It's that time of year again! There is no better time of year! Families coming together to celebrate the holidays. A time to celebrate and enjoy the best things in life-- each other!
Many families will be travelling great distance to visit their parents. Possibly, their first visit in a year. On regular phone calls, our aging parents will always tell us that everything is fine. And as much as we'd like to believe that, we must acknowledge that our parents are getting older and things may have changed since our last visit. This time together is an opportunity to take a close look at our parents and evaluate how they are doing and determine if they need additional help to remain living independently at home.
Be open to noticing what's different.
Are there signs that the home is in disrepair and needs maintenance? Any change from how they've maintained the home in the past?
Has their general appearance changed? Thinner, pale or more frail? Changes in their hygiene or or are they unkempt?
Are they having trouble hearing you, or giving inappropriate answers to questions?
Is there food in the fridge and pantry? Is it fresh or outdated?
Are their medications organized? Do they know why they are taking them? Are they prescribed by different doctors? Are they taking them as scheduled?
Is the mail opened and organized? Are bills being paid?
How's their driving? Is the car maintained? Let them take you for a ride, so you can observe them on the road.
Changes may be subtle, so it's important to take notice of them and discuss them with family members. It's important to not let the Seniors know that you are checking up on them, just be observant. Use what you are noticing as openings for conversation.
Offer to help with anything they may need around the house; raking leaves, changing lightbulbs, etc. This will give you a good idea of what's not getting done and create an opportunity to discuss with them the areas where they may need some assistance.
It's important, also, to be sure all medical directives and financial papers are up to date. Know their wishes and be sure it is all properly documented. And where it is all kept. (More information in a future blog)
Most importantly, remember why you are there. It is a time to celebrate and socialize. Keep it enjoyable. But, you need to pay attention to the changes that are happening and leave with a plan for how you can improve their quality of life and stay abreast of their needs, current and future.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Trick or Treat!
It's that time of year again! All the little ghost and goblins will be anxiously ringing doorbells in their beautiful costumes, waiting for their special treats.
Most elderly enjoy participating in the festivities and look forward to being visited by all the little goblins. But, it can also be a stressful time. Some Seniors can not walk quickly enough to get to the door, or have trouble bending to distribute the goodies. Some are afraid of the masks and fear that answering the door will expose their vulnerability.
There are ways to make this day enjoyable and pleasant for all.
Invite the Senior to your home. They'll enjoy the company and seeing all the goblins!
If the Senior prefers to remain at home, offer to be there to help distribute the goodies and answer the door. Or offer to go to the store to purchase the goodies for them.
In some neighborhoods, the Seniors like to sit outside and watch the parade of Trick or Treaters, and they find it easier to distribute the candy.
If they choose to stay at home and answer the doorbell, be sure the path is clear, so they do not trip as they're hurrying to the door.
Be a good neighbor and watch for any Tricksters preying on elderly neighbors.
Halloween is a fun time. A few precautions will make it pleasant for everyone.
Happy Halloween!
Most elderly enjoy participating in the festivities and look forward to being visited by all the little goblins. But, it can also be a stressful time. Some Seniors can not walk quickly enough to get to the door, or have trouble bending to distribute the goodies. Some are afraid of the masks and fear that answering the door will expose their vulnerability.
There are ways to make this day enjoyable and pleasant for all.
Invite the Senior to your home. They'll enjoy the company and seeing all the goblins!
If the Senior prefers to remain at home, offer to be there to help distribute the goodies and answer the door. Or offer to go to the store to purchase the goodies for them.
In some neighborhoods, the Seniors like to sit outside and watch the parade of Trick or Treaters, and they find it easier to distribute the candy.
If they choose to stay at home and answer the doorbell, be sure the path is clear, so they do not trip as they're hurrying to the door.
Be a good neighbor and watch for any Tricksters preying on elderly neighbors.
Halloween is a fun time. A few precautions will make it pleasant for everyone.
Happy Halloween!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Do You Know Where Your Parents Are?
If you're a Boomer, you probably remember a PSA years ago-- I think it was Channel 5, in New York. Just before the 10:00PM news, it ran-- "It's 10 o'clock- Do you know where your children are?" I must have been just a kid, because I was home watching it!
How times have changed. Would anyone pay attention if it was broadcast today?!
But, now, as the Boomer generation, our focus has changed. We've become the Sandwich Generation. Sandwiched between caring for our children and our parents. We worry about all of them. Are they safe? Are they OK to drive? Are they eating? Similar concerns, just different generations.
I remember my Grandmother used to say that "one Mother can take care of 6 kids, but 6 kids can't take care of one Mother!"
