Category: Communication and Relationships

Live Training Sessions for Alzheimer’s Family Caregivers, Starting May 22

Blog Post by Mike Brunt, Franchise Owner, Home Instead Senior Care

 

OVERVIEW

By now, many of you have heard about our free online courses for family caregivers who are taking care of loved ones with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. Now we are taking this training to the next level by offering free live workshops covering essential topics for Alzheimer’s family caregivers. Please call today to reserve your seat in this valuable educational opportunity.

The training was developed by Home Instead Senior Care in consultation with a nationwide panel of experts and will run over the course of 3 weeks with a 1.5 hour session each week. We will take a group of around 10 family caregivers through the courses sequentially as each course builds on the previous one.

In Washington County, we will be offering this series of classes several times in 2012. Our first round starts on Tuesday, May 22 and is detailed below:

LOCATION

Home Instead Senior Care Office
12194 SW Scholls Ferry Rd., Tigard, 97223

CALL TO REGISTER

503-530-1527

TRAINER

Jean Blackburn, Gerontology Specialist

Jean has earned a special certificate from PCC’s Gerontology Department  in “Advanced Behavioral and Cognitive Awareness.” Jean has been a High School Teacher, VP of operations in a training seminar company, has worked for Home Instead Senior care for about 2 years, and most importantly, has been a family caregiver for 10 years for her aging mother who had Alzheimer’s disease. It was the personal experience Jean had with the care of her Mother that inspired her to be of service to other seniors and work with like-minded people. Jean is a dedicated life-long learner who enjoys spending time with her family and friends, with emphasis on her 1-yr.-old Grandson, as well as hiking, exercising, reading, volunteering with “Elders in Action,” and trying new things.

DATES, TIMES, TOPICS COVERED

Date: Tuesday, May 22, 2012; 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE OR OTHER DEMENTIAS

  • Learn to recognize the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.
  • Discover how Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are diagnosed.
  • Understand more about the behaviors that can be caused by the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

 

CAPTURING LIFE’S JOURNEY (SM)

  • Discover how “Capture Life’s Journey” can help you and others provide the best care for your loved one.
  • Learn techniques to encourage your loved one to share their stories and memories.
  • Become familiar with the format of the Life Journal and how to record information about your loved one’s past.
  • Find out how to use the Life Journal in partnership with professional caregivers.

 

Date: Tuesday, May 29, 2012; 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

TECHNIQUES TO HANDLE CHALLENGING BEHAVIORS

  • Learn more about the challenging behaviors that may be displayed by those with Alzheimer’s or other dementias.
  • Discover techniques to help handle these behaviors.
  • Determine what techniques work best to manage different types of behaviors.

 

Date: Tuesday, June 5, 2012; 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

ACTIVITIES TO ENCOURAGE ENGAGEMENT

  • Learn about the benefits of staying active for a person with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia.
  • Learn about three types of activities — for mind, body, and soul.
  • Discover various techniques to encourage your loved one to engage in an activity.
  • Become familiar with activities that are suitable for late stage Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia, to stimulate your loved one’s five senses.

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on May 17, 2012
filed in Alzheimer's and Dementia, Communication and Relationships, Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Geriatric Psychiatry, Isolation and Depression, Local Events, Physical Activity and Conditioning, Practical Tips and Resources, Senior Nutrition and Health

Job Hunting After 50

Blog Post by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

 

There is good news.  Really.

Companies actually do hire seniors.  However, one unfortunate and often overlooked fact is that many baby boomer job seekers do not know how to conduct a modern job search, or properly present themselves to employers.  An ineffective resume or a poor interview can seriously derail anyone’s job search–especially that of the mature job applicant.  Unfortunately, this can shut him out of the job market.

The good news is that Carol A. Silvis is an experienced author who has taught training courses to older adults re-entering the workplace.  Having written extensively on the subject of career topics and concerns, her most recent book is Job Hunting After 50. It is specifically designed to prepare seniors for the job search by arming them with a plan for success.

This book shows them how to assess and update their skills and qualifications; use the appropriate technology; prepare their own resumes for today’s job market; and dress with style for the interview.  Silvis identifies the most common mistakes seniors make, showing them how to best avoid certain pitfalls.  In addition, she addresses their energy levels and attitudes.

The goal is to commit one’s time to finding the right job by approaching it systematically and intelligently.  Silvis has laid out some tried and true principles to follow in order to simplify the process.  Her book will be a boon for the boomers and their parents who are job hunting at this time.

