Are you a caregiver?

As we progress through our “golden years,” you may have noticed you had to switch roles with your parents or other elderly relatives… you’re becoming more the parent, advisor or “boss,” and they are more needy and have reverted to being the “child!”

Thanks to advancements in medical science – new and better diagnostic tools, nutrition, antibiotics and other drugs, surgical procedures, and other innovations – we are all living longer. This is bringing on what Dr. Robert N. Butler refers to as “The Longevity Revolution” (See The Longevity Revolution: The Benefits and Challenges of Living a Long Life, PublicAffairs, 2008). The Boomers (and late-boomers) have arrived in huge numbers, and plan to enjoy very long, productive, and richly meaningful lives with renewed inspiration to contribute to the betterment of society in activities of civic, social, and economic engagement – things in which they strongly believe!

And, for many of us, this means we share new responsibilities and jobs as “caregivers!”

I feel blessed to have “found” and connected with Marie Villeza and Kayla Harris at http://elderimpact.org/about-us/. Talk about their insight and generosity! This material comes at a perfect time for all teacher retirees! They have agreed to research and share many support networks and other resources for improving eldercare, senior mobility, special needs and accommodations, and general tips on health, aging, jobs, and finances.

“Lately I’ve been devoting my focus to senior health — especially since only 28-34% of Americans aged 65-74 are physically active. I’ve had the opportunity to speak with some of the elders in my community, and they said although they do want more physical activity, they feel limited in their options. Fortunately, inspiring others to get on their feet is my specialty! I’ve gathered some terrific resources on ways for seniors to lead happier, more active lives, but I need your help distributing them.”    — Marie Villeza

Take some time to peruse these links:

• Transportation Options for Seniors Who Don’t Drive
• Outdoor Elderly Activities
• Retiring in Your Own Home: How Baby Boomers Can Age in Place
• The Healing Power of Pets for Elderly People
• The Grandparent’s Guide to Sharing Your Love of Classic Cars with Your Grandchild
• Volunteer Abroad Programs for Senior Travelers
• The Senior’s Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Their Golden Years
• Exercise Essentials for Healthy Aging
• Exercising with Osteoporosis: Stay Active the Safe Way

 

“I don’t know about you, but sometimes I feel like there is too much for us to keep track of and never enough time to get it all done. And sometimes it can be daunting knowing where to start when looking for information about buying a home, figuring out life insurance, or managing life with a disability. That’s why I’m grateful to have so many wonderful resources available on the internet. There are all kinds of resources that can help make financial planning and life in general easier for all Americans, including seniors, veterans, and those with disabilities.” — Kayla Harris

These are from Kayla Harris, also from elderimpact.org:

• Benefit Calculators from the Social Security Administration
• Grants for Home Modification: 16 Resources for Homeowners with Disabilities
• Transportation Guide for Seniors and Disabled
• Dispelling Myths About Life Insurance
• Financial Steps to Prepare for Disability
• A Guide for Disabled Homebuyers
• Financial Planning for Veterans
• Female Veterans and Drug Addiction: 15 Ways to Support their Ongoing Battle

 

“Some of the greatest partnerships I’ve ever seen have been between senior roommates. Whether it’s a married couple who’ve spent decades together or a pair of siblings who retired together, the care and consideration they always have for each other never ceases to inspire me. I think sometimes we spend so much time worrying about whether our seniors can take care of each other that we fail to see the amazing ways that they do.” — Marie Villeza

• Home Modifications for Specific Needs
• Disaster Safety for People with Disabilities: What to Do When Emergency Weather Strikes
• Stretching Exercises for Seniors to Improve Mobility
• Fire Prevention, Preparedness, and Recovery: Seniors
• Senior Diabetes: Signs and Diagnosis
• Overdose Response Guide: Awareness, Prevention, and Preparedness for Caregivers of Addicts
• 25 Easy Recipes for Senior Nutrition
• The Boomer’s Ultimate Guide To Adding Value To Your Home

Thanks so much, Marie and Kayla!

PKF

© 2017 Paul K. Fox

Photo credits from FreeImages.com: photographers Ned Horton (hands), Benjamin Earwicher (going shopping), Michelle Kwajafa (senior crossing), and John Meyer (love)