Aging Answers, May 2014 by Mitchell Media LLC: Northeast Ohio Parent & Northeast Ohio Boomer Magazines

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New Quarterly Supplement to

MAY 2014

Caregiverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Place in the

Sandwich Generation Planning

Ahead

Kids Learn the Past from Grandparents

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Contents

8 Caregiver’s Place in the Sandwich Generation by Karen Distelhorst Taking care of both children and parents can be a stressful time. In order to navigate this time in your life, you will need a plan and some help.

11 Off to Grandparents’

House We Go Children can learn and have fun during visits through these activities.

12 Living With

Alzheimer’s by Angela Gartner Joan Uronis turns diagnosis into a way to help others.

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22 20 14 Seniors Going Digital

by Jesse Weinberger Are you tech support to Mom or Dad? Get help for your parents

16 Planning for Their

Needs by Mary Ellen Bramwell Make financial plans either for the future or for those facing challenges now.

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Publisher’s Perspective By Brad Mitchell Supplement to Northeast Ohio Parent

Aging Parents Can Mean Role Reversals, Tough Decisions My personal journey with my parents ended far too abruptly in 2010. We didn’t recognize the strain caring for my father, who had contracted leukemia, was taking on my 77-year-old mother. Sadly, she suffered heart failure on my 46th birthday and passed away days later. My father endured several more rounds of chemo and various care and living arrangements until he passed away six months later. Those days were filled with confusion, heartache and an overwhelming amount of information, with even more decisions that had to be made. My brother and I got a crash course in rehab hospitals, oncology, platelet levels, visiting nurses, dementia, palliative care and hospice. I clearly recall the cold fall day in Chicago when I realized that my dad was incapable of making a rational decision about his care options and it was my turn to be the parent for him. We realize that many of you are currently raising children as well as caring for aging parents. You’re not alone — you’re part of the “Sandwich Generation” — those squeezed by having to provide care for your kids and their grandparents at the same time. “Aging Answers” is a new quarterly supplement to Northeast Ohio Parent that serves to educate and encourage you in your walk at whatever stage you find yourself with your parents and other aging loved ones. We want to help you get out in front of the challenges by providing awareness, inspiration and education on the wide array of topics such as financial planning, caregiver resources, housing decisions, quality time with the grandkids, and insight into specific conditions such as diabetes and Alzheimer’s. You may be in crisis mode currently and my heart goes out to you through this difficult time. Or, you may be blessed with healthy parents who are able to make independent choices for health care, finances and living situations. My hope is that in whatever stage you find yourself, you will take the time to get informed and have the courage to open a dialogue with those you love. Most importantly, embrace the time you and your kids have with your aging loved ones. The memories you create are truly the treasures you and your children will cherish.

Aging Answers May 2014

Aging Answers is a property of Blue Bug Media, a division of Babcox Media, Inc. 3550 Embassy Parkway, Fairlawn, OH 44333 • 330-670-1234 24500 Chagrin Blvd., Suite 300, Cleveland, OH 44122 • 440-842-8600 Publisher Brad Mitchell brad@northeastohioparent.com Editorial Angela Gartner, Editor angela@northeastohioparent.com Jennifer Clements, Managing Editor jennifer@northeastohioparent.com Emma Kanagaki, Associate/Digital Editor emma@northeastohioparent.com Contributors: Mary Ellen Bramwell, Karen Distlehorst, Jesse Weinberger

Art & Production Tammy House, Art Director | thouse@babcox.com Kelly Gifford, Designer | kgifford@babcox.com Advertising Services Cindy Ott, Ad Services Director | cott@babcox.com Advertising Sales Chris Geer, 330-670-1234 ext. 246 chris@northeastohioparent.com Janyse Heidy, 330-670-1234 ext. 250 janyse@northeastohioparent.com Tarah King, 330-670-1234 ext. 245 tarah@northeastohioparent.com Andie Martin, 330-670-1234 ext. 207 andie@northeastohioparent.com Subscription Services Hallie Brown, Subscription and Distribution Coordinator | hallie@northeastohioparent.com Audience Development Brandi Gangel, Audience Development Manager | bgangel@babcox.com eMedia Jeff Philip, eMedia Development Manager | jphilip@babcox.com Cecilia Locke, eMedia Developer | clocke@babcox.com Emily Bobb, Digital Ad Specialist | ebobb@babcox.com Corporate Bill Babcox, President Greg Cira, Vice President/Chief Financial Officer Jeff Stankard, Vice President/Group Publisher Beth Scheetz, Controller