Wishing you luck in your search,

-Laraine Jablon, BA, MA, is a writer living in Nesconset, New York.  She welcomes your thoughts.  Lhjablon@gmail.com

 

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No Comments by jeanblackburn on May 16, 2012
filed in Baby Boomer Age Wave, Communication and Relationships, Employment Opportunities, Financial Issues, Risks, Resources

Free Alzheimer’s e-Learning Courses for Family Caregivers

Blog Post by Mike Brunt, Local Owner, Home Instead Senior Care
on behalf of all Portland Area Home Instead Locations

This series of online training courses will give you basic information about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. More importantly, you will gain valuable insight for providing better care for a loved one with these conditions.

At the end of the course you will be equipped with several techniques to help improve both your and your loved one’s quality of life.

Each class can be completed within 5-15 minutes. No preregistration required.

At the end of each class you can download a Class Checklist PDF.

(Below is a review from Tina Jackson, a trusted employee who has coordinated service for my clients and CAREGivers for 3.5 years.)

I just completed this course, and was very impressed by the way the information was presented.  The information was simple and clear, the graphs were informative and eye-opening, and the testimonials and interactive role-playing allow the reader to see the suggestions in action.  The maps of the houses describing different ways to redirect in different rooms of the house, or various safety hazards to consider, is again, very simple and thought provoking.  I also like how the information stresses the importance of family caregivers taking care of themselves too.

To me, the information was presented in a way that seemed thorough, but not overwhelming, and the option to be able to print a summary of each section allows the reader to be able to keep this information at their fingertips, and/or easily share it with others.

I am more and more impressed with Home Instead Senior Care as time goes on.  I do feel truly blessed to be a part of such a wonderful organization, and to truly value and believe in what we have to offer our community, and whomever else we might impact.  This is an awesome resource I am very excited about.

 

And Finally, here is one more screen shot from the online training.

 

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1 Comment by Mike Brunt on May 15, 2012
filed in Alzheimer's and Dementia, Communication and Relationships, Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Isolation and Depression, Practical Tips and Resources, Senior Care Reference Materials, Senior Nutrition and Health

My Client: Lt. Colonel, Pilot in 3 Wars, Jogger, Scuba Diver, Foodie, Bostonian

Senior Companionship by Home Instead CAREGiver Enriches Client’s Life Through Outings and Activities.

(Photo taken by CAREGiver of client, Milt, at the Evergreen Air and Space Museum, standing next to one of the actual planes he piloted during his military career.)

Blog Post by Mike Brunt, Franchise Owner, Home Instead Senior Care

Some people who work for me tell me that I tend to repeat myself. One of my favorite things to repeat to my wonderful CAREGivers is that no matter what they are doing with or for our clients, they need to “add value.” What I mean is this – actively look for and find ways to make the clients’ lives more enjoyable and then do those things without necessarily being asked to do so.

My favorite example this month of a CAREGiver adding value to a client’s life is my CAREGiver, Katie, who takes care of my client, Milt. Milt grew up outside of Boston as the son of a fisherman. He has had a distinguished military career in which he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, was a pilot in 3 wars, and lived in Hawaii for 32 years. Milt has jogged almost every day of his life, enjoyed scuba diving, and is very knowledgeable about the food business.

Since July 2011, Katie has worked weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays with Milt. During her four hour afternoon shifts, she takes him by car or MAX on outings for exercise, errands, mental stimulation, and social engagement outside of the community in Beaverton where he and his wife live.

Katie and Milt frequently visit Lloyd Center in northeast Portland where he enjoys window shopping and watching the ice skaters. Other trips have included visits to the Oregon Zoo, World Forestry Center, OMSI, Newport Aquarium, and Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum. Milton really enjoys seeing planes and military exhibits.  Later this month, she’s taking him on the Portland Sternwheeler for a river cruise and hopes that it will be a sunny day.

I find so much joy and satisfaction in providing this life enrichment to Milt through my stellar CAREGiver Katie. She is “living Home Instead” and truly adding value for Milt in the later years of what has been a fascinating life.

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3 Comments by Mike Brunt on May 7, 2012
filed in Communication and Relationships, Physical Activity and Conditioning, The Lighter Side of Aging, Veterans Issues and Resources

Family Caregiver Vignette – The Magic of Mail for Seniors

Blog Post by Marcia Solberg

Dear Family Members,

Allow me to introduce myself, my name is Marcia Solberg, and I thank Mike Brunt at Home Instead Senior Care for the opportunity to share my story. Nine years ago, my 90 year old father made the decision to give up his home of 46 years in Great Falls, Montana and move to assisted living. As you know, many emotions play into this life change, especially for the children who live miles away from their parents and worry about their well being and happiness.

Every time I visited, I noticed that the most important sign at his retirement residence was the MAIL’S IN sign above the resident mail boxes. However, it broke my heart when I observed that very few people actually were able to find any mail in their box on any given day.

