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
Life after Caregiving
As a caregiver, some people totally devote themselves to caring for another person who no longer functions as he once did. We may move, leave our jobs, give up our independence, and rarely see our family and friends. Our entire life may revolve around comforting and making our loved one feel loved. When a loved one passes, often we grieve and then the process of finding our way back into the world begins anew. How do we pick up the pieces and start to live again? Everyone does it differently and in his
Celebrate Harvest and Post-Sukkot Joy at the Jewish Pavilion Networking Festival
As the autumn leaves fall and the cool breeze of November sweeps in, it's time to celebrate the joyous festival of Sukkot and the bountiful harvest that follows. The Jewish Pavilion Harvest and Post-Sukkot Networking Festival is set to take place on Thursday, November 9th, from 5-7 p.m. at the picturesque Watercrest Winter Park senior community. This event promises an evening filled with delightful appetizers, delectable desserts, refreshing drinks, lively music, and a vibrant atmosphere, all for a
Healthy Foods for the Eyes
Eating healthy food is one key to reducing the risk of developing eye diseases. Leafy Greens: Leafy greens are a good source of zeaxanthin and lutein, which are related to beta carotene and vitamin A, which may help protect eye tissues from sunlight damage and reduce the risk of aging. Dark leafy vegetables include kale, turnip greens, spinach, collard greens, or broccoli. Strawberries: Strawberries are good for your eyes and contain plenty of vitamin C. This antioxidant may help lower your risk of
Prepare to be dazzled by the Spectacular Online Auction for the Jewish Pavilion
Get ready for a jaw-dropping lineup of incredible items that will have you on the edge of your seat. We're talking luxury hotel stays that will transport you to paradise, fitness packages that will have you feeling your best, priceless sports memorabilia that will make you the envy of all your friends, wine baskets that will tantalize your taste buds, event tickets that promise unforgettable experiences, restaurant gift cards that will satisfy your culinary cravings, and even homemade meals to treat
Standing with Israel and our Seniors
The emotions we have had over the past few days about the horrors happening in our homeland are often too much to handle. As Jews, we have a very personal relationship with Israel. We have friends and family who live there. We mourn the destruction of a place many of us have visited and filled our minds and hearts with beautiful memories. We are all very concerned about the welfare of those we love and the Israeli population. With each horrific video and story we see, we are once again reminded of the
AARP and Family Care-Giving
More than 48 million Americans are caregivers. There are 50 federal actions to help those caring for older adults included expanded home base care for veterans and a pilot program offering help for caregivers dealing with loved ones who have dementia. The Florida state office is fighting for legislation and policy changes on issues such as paid leave and tax credits for caregiving work AARP helps families find local resources and tools through state caregivers resource guides which note state programs
Help a Senior - Donate an Auction Item
In just a few weeks, The Jewish Pavilion's Annual Online Charity Auction will kick off. When it starts, there will be hundreds of items for you to bid on. Tickets to theme parks. Great travel experiences. Restaurant gift certificates. Just about anything you could want. But it won't be complete without an auction item from YOU! Take a minute to ask your favorite restaurant for a gift certificate or go buy one and give it to the auction committee. Maybe you have a great bottle of wine or two
Vaccines for Older Adults
As you get older, a health care provider may recommend vaccinations, also known as shots or immunizations, to help prevent or curtail certain illnesses. Talk with a doctor or pharmacist about which of the following vaccines you need. Covid- COVID-19 is a respiratory disease that causes symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Older adults are more likely than younger people to get very sick from COVID-19. The disease can lead to serious illness and death. Studies show that COVID-19
Mistakes Caregivers Make
For many years, Mae lived at the Heritage (now called Vitality) on Route 46 in Sanford and her only child, Toni Gitles, dutifully cared for her. The Jewish Pavilion staff and volunteers came weekly for visits, Shabbat Services and mahjong games. She was truly adored by the Pavilion and by the staff at the Heritage. Meanwhile, her daughter, Toni, Was overwhelmed with the tasks of caregiving sas they increased exponentially over time. When Mae passed away, Toni became an expert on Caregiving, a consultant,
The Costs of Care
In the February 3-9, 2023 issue of the Orlando Business Journal, these monthly rounded cost estimates were provided. The numbers concur with the people who work at the Orlando Senior Help Desk af the Jewish Pavilion. Adult Day Care $1500 (many scholarships are available) Assisted Living $4000 Nursing home semi-private rooms $8000 Nursing Home private room $10,000 Homemaker care from a company where the caregivers are fingerprinted and bonded- $57,000 a year ($30 per hour, and most companies want a