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May 2014 Aging Answers

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Caregiver’s Place in the

SandwichGene By Karen Distelhorst, MSN, RN, GCNS-BC | Clinical Nurse Specialist

“Wait…when did I become the mother in this relationship?” Many adult daughters (and sons, too) find themselves in this awkward position of “role reversal” as parents age and health declines. Being a part of the “sandwich generation” — taking care of both children and parents — can be a stressful time, but it can also be very rewarding and the lessons that it can teach your children are priceless. In order to navigate this time in your life, you will need some help and a plan. Priority One: Communication

A strategy to manage this time in your life is communication. Ask your parents key questions about what they would want in their later years: • Where would you want to live if you cannot take care of

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LifeLessons

neration yourself? • How do you feel about other people coming into your home to help you? • Who do you most trust to help you make decisions about your care? Do not wait until there’s a problem to discuss this information. It’s also important to communicate with siblings and other family members about any plans. Difficulty occurs when you have to make decisions quickly, for example in a crisis, and when family members are not “on the same page.” Becoming a Caregiver

What does a caregiver do exactly? You may find yourself helping with meals, housekeeping, transportation, finances or even physical care. You can also be a caregiver by making sure that others provide the care for your parent appropriately. This is called being an advocate, and it’s an important role. Karen Mullen, president of Akron General’s Visiting Nurse Service

and Affiliates, says it’s a good idea to talk to the family physician who can help identify resources such as home care. However, sometimes you may feel like there are many similarities between taking care of your children and your parent. Remember that your parent is an adult, so they should respectfully be involved in all decision making. Promoting an Independent Life

Most people age 65 and older want to remain in their home, according to a study by AARP. Here are a few things that you can easily do to help promote your parent’s independence and safety at home. • Safety checks. Daily phone calls can ease your mind that your parent is safe, and can also serve as a reminder for certain activities, such as taking medications, if needed. • Socialization. Seniors who socialize have better mental health than those who do not. Studies have shown that social interaction

“I have often joked with my three teenagers, asking them ‘which one of you is going to take care of me when I am old?’ Fortunately, none of them are appalled by idea. They learned about compassion and responsibility each time that we took meals to my parents or helped them when they were ill. They understand that families work together to take care of each other. Although this is a busy time in your life, be sure to take the time to appreciate all that it means to you, your parent and your children.” — Karen Distelhorst

for older adults may even reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Encourage your parent to participate in local senior centers, church groups or arrange lunch dates with old friends. • Daily routines. Maintaining a consistent daily routine helps memory and improves sleep quality for older adults, both of which are important to maintain function and independence. To be consistent also helps for planning when

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Sandwich Generation outside assistance is needed. • Family traditions and rituals. Activities such as Sunday dinner with extended family or baking holiday cookies with Grandma are traditions that improve the well-being of an older adult through reminiscence and life review. It also provides an important family bond that will benefit your children as they grow. • Divide and conquer. Sometimes older adults need a lot of support to remain at home. If you have siblings or other family members who are willing to help, make a list of who can do what. One sibling may have a talent for balancing a checkbook, while another family member is handy with repairs. Use your individual talents. Don’t be afraid to delegate; if your sister is organized, have her plan the appointments. Transitioning Care

Sometimes, even using all of the strategies above, your parent’s needs may be more than you and your family can handle alone. Fortunately, there are services available that bring additional help into the home, including home health care, home-delivered meals or an

Aging Answers May 2014

emergency response system (such as Lifeline). Mullen says private home health aides may do light housekeeping or help with bathing, as it depends on the level of need. That support can also include a home health provider. Older adults who have recently had major surgeries, but would like to stay home during recovery, can seek counsel from their doctor, if that’s appropriate. “With folks coming out the hospital, home care bridges the gap to make them successful at home,” Mullen says. Options for care outside of the home range from senior independent living apartments with enhanced services (like group meals and transportation), to assisted living, to a long-term care facility (nursing home). There are also continuing care communities that provide all of these levels in

one place. When will you know if your parent should not stay alone in their home anymore? A few “red flags” that you should watch for include incorrectly taking medications for conditions, frequent falling, memory loss or the need for hands-on physical care. The Area Agency on Aging can help you determine what the best level of care is for your parent. The AAOA is one of the non-profit agencies that is a resource for programs, services and information for older adults and their families.

