Dear Maryellen…
My mother is in her mid-eighties and has been getting progressively more forgetful, but my father and mother just won’t admit it. My mother is currently going through some diagnostic testing. Our situation is very worrisome from a lot of vantage points. Can you tell me if Alzheimer’s is hereditary?
- Joan K. from Greenwich, Conn.
Engaging in creative activity is extremely beneficial for people of all ages, not just the young. Research shows both the acts of creative expression and social interaction are vital to the mental and physical well being of senior citizens. According to Gene D. Cohen, MD, PhD of the Center for Aging, Health & Humanities, George Washington University, “Expressing ourselves can actually improve health, both mentally and physically.”
Dr. Cohen’s research claims the following benefits:
Dear Maryellen…
My father lives in Boca Raton, Florida and was recently ill. Until now, he has been in pretty good shape for his 85 years. He is living with a few chronic ailments, such as Diabetes and COPD, and, from time to time he has an episode and has to pay attention to one condition or another. I’ve had some midnight calls from him lately that have caused me a lot of worry and him a lot of stress. It’s impossible for me to get down to him fast enough in an emergency. Are there any resources you would recommend to help me care for my dad long distance?
– Sandra, Floral Park, NY
Dear Readers,
Too much salt can cause high blood pressure and lead to heart disease. The average American gets about 3.4 grams of sodium every day, far more than the 2.3 grams recommended by the USDA or the 1.5 grams recommended by the American Heart Association. The institute of Medicine estimates that reducing sodium intake nationwide could prevent 100,000 deaths every year. Cutting back on salt might take a little getting used to, but your health is worth it.
AARP recommends these sodium-cutting tips:
Dear Bloggers,
I’d like to share a letter I recently received from a family member.
Warmest Regards,
Maryellen
Dear Ms. Mckeon…
This letter is a bit overdue but hopefully will reach the right desk after the fact.
My family was one that was hit hard by Hurricane Sandy. My mother, Patricia Cumisky was living with me at the time and the storm devastated the part of the house that mom lived in. Under duress and with some sense of urgency we were forced to find a place for mom to live.
I was familiar with The Bristal as it is local to my home and also because my son, while in high school, performed there many times as part of a vocal ensemble. I was always impressed by the building and the grounds and with the way the residents were treated by the staff.
The Bristal was my first phone call, and a fortuitous one. Many people found themselves in the same situation as myself, with more people displaced than facilities available. I spoke with Karen Caroppoli and Judy Svendsen several times those first few days and they could not have been more concerned, considerate and helpful. I also must acknowledge Rhea Welch in resident services and Angela (Nursing staff) as well as JoAnne in the Wellness office. I had tons of questions and concerns – this wasn’t a “planned” move and I was more than a bit anxious at first. They all gave me the time and the attention I needed to know mom was happy and safe.
In the first few days it became clear that many of the staff members at The Bristal were seriously impacted by Sandy. To my knowledge, the worst being Judy Svendsen. She was able to understand, commiserate and offer helpful advice all with good humor and compassion despite trying to put her own home back together.
Since mom’s move in she has had a couple of “bumps” but I must say the care at The Bristal truly has been exemplary. Everyone from housekeeping, dining room, wellness, recreation, line staff, resident service, PT – OT, front desk…maintenance…all so helpful and concerned.
…I know I am missing a few names and I am sure there are many behind the scenes players whom I’ve never even met…but Mitzi, Tony, Sheila, Theresa, Shelita, Ruth, Colin, Kathy, Mary, Laurene, Soline, Ruth…have been wonderful.
I own a small business and know that in a service oriented industry the people you hire make or break your product. Whatever your hiring or training practices are, you have a fantastic staff.
Our sincere thanks – from the family of Patricia Cumisky, The Bristal at Massapequa.
Grail McGinley
Dear Readers,
The holiday season is a time for families and friends to get together and enjoy each other’s company. However, for some senior citizens holiday gathering can be stressful, confusing and depressing if their physical, mental and emotional needs are not taken into consideration. CareLink.org offers the following tips to make holiday gatherings easier for you and your senior loved one:
Take the time to enjoy the senior in your life. They have so much to offer. I wish you and your family a very happy holiday season.
Best Regards,
Maryellen
Dear Bloggers,
Finding the perfect holiday gift for the senior in your life can be a challenge. They seem to have everything and not want anything. So what do you get them? Let’s start with these two tips: be sensitive to their individual needs & capabilities and be practical yet thoughtful.
In case you’re at a loss here are some ideas:
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