Meaningful Visits with the Elderly
As residents of senior-living communities and skilled-nursing facilities lose the ability to communicate, families often struggle to maintain meaningful connections. Here are condensed tips for enhancing visits:1. Utilize sensory rooms.2. Prepare ahead, bring items of interest.3. Engage in community and family topics.4. Respect dietary restrictions while bringing favorite foods.5. Share past memories with photos.6. Highlight future visit dates on calendars.7. Personalize rooms with familiar items.8.
Jewish Pavilion Senior Services to Host JP Connections Holiday Luncheon Monday, December 2, 2024 at 11:00 a.m.
Jewish Pavilion Senior Services will be hosting its Annual JP Connections event on Monday, December 2, 2024 in the ballroom at Hilton Orlando/Altamonte Springs at 11:00 a.m. This is a one-of-a-kind gourmet luncheon event and holiday shopping bazaar with an array of vendors and raffle prizes. Jewish Pavilion Senior Services volunteers will be recognized for advancing the organization’s mission to enrich the lives of seniors of all faiths. More than 150 Jewish Pavilion Senior Services donors will be in
Mazel Tov to Joan Walker: Jewish Pavilion Senior Services Volunteer of the Year
Caring about others is at the heart of Jewish Pavilion Senior Services (JPSS). By enriching the lives of Jewish seniors in elder care through one-on-one visitations and holiday celebrations, JPSS connects Jewish elders to their cultural heritage. To do so takes extraordinary, dedicated volunteers such as Joan Walker, who will be honored as the JPSS Volunteer of the Year at the JP Connections luncheon on December 2. At home in Lake Mary with husband Harrison, Joan reflects on her Jewish values and why
Supporting Women’s Brain Health
Maintaining cognitive health is crucial for overall well-being, and research suggests that certain lifestyle habits can play a significant role in supporting brain function. Incorporating these habits not only contributes to cognitive health but also enhances daily life satisfaction. Here are seven steps women can take to prioritize their mental and physical well-being:1. Practice Deep Breathing – Chronic stress can negatively impact brain health, particularly in women, leading to reduced brain volumes and
Understanding Incontinence
A senior's age, incontinence becomes an all-too-common (but all-too-often ignored) issue. The first step toward dealing with incontinence is understanding exactly what is causing it, and it’s not as straightforward as you might imagine.Incontinence comes in various forms:1. Stress Incontinence: Urine loss occurs during activities like lifting heavy objects, laughing, coughing, or exercising.2. Overflow Incontinence: The bladder doesn’t empty completely, leading to frequent urination or continuous leakage.3.
Harvest/Post-Sukkot Festival
Join the Jewish Pavilion for their Harvest/Post-Sukkot Festival Thursday, November 7th from 4-6 pm at Watercrest Winter Park. It is a gorgeous venue with wonderful food, drinks, raffles and musical entertainment for only $25. Please attend. https://secure.lglforms.com/.../s/3rcgaQOob7VskZjbjtm_7w...
Wheelchair Van Tips for Caregivers
Whether you’re a family caregiver or a professional, owning a wheelchair-accessible van can greatly improve mobility for those you care for. Here are some tips to help you find the right van at the right price:1. Assess Your Needs: Consider whether rear- or side-entry access would work best for your situation. Rear entry is ideal for larger wheelchairs, while side entry offers versatility in seating arrangements.2. Shop Smart: Look for wheelchair van dealerships online and nearby to find options within your
What to Know About Knees
Knee pain can be debilitating, but there are various treatment options available to provide relief. Here’s a breakdown of some common methods: 1. Corticosteroid Shots: Administered up to four times a year, these shots combine a steroid (Cortisone) with a numbing agent. These injections offer fast, temporary relief during flare-ups by reducing inflammation. While generally safe and effective, overuse can lead to knee cartilage deterioration. Individuals with diabetes or metabolic conditions should be
The Top Six Senior Scams
Scammers are always looking for new ways to target seniors. Here are six of the most common scams to watch out for: 1. Check Tampering: Scammers intercept paper checks from mailboxes, erase the ink, and rewrite the amount and payee information. They also digitally alter stolen checks to appear genuine, often using voice recordings to authenticate phone transactions. 2. Voice Printing: Fraudsters record seniors’ voices and use software to create convincing imitations, enabling them to impersonate victims
Celebrate Sukkot and Strengthen Connections at the Jewish Pavilion Harvest Networking Festival!