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To Grandparents’ House We Go Children can learn and have fun during visits through these activities. Visiting Grandma and Grandpa’s house is always a treat. In fact, many kids don’t only have one set of grandparents, but have multiples. Here are a few ways, from the National Grandparents Council, that your kids can remember these special times with their grandparents — and they might learn a little about them too. • The grandchild can work with the grandparents on a family tree chart. • The grandchild can “interview” the grandparent about his or her life. Your child can record the session to remember the conversation. Some questions would be “What were your favorite games and activities?” “Who was more strict, your mom or dad?” “What were your favorite subjects

in school?” “What was your first job?” “What was Mom or Dad like growing up?” “How did you meet Grandma or Grandpa?” “What chores were assigned to you as a kid?” • Grandparents may help grandchildren write names and dates on backs of old family photos. Grandparents can relate information about ancestors, to preserve family history.

Another “Hand in Hand” idea is to make the grandparent’s handprint with red or yellow fingerpaint. After it dries, overlap the child’s handprint using blue or

Grandparent’s Day is Sept. 7 this year.

“Hand in Hand” Activities

One idea can be used to make a refrigerator drawing, a framed keepsake, a placemat, etc. The child draws around grandparent’s hand. Then places her own hand inside the outline of the grandparent’s hand. Then child and grandparent work together to trace the child’s hand.

green finger-paint. Traced handprints can also be embroidered. This is an opportunity for the grandparent to teach a grandchild how to embroider. Craft stores also have fabric paints, which could be used to outline the handprints on T-shirts. Visit grandparentsday.com for more tips and information.

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Living With Joan Uronis turns Alzheimer’s diagnosis into a way to help others. By Angela Gartner | Editor

A few years ago, Joan Uronis of Hudson started noticing she was having trouble remembering everyday things. Her primary care physician attributed it to possibly being jobrelated, as she was a general manager in a hospice facility. The physician suggested that she also go see a neurologist, who determined her condition was a mild cognitive impairment. The doctor mentioned this could be a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease. Two years later, after another exam, along with a PET scan, Uronis received a call from her doctor, who said she did indeed have Alzheimer’s. “I was shocked. A terminal diagnosis is a hard pill to swallow at age 62,” she says. “I had two choices. I could sit there saying ‘poor me’ and wait to die, or I could continue to live. I am dying to live.” Uronis is not alone, more than 5 million people in the U.S. are living with the progressive disease, which causes loss of memory and other intellectual abilities. It is the sixth-leading cause of death in the country. And Uronis isn’t a stranger to this disease, as she served as a caregiver for her mother who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Her uncle also had the disease. In response to her diagnosis and her will to make the most of her life, Uronis has become a voice for the people with the disease by getting involved in the Alzheimer’s Association Greater East Ohio

Aging Answers May 2014

Chapter. “I believe whatever is handed to me, I can turn it into something that benefits others,” she says. Working with the organization gives her a lot to do. “I couldn’t be more pleased and honored to have the opportunity to work with them and get their mission across.” Helping Family Members Understand

Through taking care of her own family as well as countless others at hospice where she was employed, Uronis understands Joan Uronis the difficulties in caring for and communicating with loved ones with Alzheimer’s. “Be supportive of a person with Alzheimer’s,” she advises. “Let that person express their feelings. You need to be a good listener and listen to their fears.” In fact, she and her husband Al also learned through the Alzheimer’s Association how to communicate with each other. “I talk to him in a different way,” she says. “I let him know what my frustrations are.” Programs such as the SHARE (Supporting Health, Activities, Resources and Education) program at the association are designed to help families prepare for the future. “With the SHARE program, they talked to me and Al separately,” Uronis says. “To start planning. (They asked me) who I want to take care of me, if I can’t take care of myself. The choice was my husband’s and mine.” Also try to still “take time for yourself, and live the life (you want) with your partner as much as you can. Make a bucket list of some of the things (you) still want to do.”

