Senior Advocate

Q:  What is National Family Caregivers Month? A:  November is National Family Caregivers Month. I often write about different months that are recognized because I think it can be an important tool in raising awareness.  Family caregivers are an often unseen force in our community that deserve attention and [...]

Q: What can I do to protect myself from the flu this year? A: Protecting yourself from the flu virus is important to safeguard your health. One of the first lines of defense is the flu vaccine which needs to be taken every year at the start of flu [...]

I wrote a column a few months ago about how micro interactions can make a difference in our moods and our sense of community. Even small interactions with people at the grocery store or doctors’ office waiting room can change the course of our day and feel meaningful. I [...]

My mother’s cousin, Elizabeth, recently reached out to me. She is moving from her own home and downsizing to live in a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). A CCRC is a retirement community that has different levels of care all in one location, usually including independent, assisted living, memory [...]

Q: Is AI something that would be useful to me as an older adult? A: Artificial intelligence (AI) can be beneficial for older adults in particular as a way to maintain safety, access resources, increase independence, and reduce isolation. Any new concept and technology may seem overwhelming at first.  [...]

Q: What do I need to know about Medicare Open Enrollment this year? A: Medicare Open Enrollment is a set time each year when anyone who has Medicare health insurance can change their health plan and their prescription drug plan. Open Enrollment starts on October 15th and ends on [...]

Q: I am so worried about losing my memory and am starting to see some signs. What can I do to help my memory? A: Most people have some level of fear of developing dementia and having memory loss as they age. This fear is so prevalent because people [...]

Q: My parents resist all new technology, and I think they are missing out. How can I encourage them to  try new technology? A: Technology can feel very overwhelming to people who did not grow up using it. And yet our society has moved so quickly that anyone who [...]

Q:  I have Parkinson’s Disease. What are some gadgets or devices that might make my life easier? A: Using assistive devices to promote your own independence and safety is an excellent idea. Not only can it make things easier, but it also means saving your energy, reducing your stress, [...]

Q:  I am 80 years old and still live independently. My kids are telling me I need to think of a plan, but I am not ready. Why should I make any changes until I need to? A:  Planning for the future is important at every age. It is [...]

Q:  I am looking for a therapist. How do I know if I should look for a psychologist, a psychiatrist, an LCSW or an LMFT? A:  When looking for a therapist you will want to consider your needs and find the best match to work with you. It can [...]

Q:  I’m helping my mother move from her house into an assisted living facility next week, and I am so worried all the time. How can I make sure she will be happy there? A:  The love and care that you feel for your mother means you want the [...]

Q:  What are signs that someone is having a stroke? A:  It is vital for people to be aware of stroke symptoms so they can react quickly to get medical attention. I recently spoke with a 77-year-old woman, Angela, who had a minor stroke. She was unaware of her [...]

Q:  My husband resists being active and following the physical therapy recommendations. How can I convince him to do his exercises? A:  It can be very frustrating to see your loved one not engaging in physical activities when you know it will help them. This is very common and [...]

Q: I want to apply for food stamps, but I heard the program is being cut. Is it worth applying? A: Yes; if you are struggling to afford food and think you may qualify you should apply for benefits. What we refer to as “food stamps” is now called [...]

A few weeks ago, I asked you all to write in with your best advice. I believe our best gift to each other is to impart our wisdom and to learn from each other. That is how we grow and help the next generation move forward and prosper. We [...]

Q: My husband has dementia, and I have trouble getting him to drink enough water. How can I help keep him hydrated in the hot weather? A: People with dementia can easily become dehydrated because they may not recognize thirst in the same way. They may forget to drink [...]

I was recently on a family trip, and I ended up ordering way too much food. I had misunderstood the portions, and we sat at the table surrounded by a feast. As my family laughed about my order, I reminded them that my father would have been proud. I [...]

Q:  I am caring for my husband, and I am always so worried about what will happen next. How can I stop worrying so much about the future? A: Most caregivers understand the feeling of worry and never know what is around the next corner. They always carry their [...]

I recently heard a new term: micro-interactions. I was sharing with my co-worker the topic of my column that appeared last week on how to meet new people and make friends as an older adult. I shared the story of the 95-year-old man who enjoys conversations with the barista [...]