Five years ago, I discovered an internet service called Send Out Cards. This amazing web site allowed me to upload family pictures and create wonderful greeting cards that were printed, stuffed and stamped in Salt Lake and sent by US mail. What joy my dad and I both shared when he received my cards and picked up the phone to call and thank me.  I tried to send one every week, as well as on special occasions, after a trip, or with pictures of a great grand-child’s birthday.

When I visited, I knew just how much those cards meant when other residents would greet me with, “Oh, you’re the daughter that sends those GREAT cards!” Those cards made dad a Very Important Person at the Rainbow Retirement home. I believe the only other person to receive more mail was Walter Breuning, the world’s oldest man. (passed away last year at 114!) Dad passed away in December 2009, at the age of 96, having lived a wonderful life. In his desk drawer I found every card I had sent him for the last year and a half! I am forever grateful that I found the Send Out Cards program. Most of the cards I sent dad cost me 93 cents or less, plus postage, and were much more personal with pictures than anything I could buy at a card shop!

I would be privileged to talk with any family members who might be interested in this program and set up a free gift account for you to try the service. You’ll be able to see just how easy it is, and how much time and money you can save, while touching your loved one’s heart in a very special way. A subscription is now as little as $9.80 a month, which will make 6-10 cards (with & without pictures).

Don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions you might have.

Sincerely,

Marcia Solberg
971-235-2257
marciasolberg@aol.com
Independent Distributor of Send Out Cards
www.sendoutcards.com/cardsbymarcia
Member of Beaverton & Tigard Chamber of Commerce, NAPO Oregon, MSN

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on May 4, 2012
filed in Communication and Relationships, Family Caregivers, Practical Tips and Resources, The Lighter Side of Aging

Techniques to Manage Challenging Behaviors of Alzheimer’s Disease

Blog Post by Mike Brunt on behalf of all Portland Area Home Instead Locations

Those of you who have cared for a person with Alzheimer’s disease know you can expect to hear the same stories, concerns, and comments over and over again. Did you know there is a right way to respond to the repetition? Other challenging behaviors of Alzheimer’s disease include refusal, delusions (or false beliefs), aggression, false accusations, wandering, and agitation.

Alzheimer’s expert, David Troxel, confirms that knowing and practicing certain techniques for handling difficult behaviors can keep family caregivers from being pushed to the breaking point.

Home Instead Senior Care offices train their professional CAREGivers in the following techniques that will also be very effective for family caregivers.

  • Redirect. The first time a question comes up, take a few moments to answer the question fully and provide reassurance that all is well.
  • Physically move items or the senior from the environment. If an object or his or her surroundings are causing frustration, remove that item or the senior from that situation.
  • Offer simple choices. If a senior resists bathing, a simple choice would be: “Would you like your bath now or in one hour?” or “Would you like to take a bath or a shower today?”
  • Apologize and take the blame. Apologizing or taking the blame in a situation takes the attention off of the older adult. It may help them calm down if they believe something was not their fault.

 

Alzheimer’s experts suggest that a family caregiver should try managing a difficult behavior three times in three different ways to achieve the best results.

The Home Instead CAREGivers I employ in Washington County, Oregon, receive 8 hours of standardized training specifically on Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Our training program is true to it’s name which is “CARE.” It stands for Changing Aging Through Research and Education. If you are a family caregiver and feel you could use some support from one of my excellent, trained Home Instead CAREGivers, please give me a call at 503-530-1527.

For more on Alzheimer’s and other dementias, go to www.helpforalzheimersfamilies.com.

 

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4 Comments by Mike Brunt on April 14, 2012
filed in Alzheimer's and Dementia, Communication and Relationships, Family Caregivers, Practical Tips and Resources

Giving Alzheimer’s Patients Their Way, Even Chocolate

Blog Post by Mike Brunt
Content from New York Times Article by Pam Belluck

(Note by Mike: I like this article, because it talks about caregiving as “dementia therapy” in the absence of effective medical treatments for Alzheimer’s. Having creative, caring people nearby is what seems to make the difference. This makes complete sense to me.)

Margaret Nance was, to put it mildly, a difficult case. Agitated, combative, often reluctant to eat, she would hit staff members and fellow residents at nursing homes, several of which kicked her out. But when Beatitudes nursing home agreed to an urgent plea to accept her, all that changed.

Disregarding typical nursing-home rules, Beatitudes allowed Ms. Nance, 96 and afflicted with Alzheimer’s, to sleep, be bathed and dine whenever she wanted, even at 2 a.m. She could eat anything, too, no matter how unhealthy, including unlimited chocolate. an urgent plea to accept her, all that changed.