The Jewish Pavilion Harvest and Post-Sukkot Networking Festival is more than an event—it’s an opportunity to come together, celebrate the season, and support a cause that enriches the lives of our beloved seniors. Just as Sukkot invites us to gather in joy, gratitude, and community, this festival is designed to foster connections, camaraderie, and meaningful relationships—all while supporting the incredible work of the Jewish Pavilion. Join us on Thursday, November 7th, from 4-6 pm at Watercrest Winter
Crypto Scams: Protecting Seniors From Fraudulent Cryptocurrency Schemes
In recent times, the rise of cryptocurrency scams has become a concerning trend, with scammers adopting various deceptive tactics to defraud unsuspecting individuals. One prevalent tactic involves impersonating federal agents to convince victims – often seniors – that their bank accounts are compromised. In response to these fictitious claims, some individuals resort to depositing money into cryptocurrency ATMs under the false pretense that it will secure their accounts with governmental
The Essentials of Estate Planning
Ensuring that your financial affairs are in order is a crucial step towards providing security for your loved ones in the event of your passing. Here are some important tips to consider: 1. Designate Beneficiaries: One of the simplest yet most effective steps you can take is to designate beneficiaries for all your financial accounts including checking, savings, CDs, life insurance, and investments. By doing so, your designated beneficiaries can access these funds with just a death certificate, bypassing
How Doctors and Caregivers Can Better Communicate with Seniors
Good communication between doctors and patients (and between caregivers and loved ones) is crucial for better health outcomes. It’s a teachable skill that medical students can improve through training. The Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education and the American Board of Medical Specialties recognize interpersonal communication as a core competency. Effective communication: • Prevents medical errors • Improves health outcomes • Strengthens patient-provider relationships • Maximizes
Fifth Annual Jewish Pavilion Senior Services Online Auction Has Something For Everyone
For the fifth year in a row, Jewish Pavilion Senior Services (JPSS) is hosting an online auction fundraiser, but this year, participants are in for two very special treats. Not only can you bid on the usual amazing range of items from restaurant gift cards to theme park tickets to unique experiences, but this year's auction will also feature nearly 75 brand-new, couture fashion items such as purses and shoes donated by a wealthy benefactor in New York City. Even better, everyone who registers for
Sibling Relationships and Caregiving
Sibling dynamics further complicate the caregiving journey. While parents hope for unity among siblings in providing care, disparities often arise due to various factors such as distance, lifestyle choices, or historical family dynamics.Recognizing these differences and maintaining open communication are pivotal. It's essential to acknowledge the significance of caregiving collectively and strive to prevent disputes from eroding familial bonds.For siblings unable to contribute physically, offering support
Helping Seniors Declutter
Decluttering a living space can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can also be liberating. Here are some practical tips to help you declutter efficiently, along with insights into how organizations like Jewish Pavilion Senior Services and the Orlando Senior Help Desk offer support to elders and their families through this process. 1. Categorize and Conquer: Begin by sorting items in the room into categories such as trash, books, papers, and miscellaneous items. This helps create a
Managing the Child/Parent Relationship as Mom and Dad Age
Balancing the autonomy and safety of aging parents while respecting their independence is a delicate tightrope to walk for adult children. The desire of older adults to live fully, without assumptions about their capabilities diminishing due to age-related declines, adds complexity to the equation. Parents value their independence but may be open to support from their adult children without compromising their autonomy. In this intricate dance of familial roles and responsibilities, external support from
Avoiding Scams Targeting Seniors
Seniors are increasingly becoming targets of various scams, causing financial and emotional distress. These scams often exploit the trust and vulnerability of older individuals. In response to this growing issue, organizations like Jewish Pavilion Senior Services and the Orlando Senior Help Desk offer invaluable support to seniors and their families, helping them navigate through these challenging situations. Consider the scenario of a persuasive individual at your doorstep offering urgent roof repairs
End-of-Life Conversations Are as Difficult as They Are Essential
