tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63150402304626567872024-03-13T07:47:11.294-04:00Family & Friends of the AgingSupport and networking for caregivers and their friendsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger106125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-182150275183487512008-10-11T16:33:00.004-04:002008-10-11T21:29:00.951-04:00Taking Care of Business Affairs<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />There are a great many seniors living alone or in facilities who need some sort of help taking care of their business affairs. Not all will admit the need for help, but for those who do, there is help available. <br /><br />The obvious choices for check writing and keeping track of financial obligations for most people would be a relative or trusted advisor. For those who are truly alone, talking with health care agents, or calling the local area on aging may get the names of recommended individuals who specialize in taking care of business affairs and charge according ability to pay. Geriatric care managers may be able to provide this type of service or recommend someone who can. <br /><br />For the person with funds available to pay, the options are more plentiful. Your accountant or attorney (if you have one) may perform this service for you or recommend a known, independent bookkeeper to take charge. Your banker as well, would be someone who may assist in this area.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-49706369065002998512008-10-05T20:19:00.003-04:002008-10-05T20:42:06.591-04:00Testing For Memory Problems<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />I came across some not-so-new information (2005) that has enforced my determination to see if my mother can be helped by testing for memory problems she is having. <br /><br />In an article on <a href="http://www.rxpgnews.com">rxpgnews.com</a>, research decribes testing for the difference in alzheimer's and the second most common dementia, frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Anything that can determine the possible type and intervention available is all I'm looking for!<br /><br />The MRI test is not invasive and less expensive than other scans. Now to get the doctor on board.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-76997327874671020832008-09-28T20:58:00.004-04:002008-09-28T21:20:10.537-04:00I Should Be Posting<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />Just when I should be posting, events in my life seem to take over. My father-in-law had a stroke several weeks ago. Just when I should be posting about it, relatives arrived, I started a new job (that didn't last), and I took a planned trip to care for the grandkids once I knew my father-in-law was stable. <br /><br />Under the circumstances, posting took a back seat as is the case so many times when "life happens". Responsibilities have a way of overwhelming us. I'm a prime example of putting my health last. I'll be working on relaxation (exercise), stress relief (exercise) and just plain exercise in the weeks to come. At least it's a good excuse when I should be posting!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-57454557588021117582008-09-11T20:18:00.004-04:002008-09-11T20:50:01.524-04:00God's Time<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />I just came home from visiting my 87 year old father-in-law at a local nursing home. He had a stroke and has been sent to the facility for rehabilitative services. His left side has been affected and he must have therapy on his speech as well as the use of his left arm and leg.<br /><br />He's only been there a couple days so there is no improvement to note. One thing he knows for sure is that he does NOT like the food! It's not that the food is foul tasting. No, it's just that he is to have everything pureed and liquids must be "thickened" before he can drink it. Ever heard of thickened water or coffee the consistancy of partially set jello? He tends to aspirate his food and it gets into the lungs causing pneumonia. In spite of the seriousness of the damage he suffered, his mind is still good. He is slower with most answers but still has a quick comeback every so often. Time can do amazing things. We'll just have to see if it's in God's plan to give him more time.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-23719971947066981982008-09-08T20:38:00.003-04:002008-09-08T21:48:49.978-04:00Prevent Medicare Fraud<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />Keeping up with Medicare changes can be a tedious but necessary chore when you have elderly parents to watch out for. Currently, Medicare is cracking down on issues for which seniors are treated in the hospital. Billings from healthcare providers and treatment centers should always be scrutinized for errors and discrepancies. We all need to do our part to prevent Medicare fraud and keep costs down.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-35593699826492959542008-09-05T22:30:00.004-04:002008-09-05T22:48:34.906-04:00Free Family Caregiver Teleclass<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />November is National Family Caregivers Month. I know I'm a bit premature, but they are sponsoring a FREE Family Caregiver Teleclass in two parts to teach family caregivers better communication with healthcare professionals. This in turn, will help the caregiver to become better healthcare advocates. <br /><br />To participate by phone you will call a toll free number, and by internet, a corresponding powerpoint presentation will be available. Classes are one hour and held November 6th and November 13th. For registration information for the FREE Communicating Effectively TeleClass, send an e-mail that includes your name, phone number, and e-mail address to: teleclass@thefamilycaregiver.org or call 800/896-3650.