What happens when our parents don't want our help? Typical of most of us, we don't want to accept our frailties and admit that we need help. And, if those parents are miles away, the challenge is even greater.
Fortunately, with Seniors living longer, and many aging in their own home, either because of financial necessity, or by choice, the services that are available to Seniors and their long-distance caregivers are much more accessible than in the past.
Everything from hairdressers to Physical Therapists will come to a Seniors home, so they don't have to worry about driving to appointments, or inclement weather. Services, such as Age in Place, assist with errands and household management, and offer families peace of mind that there is a local contact overseeing their parents.
There are so many options that can improve the quality of life for Seniors and their caregivers, whether local or long-distance. So, when someone says "Do you know where your parents are?" you can say confidently, "Yes, they're comfortably at home!"
How times have changed. Would anyone pay attention if it was broadcast today?!
But, now, as the Boomer generation, our focus has changed. We've become the Sandwich Generation. Sandwiched between caring for our children and our parents. We worry about all of them. Are they safe? Are they OK to drive? Are they eating? Similar concerns, just different generations.
I remember my Grandmother used to say that "one Mother can take care of 6 kids, but 6 kids can't take care of one Mother!"
What happens when our parents don't want our help? Typical of most of us, we don't want to accept our frailties and admit that we need help. And, if those parents are miles away, the challenge is even greater.
Fortunately, with Seniors living longer, and many aging in their own home, either because of financial necessity, or by choice, the services that are available to Seniors and their long-distance caregivers are much more accessible than in the past.
Everything from hairdressers to Physical Therapists will come to a Seniors home, so they don't have to worry about driving to appointments, or inclement weather. Services, such as Age in Place, assist with errands and household management, and offer families peace of mind that there is a local contact overseeing their parents.
There are so many options that can improve the quality of life for Seniors and their caregivers, whether local or long-distance. So, when someone says "Do you know where your parents are?" you can say confidently, "Yes, they're comfortably at home!"
Friday, October 2, 2009
Caregiver Resource
OurParents launches a user forum to help people get first-hand information about senior care providers
posted by Michael Carbine at TOOLS for Independence - 3 days ago
A new user forum recently added to the OurParents.com community allows those caring for their aging parents to ask questions and discuss senior care issues, such as nursing home selection, aging in place problems and paying for senior care, with others who are dealing with the same issues or actually using senior care providers. Membership in the on-line community is free, and members have access to detailed profiles of senior care providers based on the first-hand experiences of people actually using them. In addition to the user reviews, the profiles include Medicare quality data, cost information and other items of interest to those looking for reliable and appropriate care resources for their aging parents. Visit www.OurParents.com. g home selection, aging in place p...
posted by Michael Carbine at TOOLS for Independence - 3 days ago
A new user forum recently added to the OurParents.com community allows those caring for their aging parents to ask questions and discuss senior care issues, such as nursing home selection, aging in place problems and paying for senior care, with others who are dealing with the same issues or actually using senior care providers. Membership in the on-line community is free, and members have access to detailed profiles of senior care providers based on the first-hand experiences of people actually using them. In addition to the user reviews, the profiles include Medicare quality data, cost information and other items of interest to those looking for reliable and appropriate care resources for their aging parents. Visit www.OurParents.com. g home selection, aging in place p...
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Make Plans When Caring From Afar
According to the MetLife Mature Market Institute’s Since You Care guide, there are some 34 million Americans providing care to older family members. An estimated 15 percent of these caregivers or 5.1 million live more than an hour’s drive from the person for whom they are providing care.
These long-distance caregivers are often caring for an older relative, are employed and have dependent children of their own, aka “the sandwich generation.” That’s no easy task.
Long-distance caregivers must often juggle the demands of two households. They have to rely on reports from others about daily events. They have to arrange/rearrange doctors’ appointments, work schedules and business trips, which is stressful and time consuming.
However, here are some steps to take to make the task more manageable:
* Assess the need. Adult children should determine with their parents what help is needed. Consider hiring a professional geriatric care manager who can professionally assess the needs and possibly provide ongoing case management.
The National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers’ Web site (www.findacaremanager.org) provides links to association members who are often familiar with local services available to aging parents. A professional geriatric care manager’s charges range from $100 — $500 for an assessment and $60 to $90/hour for on-going care.
*Make sure a geriatric care manager is licensed/certified by the states in which they work and conduct a full background check before hiring them. Some government entities have resources available to qualifying individuals to help cover costs. The Eldercare Locator (800) 677-1116 can tell you which local agencies provide services in your parents’ community.
