Topic: community
Tai Chi. Spanish conversation. Tie-dye workshop. Forest therapy guided walks. Community dining. Line dancing. Haircuts. Social media class. Needle arts. Memory loss program. Zumba. Scrabble. Song Circle. Jewelry making. Caregivers support group. Computer lab. Watercolor painting. Pinochle. Foot care. Yoga. Men’s Group. Medicare counseling. Mah Jongg. Dental hygiene clinic. Improv. Ukelele song group. Book club. Acupuncture…and more!
Where are all these programs, activities, events, and services happening? At your local senior center!
September is National Senior Center Month, an invitation to challenge outdated perceptions of aging and senior centers and explore this year’s theme of Powering Possibilities: Flip the Script. …
The next time you renew your license, you may be required to take written and behind-the-wheel driving tests rather than mail a form. If this is the case, don’t panic or go into denial! Take some steps to get prepared. That way, you’ll go into the test knowledgeable and confident. And remember, preparing for a driving test isn’t just about passing—it’s about ensuring your safety and the safety of others. It’s worth the time to plan thoughtfully. …
Caring for an older adult living with cognitive or health changes can be physically, emotionally, mentally, and financially challenging. Due to the broad range of responsibilities that can be required of family caregivers, self-care is essential.
While there are many ways to care for yourself, I’ve found that attending a caregiver support group is an often-overlooked part of a healthy self-care plan. …
The Benefits of Family Caregiver Support Groups: You are Not Alone!Read More »
What is your role at Aging Wisdom?
What made you want to work in the field of aging? …
Life plan communities—sometimes called “continuing care retirement communities” (CCRCs)—are private communities that offer residents a full range of care levels, depending on need. For those in independent living, amenities such as a golf course, gym, pool, and tennis and pickle ball courts are typically provided. Some communities even offer college-level classes, a salon, and grocery store. …
“When we decide to ask for help, it doesn’t mean we no longer play a role in our own well-being. Getting the help we need allows us to do what we can without being at risk. It means we have created new networks of connection and relationship. It might well mean we discover creative and other outlets for ourselves when we no longer have to worry about doing the things we no longer can, or want to, do ourselves.” —Rebecca Crichton, Executive Director of the Northwest Center for Creative Aging. …
Neighbors Helping Neighbors: The Village MovementRead More »
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.
…
“With a little help from our friends”: The Village movementRead More »
Cohousing is like a retirement community in that it is a group of residents in individual, private domiciles. Plus, there are shared facilities for group activities. What’s different is that retirement communities are created and run by a developer.
Cohousing communities are created by the people who will live in the buildings. All members hold an equal investment—personal and financial—in the process of creating and running the community. Decision making is shared and is usually by consensus. …
Last week we looked at tips for navigating long-term care options to support living at home. Successfully managing care at home depends on many factors, including finances, health status, transportation, mobility, a supportive physical environment, a willingness to accept care, and having a realistic view of the care needs.
There may come a point when the person in your care can no longer be safely and adequately cared for at home. For example, when your parent has a progressive health condition such as Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s, there may come a time when the care needed at home exceeds your capacity to support them safely.
Be prepared for this reality; it’s never too early to research, visit, and reflect in preparation for a possible move. It’s always best to be proactive. …
Navigating Long-Term Care Options (in greater Seattle) Part IIRead More »
At 72, Betsy is doing all the right things to ensure she maintains good health and continues to enjoy physical, emotional, mental, and financial health well into her 80s and beyond. She eats a Mediterranean diet, doesn’t smoke, drinks in moderation, exercises regularly, has adjusted her spending and investments for retirement, goes to regular check-ups with her doctor and gets the recommended health screenings. Additionally, she gardens, spends quality time with family and friends, takes classes, travels, and volunteers. Her life is busy, full, and fun.
…
The Power of Planning: Taking Charge of Your Own Aging JourneyRead More »