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-30864571287740801822008-09-04T22:06:00.003-04:002008-09-04T22:16:37.920-04:00Weather Update<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />As we watch the weather updates, it looks like we'll soon be hunkered down for another storm in about a week. It's hard on us but harder still on our parents. Health problems prohibit much of the actual getting ready by the in-laws. I take care of preparations for my mother, and hopefully, we won't need to move everyone in together for long. The only time that happens is if the power goes out. <br /><br />Keep track of the storm with us at <a href="http://www.weather.com">Weather.com</a>. And keep us in your prayers.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-41990664793422312692008-09-01T21:47:00.002-04:002008-09-01T22:01:35.851-04:00Signs of Dementia<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />The early signs of dementia are subtle and vague, and may not be immediately obvious. They say signs of dementia are often mistakenly viewed as part of the normal aging process. Lack of health screening programs may mean early signs of dementia are missed, or attributed to other aspects of learning disability, and opportunities for potentially useful health and social care interventions are lost.<br /><br />Memory loss is a very broad term that can mean any deficit in memory function. Memory loss is a common health complaint particularly in the elderly. The most vulnerable parts of the brain are those used for memory and for planning, organising and judgement, social skills and balance. At first, memory loss and trouble thinking clearly may bother the person who has dementia. Dementia affects a person's memory and concentration, and this in turn affects their judgement. Other symptoms include personality change, memory disturbance, slurred speech, impaired judgement and psychiatric problems.<br /><br />Dementia causes many problems for the person who has it and for that person's family. If your family member has some of the signs of dementia, try to get him or her to go see a doctor. Physicians may begin a dementia workup or exam when the patient's family brings concerns about symptoms or behavioral signs to their attention. Keep in mind, examination of a will and terms of a living will are in order at this time. Also see to the execution of a power of attorney.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-1708172862009707832008-08-30T20:54:00.005-04:002008-08-30T21:33:21.047-04:00When Are The Driving Days Over?<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />My family is very important to me. Just as when my children were young, now I am concerned about my elderly parent and in-laws. <br />We are at the crossroads of how to get my father-in-law to stop driving. In all my years of dealing with the elderly, somehow things don't always work out the way experts advise. And I'm one of the experts! So when are the driving days over?<br /><br />My 88 year old father-in-law became disoriented this afternoon on his way to our home. He and my mother-in-law left home at 4:05 pm, were to pick up a pizza and be to our home easily by 5:00 pm. At 5:45, my husband left to look for them, thinking they may have had a flat tire or some other car problem. His parents arrived at 6:00 pm, shakey but none the worse for wear. I came to find out he had passed our street several times and gotten "lost" in a school parking area. Yes, it sounds preposterous but it's true. <br /><br />In his own words, my father-in-law said " I think my driving days are over". If it's only that easy. I'll see it when I believe it.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-59748434229154648932008-08-22T20:00:00.003-04:002008-08-22T20:46:24.268-04:00Medicare Plans Coming Around Again<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />Economic times have been hard on everyone, but especially the senior citizen on a fixed income. Although it is only the end of August, in two and a half months, the hype will start on Medicare health plans. <br /><br />Many seniors are aware of Medicare and Medicare Supplements. The government supplies Medicare(which you have already contributed to)and Medicare Supplements are private companies plans approved for sale to the over age 65 population to pick up the 20% not covered under Medicare. That is a rough explanation, by the way. For a more detailed explanation, go to <a href="http://www.medicare.gov">www.medicare.gov. <br /></a><br />The reason I mention the elderly and Medicare plans coming into view November 15th, is because the confusion continues...not always due to poor explanations on the part of the plan companies, but due to the fact the elderly plainly cannot comprehend the complicated details of what is covered and how the deductibles work. The Medicare Advantage Plans further add to the confusion. I do, however, think these plans are definitely worth the time to figue them out.<br /><br />Once again, let me say, it is NOT all the fault of the insurance companies. Granted, they need to get their act together sooner rather than later. Meaning, talking about what is available and changing details time after time before the end of each calendar year is unacceptable. Also,someone in Medicare needs to make a decision on approving these plans sooner then December of each year!