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Uronis says the caregivers have to come into that person’s world because they can’t go back into theirs. “It’s very hard to understand,” she says. An example she provides is by using an ordinary occurrence in everyone’s lives — losing your keys. While most people can retrace their steps or look in common places the keys might have been set, it’s not the same for those living with the disease. “We don’t know where to go or where to start,” she says. “It’s a Top photo, Joan Uronis, husband Al, blank slate. I would put it in the far left, with parents Cyril and Mary. same place all the time, if I could remember that same place.” The Ohio Department of Aging is working with the Ohio Family ChilTaking Care in Advanced dren First Council and the newly

formed Ohio Respite Coalition to enhance respite services across the state. It’s also a difficult experience when a mother, sister, father or brother doesn’t remember loved ones’ names. “She may not know your name, but you (still) have a special place in her heart,” Uronis counsels. “You are someone special to her. It’s so important for people to understand, just because you lose your memory, you don’t lose your heart. The disease has taken their memory, but you will always be in their heart.” Children not familiar with nursing home facilities, may be uncomfortable on initial visits. “You have to be realistic with (the children).” she says. “Just sit with Grandma or Grandpa, hold their hand, tell them you’re their grandchild.”

Stages

As Alzheimer’s disease becomes more severe, cognitive thinking worsens. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, personality changes may take place and individuals may need extensive help with daily activities at this stage. Caregivers are not only dealing with physical difficulties of their loved ones, but are also struggling with their own emotions. “This disease not only impacts the individual, but the whole family,” Uronis says. “They can’t get paid for what they do. It’s so much work, time and energy and so much out of their own pockets to care for their loved ones.” It’s OK to take a break from everything. Area support services help give the caregivers a breather — time away to think or just take care of themselves and their own needs. For more respite information, Uronis suggests looking to local churches, neighbors and/or adult daycare centers. May 2014 Aging Answers

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Seniors Going

By Jesse Weinberger

Digital Caregivers can help their loved ones with new apps, also make sure they stay safe online. Seniors engaging in the digital world is great news for caregivers. In fact, a 2013 Pew Research Center survey shows that 59 percent of senior citizens go online regularly — this is a 6-percent increase since 2012. In addition, 47 percent of seniors surveyed reported having a high-speed broadband connection at home. As caregivers, we are often called upon to offer 24/7 tech support. Luckily, app developers have made that role a bit easier. If you are the de facto tech department for your beloved family members, check out these helpful new digital tools that would be great additions to their devices.

Health & Fitness

• Runtastic Pedometer (Android and Apple) — Are you trying to get your tech-savvy senior to get out and walk regularly? After installing Runtastic Pedometer, they just need to drop their phone in their pocket and every step will be counted. • MediSafe (Android and Apple) — MediSafe is a fantastic tool for reminders to take medications. Caregivers can sign up to receive an alert when a loved one hasn’t taken their medication on time, and provides an option to send a digital reminder. Safety

• Red Panic Button (Android and Apple) — When an emergency need arises, your parent can very easily tap the panic button in this simple-to-use app. Immediately, a distress text message and email message (including the exact GPS location) are sent out to the preprogrammed list of contacts.

Aging Answers May 2014

• Where Did I Park the Car? (Android) — Using Android’s GPS features, your senior can record where she parked her car at the mall with a tap of a finger. When it’s time to leave, the app will lead her right back to her car. Entertainment

• Social Media — Did you know that your grandmother loved Bon Jovi? You’ll get to know your family members better as you engage with them on social media. Facebook is the best choice for seniors; the interface is easy to navigate and the privacy settings are the strongest of all of the social media platforms. • Gaming — Seniors love to play video games just like the rest of us. Have your youngest children teach Grandpa how to play Candy Crush. Other games such as Words With Friends have a social aspect as well — you can play each other virtually.

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Digital Risks / Phishing Scams

In the typical phishing scenario, a victim receives an official-looking email from his or her bank. The email might warn them there is an error in the account, which can only be fixed by clicking on a link in the email. This official-looking website requests the victim’s username, password and other personal information. Once the data is entered into the fake website, the victim’s identity and/or property can be stolen. Bottom line: Do not ever click through an email and enter personal information. If you receive an email from your bank, call the bank on the phone directly to address any issue. TMI on Public Platforms

Giving “too much information” on social media is a very simple way to increase chances of being robbed or victimized. When Grandma posts a note on her grandson’s Facebook wall asking him to come over and fix the broken lock on her back door this weekend, she has accidentally publicized her broken lock to all of her grandson’s friends. Bottom line: Warn your seniors not to post private information on any social platform, including upcoming vacation plans. Open Wi-Fi

Using an unsecured Wi-Fi signal in a public place (like a coffee shop or airport) is a huge security risk. Any data sent or received via that network can be stolen by hackers who will then use it to steal the victim’s identity and property. Bottom line: Never log into any account while using a public Wi-Fi account. This is especially true for bank and brokerage accounts, but is just as relevant for social media and email accounts. May 2014 Aging Answers

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Planning Ahead for Their Needs Dealing with aging parents presents many challenges. Making financial plans for the future can come in many forms, and will vary greatly depending on whether you are planning for years in the future or facing concerns that are already on top of you.