*Be prepared. Before a crisis occurs, caregivers and older family members should complete and distribute a “caregiver emergency information” summary, containing all necessary medical, financial, and legal information, including doctors, medications, insurance information, assets and Social Security numbers, wills, living wills, durable powers of attorney and health care proxies.
MetLife’s downloadable booklet, “Family Caregiving” is at www.metlife.com/mmi/publications/since-you-care-guides. AARP also has useful long-distance care-giving resources at: www.aarp.org.
Adult children should have their parents complete and file HIPPA-compliant privacy release forms with their parent’s doctor’s office. This permits the parent’s doctor to discuss his/her health issues with the designated caregiver. Caregivers also should consider using a medical alert emergency response system.
*Develop a support network. Adult children should establish an informal support network composed of family, neighbors, friends, clergy and others who might help with care or other issues. When visiting their parents, adult children should introduce themselves to neighbors and friends and keep their contact information handy in case of an emergency.
*Visit as often as you can. Long-distance caregivers should visit their older family members every few months to check for signs of trouble (changes in personal hygiene, chores not done, etc.) and arrange support services, if needed.
According to MetLife, caregivers spend an average of $193 per month on supplies/services for the care recipient and another $199 per month for travel and telephone charges.
*Consult your financial planner early to ensure that you have examined all your options for the proper care of your loved ones now and in the future.
Thank you Karin Grablin, a financial planner with Dictor|Martin in Sarasota, for posting this excellent article.
Age in Place can help!
Age in Place provides Seniors and their caregivers peace of mind and security by coordinating the services that allow them to remain safely and independently in the comfort of their own homes.
Our services are designed for:
• Seniors who are living independently who need assistance managing and coordinating the services to help them remain at home;
• Families of seniors, who want to help their aging parents maintain quality of life, but do not have the time or resources;
• Long distance caregivers who need the peace of mind and reassurance that there is a local contact overseeing their parents needs
These long-distance caregivers are often caring for an older relative, are employed and have dependent children of their own, aka “the sandwich generation.” That’s no easy task.
Long-distance caregivers must often juggle the demands of two households. They have to rely on reports from others about daily events. They have to arrange/rearrange doctors’ appointments, work schedules and business trips, which is stressful and time consuming.
However, here are some steps to take to make the task more manageable:
* Assess the need. Adult children should determine with their parents what help is needed. Consider hiring a professional geriatric care manager who can professionally assess the needs and possibly provide ongoing case management.
The National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers’ Web site (www.findacaremanager.org) provides links to association members who are often familiar with local services available to aging parents. A professional geriatric care manager’s charges range from $100 — $500 for an assessment and $60 to $90/hour for on-going care.
*Make sure a geriatric care manager is licensed/certified by the states in which they work and conduct a full background check before hiring them. Some government entities have resources available to qualifying individuals to help cover costs. The Eldercare Locator (800) 677-1116 can tell you which local agencies provide services in your parents’ community.
*Be prepared. Before a crisis occurs, caregivers and older family members should complete and distribute a “caregiver emergency information” summary, containing all necessary medical, financial, and legal information, including doctors, medications, insurance information, assets and Social Security numbers, wills, living wills, durable powers of attorney and health care proxies.
MetLife’s downloadable booklet, “Family Caregiving” is at www.metlife.com/mmi/publications/since-you-care-guides. AARP also has useful long-distance care-giving resources at: www.aarp.org.
Adult children should have their parents complete and file HIPPA-compliant privacy release forms with their parent’s doctor’s office. This permits the parent’s doctor to discuss his/her health issues with the designated caregiver. Caregivers also should consider using a medical alert emergency response system.
*Develop a support network. Adult children should establish an informal support network composed of family, neighbors, friends, clergy and others who might help with care or other issues. When visiting their parents, adult children should introduce themselves to neighbors and friends and keep their contact information handy in case of an emergency.
*Visit as often as you can. Long-distance caregivers should visit their older family members every few months to check for signs of trouble (changes in personal hygiene, chores not done, etc.) and arrange support services, if needed.
According to MetLife, caregivers spend an average of $193 per month on supplies/services for the care recipient and another $199 per month for travel and telephone charges.
*Consult your financial planner early to ensure that you have examined all your options for the proper care of your loved ones now and in the future.
Thank you Karin Grablin, a financial planner with Dictor|Martin in Sarasota, for posting this excellent article.
Age in Place can help!
Age in Place provides Seniors and their caregivers peace of mind and security by coordinating the services that allow them to remain safely and independently in the comfort of their own homes.
Our services are designed for:
• Seniors who are living independently who need assistance managing and coordinating the services to help them remain at home;
• Families of seniors, who want to help their aging parents maintain quality of life, but do not have the time or resources;
• Long distance caregivers who need the peace of mind and reassurance that there is a local contact overseeing their parents needs
Friday, September 11, 2009
Could've, Would've, Should've !
