Senior Advocate

A few weeks ago, I attended a work conference with my husband. I was the trailing spouse, which meant I could relax and enjoy myself while he attended CPA classes. A free vacation sounded good to me, especially after these past 24 months. Yet little did I know just how restorative this trip would be. [...]

This week begins the season of spring. The sunsets are later, the temperatures warmer, and it is the perfect time to enjoy the beautiful Southern California outdoors. Spending time in the natural sunlight has many health and wellness benefits. Take note of the many reasons the outdoors is important and make sure to prioritize this [...]

Q: I am moving my mother into my home so I can care for her as she ages. What do I need to do to prepare my home for her? A: When moving a parent into your home be sure to take time to think through all the changes that need to be made so [...]

Q: I worry how I look if I continue to wear a mask in public now, but I also worry about how I feel when I do not wear one. How do I know what is the right thing to do going forward now that mask mandates are no longer in place? A: I know [...]

As a social worker in the field of gerontology, I have worked directly with family caregivers for the last 15 years. This experience has changed my entire world view. I have never been so in awe, so inspired, and so touched by the amazing love and care that I witness. I have seen spouses who [...]

Q: I am having a hard time cleaning out my home and I have so much stuff I don’t know where to start. Where can I donate everything including medical supplies, clothing, and furniture? A: Cleaning out can be a liberating process because it allows you to free up space and get organized. Sometimes we [...]

Q: I have no family and wonder how I can plan for what will happen when I pass away. How can I arrange my affairs and who will manage my estate if I have no family? A: Adults over the age of 50 who do not have children or close family are sometimes called solo [...]

Q: Can you tell me if there is still a Food Stamps program and if there is, how do I know if I qualify? A: The Food Stamps program, now called the CalFresh program, has a long history of helping to supplement people’s food budgets, to ensure everyone has access to sufficient nutrition. This program [...]

Q: Is there a free tax preparation program again this year for seniors? A: Free tax preparation services are available for seniors aged 60 or older, and to anyone with income of $57,000 or less, regardless of age. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has operated a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for over 50 [...]

Recently I was reminded about how powerful music can be on the human spirit. In a room of people who have dementia, the song “Sweet Caroline” was played. Suddenly everyone was singing along and waving their hands to the music. It did not matter if they had been anxious, tired, or unsure of themselves, all [...]