Adjust your home to prevent falls
Every day in the United States 5,000 adults age 65 and above are hospitalized due to fall-related injuries. But falls are not a normal part of aging — they can be prevented. Common fall risks include: having fallen before, balance problems or problems walking, muscle weakness, arthritis, depression, memory problems, hazards in the home, taking many medications and vision... READ MORE
Some practical downsizing, moving tips
Moving is stressful, especially when it involves downsizing from a home you’ve lived in for years. Yet many of us plan to do just that. According to the Demand Institute, four out of 10 Boomers plan to move, and 42% of these expect to move into a smaller home. If the decision to downsize is keeping you up at night, you are in good company. With the right planning and support, your... READ MORE
When the insurer denies your valid claim
You’d think if you had an all-risk insurance policy, your home or business would be covered for just about anything, right? Wrong. There are always exclusions and gray areas, and in these cases, how you deal with a claims adjuster “can be the difference between receiving compensation or a denial letter,” said San Francisco-based attorney Daniel J. Veroff. Veroff specializes in... READ MORE
Tricky balancing caregiving and working
For the past three years, Paula Gomes said that she has sometimes felt she is working two full-time jobs: her human resources position at Emory University in Atlanta, and her role as a caregiver to her mother and mother-in-law. “There’s just a lot to learn” when you become a caregiver, said Gomes, 60, executive director of Emory’s Faculty Staff Assistance Program. “You’re... READ MORE
Communities addressing racial justice
Last June, after four Minneapolis police officers were charged in the murder of an unarmed black man named George Floyd, many Americans became upset by police brutality, particularly against minorities. Some marched in rallies, and others displayed signs on their lawns or windows. At Broadmead, a Life Plan Community in Cockeysville, residents began talking about racial justice. First, ... READ MORE
Communities expand use of technology
The rapid spread of the coronavirus is quickly dispelling the idea that older adults won’t use and can’t understand advanced technology. Several senior living communities in the D.C. area are implementing new technological innovations, or are relying more heavily on established ones, due to the isolation imposed in response to the pandemic. “These perceived boundaries of seniors with ... READ MORE
Home care sees uptick during pandemic
Before coronavirus descended on the D.C. area, a resident of the Ring House in Rockville used to call House Calls LLC whenever she needed groceries, help taking medication or writing a check. Now, however, her trusted home care provider, Sarah Putnam, can’t go into her apartment. In fact, she can do little more than deliver groceries to her front steps. When it comes to writing a check,... READ MORE
Bringing people together safely, clearly
While talking with family and friends on the phone or video chatting on platforms like Zoom or FaceTime are better than nothing, people all across the world are missing the opportunity to engage with their fellow human beings in person. This is especially true of those living in retirement communities where they are largely isolated during the pandemic. In June, the Georgia-based company... READ MORE
Home equity line of credit pros and cons
As a result of the coronavirus, many families are facing both short-term income uncertainty and uncertainty regarding the future value of their asset holdings. One way to provide more stability regarding access to assets at a reasonable cost is a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Individuals who have substantial equity in their primary residence are generally able to obtain a line of... READ MORE
Communities pivot during the pandemic
This summer, change is in the air. Everyone has had to make adjustments to fight the current pandemic — staying at home, wearing face masks — including those who live in local assisted living or independent living facilities. All of these communities have had to make changes to ensure the safety of their residents. online pharmacy... READ MORE