Time has really gotten away from me. I didn't realize it had been so long since my last post. Funny how time always gets in the way. This happens in life all the time!
We're too busy to visit our friends or family; need to work, it's too far, too much to do, etc. We always have excuses for why we can't. And, then, life happens!
While we're busy doing, stuff happens. People we love get sick, or have some family tragedy. Or, in same cases, they may pass way too young. And then, all we're left with is the "could've", "would've", "should've"s. Regrets, guilt and disappointments.
September 11th is such a reminder of that!
Make the time. Enjoy the memories. Remember the best part of life.
Yesterday my cousin posted old family photos on Facebook. Priceless reminders of a simpler life when we "had the time". Get-togethers in our Grandparents basement, funny stories of the things we did.
Most of the people in those photos are no longer with us. But, we have priceless memories of those times together.
We never know where life will lead us. We never know when someone's time with us will be over. Cherish, Embrace, the people who are so important to you.
The day will come when all that is left is a faded photograph and memories.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Life's 5 Most Important Lessons
Taking care of an older family member or friend can be stressful. But so is being that person. One wonderful way to ease the stress burden on both of you: Help the person close to you define and preserve his or her legacy.
http://health.msn.com/health-topics/caregiving/end-of-life/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100242319>1=31052
http://health.msn.com/health-topics/caregiving/end-of-life/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100242319>1=31052
Positive Aspects of Aging
So much has been written about the negatives of aging. But, growing older has some very positive and rewarding aspects.
This article emphasizes some of the rewards and benefits that can only be achieved through life experience.
http://www.vital-aging-network.org/Resources_for_Vital_Living/Vital_Aging/92/Positive_Aspects_of_Aging.html
This article emphasizes some of the rewards and benefits that can only be achieved through life experience.
http://www.vital-aging-network.org/Resources_for_Vital_Living/Vital_Aging/92/Positive_Aspects_of_Aging.html
Monday, July 27, 2009
Managing Miles on your Caregiving Journey
Follow Denise Brown on BlogTalk Radio on 7/31/2009 at 2:30PM EST
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Caregiving/2009/07/31/Managing-Miles-on-Your-Caregiving-Journey
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Caregiving/2009/07/31/Managing-Miles-on-Your-Caregiving-Journey
Friday, July 24, 2009
What We Should Expect As We Grow Older
There is no doubt, that aging is inevitable! No matter how we try to avoid it or deny it, our body reminds us on a daily basis, that the years are piling up.
But,understanding the process and being educated and knowledgable, keeps us resourceful and empowered for the challenges that we face.
This article offers valuable information and a great "Go To" book for making informed decisions about the process.
http://http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/158051.php
But,understanding the process and being educated and knowledgable, keeps us resourceful and empowered for the challenges that we face.
This article offers valuable information and a great "Go To" book for making informed decisions about the process.
http://http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/158051.php
Friday, July 17, 2009
Surviving the Storm
Hurricanes are a natural occurrence in South Florida. Preparing for an impending storm can be overwhelming and quite stressful. There is so much to do and think about.
Seniors living alone are especially fearful during this time. Concerns about home preparation, medical concerns and safety, are daunting for even the most active and mobile Seniors. Long distance caregivers share this concern, as well as the guilt and feelings of helplessness.
Robert Goodman has written an article "Surviving the Storm" http://www.caregiver.com/articles/general/surviving_the_storm.htm that offers excellent information for storm preparation.
As always, planning is essential.
If you, or a loved one needs assistance, AgeinPlace (www.Ageinplacemanagement.com) is a valuable resource, offering peace of mind and security, in knowing that your needs are being provided for while remaining in the comfort of your own home.
Seniors living alone are especially fearful during this time. Concerns about home preparation, medical concerns and safety, are daunting for even the most active and mobile Seniors. Long distance caregivers share this concern, as well as the guilt and feelings of helplessness.
Robert Goodman has written an article "Surviving the Storm" http://www.caregiver.com/articles/general/surviving_the_storm.htm that offers excellent information for storm preparation.
As always, planning is essential.
If you, or a loved one needs assistance, AgeinPlace (www.Ageinplacemanagement.com) is a valuable resource, offering peace of mind and security, in knowing that your needs are being provided for while remaining in the comfort of your own home.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Tips to Help Parents Who Want to Age in Place
July 13, 2009 11:00 AM ET Philip Moeller
The Boomerater™ Report, our weekly collaboration with online baby boomer resource Boomerater, this week explores some of the issues involved in helping your parents age in place. Here is the question from a Boomerater member: “My mom and dad are in their 70's and are in good health. They have told me they would never consider leaving the home they have lived in since they were married and raised all five of their children. With the high cost associated with assisted living and the loss they will probably take in the real estate market, I can also see the financial benefit of their staying in their home. I’d like to hear from other boomers who have helped their parents stay in their homes successfully. What are the modifications to make the home safe and what else should be considered?”
