Q: What do seniors need to know to protect themselves from fraud? A: Older adults are targeted by scammers because they are believed to have a lot of money in the bank. They also are at a greater risk of cognitive decline, which may impair their judgement and make them more susceptible to falling for [...]
Q: Can you explain the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease? A: I often get this question from people who are confused about the terms. Dementia is an umbrella term that describes the symptoms of memory loss that are severe enough to interfere with your daily life. Alzheimer’s is a specific disease under the umbrella [...]
Q: I am no longer driving, and I am having trouble figuring out how to do my errands and get groceries. Do you have any suggestions? A: It is a challenge to figure out new ways to do things when you no longer can drive yourself. Especially in this area of California, we are used [...]
Q: How much water should I drink every day to stay healthy? A: Staying well hydrated is always important, but even more so as we age. One National Institute of Health study showed that those who drink enough fluids stay healthier and develop less chronic conditions than those who do not. And yet almost 40% [...]
Q: What is Social Work appreciation month? A: March is recognized as National Social Work month. It was first organized in March of 1963 by the National Association of Social Workers as a way to encourage public support for the profession. As a social worker, I love to recognize this month and all my colleagues for the [...]
Recently my father had emergency surgery in another state, and I had to find ways to support him and my mother from afar. I learned a few things from this experience that may be useful to others going through similar situations. When someone does not ask for help, it can be difficult to know how [...]
Q: I have not traveled since the pandemic, but I think I am ready to go on a trip. I am much older now and worried about the stamina needed to travel. How can I plan a trip that I will enjoy and will not exhaust me? A: Traveling can be an amazing experience. It [...]
Q: I am caring for my husband who has dementia and I am exhausted. How can I better take care of myself while caring for him? A: Caring for a loved one is a beautiful and loving thing to do, and it is also exhausting. It can be both things at one time and [...]
Q: Where can I find free tax preparation this year for seniors? A: Free tax preparation services are available for seniors aged 60 or older, and to anyone with income of $60,000 or less, regardless of age. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has operated a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for over 50 [...]
Q: My mother has Alzheimer’s disease and we recently moved her in to live with my family and I. She gets very agitated with me. How can I help her feel calmer at my home? A: First, I will say thank you for moving her into your home and taking on the role of [...]
