Senior Advocate

Q: How do I know the information I read online is accurate? A: In today’s digital world so much of our information is garnered from online sources. Learning how to spot false information and how to navigate the online world safely is more important than ever. There are two types [...]

Are non tech savvy older adults being left behind in a digital world? The COVID-19 pandemic has made technology access even more important for our everyday services.  Not only has ordering groceries and household goods online become the norm, banks and libraries have also expanded their online presence. Everything from [...]

Q:  Do you have any suggestions on how to lose the weight I have gained during the pandemic? A: The weight gain many of us are experiencing is being dubbed “The COVID 15” to parody off the “Freshman 15” that we often hear about when new college students gain 15 [...]

Q:  I am having problems doing my banking during COVID. My local bank branches have closed temporarily and I am not sure I am comfortable banking online.  What are my options for banking? A: Banking during the pandemic is another area that has shifted to more online options. Internet technology [...]

Q:  My husband has dementia and his behaviors have been really frustrating me lately. Do you have any suggestions on how I can be more patient with him? A: Caring for a loved one with dementia will almost always bring up frustrations and test our patience. It is incredibly difficult [...]

The pandemic has taken its toll on all of us and we have had to sustain a high level of stress and isolation for much longer then anyone imagined. However, the toll on our older adults has been the greatest. Now is the time we need to reach out and [...]

Q:  I keep hearing different information about vaccine distribution and I am worried I won’t know when it is my turn to sign up. How can I be sure I know who can get the vaccine? A:  It understandably has felt confusing because we are hearing information from the state [...]

Q: Are libraries still open during the pandemic and how can I access them? A:  Libraries are a wonderful resource for the community, and they have found ways to adapt and still be available to us.  While library buildings are currently closed to the public, there are other ways to [...]

Q:  I keep hearing that the hospitals are filling up and it is really worrying me. What if I get sick and need care, will the hospital be safe for me?  A: Fear of needing hospital care while we know the hospitals are being inundated with patients, both COVID and [...]

No doubt most are more than ready to ring in the New Year with the hope of putting 2020 behind us. The pandemic has left its mark on 2020. It seems when anything goes wrong, there are cries of “well that’s 2020 for you!” Between COVID-19, a tumultuous election and [...]

Q:  My license expires in January.  Will I qualify for the year extension for senior drivers that is currently in place?  A: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the California Department of Motor Vehicles had put in place an automatic renewal program for drivers age 70+ whose licenses were set to [...]

Q:  I am finding it hard to think of New Year’s resolutions this year since I feel so limited in what I can do. How can I be more optimistic about the New Year?  A: The act of making New Year’s resolutions is a hopeful and engaging activity. It allows [...]

Q:  I am worried about shopping in crowded stores this year. How can I safely do my holiday shopping?  A: With COVID-19 numbers rising and cold and flu season here, staying safe is the most important thing. There are several ways to continue your holiday shopping in a safe and [...]

Q: My mother lives with me and she has dementia. How can I find ways to make the holiday season special even though we cannot have the rest of the family visit due to the pandemic?  A: Navigating the holidays with someone with dementia may require some adjustments to make [...]

For most of us, the Thanksgiving holiday will look different this year. You may have to celebrate virtually with family, budget differently due to finances, or modify your usual get togethers to an outdoor and smaller setting. While in any normal year the Thanksgiving holiday can be loaded with mixed [...]

Q: I live alone and do not have any children nearby. What do I need to know about preparing for the future if and when I need more help? A: Planning ahead is always recommended as you age, epically if you’re a Solo Ager. Solo Agers are typically defined as [...]

Q: My husband is a veteran and I heard there is a program for veterans who need care at home when they get older. What is this program and how do I apply? A: The Veterans Pension program is an income-based benefit that may provide a monthly tax-free payment. In [...]

Q: I lost my part time job due to COVID-19 and I was using that income to supplement my social security and pay my bills. Is it true that no one can be evicted right now because of new COVID rules? A: Legislation was signed by Governor Gavin Newson that [...]

People are currently being inundated with political arguments, negative advertisements and reports of unrest around the world. It is natural to internalize these feelings of turmoil into our daily life. With everything going on, it is easy to become bogged down by a sense of dread. However, a small act [...]

Question:  What do I need to know about Medicare for 2021? Medicare open enrollment period is from October 15th–December 7th. It is important to review your plan and make sure it is still the right choice for you. Plans change a little each year and sometimes this may mean they [...]