By Mary Ellen Bramwell

When Time Is Available

Obviously, it’s best to make plans well in advance for possible medical expenses, general care and end-oflife costs. The hardest part of this might be just getting started. As an adult child, your roles are reversing, and it’s important to sit down and talk with your parents about finances. While they may resist, even tell you it is none of your business, you need to persist. Try starting with an approach like, “What do you think about long-term care insurance? Do you think it’s a good value?” or “Do you have a good financial advisor to recommend?” You may need to be more forthright and say something such as, “I’m planning for my future and it made me wonder how you’re set and if I might be able to help you down the road.” Regardless of how you start the conversation, start it. You’ll get nowhere on your journey without a beginning. Basic Financial Planning

When you have time on your side, a good financial advisor can steer your parents in the right direction. This also will allow them autonomy, being able to make these decisions without you. The best future plan involves “not putting all of your eggs in one basket.” For instance, money should be put into both savings and investments. Kent Harrison, a retired physics professor, took advantage of his university 401K savings plan, building for the future when a steady income was assured. His advice is to “do the hard thing — save early and often.” He also says, “Get a financial advisor early, someone

Aging Answers May 2014

you know and trust.” Years ago his advisor recommended annuities with a floor. That meant that they would not drop below a certain value. So, if the market drops, you are not drastically affected by it. This piece of advice saved him from losses that deeply affected his friends. It is also a good idea to mix your investments between conservative and high-risk. Again, this is a protection if things go poorly in a market that you don’t control. As you are looking into options for your parents, it should become evident that these are things that you should explore. Paula Kriz and her husband recently retired. She said, you need to “start in your 30s and 40s,” making financial plans for the future. Besides having a trusted financial advisor, they practice wise spending. “We would save before we made a purchase,” she says and they learned to “live within our means.” Being on solid financial ground will also make it possible to help out your parents, if it comes to that. Long-Term Care Insurance

You might talk to your parents about investing in a long-term care insurance plan. There are pros and cons to this. The policies can be very expensive, and if you don’t maintain the payments, all of that money may be lost. Additionally, it depends on the individual policy for what is covered and under what circumstances. However, if one of your parents needs longterm care, the resulting bills can be financially

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devastating, wiping out all of their retirement savings and impacting you as well. It is something to consider. Weigh the risks carefully before making a decision. What If The Need Is Now?

When youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re caring for aging parents, often the time is already too late to feasibly consider the above options. Harrisonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wife recently suffered a stroke and needed extensive care. After leaving the hospital, she entered a skilled-nursing facility. They took care of physical therapy, doctor visits, monitoring and care all in one place. But Medicare only covers 100 days in such a facility. At the end of the 100 days, hard decisions needed to be made. He decided to move her back home, hiring various nursing and support staff to come in on a regular basis. Some of these are covered by his health insurance and Medicare, and some are paid out of his own pocket.

Reverse Mortgage

A reverse mortgage allows a homeowner age 62 and older to convert some of the equity in their home to cash. The advantage of this over a home equity line of credit is that a reverse mortgage requires no monthly payments. The money is due back upon sale of the home, death of the borrower or the borrower moving, which would include living in an assisted-care facility for an extended length of time. There are several varieties of reverse mortgages, for instance, state-funded types have stricter guidelines for approval, but offer lower interest rates. The general drawbacks are the high interest

rates and potential for the loss of the home for the heirs. End-of-Life Costs

A life insurance policy, bought early and maintained, can help with endof-life costs. But if it comes to funeral costs, a small policy may not be enough to cover all of it. According to funeral-tips.com, the average funeral costs run $8,000 to $10,000. This includes a burial plot and headstone. The drawback to relying on life insurance to cover this is lag time. Many funeral homes require at least some money upfront. A check from the life insurance company might not be quite as prompt.