And she was given a baby doll, a move that seemed so jarring that a supervisor initially objected until she saw how calm Ms. Nance became when she rocked, caressed and fed her “baby,” often agreeing to eat herself after the doll “ate” several spoonfuls.

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With virtually no effective medical treatment for Alzheimer’s yet, most dementia therapy is the caregiving performed by families and nursing homes. Some 11 million people care for Alzheimer’s-afflicted relatives at home. In nursing homes, two-thirds of residents have some dementia.

Caregiving is considered so crucial that several federal and state agencies, including the Department of Veterans Affairs, are adopting research-tested programs to support and train caregivers. This month, the Senate Special Committee on Aging held a forum about Alzheimer’s caregiving.

“There’s actually better evidence and more significant results in caregiver interventions than there is in anything to treat this disease so far,” said Lisa P. Gwyther, education director for the Bryan Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at Duke University.

Link to full New York Times Article

 

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1 Comment by Mike Brunt on April 8, 2012
filed in Alzheimer's and Dementia, Clinical Insights for Elder Care, Communication and Relationships, Family Caregivers, Geriatric Psychiatry, Practical Tips and Resources

Family Caregiver Support – 2012 Webinar Series

Blog Post by Portland-Area Offices of Home Instead Senior Care

The 2012 Family Caregiver Support Web Seminar Series provides access to information and advice from professionals experienced with issues faced by family caregivers.Caring for a senior loved one can bring a sense of fulfillment, but usually not without a few challenges as well. To help you feel a little more confident and equipped in your role as a family caregiver, the Home Instead Senior Care® network is launching the 2012 Family Caregiver Support Web Seminar Series, featuring free monthly seminars for family caregivers on a variety of essential caregiving topics.

The web seminars, hosted in cooperation with the American Society on Aging (ASA), provide tips, information and advice from the perspective of professionals who are well-versed in issues facing families caring for aging loved ones.

Please note, these Family Caregiver Webinars are not eligible for CEU credits. The CEU credit offering is only available for the webinars featured in the Professional Family Caregiver series.

Please pre-register for any Family Caregiver Webinar by the deadline of 9 PM PST the day before! for the following 2012 Senior Care Web Series. Please click each “Register Now” link below for more details of each webinar and to sign up.

Living at Home with Arthritis – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, March 21, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

How to Help your Senior Manage Medications – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, April 25, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Navigating the Senior Care Maze – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, May 23, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Caring for Someone with Alzheimer’s – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, June 27, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Managing the Stress of a Family Caregiver – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

How to Balance Work and At-Home Care – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, August 22, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Senior Cognitive Issues – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, September 26, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Helping Seniors with Finances – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, October 24, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Helping Seniors with Loss of Independence – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, November 28, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Multi-Generational Living – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, December 19, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Get more information and pre-register on any webinar above. You may also Email info@asaging.org or call 415-974-9600 if you have questions about registering for or accessing a recorded webinar.

 

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on February 26, 2012
filed in Alzheimer's and Dementia, Clinical Insights for Elder Care, Communication and Relationships, Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Financial Issues, Risks, Resources, Isolation and Depression, Practical Tips and Resources

Lack of Estate Planning Sets the Stage for Conflict

Post by Stephanie Carter, Attorney at Law, with Draneas & Huglin, P.C.

Member, Senior Resource Alliance Northwest

A surprising number of famous people have died without any form of will or trust to direct distribution of their estate.  This has often led to conflicts over the right to control the estate assets, including intellectual property, public image, and other money-producing assets.

For example, Martin Luther King Jr. didn’t have a will when he was unfortunately assassinated.  His estate, which is run now through a corporation established by his children, often struggles to determine what King’s wishes would be.  Decades after the civil rights leader’s death, his children are still trying to sort out matters related to his estate.

Reggae singer Bob Marley left no will when he died in 1981.  Over the past 30 years, the estate has been involved in multiple lawsuits.  Handling Marley’s estate was complicated by the fact that, although Marley died in Florida, he maintained his Jamaican citizenship.  Since Jamaica’s laws of intestacy were not as generous as Florida’s, his advisors decided to prepare an estate plan AFTER HIS DEATH that Marley’s widow then signed.

The Jamaican court sorted out the issue of the falsified will and removed Marley’s widow as administrator of the estate.  The court then had to resolve the issue of who had the right to use the singer’s name, likeness and image in commerce.  About 10 years after Marley’s death, the Jamaican Supreme Court decided that Marley’s heirs possessed this exclusive right.  The heirs include the widow and Marley’s children.  Unfortunately, the list of heirs does not incude siblings.  The estate is now suing Marley’s half-brother for using his image to promote a Miami music festival and restaurant, as he has done for many years.