<br /><br />Let's see what happens in 22 1/2 months.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-80139068602504953762008-08-20T23:15:00.002-04:002008-08-21T00:02:20.164-04:00The Cat, Not Me!<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />Recently, I am not only caring for elderly parents but an elderly cat as well. I can say one thing for the parents, at least they can talk to me so that I can understand!<br /><br />Our almost 20 year-old cat has been missing the litter box lately. Not only was a tropical storm approaching, but the cat had an appointment with the vet! Fun times. Luckily, the appointment was for Saturday afternoon when "daddy" could hold her...she's a one man cat you know. Other then kidney problems with old age, she is doing remarkably well. No diabetes, no bladder infection. As with other seniors, she is simply getting older. Incontinence is a problem with humans and animals in old age. <br /><br />Hope I don't see you there.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-79472677676425846052008-08-16T20:59:00.002-04:002008-08-16T21:13:54.282-04:00Women in Poverty<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />I saw an article in the <a href="http://www.kansascity.com">Kansas City Star</a> news that truly says it all. "Those who helped others should not be left in Proverty" is the title. <br /><br />Kathleen Hermes writes about the life of her mother-in-law who had passed away. Like many women, she was a wife and mother who gave much of her life caring for children, a husband, and parents. Hermes points out that this type of care is not given an economic value. Consequently, the poverty rate of women over 65 is twice that of men over 65. According to Hermes, only one out of five women will live out her life with a "financial safety net". The other four will die in poverty. <br /><br />This IS 2008, isn't it? For more on this disturbing truth, go to <a href="http://www.kansascity.com">www.kansascity.com.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-35682273852728104742008-08-08T20:30:00.003-04:002008-08-08T21:12:41.905-04:00To Test or Not To Test<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />Been a while since I posted, but several things have been happening. <br /><br />My sister has been in town for a visit. As luck would have it, mother had a doctor's appointment and it had been discussed by ALL of us that we would talk to the doctor about more memory testing to see what could be done for mom, if anything. <br /><br />I must say, I was disappointed in her doctor. Nice as he was, he seemed to be missing the point of our questions. You see, he had prescribed Aricept about a year ago, when we first broached the subject following a memory test clinic where I had taken mother. The doctor there had enough concern about her responses, he suggested further tests, including MRI, to diagnose dementia or not. The Aricept made her dizzy and after a month and a half, she stopped taking it. My sister and I have seen a decline in time concept, (she gets times and dates confused or forgets altogether). The problem of remembering nouns, names of things, people and places, has only gotten worse. Mother agrees it concerns her too.<br /><br />Her primary care physician says he will not put her through the tests. When I asked why, his response was that "this is her, this is the way she is." He feels she is doing well for her age and she loves to hear that. She IS doing well, and we want to keep her that way! To live independently and healthy as possible is our only goal. <br /><br />Mother is happy the doctor "took her part". For some reason, she doesn't understand we are only trying to delay the progress of what seems inevitable. Perhaps, what really is inevitable is we're just beating our heads against the wall.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-72616093573702467272008-07-30T21:16:00.003-04:002008-07-30T22:10:53.986-04:00Making a Difference<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />Anyone who ever started a non-profit organization would be aware of the desire to make a difference. I am not sure of the statistics, but it is my guess that not even 50% of non-profits or "charities" even succeed or stay in business past the first year. They depend on grant money or donations, and fundraisers are held for so many organizations, the money donated is spread very thin.<br /><br />Family and Friends of the Aging is a non-profit organization begun as an online support group for caregivers of the aging. Since its conception, my dreams and goals for the group have shifted to more realistic avenues. Many caregivers, like me, find themselves with additional responsibilities and expenses, yet lack of work in this slow economy. Family caregivers don't just need to vent to other caregivers, they need to be educated in a way to give loving care while still being able to earn a living! There must be a way...and I am dedicated to finding it and delivering the education to members of FFAI.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-84866310824719258722008-07-29T20:35:00.003-04:002008-07-29T22:19:23.153-04:00Support Groups for Caregivers<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />In the day to day life of a caregiver, maintaining a balanced life can be key to their sanity. It's not an exaggeration that caring for an aging loved one takes a significant toll on a family caregiver. If that person can learn to seek support and use resources when needed, it can make all the difference.