthia Hutchins, Merrill Lynch’s director of financial gerontology. Information kindly provided by: Matthew R. Davis CIMA, CRPC, WMA Vice President Wealth Management Advisor NMLS ID: 643840 http://fa.ml.com/Matthew_Davis_DC_MD Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc. 1152 15th Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20005 202