Swedish author Steig Larsson, known for his Millennium series that includes The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, also died without a will.  His estate passed to his heirs (brother and father with whom Larsson was not close) rather than his long-time partner, Eva Gabrielsson.  Gabrielsson has refused to release to the estate the partial fourth volume in the book series, has fought for her share of the apartment they shared, and control over Larsson’s literary estate, which she feels better prepared to administer than Larsson’s family  The dispute is still pending.

Although your estate may not be large, and you may not be famous, proper estate planning can help pass your estate to the next generation without the conflicts that occur when money and sentiment are involved.

Stephanie Carter, Attorney at Law, Draneas & Huglin, P.C., 4004 Kruse Way Place, Suite 200,
Lake Oswego, OR, (503) 496-5509, stephanie@draneaslaw.com

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No Comments by jeanblackburn on January 30, 2012
filed in Communication and Relationships, Education for Senior Providers, Elder Law, End-of-Life Care, Family Caregivers, Financial Issues, Risks, Resources, Legislative and Political Issues, Senior Care Reference Materials, Senior Resource Alliance NW, Uncategorized

“I Will Remember For You” Alzheimer’s Music Video

Blog Post by Home Instead Senior Care offices in the Portland Metro Area

Oh the places you used to go,
All the people you used to know,
The stories that you loved to tell
About a life that you lived so well.
It’s fine, you can rest if you want to.
I will remember for you,
I will remember too.

Music is just a story with a melody. The song “I Will Remember for You” played in the video above tells the story of a couple touched by Alzheimer’s disease. It was written and performed by Home Instead Senior Care staff member Dave Mainelli, and is inspired by all the families who are keeping the memories alive for loved ones experiencing memory loss. Music powerfully communicates emotion and narrative, making it an excellent tool to evoke memories for those living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias.

More about the benefits of music for people with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias

 

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on January 19, 2012
filed in Alzheimer's and Dementia, Communication and Relationships, Family Caregivers, Practical Tips and Resources

Website Offers Help for Alzheimer’s Families

Blog Post by Home Instead Senior Care offices in the Portland Metro Area

In my six and a half years of providing caregiving services to seniors at home, I have supported many families affected by Alzheimer’s disease as they struggle to understand and cope with the changes the disease brings to their senior loved ones. My desire is always to help the families know that while their journey will test their emotional and physical stamina, they are not alone and that help is available.

The families I have observed who were most centered in facing Alzheimer’s disease were the ones who had an understanding of the nature of the disease and who sought for and found emotional support through peer groups or professionals.

Because knowledge and understanding are so imperative for families coping with Alzheimer’s, I am pleased to refer you to an excellent online resource: http://www.helpforalzheimersfamilies.com.

The site answers questions such as -

  • What is the difference between Alzheimer’s disease & dementia?
  • What are the stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia?
  • Is Alzheimer’s inherited?

 

But it also goes beyond the basics to provide practical advice on topics such as  -

  • Capturing Memories for Someone with Alzheimer’s or Dementia
  • Alzheimer’s Conversation Tips
  • Creating a Memory Box

 

If you are a member of a family affected by Alzheimer’s disease, this site is for you. If you know a member of such a family, please do them a favor and point them to this thoughtful resource.

http://www.helpforalzheimersfamilies.com

 

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2 Comments by Mike Brunt on January 19, 2012
filed in Alzheimer's and Dementia, Clinical Insights for Elder Care, Communication and Relationships, Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Practical Tips and Resources

Elderly “Experts” Share Life Advice in Cornell Project

Article by by Jane E. Brody of the New York Times - January 9, 2012
Link to Full Article

Eventually, most of us learn valuable lessons about how to conduct a successful and satisfying life. But for far too many people, the learning comes too late to help them avoid painful mistakes and decades of wasted time and effort.

Enter an invaluable source of help, if anyone is willing to listen while there is still time to take corrective action. It is a new book called “30 Lessons for Living” (Hudson Street Press) that offers practical advice from more than 1,000 older Americans from different economic, educational and occupational strata who were interviewed as part of the ongoing Cornell Legacy Project.

Its author, Karl Pillemer, a professor of human development at the College of Human Ecology at Cornell and a gerontologist at the Weill Cornell Medical College, calls his subjects “the experts,” and their advice is based on what they did right and wrong in their long lives. Many of the interviews can be viewed at legacyproject.human.cornell.edu.