Conversations about end-of-life issues can often feel uncomfortable or even morbid, but they are crucial for providing relief to both parents and their adult children. Knowing and expressing one’s wishes regarding end-of-life care can prevent future heartache and legal complications. While broaching this topic may be challenging, organizations like Jewish Pavilion Senior Services and the Orlando Senior Help Desk offer invaluable support in navigating these discussions. It’s essential to initiate these
Using Colors to Help Manage Alzheimer's Disease
For people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD), the world around them significantly impacts how they engage, react, and enjoy life. Caregivers often seek supportive tips and tricks for behavior management, but did you know you can modify and even prevent behaviors associated with dementia by using color? Many studies have been conducted on light as well as color with varying results. However, most experts agree that the use of colors, especially for someone living with dementia, can
Honoring Your Parents
In the intricate dance of life, roles often shift, and the dynamics between parents and children evolve. Often, the adult child feels like, "I have become the parent, and my parent has become my child." While this may reflect the feelings of many facing the challenges of aging parents, the fundamental roles of parent and child remain unchanged.Jewish Pavilion Senior Services (JPSS) and the Orlando Senior Help Desk stand as valuable resources offering support and guidance through these transitions.Embedded
Dealing With Diabetic Kidney Disease
Diabetic kidney disease is a condition in which kidney function declines in individuals with diabetes resulting in the inefficient removal of waste and excess fluids from the body. This can lead to a buildup of toxins and damage to other organs. Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing diabetic kidney disease including high blood pressure, poor glucose control, genetic predisposition, and diet. Early stages of the disease may not show symptoms, but as kidney function worsens, patients may
Transforming Homes for Dementia-Friendly Living: A Practical Guide
Dementia profoundly impacts daily life for both individuals and their loved ones. Recognizing this, it’s crucial to comprehend its effects and take steps to create a supportive living environment. This guide aims to empower caregivers and individuals by transforming living spaces into safe and comfortable havens for those dealing with dementia. — Challenges of Dementia at Home Living with dementia presents unique challenges within the home environment. Simple adjustments like decluttering and ensuring
Passing Generational Wisdom: Enriching Family Bonds
In family and community life, seniors serve as reservoirs of wisdom acquired over a lifetime. Recognizing the value of this wisdom, this article explores the importance of passing down skills and traditions to younger generations. — Value of Generational Wisdom Seniors bring a wealth of skills and talents, cultivated through years of experience, enriching family and community life. The transfer of knowledge goes beyond mere skills encapsulating the essence of generational wisdom and shaping family
Creating (and Updating) a Care Plan
Care plans are essential tools used by long-term care providers to coordinate and manage patients’ healthcare goals, needs, and services. While primarily utilized by healthcare professionals, family caregivers can also benefit from employing this strategy to provide effective care. However, it’s crucial to understand that care plans require regular evaluation and updating to remain effective over time. Once an initial care plan is established, it should undergo comprehensive review periodically –
Coping with Loss: One Year Later
As time passes, the pain of losing a loved one may evolve either becoming more manageable or intensifying. There’s no set timeline for healing as each person navigates grief in their own way. Finding outlets for emotions can be beneficial whether through journaling, creating a photo collage, immersing oneself in music, or simply taking a walk. For those seeking support, the Jewish Pavilion and various hospice groups stand ready to accompany individuals on their grief journeys. These bereavement support
Adult Day Care Can Be a Lifeline for Families
Adult day-care services can be invaluable for caregivers and their loved ones at any stage, and enrolling seniors in day programs early in their elder journey can benefit everyone involved. Fortunately, finding the right program for you or the seniors in your life is easier than ever as more and more adult day-care providers emerge. Initially, caregivers may face pressure from well-meaning acquaintances to consider day care. It’s essential to consider these suggestions but assert boundaries. When ready,
Empowering Caregivers: Essential Advice and Support for Navigating Elder Care
As caregivers, it’s crucial to acknowledge and celebrate even the smallest victories along the journey of caregiving. Each triumph, no matter how minor, represents a step forward in providing compassionate care and support to our loved ones. Reflecting on the caregiving experience, caregivers learn the invaluable lesson of patience and the importance of prioritizing self-care amidst the demands of caregiving. Transitioning to elder-care communities can be a daunting process for most seniors, but Jewish
Review Your Estate Plan Today!
