Senior Advocate
Martha Shapiro, Director of Programs at Senior Concerns, authors a weekly column for the Ventura County Star titled “Senior Advocate,” focusing on issues affecting seniors and their family caregivers.
Martha Shapiro, Director of Programs at Senior Concerns, authors a weekly column for the Ventura County Star titled “Senior Advocate,” focusing on issues affecting seniors and their family caregivers.
I have been a professional social worker for over 15 years. I entered the field because I wanted to work in a helping profession. I was not sure exactly how, but I loved the field of social work because it is so varied. It provides an educational foundation to work with individuals and communities in [...]
Q: What do I need to know about making plans in case I become ill and can no longer make decisions for myself? A: Advanced care planning, making plans for the “what ifs” of the future, is an important step as an adult and can provide peace of mind. It will most likely feel uncomfortable [...]
Q: This weather has been so hard on my joint pain. What can I do to help myself feel better in the cold? A: Many people believe they can predict the weather based on how their joints feel. There is some real research to support this idea, although there are many factors. Weather conditions do [...]
Q: My mom is currently in the hospital, and I think she needs to go to rehab before going home. How can I best advocate for her? A: When a loved one is in the hospital, they need you to be their advocate and ensure they get the care they need and want. It can [...]
Q: My husband has dementia and will not remember that it is Valentine’s Day. How can I still make the day feel special? A: When your partner has dementia, it changes the way special days are celebrated. If your loved one cannot remember the date or understand the meaning, then birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays like [...]
Q: My husband passed away a few months ago and I want to move out of the house as soon as possible. My friends are all telling me I should not move right away. How soon is too soon? A: I am sorry to hear of the loss of your husband. After a death, it [...]
Q: Where can I get help filing my taxes for free? A: Tax season can be overwhelming. Having a reliable place to go for help is important. Thankfully, there are free and trustworthy programs available for seniors aged 60 or older, and to anyone with an income of $60,000 or less, regardless of age. The [...]
Q: What is the HomeShare Program and how can I learn more about it? A: Ventura County HomeShare is an innovative program that helps match people who have a home with extra room and people who are seeking a room to rent. Simply put, home sharing is an arrangement where two or more unrelated people [...]
Q: My 89-year-old mother gets upset with me when I can’t reach her on her home or cell phone, and I head over to her house to make sure she is OK. What can I do to reduce this stress? A: I can understand the stress behind this question. This is a common struggle between [...]
Q: I cannot believe it is 2024 already! Why do the years feel like they are moving faster as I age? A: It is quite normal to feel like time is speeding up as we get older. There are many reasons for this feeling. We can better understand why this happens and how to help [...]