She raised her hands, exasperated. “They don’t have my yogurt!”“Is there some other brand you could eat?” I prompted.“I can’t get back here to the store. I’ve got a sitter taking care of my husband who is crazy! Crazy! You don’t know,” She shook her head as if clearing visions that she wanted to forget. [...]
It's that time of year when the outdoors beckon! Spending time outdoors is good for all ages, but especially beneficial if you are "getting up there" in years. It increases our vitamin D levels, which helps fight certain conditions such as osteoporosis, cancer, heart attacks and depression. Make getting outside one of your goals for [...]
As a growing number of the estimated 78 million Baby Boomers transition into their senior years, an increased focus is placed on the health of this important group of Americans. According to the United States Census Bureau, more than 12 percent of the total U.S. population is over age 65 and, of that segment, more [...]
The varieties of situations caregivers deal with on a yearly basis often include one or more experiences with medical equipment brought into the home. Medical supply companies deal in everything from oxygen to diabetic supplies, depending on the company. While caregivers breathe a sigh of relief when the medical supplies are first delivered, prolonged exposure [...]
These conversations can go in all sorts of directions. Sometimes it’s best to let that happen. But there are a few key issues you should cover: How Things Are Now – Is the person you care about already facing challenges that you may not be aware of? Do you have a clear and realistic view [...]
Taking care of two elderly parents with different needs was not an easy task. For me it was on the job training that I learned from interacting with the professionals I met along the way, from living day to day with the challenges that I experienced, from others who had gone through this trying time, [...]
Skills in Motion is a new fitness class that guides older people through playground games. There was a lot of whooping and hollering as a group of exuberant students gathered for recess time at Asphalt Green on the Upper East Side. They were playing a game called “popcorn.” “Listen up everyone,” yelled one of the [...]
Your parent prizes his or her independence and insists on living at home, alone. However, you see signs of vulnerability and a precarious situation with the potential for falls and injury , poor nutrition and your parent becoming neglected or housebound . You want to help, but you live at a distance and don't know [...]
All bank accounts, account numbers and types of accounts and the location of banks. Insurance Company, policy number, beneficiary as stated on the policies and type of insurance (health, life, long term care, automobile, etc). Deed and titles to ALL property. Loan/lien information, who holds them and if there are any death provisions. Social Security [...]
Releasing Resentment Caregivers love to help people. It is a good feeling to comfort and give aid to someone in need. This support can also take its toll. There is a great responsibility and at times a burden that is felt in the caregiver role. It is important to find a way to express and [...]
