Aging Well in the Gorge October 18th 2016
Last month I mentioned the Aging in the Gorge Alliance (AGA) – a recently formed grass roots association whose goal is to create local communities that promote and foster the well-being of elders through education and advocacy. One of their first initiatives is the “Community Reads” project. They raised enough local funds to purchase and […]
Aging Well in the Gorge October 11th 2016
In a few days Medicare Open Enrollment starts. And in preparation you should have received your “Annual Notice of Changes” which describes any changes in your current Medicare plan for 2017 such as cost, coverage, and what providers and pharmacies are in their networks. It is strongly recommended that you review those changes to make […]
Aging Well in the Gorge October 4th 2016
According to LongTermCare.gov, 70% of people turning age 65 can expect to use some form of long-term care during their lives. Often that care is provided by paid in-home care professionals. To find an in-home caregiver, you can contact one of the home care businesses in the Gorge. Or you can hire your own caregiver […]
Aging Well in the Gorge September 27th 2016
Most of us want to stay in our own homes as we age, but we also want to stay safe. And staying safe includes making sure your smoke detectors are installed and working. I was reminded of the importance of smoke detectors several weeks ago when my wife and daughter drove by the house fire […]
Aging Well in the Gorge September 20th 2016
While laying back in the dentist chair as I’m getting my teeth cleaned, I couldn’t help but notice the poster taped to the ceiling (inventive way to take advantage of a captive audience!) for the ”I AM…” photo shoot. “I AM…” sponsored by Keilman Dental Clinic, offers students, teachers and community members a unique opportunity […]
Aging Well in the Gorge September 13th 2016
It’s that time of the year. I’m not talking about the weekend football games or the disappearing daylight, but flu season. Seasonal flu outbreaks can start as early as October, and most often peaks between December and February. Flu is a particular concern for older adults, because while the flu was once a nasty […]
Aging Well in the Gorge September 6th 2016
As we grow older, there are significant challenges: illicit drugs, unprotected sex – oops, wrong age group! Let’s start again. As we grow older, there are significant challenges: the cost of health care – even with Medicare coverage; transportation – particularly if you no longer drive; affordable housing – that is clean and accessible; and […]
Aging Well in the Gorge August 30th 2016
After last week’s column, I received a phone message from a friend I’ve known for a long time (I could say an old friend, but these days I try to avoid to avoid using the word old) reminding me of the risks associated with taking statins. It was a good point. Statins, as is the […]
Aging Well in the Gorge August 23rd 2016
John C. Maxwell, an American author and speaker, talks about two kinds of pride: “Good pride” representing our dignity and self-respect; and “bad pride” – the deadly sin of superiority composed of conceit and arrogance. As we age, sometimes we let that “bad” pride” get in the way when making decisions about our own well-being. […]
Aging Well in the Gorge August 16th 2016
Since 1966, Medicare has been critical to the health and wellbeing of older adults. But it will be facing significant challenges and the fall elections could have a significant impact on the future of Medicare and your healthcare coverage. What are some of the challenges? 1. Healthcare spending is nearly five times higher for those […]