A BASKETFUL OF CARE 11 PLACES YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT IF YOU ARE A CAREGIVER OR ARE LOOKING FOR HELP By Tiffany White
W
hether you’re a caregiver searching for support or who needs extra help, use this list as your guide for making life easier.
CHILL OUT
Glenda Hodges Cook, an instructor at Passionist Earth & Spirit Center, is showing people how to face aging with acceptance instead of fear. Her Unpacking the Gift of Aging Meditation class is divided into two 4-week sessions. Part one is a group discussion about the myths of aging while the second part uses mindfulness meditation as a method for embracing the aging process and understanding how to live in the moment. “The point is to let go into aging rather than resisting it,” she says. Glenda says most people feel uncomfortable talking about aging and death, but this class gives her participants an opportunity to address these topics in a constructive and healthy way. The class, which began last October, has been postponed because of COVID-19, but the center plans to resume the class in January 2021 and will be partnering with the University of Louisville Trager Institute and the Republic Bank Foundation Optimal Aging Clinic.
AGING SIMPLIFIED
The Thrive Center is introducing the community to innovative technology and solutions that promote healthy aging. Sheri Rose, CEO and executive director, says the center's objective is to give older adults the empowerment and independence they seek as they age. The center features multiple technologies that are changing the scope of aging, such as an assistive eating device. With the press of a button, it maneuvers food around the plate and lifts it to your mouth. The Audio Cardio is designed to improve hearing, and their Samsung Smart Home features an induction cooktop, which prevents people from getting burned. The center also has partnered with Bellarmine University to develop Strive to Thrive. “One of the biggest issues is mobility. In this program, we show people how to fall to avoid a fracture and how to get up if they fall,” she says.
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FILLING IN THE GAPS
The Kentucky Area Agency on Aging wants caregivers and their loved ones to know help is not out of reach. KIPDA is responsible for the planning, development, and implementation of programs for older adults, which include meal delivery, transportation, in-home care services, and caregiver support services. KIPDA serves Jefferson, Oldham, Henry, Trimble, Shelby, Bullitt, and Spencer counties. Jessica Elkins, director of the division of special services at KIPDA, says the organization also provides case management and referral services for caregivers. When needed, the organization will refer caregivers to a support group or provide vouchers that allow them to purchase incontinence supplies for their loved one and medical assistive technology at a discounted price. Providing the right type of resources for families, says Jessica, has become more important in light of the pandemic. “We are looking for ways to partner with other organizations, and we are working to establish relationships with care coordinators and transitional services.” She adds, “We work with local hospitals and health plans to ensure that we are there from step one. When you are taking your loved one home, we want to make sure you are aware of the services that are available in this COVID-19 environment.”
EAT FOR CHEAP
The Jewish Community Center’s senior adult program offers a congregant lunch program, Jewish-based cultural programs, fitness classes, and entertainment for older adults throughout the year. Although most of these services are on hold because of COVID-19, their staff continues to provide meals for a donation of $3 to anyone 60+ regardless of whether they are homebound. As a designated Meals on Wheels site, they can deliver meals weekly and have served over 6,000 clients since the pandemic began. Members also have the option of participating in virtual fitness classes on Facebook Live.
