Androids, iPhones and Microsoft Surfaces, oh my!

From the earliest days of televisions to the first generation of personal computers, the young people have always been among the first to embrace new technology. However, an increasing number of seniors are learning how to navigate our increasingly digital world. In fact, “more than 50% of older Americans are Internet users and an even higher share have mobile phones,” according to a research study conducted by the Pew Internet & American Life Project in early 2012.

In addition to creating new ways to communicate and attain information, digital technology opens up a whole new world for home-bound seniors. Doctor appointments, prescription medications and meals can all be organized online. A trip to the local library or book store is no longer required when books can be downloaded and read anywhere on an e-reader, such as a Kindle, Nook or iPad. Family members live far away? No problem. Seniors can now exchange messages and photos, play games and video conference call all from a smart phone, laptop or tablet, helping them maintain close ties with friends and family regardless of distance.
Continue reading SENIORS BECOMING MORE TECH SAVVY →

“Everyone wants to age at home, but it comes to a point when it’s no longer possible and it’s necessary, as hard as it is, to make that move to the next level of care,” Sandy Markwood, chief executive officer of the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, told USA Today.

Many times, one elderly spouse is responsible for the daily hygiene and care of the other. Assistance from home health care workers or visiting nurses may be among the options you could explore before committing to an senior care residence but as our population ages, it is increasingly likely that the time will come when you or someone you know will have to place a family member into an assisted living residence or a nursing home. When and how that difficult decision is made may involve the entire family.
Continue reading DIFFICULT DECISIONS →

A caring son who is worried about his aging father surprises him with a gift – a robot companion that will cook his meals, clean the house and coordinate activities. Could such a scene be a modern reality or a science fiction fantasy?

The summer 2012 film Robot & Frank depicts just such a storyline. Although Frank Langella’s senior citizen character eventually accepts and appreciates the benefits of the robot, his initial concern “that thing’s going to kill me in my sleep,” epitomizes a common fear.

Despite the fact that engineers around the world are focusing on developing robotic caregivers and companions, the elderly themselves have not yet embraced this modern technology.
Continue reading ROBOTIC CAREGIVERS FOR THE ELDERLY? →

Are you no longer able to live independently but you are worried about who will care for your pet? Of course your faithful champion deserves a good home and luckily, numerous assisted living facilities agree!

According to USA Today, “the pitter-patter of little feet is an increasingly common sound at nursing homes and senior-living residences” throughout the United States.
Continue reading PET-FRIENDLY SENIOR RESIDENCES →

If you have ever thought those words, you are not alone. As our parents age, their children find themselves “exploring” options where Mom or Dad will live? I call this the PAINT BY NUMBER experience. We are given a lot of lessons in life, but one that we are ill prepared for is the role of decision maker for our parents. We have always looked to our parents for guidance in all major decisions, where to go to school, where to live or purchase a new home, how to care for our children and what are the best jobs options available. We look up to our parents and see them as wise and strong.
The once strong parent is now forgetful, unsteady on their feet, losing weight and making perhaps some decisions that are not in their best interest.
Continue reading HELP, WHAT DO I DO WHEN LOOKING FOR PLACEMENT FOR MY ELDERLY PARENT? →