Here is a summary of their most salient thoughts…

On Marriage

On Careers

On Parenting

On Aging

On Regrets

On Happiness

Link to Full Article

 

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on January 19, 2012
filed in Communication and Relationships, Practical Tips and Resources, The Lighter Side of Aging

Hearthstone at Murrayhill Free Seminar Series: “Making Life Choices”

Blog Post by Penny Holcomb, Community Relations Director, Hearthstone at Murrayhill

Printable Flyer

Free Seminar Series for Seniors and Families

A free seminar series is being offered by Hearthstone at Murrayhill, a retirement community located at 10880 SW Davies Road in Beaverton.  The four-week series, titled “Making Life Choices,” is geared toward seniors and their families. Seminars will be held on four consecutive Saturdays, beginning January 14, from 10 a.m. to noon.

The January 14 session, titled “What You Don’t Know…CAN Hurt You,” will feature two local professionals: Lake Oswego Attorney Christopher Young from the Pixton Law Group and Diane Childs from the State of Oregon’s Department of Consumer & Business Services. Mr. Young will focus on common legal issues faced by seniors and their families. Ms. Childs will provide tips on how to protect your money from fraud and identify theft.

Subsequent Saturday sessions (January 21 and 28, and February 4) will feature other local professionals who are familiar with the needs of seniors and their families. They will address such topics as “Creating Family Peace in Times of Turmoil,” “Selling Your Home in a Down Economy,” and “Getting Organized.”

 

 

No Comments by Mike Brunt on January 14, 2012
filed in Communication and Relationships, Elder Law, Family Caregivers, Financial Issues, Risks, Resources, Local Events, Senior Housing Options

Success to Significance – Finding Purpose Serving Seniors

Blog Post by Mike Brunt

Earlier this year, I was in Omaha, Nebraska for Home Instead’s annual worldwide convention for franchise owners. It is always inspiring to meet and associate with fellow Home Insteaders from across North America and around the world.

This year, the keynote speaker was Dr. Ken Dychtwald, a renowned thought leader on the “Age Wave” and the societal implications of an aging population. I enjoyed his material so much, I came home and bought 5 of his books.

In his book called “With Purpose: Going from Success to Significance in Work and Life,” Dr. Dychtwald talks about the aging population’s need to leave a legacy and to define what life is about. Because we are typically living 20 years longer than people even 80 years ago, these extra years can be seen as a “longevity bonus.” The question becomes, what will tomorrow’s seniors do with this extra time? Just be old longer? No, they will re-invent themselves, pursue their passions, and make a meaningful contribution to society.

I loved these concepts so much, I created a presentation based on them. I am presenting this in the community, anywhere I can, to show baby boomers how they can use their longevity bonus to serve the elderly. For boomers who are shifting their focus from financial success to social significance, being a CAREGiver with Home Instead Senior Care would be a great way to serve humanity.

In 2012 I’m hoping to present this material to many churches, service organizations, and other places where baby boomers may congregate or search for meaningful, part-time employment. If you have ideas on where I may present this material, please email me at mike.brunt@homeinstead.com.

Preview Presentation: Finding Purpose Serving Seniors

 

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1 Comment by Mike Brunt on December 16, 2011
filed in Baby Boomer Age Wave, Communication and Relationships, Community Service, Employment Opportunities

Family Caregiver Vignette: “At Least One Prayer Was Answered”

Blog Post by Mike Brunt
Story by Linda, one of my wonderful Home Instead CAREGivers – (Become a CAREGiver)

Last week at the Washington County Family Caregiver Conference, I had the pleasure of sitting next to one of my wonderful CAREGivers, Linda. Over lunch, she told me the tragic story below. I asked her to write it down, so I could share it here.

This story simply and openly sheds light on a grim chapter of Linda’s life. But, I hope that through its sharing, other family caregivers will gain perspective and courage to do what is being required of them (specifically as it relates to getting enough support when dealing with angry care recipients who should not be driving).

__________________________________________________________________________________________

by Linda – “At Least One Prayer Was Answered”

In September 1996 my husband was informed on a Monday that his last day of work would be Friday because he would begin kidney dialysis.  So, for the next 7 years, I was his caregiver and took care of everything.  I had a full time job with a lot of pressure and responsibility.  I had to continue my job so we could have health insurance.  Just the medical bills for my husband were over ten thousand dollars a month.

Things were going along okay. Then, in January 2004, we had an ice storm and I asked my husband to either call and postpone his session at the dialysis clinic or let me drive him there.  But no, he insisted that he could drive there himself.  So, he took off for the clinic.  He pulled into the clinic’s ice-covered parking lot and attempted to get out of the car and go in.  He fell to the ground and couldn’t get up. He had broken his leg and didn’t know it.  He crawled from the parking lot to the front door and got the staff’s attention, and then they helped him in with a wheelchair.

He insisted he’d be fine and, “let’s just do the dialysis.”  So that’s what they did. After the session he was helped back to his car and drove home.  I had shoveled out our drive way while he was gone, so he could get out of his car and into the house without any trouble.  After he got into the driveway, he called me from his cell phone to say he’d fallen, and could I come out and help him in. As I was looking at his leg I told him we needed to go to the hospital.