Make a strategic plan. They should consult a financial planner and develop a budget for current and changing financial needs. With an attorney, they should draw up a will, an advanced health care directive, and any other documents their attorney deems necessary. Explore options for managing their affairs should that become necessary. If they have adult children with special needs they should make special plans to arrange for a guardianship or strategic planning.
Carefully review the floor plan of the house. If they can’t do this objectively, hire an architect, residential designer or accessibility contractor to look at the existing floor plan and see how it could be made fully accessible through retro-fitting modifications. Learn how to incorporate elements of universal design so that they can continue to use the same space well into the future in varying degrees of mobility. Would a dish drawer make more sense than a regular dishwasher? Typically they are more accessible than most dishwashers. Should your oven be at a lower height? Should it have a door that lifts up? Is there a bedroom on the main floor? Or is there a den or bonus room that could be converted to use as a bedroom? If they don’t have a shower or bathtub on the main floor, is there a half bath or a laundry room? There may be a way to reconfigure the existing rooms to accommodate an accessible stall shower as well as a front loading combination washer/dryer that takes up less space. If it has steps, add ramps. Add lifts on the stairs or a pneumatic elevator if necessary, but ensure that they have a good fire escape route and exit route during a power failure. Consider adding an “always on” generator. Instead of door knobs, change to lever handles. Make the property wheelchair accessible. Most wheelchairs are between 27-28 inches wide. With knuckles on either side you should allow a minimum door width of 32 inches. If your plan includes a future time when in-home care providers may be required 24 hours per day, modify the house in such a manner that you have a minimum of 2 bedrooms so that you may accommodate overnight staff. This advice was provided by Alicia Reid, a Realtor in Redmond, WA.
Tackling Transportation. Another Boomerater member wrote that one of the biggest dilemmas their parents faced while they stayed in their home was losing the ability to drive to doctors, veterinarians, senior centers, etc. Ask the local hospital, senior center, or local agency on aging (AAA) or Council on Aging (COA) about transportation resources for seniors in your area. My parents had a companion who came in twice a week to drive them to doctor appointments, the grocery store, the library, to have their hair cut, etc. [Is a Naturally Occurring Retirement Community Right for You?] Most towns have a local grocery that delivers – Peapod.com is a national service that delivers from local stores. Most drugstores deliver prescriptions without a fee and drugstore.com can ship a huge variety of products. If you don’t have a local store that delivers, netgrocer.com is a backup, though its shipping is expensive. My parents also used Meals on Wheels to get a hot meal brought in everyday. Read other member tips for helping your parents stay in their home on Boomerater. Boomerater is an online resource for baby boomers, with local directories to help you find everything from a financial advisor to Alzheimer’s Care facilities. The site also contains forums where boomers can post questions and swap first-hand experiences. If there are questions on your mind that you would like answered by other people who have faced similar situations, or you have advice of your own to share, go to Boomerater.com and participate in the forums. Say that The Best Life sent you.
Visit WWW.Ageinplacemanagement.com to learn how AgeinPlace can coordinate the services that can help you live independently at home--- Before the Need!
The Boomerater™ Report, our weekly collaboration with online baby boomer resource Boomerater, this week explores some of the issues involved in helping your parents age in place. Here is the question from a Boomerater member: “My mom and dad are in their 70's and are in good health. They have told me they would never consider leaving the home they have lived in since they were married and raised all five of their children. With the high cost associated with assisted living and the loss they will probably take in the real estate market, I can also see the financial benefit of their staying in their home. I’d like to hear from other boomers who have helped their parents stay in their homes successfully. What are the modifications to make the home safe and what else should be considered?”
Make a strategic plan. They should consult a financial planner and develop a budget for current and changing financial needs. With an attorney, they should draw up a will, an advanced health care directive, and any other documents their attorney deems necessary. Explore options for managing their affairs should that become necessary. If they have adult children with special needs they should make special plans to arrange for a guardianship or strategic planning.