Medicaid

What options might you consider in the same situation? If finances are problematic, you can apply for Medicaid. It is federally funded, but state administered, so the program varies from state to state. You would need to explore what the requirements are for acceptance in the state where your parents reside.

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MAY Event Listings 1 Navigating the

6 Stroke – Risk,

Medicare Maze, 6-7:30 p.m. Sharon Honroth’s Medicare presentation will guide you through the maze, answer your questions and explain your options regarding your healthcare benefits. Norton Branch Library, 3930 S. Cleveland-Massillon Road, 330-825-7800, norton branch.akronlibrary.org

Prevention, Signs & Symptoms, 7-8:30 p.m. Neurologist Romeo Craciun, MD, from the Cleveland Clinic at Marymount Hospital, will discuss signs, symptoms and more. Blood pressure screenings will be provided. Registration required. Garfield Heights Branch Library, 5409 Turney Road, Garfield Heights, 216-475-8178, cuyahogalibrary.org

1 Welcome to Medicare: 2014, 6 p.m. The Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP) provides information and counseling to people covered by Medicare. New and soon-tobe beneficiaries can meet with professional staff and learn about Medicare benefits, supplemental insurance policies, Medicare Advantage plans and prescription drug coverage. May 1: Ehrnfelt Senior Center, 18100 Royalton Road, Strongsville; May 6: The Gemini Center, 21225 Lorain Road, Fairview Park; and May 12: Cleveland Food Bank, 15500 S. Waterloo Road, Cleveland. 800-6861578, insurance.ohio.gov.

6 The Mended Hearts Greater Akron Chapter #59, 1-2 p.m. Heart patients, caregivers receive support in coping with strong emotions that often accompany diagnosis, treatment, or surgery for heart disease. Summa Rehab Hospital, 29 N. Adams St., Akron, 330-572-7300

Aging Answers May 2014

6 Free Dementia Care Workshop & Dinner, 5-6 p.m. Senior Helpers, The Gables of Hudson, 5400 Darrow Road, Hudson, 330-653-9170, RSVP requested.

7 Peace of Mind:

Send your event listings to: calendar@NortheastOhioParent.com

seniors.com. Richfield Chamber of Commerce, 4300 W. Streetsboro Road, Richfield, 330-659-3300, richfieldchamber.com

8 Free Dementia Care Workshop & Breakfast – 2 of 4, 8-9 a.m. Senior Helpers, 4807 Rockside Road, Independence, Lower Level, 216-3780022, RSVP requested.

8 Redefining Age, 4-6 p.m. Larry Minnix, president and CEO of LeadingAge, will discuss “Redefining Age.” LeadingAge is an association of 6,000 not-for-profit organizations dedicated to making America a better place to grow old. Benjamin Rose Institute, 11890 Fairhill Road, Cleveland, 216-791-8000, benrose.org

Medicaid & Long-Term Care, 2 p.m. Attorney Linda Ulinski guides you through all the important and useful information you need. Portage Lakes Branch Library, 4261 Manchester Road, Akron, 330-644-7050, portagelakes branch.akronlibrary.org

9 Life After Stroke,

7 Affordable Care

Retirement Income Puzzle, 7-8 p.m. Learn strategies and vehicles to help maintain your income during retirement. Brooklyn Branch Library, 4480 Ridge Road, Brooklyn, 216-3984600, cuyahogalibrary.org.

Act Attorney Jim Koewler will speak to the Richfield Chamber of Commerce about the Affordable Care Act and its requirements as well as opportunities for employers. Open to the public. For more events for seniors hosted by Koewler, visit protecting

10 a.m.–noon Provides a forum for stroke survivors and their families to share ideas and solve problems after a stroke. Summa Rehab Hospital, 29 N. Adams St., Akron, 330-572-7300.