At the hospital, the doctor explained that because of his medical conditions, they could set his leg and put him in a cast, but the chances of it healing were very slim. He insisted they cast him and that’s what they did.  He was prescribed some very strong pain pills, and before we left, the doctor told him he would not be able to drive until he was finished with his pain medications.

So, for the next 6 months, that’s when the really tough times happened.  Because he could no longer drive, I arranged my schedule to take him to his doctor appointments. I scheduled with mass transit to take him to and from his dialysis sessions 3 times a week.  The doctors didn’t tell me that this already angry, angry man was going to get angrier on this pain medicine.  He turned into the devil, and was always yelling, calling me names, trying to hit me, etc.

When I came home from the grocery store one day in June, he and his car were both gone.  I had hidden his keys to keep him from driving, and he must have found them.  I said my prayers, “please Lord, don’t let anyone else get hurt.”  The police called me at about noon.  He was heading out Highway 26 and crossed three lanes of traffic heading the opposite direction.  He crashed into a traffic pole and died.  I asked if anyone else was hurt and was told, “no.”  So, at least one prayer was answered.

 

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on November 25, 2011
filed in Communication and Relationships, Family Caregivers

Do Stop In To See The Orchids In Their Full Glory

Blog Post by Mike Brunt

Anyone who has worked with seniors, in any way, will be able to relate with me on this. It seems that the most special, and heart-touching moments are born out of common daily experiences.

This is a note I received last week from a new client, Dorothy. It made me feel so happy and so glad I do what I do. It’s amazing how small acts of kindness and gratitude can spark such strong feelings of joy and bonds of fellowship. I’m keeping this note in my back pocket for those who can’t understand why I get so excited about serving seniors.

 

“Thank you Mr. Brunt for the gorgeous plant of phalaenopsis orchids. Their beautiful shades are just breathtaking. I am so sorry that it took me so long to acknowledge your thoughtfulness. Do stop in to see the orchids in their full glory. Thanks again. You must see the flowers. Your graciousness extended to me was a treasure to behold and receive. Sincerely, Dorothy.”

 

 

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on November 7, 2011
filed in Communication and Relationships, The Lighter Side of Aging

Holiday Gatherings: Awareness of Your Senior’s Needs – Video

Blog Post by Home Instead Senior Care offices in the Portland Metro Area

Mary Alexander from Home Instead Senior Care, discusses helpful tips for enjoying holiday gatherings with our senior loved ones. During these busy family gatherings, it’s important for everyone to be aware and considerate of elderly family members’ needs. Talk to family and friends before they arrive.

 

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on October 25, 2011
filed in Communication and Relationships, Family Caregivers

Table Talk: Tips for Mealtime Conversations with Seniors

Blog Post by Home Instead Senior Care offices in the Portland Metro Area

Companionship through Meaningful Conversation

The shopping is done, and the meal is ready and on the table. Your work is complete, right? And now comes the fun part. You sit down to dine with an older loved one. But what is there to talk about? A senior’s world may have shrunk to the size of their four walls. Even so, mealtime conversations are an important part of the dining experience. Without that, elderly depression could be a problem.

Sharing memories is one way to get the conversation going, according to Dr. Amy D’Aprix, a life transition consultant, author, corporate speaker, facilitator, coach, and an expert in aging, retirement and caregiving. “Sharing memories is a great way to deepen your relationship with an aging relative,” D’Aprix said. “But sometimes we all need help thinking of new and meaningful things to talk about.”

That’s why D’Aprix created Caring CardsTM. This packet of playing card look-alikes features more than 50 questions on a wide range of topics that can help you engage a senior loved one in meaningful conversation and provide companionship. Featured below are two Caring Card questions and D’Aprix’s comments about ways that you can use them to start up table talk with older adults.

(For a free set of “Caring Cards” call Mike Brunt at 503-530-1527. I’ll send the cards to the first five callers.)

What are some of the most valuable things you learned from your parents?

Many of us enjoy remembering our parents and the impact they had on our lives. Whether our relationship with our parents was easy or difficult, or more likely a combination of both, most of us recognize that who we are as adults was at least partially formed by what we learned from our parents. This question gives seniors the opportunity to talk about some of the most impactful things they learned from their parents. Follow-up questions could include:

  • How did your parents teach you about “X”?
  • Why do you think it was important to your parents that you learned “X”?
  • Do you think they learned “X” from their parents?

For example, if the senior mentions the “importance of hard work” as something valuable they learned from their parents, you could ask whether their parents worked hard and in what ways. You could ask if their parents required them to work hard as a child. You could also ask if their parents had to work hard as kids and if their grandparents taught them it was important to work hard. This question could lead to many questions about how much time was spent working versus leisure time, and whether the parents thought people who didn’t work hard were lazy.

