By: Jennifer Beach, LSW, MA, C-SWCM I feel silly writing about such a simple subject to the great Northeast Ohio Boomer readers who are anywhere from 50 to 105! Of course, we all know the importance of handwashing; but do we? I am specifically referring to older adults in hospitals, living in senior care communities, individuals living with memory issues …
Tips for Checking on Aging Loved Ones during Holidays
Whether you live down the block or across the country, holiday visits are a great opportunity to take a closer look at your aging loved one and their surroundings. Take time to observe any changes in an aging family member’s behaviors or lifestyle during dinners, gift exchanges, parties, etc. Changes may vary widely – from … Continue reading Tips for …
Home Alone; Solo Holidays
By: Jennifer Beach, LSW, MA, C-SWCM A few days ago, I took a client to a medical appointment. On the way, we saw an advertisement for the holidays. You know the type of ad: a group of smiling, happy family and friends surrounded by sparkly decorations, beautifully wrapped gifts and delicious food. Her response when she saw it? “Oh, I …
When Sleeping Patterns Change
By: Jennifer Beach, LSW, MA, C-SWCM Mary noticed her father Bill had been extremely tired lately… more than usual. Mary understands the daily challenges her dad faces as he continues to care for his wife, Theresa. Theresa was diagnosed with dementia about two years ago. Bill is the main caregiver with the support of his two adult daughters who live …
Jennifer Beach Wins Second Consecutive Top Award for Northeast Ohio Boomer Magazine Columns
For the second year in a row, the North American Mature Publishers Association (NAMPA) convention in Las Vegas awarded Advocate for Elders, founder Jennifer Beach first place for her monthly columns which appear in Northeast Ohio Boomer magazine! Each month, Jennifer’s “Caregiver Corner” is published covering various topics and issues seniors, their families and friends may be challenged with. Jennifer’s …
Decoding Difficult “Behaviors” Due to Dementia
By: Jennifer Beach, LSW, MA, C-SWCM Margie has been residing in a memory care community for a little over a year. Memory care communities are considered secure units for individuals with varying stages and types of dementia. You may find some individuals with Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, Parkinson’s- related dementia, TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) and many other types of dementias. Memory …
Caregiving and the Power of a Laugh
By: Jennifer Beach, LSW, MA, C-SWCM I was having lunch with a 96-year-old client at a restaurant in her senior care community. As we headed to our table, she looked around and said, “Let’s eat somewhere else; this place is full of old people.” I couldn’t help myself, I started to laugh, really laugh, and so did she. The food …
These Shoes are Made for Walking …or are They?
By: Jennifer Beach, LSW, MA, C-SWCM Marsha is 73, lives alone and is a vibrant, active woman. About five months ago, on a beautiful morning, Marsha woke up and slid on her slippers, as she does every morning before heading to the kitchen for her morning coffee. As she reached for the coffee pot, her foot slipped and she fell …
Coping with Caregiver Guilt
By: Jennifer Beach, LSW, MA, C-SWCM Your Life Philosophy; Choosing Happiness Mike and Barb are in their early 60s and have been married for more than 25 years. They are great friends who share many common interests; rarely was one without the other. One evening many years ago, Mike and Barb had friends over to play cards and have a few …
Choosing Happiness
By: Jennifer Beach, LSW, MA, C-SWCM Your Life Philosophy; Choosing Happiness Do you know someone who finds happiness despite the challenges they are given? Do you know others who cannot see anything but their problems and experience very little happiness? Most of us have been told how our attitude, perspective and overall philosophy of life determines our reactions to events, both …