Senior Concerns in Thousand Oaks will host a workshop Tuesday about ways caregivers can help sustain their loved ones’ independence. Caregiving: Solutions Supporting Independence will be presented by Holly Spiegel, founder and senior design consultant for Adaptive Design Associates, and Patti Smith, a full-time caregiver to her older sister, who died of breast cancer. “We will be discussing the mindset of giving and receiving care as well as imparting knowledge and real-world solutions,” said Spiegel, of Westlake Village, who holds an executive certificate in home modifications from USC. Program topics will include balancing aesthetics and function with home modifications, staying independent while aging and being proactive when giving care. Spiegel will focus on the physical environment and how it can support caregivers and care recipients. “A proper approach to home modifications goes far beyond installing grab bars,” said Spiegel, adding that she will discuss a whole-house approach, with special attention to fall prevention. “Every room in the home will be discussed, including exterior spaces,” Spiegel said. “When I assess a home, I approach it from all aspects, from the outside front street and curb throughout the house and out to the backyard and garden. This conversation will take the same approach.” Smith’s experience with caregiving involved leaving her job and moving her sister from Oak Park into her home along with her sister’s two children. “My husband and 7-year-old daughter were in this journey with me,” said Smith, of West Hills. “All of my immediate family lived in Michigan and Florida, so it was quite an overwhelming experience at times.” After her sister died, Smith got involved in health care, first working in fall prevention and eventually teaming up with Evolution Independent Living, a company that provides technology to help older adults and those with chronic conditions. “We feel it is important to educate older adults about these solutions supporting their independence so they can keep in control of their lives and health as much as possible,” Smith said. “We can embrace our age while keeping our independence, but should not be afraid to make some adjustments that will keep us safe and assist us to maintain the wonderful home and life we’ve so proudly built.” Spiegel said many seniors don’t think they need modifications. “My goal is to impart knowledge so people can choose to put in modifications before they are needed and thereby prevent falls or injuries that can be drastic,” she said. Additionally, many home modification solutions are for the safety of the caregiver as much as the safety of the care recipient, Spiegel said. “The aging-in-place industry is changing every day, and the typical consumer may not know of easy solutions out there that can enhance their everyday life,” she said. “Remember: Knowledge is power.” If you go What: Caregiving: Solutions Supporting Independence When: 4:30-6 p.m. Tuesday Where: Senior Concerns, 401 Hodencamp Road,Thousand Oaks Cost: Free Reservations: 497-0189; walk-in registration also welcome More …