Carefully review the floor plan of the house. If they can’t do this objectively, hire an architect, residential designer or accessibility contractor to look at the existing floor plan and see how it could be made fully accessible through retro-fitting modifications. Learn how to incorporate elements of universal design so that they can continue to use the same space well into the future in varying degrees of mobility. Would a dish drawer make more sense than a regular dishwasher? Typically they are more accessible than most dishwashers. Should your oven be at a lower height? Should it have a door that lifts up? Is there a bedroom on the main floor? Or is there a den or bonus room that could be converted to use as a bedroom? If they don’t have a shower or bathtub on the main floor, is there a half bath or a laundry room? There may be a way to reconfigure the existing rooms to accommodate an accessible stall shower as well as a front loading combination washer/dryer that takes up less space. If it has steps, add ramps. Add lifts on the stairs or a pneumatic elevator if necessary, but ensure that they have a good fire escape route and exit route during a power failure. Consider adding an “always on” generator. Instead of door knobs, change to lever handles. Make the property wheelchair accessible. Most wheelchairs are between 27-28 inches wide. With knuckles on either side you should allow a minimum door width of 32 inches. If your plan includes a future time when in-home care providers may be required 24 hours per day, modify the house in such a manner that you have a minimum of 2 bedrooms so that you may accommodate overnight staff. This advice was provided by Alicia Reid, a Realtor in Redmond, WA.
Tackling Transportation. Another Boomerater member wrote that one of the biggest dilemmas their parents faced while they stayed in their home was losing the ability to drive to doctors, veterinarians, senior centers, etc. Ask the local hospital, senior center, or local agency on aging (AAA) or Council on Aging (COA) about transportation resources for seniors in your area. My parents had a companion who came in twice a week to drive them to doctor appointments, the grocery store, the library, to have their hair cut, etc. [Is a Naturally Occurring Retirement Community Right for You?] Most towns have a local grocery that delivers – Peapod.com is a national service that delivers from local stores. Most drugstores deliver prescriptions without a fee and drugstore.com can ship a huge variety of products. If you don’t have a local store that delivers, netgrocer.com is a backup, though its shipping is expensive. My parents also used Meals on Wheels to get a hot meal brought in everyday. Read other member tips for helping your parents stay in their home on Boomerater. Boomerater is an online resource for baby boomers, with local directories to help you find everything from a financial advisor to Alzheimer’s Care facilities. The site also contains forums where boomers can post questions and swap first-hand experiences. If there are questions on your mind that you would like answered by other people who have faced similar situations, or you have advice of your own to share, go to Boomerater.com and participate in the forums. Say that The Best Life sent you.
Visit WWW.Ageinplacemanagement.com to learn how AgeinPlace can coordinate the services that can help you live independently at home--- Before the Need!
Thursday, July 2, 2009
How do you use your time?
Over the years, I've been getting a wonderful newsletter from Dr. Philip Humbert. His articles are always warm and insightful. In celebration of the 4th of July, Independence Day, I thought I would share Dr. Humbert's thoughts on our personal Independence Day. Ponder this and have a wonderful 4th of July celebration.
Over 150 years ago, Henry Thoreau asked a haunting question. Since I first read On Walden Pond almost forty years ago, it's shaped my life, my work and my goals. His question? He simply asked if it wasn't possible that we could live better than we do, that our lives might be better than they are. What a thought!Thoreau wasn't a critic of any particular social movement or political party. He wasn't complaining about working conditions or high taxes or unfair bureaucrats. His concern was far more personal than that.He wondered about how we use our time. He wondered what we think about, who we hang-out with, and what we read. He was amazed that in a world of beauty, we spend so much time complaining. He thought it curious that in a world where a hammock or patch of shade might foster a relaxing nap, so many of us spend our time running from place to place.He thought it odd that we are so worried and stressed and always short of time. His solution? He went to the woods, built a cabin, planted beans, went fishing, and wrote one of the most powerful books in the English language. He often wondered if he was one of the poorest men in Concord (since he had so little), or one of the richest (since he could do without so much). I've been helping people ask those questions and create their personal World Class Life ever since. Obviously, our world has resources Thoreau never imagined. We have access to entertainment and opportunities beyond comprehension. We live in a world where travel, education, financial security and personal freedom are available to all. Compared to the 1840's, when the most powerful thing on earth was a steam engine and most people never ventured more than a few miles from their birthplace, our choices are more complex and more troubling.But the question remains and becomes even more personal: How shall we live as free and responsible people? As I watch our political leaders wrestle with health care, global warming, budget deficits, partisanship and more, it's easy to get caught up in the turmoil of our times. The financial crisis affects each of us. The world "out there" touches our homes and our wallets. It's easy to get become over-whelmed, to put our heads down and just keep trudging ahead.Don't do that! Don't let yourself get caught in the rat-race. As Lilly Tomlin observed, even if you win, you still end up a rat and that's no life for a human being. Choose your values, your priorities and live accordingly! Perhaps the most radical thing a human being can do is to quietly live their own life, on their own terms, in their own way.I doubt many of us will follow Thoreau's path to the woods. That was his path; in most cases it won't be ours. But I do wonder about the bumper stickers that recommend we "kill" our televisions. I wonder about folks who cut up their credit cards or start new businesses during a recession. I wonder about folks who start piano lessons in mid-life, or go back to college, or learn to paint. I like Thoreau's advice that we should march to the beat of our own drummer, "no matter how faint or far away."Live your own life! Work at tasks that have meaning and purpose. And when you're done, take a nap, play, or help a neighbor. Live in a community that reflects your values and nourishes you every day. Live as large as you wish, but no larger and certainly not smaller. Next Saturday is the American Independence Day. Make it yours, as well.