12 Solving the

12 AARP Mature Safe Driving Course, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Driver Safety Program offers this (nondriving) refresher course to drivers 50 years of age and older. In many cases, completion will result in a discount on insurance. Registration required: 330-721-5987. Medina Hospital, Edward A. Hall Conference Center, 1000 E. Washington St., Medina, 330-7251000, clevelandclinic.org

13 Aging: Thriving Through Your Golden Years, 6 p.m. Are you having trouble remembering? Do you have a well-balanced diet? Need to stop driving? Find out ways to age healthier at this free Health Talk. 6 p.m. registration; 6:30-8:30 p.m. program.Call 216-444-3641 or 800-548-8502. Or register online at clevelandclinic.org/ healthtalks. Cleveland Clinic Willoughby Hills Family Health Center, Lower Level Conference Room, 2550 SOM Center Road, Willoughby Hills, 440-9432500, clevelandclinic.org

14 Hearing Healthcare Update, 10-11 a.m. Join Sally Rachek, AuD, CCC-A, audiologist, Euclid Hospital, to learn about the human auditory (hearing)

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system and the latest innovations in hearing aid technology. Have your ears examined using video-otoscopy. Space is limited. Free. Reservations required: 216692-8760. Euclid Hospital, Human Resources Conference Room, 18901 Lake Shore Blvd., Euclid, 216-531-9000, clevelandclinic.org

14 Lorain County Arthritis Expo & Wellness Fair, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. May is National Arthritis Awareness Month. The event will feature presentations from three physicians and an arthritis speaker. Free health screenings, an Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program demonstration, exhibits from more than 40 community groups and businesses, light refreshments and door prizes. Registration is required. Spitzer Center, 1005 Abbe Road North, Elyria, 800-245-2275 ext. 6420, loraincountyexpo.kintera.org

14 Senior Day, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Join the City of Cleveland Department of Aging for an information fair, program, lunch and entertainment geared toward seniors. Cleveland Public Hall, 500 Lakeside Ave., Cleveland, 216-664-3685

14 Understanding Stroke, 5:30 p.m. Join Neurologist Megan Donahue, MD, and a panel of healthcare experts for an educational session on the signs and symptoms of stroke, as well as preventive

measures. Free. Registration required: 877-243-3488, or visit lakewoodhospital.org. Rocky River Civic Center, 21016 Hilliard Blvd., Rocky River

15 24th Annual Mature Workers’ Job & Career Fair, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. If you are a job seeker 40 and older, this is a great opportunity to meet employers who want to hire older adults who bring with them experience, dedication and a great work ethic. Free parking and admission. Akron Fairlawn Hilton, 3180 W. Market St., Akron

15 Skin Care as We Age, 10:45 a.m. Join Cleveland Clinic dermatologist John Anthony, MD, as he shares how to care for aging skin along with important skin cancer prevention and screening tips. Register for free skin cancer screenings 8:30-10:30 a.m. Free. Registration required: 330721-5987. Cloverleaf Recreation Center, 8525 Friendsville Road, Lodi

15 Benefits CheckUp, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. A Web-based program for adults 55 and over developed by the National Council on Aging. Connect with government programs that can help pay for prescription drugs, healthcare, utilities and other needs. Stephanie Tubbs Jones Health Center, 1st Floor Lobby – Navigation Center, 13944 Euclid Ave.,

East Cleveland, 216-7674242, clevelandclinic.org

16 Senior Fraud, 10:30 a.m. Join Medina Hospital Security Director Jim Bigam as he discusses senior fraud and how to stay safe. This is a Healthy Medina event. Free. For information, call 330721-5987. Medina Community Recreation Center, 855 Weymouth Road, Medina

20 Caregiver Support Group, 3 p.m. Professionally facilitated support group meets third Tuesday of each month to discuss resources, tools and techniques. Fee $2. Orange Community Education and Recreation Center, 32000 Chagrin Blvd., Pepper Pike. 216-831-8601, orangerec.com

20 Stroke Prevention, 5:30 p.m. Education on stroke risks and prevention from Brian Summers, NREMT-P, EMS-I. Free. Call 216-587-8683. Maple Heights Recreation Department, 15901 Libby Road, Maple Heights, clevelandclinic.org

21 Better Balance, More Stable Life, 6 p.m. Are you having trouble maintaining your balance? Is dizziness a menace? These questions and more will be addressed at this free Health Talk. Call 216-444-3641 or register online at clevelandclinic.org/healthtalks. Richard E. Jacobs Health Center, Conference Rooms A & B – 1st Floor, 33100 Cleveland Clinic Blvd., Avon

21 Healthy Bones, 1–2 p.m. Elizabeth File, MD, discusses the effects of osteoporosis and ways to maintain high bone density as you age. Free on-site bone density screenings at the Senior Center from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Free event. Registration suggested. Strongsville Senior Center, 18100 Royalton Road, Strongsville 440-580-3275.

