Category Archives: Guest Writer

Seven Signs That an Aging Parent Needs Help

Older American Woman

Does your aging parent need help? As an Aging Life Care™ advisor, I know how fiercely older adults  cling to their independence. Many feel that their adult children don’t understand them or are making something out of nothing — a fall, a burnt pot, a call from the police station. They make promises to ask for … Continue reading Seven Signs That an Aging Parent Needs Help

A Daughter’s Perspective on Senior Living

Senior Living Elder Daughter

Written by: Mary Ann Buckley MSW, LCSW-C I have assisted many older adults in making moves to senior communities over the last 20 years. Last month I assisted my own mother in moving to a senior living community. Discussing the move, finding the perfect community, planning for, and making the actual move took on a … Continue reading A Daughter’s Perspective on Senior Living

Six things you can do right now to prevent falls at home

The CDC reports one in four Americans aged 65 and older falls each year. With more seniors choosing to age in place and stay at home, the risk of falling increases. Here are some areas you can examine in your home right now to reduce the risk of falls.   Tips to prevent falls at … Continue reading Six things you can do right now to prevent falls at home

Tips for Rightsizing not Downsizing

moving aging parents and selling the house

Practical Tips from an Expert As many aging adults face the prospect of leaving their homes for smaller living spaces, there are a few key strategies that can make the transition happen in a much less stressful and smooth fashion. I like to think of it as rightsizing, not downsizing. by Marie LeBlanc, BS, MBA … Continue reading Tips for Rightsizing not Downsizing

Keeping Older Adults Safe in the Heat

Photo by Sam Williams for Unsplash. Two older people walking together in short sleeves and shorts.

Summer is in full swing in the Northern Hemisphere. Weather extremes are increasing, with hotter temps a concern for large swathes of the U.S. At the same time, the U.S. population is older than ever before and there are safety measures to keep in mind when we venture outdoors. It’s important to take precautions when … Continue reading Keeping Older Adults Safe in the Heat

Elder Abuse: Shattering Myths and Taking Action

Abstract Background

Elder Abuse Awareness: Shattering Myths and Taking Action //// By: Jullie Gray, DSW, MSW, LICSW, CMC – Aging Life Care Association™ Member   //// June 15th is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the abuse and neglect of older adults. This global event aims to foster a better understanding of … Continue reading Elder Abuse: Shattering Myths and Taking Action

LGBTQIA Care Managers in Care Management

While Aging Life Care Managers come from a variety of backgrounds and expertise, they all have high qualifications, certifications, and uphold ALCA’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. Founded in 1985 by a handful of geriatric care social workers in New York City, the organization has grown to be nationwide and includes educated professionals … Continue reading LGBTQIA Care Managers in Care Management

Breaking the Stigma: Embracing Mental Health Treatment in Older Adults

By Sam van Kalkeren, MSN, RN, CMC, CDP, CADDCT – Aging Life Care Association® Breaking the Stigma: Embracing Mental Health Treatment in Older Adults Mental health is just as important as physical health for older adults. Let’s break the stigma and prioritize mental well-being. #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth Many people with mental illness report that the stigma surrounding … Continue reading Breaking the Stigma: Embracing Mental Health Treatment in Older Adults

Falls: Prevention and What to Ask Your Older Loved One

An older woman sitting alone on a bench in a garden with a walking aid next to her

Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal, trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults. For many elders who have a fall, this is often the beginning of a deleterious cascade of ill health that will lead to trauma, hospitalization, decreased mobility, depression, and in some cases, even death. … Continue reading Falls: Prevention and What to Ask Your Older Loved One

Celebrating the Holidays with Alzheimer’s or other Dementia

holidays with dementia

The holidays can often be a time filled with high expectations, requiring lots of energy and engagement in non-stop activities. For the individuals and families living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia, it can be challenging and a time of high anxiety. Festivities can agitate, confuse, and overstimulate persons living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia. Meanwhile, … Continue reading Celebrating the Holidays with Alzheimer’s or other Dementia