Caregivers, entrusted with lives beyond their own, should ideally join the 40 percent of Americans who have crafted a will or other estate-planning document. Yet, even the most meticulously prepared estate plan requires periodic review to ensure alignment with life’s twists and turns. Here are five critical life events necessitating a review of your estate plan: 1) Birth or adoption: Welcoming a new child requires updating your will to designate guardianship. Consider establishing trusts for children or
Advantages of Assisted Living for Seniors
Providing discreet care tailored to the needs of older adults can significantly enhance their ability to participate actively in life and foster growth and engagement in activities that bring them joy and purpose. Here are some of the benefits associated with high-quality senior care options: 1) Promotion of Social Engagement: Assisted-living facilities play a vital role in facilitating social connections and engagement among seniors, which is crucial for their overall well-being. Studies have shown that
Proactive Steps for Fall Prevention
Falls can be a serious concern for individuals, especially as they age. Taking proactive measures to prevent falls is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. Here are some practical tips to help you minimize the risk of falls and ensure a safer living environment: 1. Open Communication with Your Doctor: It is essential to openly discuss any incidents of falls or issues with balance and walking with your doctor. Request a thorough review of your medications to identify any that might increase the risk
Six Essential Inquiries to Make Before Selecting a Facility
The process of choosing a nursing home has evolved beyond relying solely on one’s sense of smell. Staff Turnover Rate: Nurse’s aides play a vital role in care, so it’s essential to inquire about turnover rates. High turnover can indicate potential issues with staffing and continuity of care. Make sure these six questions are asked: 1. Physician Involvement: Determine if the patient’s doctor serves the facility. Continuity of care with a familiar physician can lead to better treatment outcomes. 2.
Six Steps to Simplify Your Senior Downsizing Journey
Are you feeling like it’s time to make a change? Whether your home has become too large for your needs or you’re seeking freedom from maintenance, downsizing could be the solution. It’s a decision that can breathe new life into your days and even spark exciting lifestyle shifts. However, embarking on this journey isn’t without its challenges. Downsizing often stirs up emotions, dredging up memories and triggering stress, especially when parting with cherished belongings or involving family members in the
Getting Paid as a Family Caregiver
Becoming a family caregiver requires a tremendous amount of time, energy, and effort. For many, it becomes a fulltime job. Or, more to the point, providing ongoing care makes it impossible for you to maintain a fulltime job. Depending on your circumstances, it might not be feasible for you to go months (or years) without the steady check that full time employment would bring. So asking for compensation isn’t selfish; it’s realistic. It means putting yourself in a position where you’re able to provide the
Medigap
Medigap is only for original Medicare enrollees not advantage plan participants. There are 10 federally approved plans with the letters a, b, c, d, f, g, k, l m and n. Each letter plan must provide the same basic benefits regardless of the insurer or the location. Policies are sold by private insurance companies and there are a lot of choices. P prices vary dramatically. The best time to buy a Medigap plan is generally when you turn 65. While most seniors face major adjustments when transitioning to an
Organizing Medical Records
Keep a folder of all medical information. It is good to have a binder in addition to a folder on the computer, so you can take critical medical information with you to appointments. Information Needed: · Health insurance cards, Medicare cards, and so on · Appointment reminder cards from health care providers · A list of medications including dosages, frequency, date started and reason · A medical history · A list of emergency contacts, relationship, addresses and all phone numbers · A sheet for
Protecting Your Loved Ones From an Electrical Accident
Encourage caregivers to familiarize themselves with some basic tips to help maximize the safety of the seniors in their care while minimizing the risks associated with electricity. Electrical accidents are a leading cause of home fires every year. Electrical fires are more common in older homes with aging electrical systems. Tips: 1. Verify that the home’s electrical system is in compliance with the most up to date electrical codes. Contact a licensed electrician to conduct a quick home electrical
Transfer Pants
Transfer Pants are high quality unisex pants designed to move disabled persons safely, easily and comfortably. They have patented handles sewn into the pants and the liner to prevent falls and injuries to mobility challenged individuals. They have been specifically designed with caregivers in mind and have handles on the front, side and back, front zippers, pockets etc. They are machine washable and durable: Transfer pants are unisex. Transfer Pants were created by Dr. Rennie O’Brien, a chiropractor in
Senior Travel and Health Discount- Information Gleamed from the Orlando Sentinel
Here are some senior discounts you can use when traveling (train and car rental): Greyhound: 5% off for 62 and over Amtrak: 10% off for 65 and over Hertz Car Rental: various discounts to those 50 and over Avis: up to 30% off to AARP members Payless Car Rental: various discounts to AARP members Here are some senior discounts you can use when flying: Southwest Airlines: Offers various discounts for 65 and over United Airlines: Offers senior fares to selected travel destinations for customers who are
Exploring the Vibrant World of South African Seniors
Venturing into the heart of South Africa, Veronica Quinones embarked on a two-week journey of discovery, seeking to unravel the tapestry of culture, cuisine, and most importantly, the people. In a land known for its rich and diverse heritage, the elderly population stands as a testament to wisdom, experience, and invaluable contributions. A Tapestry of Tradition: South African Elderly Culture 1. Respect for Elders: Picture a society where reverence for elders is not just a tradition but a way of life.