22 Free Dementia Care Workshop & Lunch, noon-1 p.m. Senior Helpers, Bath Creek Estates, 186 W. Bath Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-9229911, RSVP requested.

22 Ask the Experts: Relieving Your Joint Pain, 5:30 p.m. Complimentary health screenings and wellness information. Sit-down dinner and informal Q & A discussion with a panel of medical and surgical physicians from Cleveland Clinic. Reservations required. Cost: $15 (includes meal). 700 Beta Banquet & Conference Center, 700 Beta Drive, Mayfield Village, clevelandclinic.org

27 Southwest General Health Screenings, 9-11 a.m. Stop in for a blood pressure and/or blood glucose screening. Discuss other health topics with a Southwest General nurse. Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick, 330-273-4150, mcdl.info

May 2014 Aging Answers

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Helping Care for a Loved One with Diabetes By Lori Izeman

Are you the caregiver of a person living with diabetes? You are not alone. One in eight people living in Northeast Ohio has diabetes — and it can be a difficult disease to handle alone. If you are a caregiver of a loved one living with diabetes, you can have a significant impact on their well being. Diabetes is a disease involving a hormone called insulin and its regulation. In diabetes, your body either does not make enough insulin or does not respond to the insulin it makes in the usual way. As a result, you have high blood sugar levels. Diabetes affects about one in five people age 65 and older. These adults can develop either type 1 (insulin-dependent) or type 2 diabetes. However, most elderly people with diabetes have type 2. As a caregiver, you can help your loved one cope with their disease. Oftentimes your loved one won’t want to discuss their diabetes and the consequences of uncontrolled glucose levels, however it’s important to remain steadfast in your support and discuss these matters.

Aging Answers May 2014

Diabetes can affect older adults in many different ways. If you notice changes in their behavior it’s important to contact their physician. • They may be taking over-thecounter medications that don’t interact well with their diabetes medications. • They may have a change in appetite. • High glucose levels may result in conditions such as blurry vision, and mobility issues due to developing neuropathy. • Uncontrolled glucose levels may also cause confusion and mask other medical issues such as dementia. There is a lot to learn about living well with diabetes. As a caretaker it’s important to be knowledgeable about the complications of untreated diabetes. Complications may include blindness, kidney disease, nerve disease, infections, heart disease and strokes. Below are some tips about how to communicate with your loved one about coping with diabetes. Ask yourself the following questions: • What things are hard/easy for him or her to manage? • How does he or she stay on track to reach these goals? • How can you help with diabetes care tasks? • Does your loved one feel down sometimes? • What can you do to help him or her feel better? • Does your loved one talk to his or her doctor or other health

care team members about feeling down? Find out what your loved one needs by asking these questions: • What do I do that helps you with your diabetes?

• What do I do that makes it harder for you to manage your diabetes? • What can I do to help you more than I do now? Find ways to help. Nagging won’t help either of you. When you’ve found one way to help, add another way. When it fits his or her lifestyle, you could offer to: • Keep track of health care visits. • Make a list of questions for the health care team. • Go along on a visit to the health care team. • Find places to buy healthy, low-cost foods. • Prepare tasty, healthy meals. • Find a safe place to walk or to be more active. For more information, contact the Diabetes Partnership of Cleveland at 216-591-0800.

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COUNSELING AND SUPPORT SERVICES The Alzheimer’s Association of Cleveland 23215 Commerce Park Drive, Suite 300, Beachwood, 216‐721‐8457, alzclv.org Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging 11890 Fairhill Road, Cleveland, 216‐791‐8000, benrose.org Caring Connections Geriatric Care Management 9225 Cambridge Road, Chardon, 216‐312‐7153, clevelandcaring connections.com The Center for Geriatric Psychiatry at West Medical Center 36000 Euclid Ave., Willoughby, 440‐918‐6366 Cleveland Clinic Geriatric Evaluation Program Main Campus: 9500 Euclid Ave., Cleveland Euclid Hospital: 18901 Lake Shore Blvd., Euclid Lakewood Hospital: 14519 Detroit Ave., Lakewood clevelandclinic.org/ geriatrics JFSA Care At Home 3569 South Green Road, Suite 316, Beachwood, 216‐378‐8660

The Gathering Place East: 23300 Commerce Park, Beachwood West: 800 Sharon Drive, Westlake, 216‐595‐9546, touchedbycancer.org