Dr Humbert is a Success Strategist, author and popular speakerAnd each month he gives away a free report, tool or organizer. This month he's giving away a wonderful report called "The Four Steps to a World Class Life" and it's FREE! I thought you might enjoy it. Get your copy at: http://philiphumbert.com/Free.htm I think you'll like it.
Over 150 years ago, Henry Thoreau asked a haunting question. Since I first read On Walden Pond almost forty years ago, it's shaped my life, my work and my goals. His question? He simply asked if it wasn't possible that we could live better than we do, that our lives might be better than they are. What a thought!Thoreau wasn't a critic of any particular social movement or political party. He wasn't complaining about working conditions or high taxes or unfair bureaucrats. His concern was far more personal than that.He wondered about how we use our time. He wondered what we think about, who we hang-out with, and what we read. He was amazed that in a world of beauty, we spend so much time complaining. He thought it curious that in a world where a hammock or patch of shade might foster a relaxing nap, so many of us spend our time running from place to place.He thought it odd that we are so worried and stressed and always short of time. His solution? He went to the woods, built a cabin, planted beans, went fishing, and wrote one of the most powerful books in the English language. He often wondered if he was one of the poorest men in Concord (since he had so little), or one of the richest (since he could do without so much). I've been helping people ask those questions and create their personal World Class Life ever since. Obviously, our world has resources Thoreau never imagined. We have access to entertainment and opportunities beyond comprehension. We live in a world where travel, education, financial security and personal freedom are available to all. Compared to the 1840's, when the most powerful thing on earth was a steam engine and most people never ventured more than a few miles from their birthplace, our choices are more complex and more troubling.But the question remains and becomes even more personal: How shall we live as free and responsible people? As I watch our political leaders wrestle with health care, global warming, budget deficits, partisanship and more, it's easy to get caught up in the turmoil of our times. The financial crisis affects each of us. The world "out there" touches our homes and our wallets. It's easy to get become over-whelmed, to put our heads down and just keep trudging ahead.Don't do that! Don't let yourself get caught in the rat-race. As Lilly Tomlin observed, even if you win, you still end up a rat and that's no life for a human being. Choose your values, your priorities and live accordingly! Perhaps the most radical thing a human being can do is to quietly live their own life, on their own terms, in their own way.I doubt many of us will follow Thoreau's path to the woods. That was his path; in most cases it won't be ours. But I do wonder about the bumper stickers that recommend we "kill" our televisions. I wonder about folks who cut up their credit cards or start new businesses during a recession. I wonder about folks who start piano lessons in mid-life, or go back to college, or learn to paint. I like Thoreau's advice that we should march to the beat of our own drummer, "no matter how faint or far away."Live your own life! Work at tasks that have meaning and purpose. And when you're done, take a nap, play, or help a neighbor. Live in a community that reflects your values and nourishes you every day. Live as large as you wish, but no larger and certainly not smaller. Next Saturday is the American Independence Day. Make it yours, as well.
Dr Humbert is a Success Strategist, author and popular speakerAnd each month he gives away a free report, tool or organizer. This month he's giving away a wonderful report called "The Four Steps to a World Class Life" and it's FREE! I thought you might enjoy it. Get your copy at: http://philiphumbert.com/Free.htm I think you'll like it.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
It's All in the Planning
Most major events in life require planning. We plan for the birth of a child; We plan a wedding; We plan our business ventures; We even plan our vacations or how we are going to spend our time off. Why is it then, that we do not plan for the inevitable needs of our aging loved ones? It is human nature to avoid the issues that are too complicated, or seemingly unpleasant. Long Distance Caregivers seem to find this particularly daunting.