The Jewish Pavilion's Fashion Show Honors Lisa Eichenblatt
Get your tickets now for the Jewish Pavilion Annual Fashion Show being held on February 15, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. at Dillard’s in the Altamonte Mall This year's fashion show will honor Lisa Eichenblatt, acknowledging her unwavering commitment, board service, and sponsorship. Lisa, a senior specialist and realtor with Keller Williams, is celebrated for her compassionate efforts toward seniors and their families. Special thanks to Bethanne Weiss for chairing this event. Tickets for general admission are
Unlocking the Health Mosaic: A Closer Look at Medicare
Picture this: a nation’s treasure trove of healthcare wisdom, woven into a tapestry called Medicare, designed not only for those seasoned by life’s journey but also for those who, at any age, bear the weight of health challenges. Welcome to the enthralling world of Medicare, where the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services steer the ship of wellness. Ageless Compassion, Ageless Coverage Medicare, the federal health insurance program, extends its protective arms to individuals aged 65 and above. But
Elder Care Mediator
When a parent needs long-term care or nears the end of life, siblings may argue about a range of caregiving issues. Sometimes these disputes are bitter, and they can break up a family. In these situations, it can be helpful to have an objective professional in the room — someone to diffuse the anger, ask appropriate questions and find common ground. These people are called eldercare mediators, family mediators or adult family mediators. While most seniors face major adjustments when transitioning to an
Meet Mati Braun and Rachel Heimovics, Our Featured Seniors!
It’s no secret navigating the options surrounding senior living and senior care can be difficult. That’s why when Rachel Heimovics was thinking about moving out of her Maitland home and downsizing to a senior community, she reached out to Orlando Senior Help Desk and was connected to Caring Transitions. “I was surprised when Nancy Ludin answered the phone herself,” Rachel says. “I knew her socially before, but her help in recommending the right people to assist us when we downsized and moved was
Poor Sense of Smell May Lead to Depression
People can temporarily and partially lose their sense of smell (hyposmia) or completely lose it (anosmia) due to a cold, Corvid 19 or flu, or sinusitis infection, an allergy like hay fever or nasal polyps. They can also start smelling things that aren’t there (phantosmia) like smoke or burnt toast. But as they get older, many people permanently lose their ability to smell, and this reduces their pleasure from food and enjoyable surroundings. In a study that followed more than 2,000 older adults living
Tips for Nursing Home Visits to Make Them More Meaningful
Oftentimes, as nursing home residents decline, they lose the ability to communicate. Sadly, this is a time when families stop visiting as often because they don’t know what to say or how to make the visits meaningful for the family, as well as their loved one. Sometimes, just being present can be satisfying. Here are some tips for the families. 1. Prepare for the visit ahead of time. Bring items of interest with you. For example; if your loved one enjoys pets, you could bring your family pet to visit.
Myths about Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a leading cause of death in the United States, and millions of Americans are affected by the disease. It’s important to distinguish the facts from the myths about Alzheimer’s, especially when it comes to finding information online. 1. Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are the same thing People often use the terms Alzheimer’s disease and dementia interchangeably, but there is a difference. Dementia refers to impaired memory, thinking, reasoning, and behavior, and Alzheimer’s is just
This Monday: Celebrate the Season with JP Connections: A Festive Luncheon and Shopping Extravaganza
'Tis the season for joy, gratitude, and celebration, and what better way to kick off the festivities than by joining JP Connections for a delightful luncheon and holiday shopping experience this Monday at 11 a.m. The venue for this merry gathering is the Hilton in Altamonte Springs, promising an atmosphere of warmth, camaraderie, and the spirit of giving. JP Connections, known for fostering a sense of community and appreciation, invites you to partake in this special event designed to bring people
Insurance Fraud
Scams: After a major storm or hurricane you may get a door-to-door sales person telling you that your roof is damaged and their company can repair it after you settle a claim with your insurance company. Someone may even go on top of your roof and break a few shingles and then try to pass it off as storm damage. Another insurance fraud scenario might be when a contractor disappears. Someone may offer to remove your fallen tree but needs to rent a particular piece of equipment in order to remove it and