<br /><br />Support groups are a great way for caregivers to connect. Sharing stories and resources offers comfort and suggestions to aid in planning for struggles yet to come. Financial strain is a huge part of what many family caregivers face. As costs of health care and home care increase, they struggle with the sudden new costs they acquire. And many face the loss of work hours due to care responsibilities.<br /><br />Coming soon is an online support group, the namesake of this blog, Family and Friends of the Aging. We have plans to not only serve as a sounding board for all in need, but to offer educational services as well. Stay tuned!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-9342897043180547172008-07-19T21:26:00.004-04:002008-07-19T21:57:36.833-04:00Kids Out, Parents In<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />Several things have been going on in my world that interfered with the writing of this blog. I hope to be back on track from now on and bring you up to speed with the aging news as I see it.<br />It seems more aging parents are moving in with their adult children than ever before. The <a href="http://www.ocregister.com/articles">Orange County Register </a>reported that a study begun in 1997 by a UC Irvine professor, show that economic conditions are a catalyst for combining households as baby boomers retire. John L Graham, a marketing and international business professor,says the pension and healthcare systems are falling apart. You can read more on Professor Graham's work at <a href="http://www.ocregister.com/articles">www.ocregister.com</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-85051751731502295452008-07-08T20:58:00.003-04:002008-07-08T21:44:28.384-04:00Meaningful Life<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />This is an interesting time in our family. Tomorrow, my 88 year old mother-in-law will have the battery in her pacemaker replaced, scheduled for early in the morning. <br /><br />My mother-in-law is a strong lady. She has raised 3 wonderful sons, and lived a life any woman would envy. Why? She is loved. Is there anything more important? The older I get, I am certain there is nothing more meaningful to me than the love of my family.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-170262778226820022008-07-06T21:39:00.004-04:002008-07-06T21:52:18.158-04:00Is Anyone Listening?<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />This weekend has been restful. I needed it. My mother needed it as well. I think she is missing the attention though as many elderly do. After all, 17 days with someone always with you, attending to your needs, bringing breakfast, helping you dress, walking with you every step to make sure you are steady. It must be quite an adjustment when you are back to living alone. My mother likes attention and she likes talking. I believe that is what she misses most...talking. Knowing someone is paying attention to what you say. Someone hears you. <br /><br />Thank you, God, for hearing my mother, and for hearing me.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-63071991744422804722008-07-05T22:05:00.003-04:002008-07-05T22:17:40.381-04:00Good Timing<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />Back in the routine! Had the old folks here for a holiday cookout today. None of the three have much going on so our holidays are pretty much spent with them.<br />I showed the video I'd taken from our trip. Hooked it up to the TV to provide a larger screen. Turned out pretty good! Now I have to figure out a way to send it to the family. Or maybe I'll just save it to a CD and go from there.<br /><br />I'm doing some serious thinking about a product I'd like to market on the internet. This seems to be the right timing and I do believe I am guided. Time will tell.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-58189072473490595632008-06-21T10:01:00.003-04:002008-06-21T10:25:15.443-04:00Day 7<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />It is day 7 on our trip of new experiences for my 9 year old granddaughter and visiting friends and old haunts of my 85 year old mother. Mother is doing ok...her legs are bothering her (not to my surprise). She has a serious case of arthritis in one knee that has caused disfigurement and pain for years now. She has never said anything to her doctor which is something we need to change when we get home. <br /><br />Traveling is hard on anyone but having a 9 year old along is a real blessing. She keeps us from dwelling on hurting feet and bowel habits, and negative conversation that seems to creep in with the elderly. Seeing the sights through the eyes of this sweet child is healing for us both.<br /><br />Today, mother will be with friends for the day and Jenna and I will see the first oil well in the country. We'll ride a train for a tour of the area and spend money on souveniers for her memorybook. Ah....vacations are great!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-23635596495230918222008-06-12T21:17:00.002-04:002008-06-12T21:28:51.068-04:00Ready...Set...<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />Time is getting short and 48 hours from now, we should be at my daughter's, the first leg of our trip. I'll be taking my mother, and picking up my granddaughter, for a 1600 mile one-way journey, with lots of interesting stops in between!<br /><br />I'm taking my computer, but the signal may be spotty. So, please forgive me in advance if I am late in posting...or don't get to post at all. I'll be in touch!