Yet, with the proper planning ahead, we not only make this inevitable life transition smoother, but we offer our loved ones the opportunity to share in the decision making with dignity and respect. This article offers some helpful, common sense tips for planning for our loved ones across the miles.
http://www.demo4net.com/eksawal/elder-care-information/caregiving-across-the-miles-tips-for-successful-long-distance-caregiving/
Yet, with the proper planning ahead, we not only make this inevitable life transition smoother, but we offer our loved ones the opportunity to share in the decision making with dignity and respect. This article offers some helpful, common sense tips for planning for our loved ones across the miles.
http://www.demo4net.com/eksawal/elder-care-information/caregiving-across-the-miles-tips-for-successful-long-distance-caregiving/
Monday, June 22, 2009
Ah! Memories!
Yesterday was Father's Day. Belated wishes to all the Dad's!
Sometimes, as we hurry through our busy lives, we don't take the time to relish the importance of days like these. It's easy to think of these as Hallmark Holidays and not acknowledge their true significance. It's not until your Dad has passed on, or you're celebrating the day alone, that you reminisce about Father's Days in the past and the special memories shared with your loved ones. Yes, every day is Father's Day, but the time spent together, sharing and caring, are special moments of yesterday, that become the memories tomorrow.
My girls and their Dad had a special day yesterday. Grandma decided to let the moths out of her closet and pull out boxes of photos that none of us have ever seen. Vintage photos of her grandparents, her parents as newlyweds, and tons of memorabilia that had been hidden away. The girls learned about family members that have long since been gone and even learned things about their Grandfather (who they never got to meet!) that they never knew. What newfound pride they had learning their Grandfather was a veteran of World War II, and touching the flag that draped his coffin, and for the first time, appreciating what a Purple Heart is! It was overwhelming to see them so excited to share this history with their Dad.
Memories are to be shared. Don't keep them tucked away in boxes. Enjoy them, create them and pass them on to your family. And they will pass them on to theirs and so on, and so on.
Life is too short. Don't wait until it is too late.
The memories that you create today are part of your legacy. Generations to come, will remember, because you took the time to share and enjoy!
Sometimes, as we hurry through our busy lives, we don't take the time to relish the importance of days like these. It's easy to think of these as Hallmark Holidays and not acknowledge their true significance. It's not until your Dad has passed on, or you're celebrating the day alone, that you reminisce about Father's Days in the past and the special memories shared with your loved ones. Yes, every day is Father's Day, but the time spent together, sharing and caring, are special moments of yesterday, that become the memories tomorrow.
My girls and their Dad had a special day yesterday. Grandma decided to let the moths out of her closet and pull out boxes of photos that none of us have ever seen. Vintage photos of her grandparents, her parents as newlyweds, and tons of memorabilia that had been hidden away. The girls learned about family members that have long since been gone and even learned things about their Grandfather (who they never got to meet!) that they never knew. What newfound pride they had learning their Grandfather was a veteran of World War II, and touching the flag that draped his coffin, and for the first time, appreciating what a Purple Heart is! It was overwhelming to see them so excited to share this history with their Dad.
Memories are to be shared. Don't keep them tucked away in boxes. Enjoy them, create them and pass them on to your family. And they will pass them on to theirs and so on, and so on.
Life is too short. Don't wait until it is too late.
The memories that you create today are part of your legacy. Generations to come, will remember, because you took the time to share and enjoy!
Monday, June 15, 2009
What a year it has been!
Well, it is June of 2009. I am updating my blog to reflect my new venture and link to all the social networking sites I've connected to.
I hadn't realized that I haven't posted since April, 2008! Where has the time gone?!
Setting my new layout, and making changes to my original blog, I was going to edit my previous blogs.
And then I re-read them.
Reading those blogs reminded me of the emotional, mental and spiritual journey I have been on. I relected on the changes I have been through, personally and professionally. For someone who lived on the same block for the first 35 years of her life, the last dozen or so years have been all about change. Some for the better, some not so good. But, I now realize that those changes were only stepping stones to bring me to where I am today.
Looing forward to helping others with the transitions that are inevitable, and sharing my wealth of knowledge and experience, so that they may navigate those changes with peace and acceptance.
I hadn't realized that I haven't posted since April, 2008! Where has the time gone?!
Setting my new layout, and making changes to my original blog, I was going to edit my previous blogs.
And then I re-read them.
Reading those blogs reminded me of the emotional, mental and spiritual journey I have been on. I relected on the changes I have been through, personally and professionally. For someone who lived on the same block for the first 35 years of her life, the last dozen or so years have been all about change. Some for the better, some not so good. But, I now realize that those changes were only stepping stones to bring me to where I am today.
Looing forward to helping others with the transitions that are inevitable, and sharing my wealth of knowledge and experience, so that they may navigate those changes with peace and acceptance.
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