What was a major turning point in your life and how did it affect you?

As Kierkegaard said, “Life can only be understood backward, but must be lived forward.” By the time they have reached their senior years, many older adults have had numerous turning points. Reminiscing about these turning points allows seniors to make sense of their lives and their choices, and to gain peace of mind now. Natural follow-up questions include exploring more fully one or more of the turning points the person mentions and asking more details about the importance of that turning point in their lives and how they felt after taking the particular path they took.

 

Other questions include asking whether they would take that particular path again knowing what they now know and how they thought their lives might have turned out differently if they had taken a different route. When exploring this topic, it is important to be sensitive to whether a turning point was emotionally difficult or had outcomes that were not easy. Allow the senior to reveal only as much as they are comfortable revealing without pushing too hard or probing beyond his or her comfort zone.

 

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on October 25, 2011
filed in Communication and Relationships, Family Caregivers, Isolation and Depression, Practical Tips and Resources

“Caregiver Village” Game Provides Fun Way to Learn Self-Care

Blog Post by Sheila Watson of Caregiver Village

As you may be aware, the number of unpaid family caregivers in North America is 50 million and growing every day. I’d like to introduce you to Caregiver Village, an online community designed exclusively for those who provide care for anyone with special needs.

Caregiver Village members connect with friends, participate in book clubs with celebrity authors, journal, play mystery games, solve puzzles, and learn valuable information about caregiving. The founders of Caregiver Village have also just put aside a portion of the launch funding to support caregiving organizations. For every person that joins Caregiver Village, they will donate $1 to that persons organization of choice. I’ve created a page which explains everything:

http://www.caregivervillage.com/social-media

Please join Caregiver Village today and pass this along to people you know who are family caregivers.

Related Sites:

caregivervillage.com

facebook.com/caregivervillage

twitter.com/cgvillage

 

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on October 18, 2011
filed in Communication and Relationships, Family Caregivers

Senior Resource Alliance NW – Professionals to Serve Your Senior Loved Ones

Blog Post by Mike Brunt

Those who have helped an aging loved one through the later years of life know that the romanticized picture of old age as sipping lemonade on a porch swing is a far stretch from the actual experience. The realities of aging force seniors and their family members to confront physical, emotional, logistical, financial, legal, and caregiving challenges that are hard to predict, even harder to accept, and impossible to completely avoid.

What is needed is a strong group of affiliated service providers who can provide needed services and confidently refer you to other resources you can trust…enter Senior Resource Alliance NW.

 

The Senior Resource Alliance NW was formed to be an inter-connected group of professionals in the Portland Metro Area who provide essential products and services to seniors and those who care for them.

If you are working with your aging mother on estate planning and advanced directives for health care, you may also be in need of a trusted provider of in-home caregiving services or home remodeling. Or, if you are working on moving your parents into an assisted living community, you may also need help with an estate sale or the physical process of downsizing and moving. If Medicare is your hot topic, you may also be looking for financial planning or information you can trust about reverse mortgages. Whatever your need may be, the Senior Resource Alliance NW is your source of friendly, reliable professionals who will be there for you when you need them most.

Areas of Expertise:

  • Counseling Services
  • Daily Money Management
  • Estate Planning & Elder Law
  • Financial Planning
  • Geriatric Care Management
  • Home Remodeling & Repair
  • In-Home Care
  • Insurance
  • Mortgages
  • Real Estate
  • Relocation Services
  • Senior Housing

 

2011-2012 Officers for the Group Are As Follows:

President: Barbara Murphy, Neil Kelly Company
Vice President of Marketing: Stephanie Carter, Draneas & Huglin, P.C.
Chair of Marketing: Mike Brunt, Home Instead Senior Care
Secretary & Chair of Membership: Kim Megorden, KARE Transitions, LLC
Treasurer: Sandra Wagner, Frazier Hunnicutt Financial

 

Contact Information for the Senior Resource Alliance NW:

WEB: www.sranw.com
PHONE: (503) 442-3864
EMAIL: info@sranw.com

 

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on October 5, 2011
filed in Aging In Place, Communication and Relationships, Elder Law, Financial Issues, Risks, Resources, Senior Care Reference Materials, Senior Housing Options, Senior Resource Alliance NW
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At Home Instead Senior Care, we provide non-medical services to senior citizens in their own homes or apartments. Our services include companionship, light housekeeping, meal preparation, medication reminders, escorting to appointments, personal care, and dementia care. We help seniors maintain their independence and help them stay safe, healthy, and happy at home, wherever home may be.

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