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-43183209708924918962008-06-11T21:35:00.002-04:002008-06-11T22:43:32.023-04:00Tutorials to Learn Computer Use<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />The computer is an awesome tool. With the click of a mouse, you can visit foreign places, order a birthday gift, or write letters. But first, you must learn to use the computer. For older people, this can be especially challenging.<br /><br />Two of the more popular programs used by many people are Word and Excel. Now, for those of us who learn better by visual teaching rather than text, an online tutorial is available for both Word and Excel. <a href="http://www.inpics.net">In Pictures</a> began as a research study with a goal to make it easier for people to learn how to use the computer. The tutorials are uncomplicated pictures that show exactly what to do. Best of all, <a href="http://www.inpics.net">In Pictures</a> programs are FREE!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-3049153350825944282008-06-10T20:45:00.002-04:002008-06-10T20:57:26.705-04:00Life is Good<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />In a few days I will be leaving with my mother on a two week "vacation". I alternate from excitement, because I love to travel and am thrilled to be going back "home" for a visit, to dread, when I think of the work and situations we will get ourselves into. I am the only driver, the only physical labor( suitcases in and out, etc.) and the only interpreter between great grandma 85, and great grandchild 9. Great Grandma has hearing problems as well as processing issues in the brain. So this should be an interesting trip! All kidding aside, I know this is the right thing to do. Life is good.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-91890277670141184662008-06-08T21:47:00.003-04:002008-06-08T22:13:42.484-04:00Keep the Faith<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />As each day goes by, I think about what options we have if my mother's health declines or just what the best living arrangement is for her. Wealthy aging parents in good health don't pose such a problem...not that mother is a problem. But things need to be seen as they are. Reality is often hard to swallow.<br /><br />In my mind, I have planned for everything. Financially, we are limited to the size of our home or what we can afford for long term care, should that become necessary.<br />We don't talk about it all the time, but several times, Mom has voiced her greatest fear, that of running out of money. This is typical of the elderly, but I try to reassure her that as long as I am livng, she will be cared for. <br />Like many others, my faith keeps me strong.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315040230462656787.post-39883167030920256242008-06-05T20:56:00.003-04:002008-06-05T21:55:04.448-04:00Improving Your Memory<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://familyfriendsofaging.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a><br /><br />Improvements in health care and lifestyles mean that more of us are living longer than ever before. But with that bonus of extra years also comes worries for many of us about the natural reductions in our abilities that occur as we age.<br />Most of us can accept that our physical abilities decline with age, even beginning at a fairly young age (yes, you're only 41, but your teenage son will probably outrun you). What remains a source of stress is that our mental abilities will also diminish as we get older.<br />The most immediate sign of the apparent "decline" is when we find we can't remember things. Whether we're 35 or 65, when we begin to notice lessened memory power, it's often stressful and possibly frightening. I know! This is the situation my mother is in.<br />The reality, of course, is that we all forget things, regardless of our age. As a teenager there were homework assignments or promises to parents that slipped out of your mind just as easily as the name of that colleague your saw at lunch yesterday. The difference is that back then you thought it no big deal, while now you're sure it's a sign that old age has you in its grips.<br />Experts say that for most people the decline in memory is actually very gradual and usually isn't obvious until age 70 or later. And simple memory loss is not necessarily a sign of dementia. While dementia does cause memory loss, it also includes declines in cognitive and intellectual function such as comprehension, judgment, learning capacity and reasoning.<br />So while having some trouble remembering doesn't mean you're slipping into senility, if it is something you're finding increasingly troublesome, you might consider ways to improve memory.<br />Good starting points are eating a healthy diet, staying physically active and getting plenty of rest. All can help combat memory loss while helping you feel and function better overall.<br />Mental health experts also advise that memory can be improved and preserved through training and practicing of memory skills. There are numerous books, and even computer programs, with exercises to improve memory. Learning a new skill, like cooking or chess, is another way to challenge and strengthen your mind.<br />But, if memory issues are truly bothering you, consider consulting a counseling professional. A counselor specializing in aging can offer diagnostic tests, as well as techniques, strategies and advice to make memory loss less of an issue in your life.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0