Month: July 2023
Safety, emergency planning, and disaster preparedness are always in the forefront of our minds as Aging Life Care Professionals.
Summers in the Pacific Northwest have us alert to the possibility of wildfires. We are always cognizant of potential earthquakes. During rainy seasons, we consider the prospects of flooding and landslides. In coastal areas, tsunamis are also a consideration.
Then there are the day-to-day emergencies: a fall or stroke resulting in a hospitalization, a car accident, a house fire. …
“It’s always smart to have an emergency plan, spelling out what you would do and who you would turn to for help when that inevitable crisis happens,” says Herb ConsumerMan Weisbaum.
In his many years of consumer journalism, Herb has learned a thing or two about being proactive, making smart decisions, and being prepared ahead of an emergency. “This is especially important for older adults who are living alone, caring for a spouse or partner, or without family nearby.” …
How to prepare for a medical emergency in your homeRead More »
Weather alerts and advisories in other parts of the country should serve as a bellwether of what we can expect and should prepare for this summer. Higher than average temperatures have persisted in California, Oregon, and across the Southwest and Southeast. We’ve even experienced unusually hot days here in western Washington state.
Excessive heat and humidity can be dangerous for all of us. Older adults and individuals living with chronic health conditions are especially vulnerable and at a higher risk of developing heat-related illnesses. The effects of some medications can contribute to making it difficult to regulate body temperature or to sweat. …
Aging in place has great appeal and can be challenging and expensive. Elders who are part of a “Village” help each other with simple tasks, making it easier and more financially feasible to stay at home. Today, there are close to 250 Villages across the country. They are part of a widespread grassroots movement of like-minded elders focused on community building and elder empowerment. This is not just another social service.
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“With a little help from our friends”: The Village movementRead More »