Mild Cognitive Impairment
Caring for an individual with memory problems can be difficult and stressful. What is mild cognitive impairment? Usually this signifies change in cognition (memory and the ability to understand one’s world), essentially the way a person thinks. Cognition includes memory and the ability to understand one’s world. Symptoms of Mild Cognitive Impairment MCI: · Depression · Difficulty forming short-term memories · Difficulty communicating complete thoughts · Easily distracted · Forgetfulness · Inability
Heart Attacks
Heart attacks are a leading killer of men and women. Each year, more than 1 million people in the United States have a heart attack, and half of them die. A heart attack happens when the flow of oxygen-rich blood in the coronary arteries suddenly becomes blocked, and a section of heart muscle can’t get enough oxygen. The blockage is usually caused when a plaque (fatty deposit) ruptures. A heart attack is an emergency- call 911 immediately Signs of a heart attack:Crushing chest pain or pressure and/or
Get Your Affairs in Order
One wonderful gift a person can give to one’s family is to put all affairs in order before a disaster or medical emergency. A physical folder plus a file on the computer is ideal. Family members must be informed about the location of these files.All bank accounts, account numbers and types of accounts and the location of banks.A list of all passwordsInsurance Company, policy number, beneficiary as stated on the policies and type of insurance (health, life, long-term care, automobile, etc.)Deed and titles
Benefits of Nature
Being outdoors is good for everyone. Nature may also help protect against the risk of developing certain neurodegenerative disorders. In a study of millions of seniors who spent time in “green spaces” such as parks or yards, those who lived in areas “with more green space had lower rates of hospitalization for Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias such as vascular dementia and Lewy body dementia.” Experts believe that being in nature reduces our stress. We have long known that
Geographic Atrophy
Most people have heard of Age –related Macular degeneration (AMD) which affects senior citizens, but few have heard the term Geographic Atrophy( GA) which occurs in people over the age of 50. It is another eye condition that causes the macula to thin and leads to blindness. Risk factors include family history, smoking, blood pressure, obesity, UV sun exposure, lack of physical activity etc. Visit https://eyesonga.com to learn about this illness. Henry Winkler’s father- in law had the disease and he is
Legs and Feet- Circulation
Exercise, especially walking, is a great way to increase blood flow to your legs and feet. Foot exercises, such as sitting and rotating your ankles one way, then the other. Foot problems are sometimes the first sign of more serious medical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and nerve or circulatory disorders. It is important to check your feet often, looking for cuts, blisters, or ingrown toenails. Always speak with a physician if you notice numbness or severe pain in your feet. Suggestions for
The Importance of Sleep –by Nancy Ludin from Reading Matthew Walker’s Book- Why We Sleep
In Why We Sleep, Dr. Matt Walker explains how sleep can make us healthier, safer, smarter, and more productive. He provides knowledge and strategies to overcome the life-threatening risks associated with our sleep-deprived society. What does Matthew Walker say about sleep? Matthew Walker is on a mission to change our attitude about sleep with a book that aims to demystify what sleep is, warn us of the consequences of sleep deprivation, explain the l world of dreams, and give us practical advice on
How to Prevent Falls By Nancy Ludin , CEO of the Jewish Pavilion
The number one cause of seniors entering hospitals are falls. There are many things you can do to prevent falls: 1. Ask your physician to conduct a Risk Assessment and ask for suggestions to reduce your risks. Inquire about vitamins and diet supplements. 2. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to ensure that none of your medications will make you dizzy, sleepy or decrease alertness. 3. Have your eyes checked annually 4. Ensure the safety of your home. Have an expert conduct a safety audit to make sure
How to Get the Elderly to Take in Fluids
As we age, the amount of fluid in our bodies begins to decrease. This means there are fewer water reserves available for your body to use as you get older. There is a lowered thirst response. The natural aging process weakens the body's ability to signal it does not have enough fluid. This means older adults don't feel as thirsty as younger people do, and they may not realize they need to drink water. Experts generally recommend that older adults consume at least 1.7 liters of fluid per 24 hours. This
Orlando Senior Help Desk Launches New Website
One of our goals at The Jewish Pavilion and Orlando Senior Help Desk is to be the primary, unbiased resource for individuals and families looking for help with senior support services. After all, there are hundreds of options for people to use in health care, living spaces, finances and much more. That's why we're proud to announce our new Orlando Senior Help Desk website has launched. Click here to see it all! When you look through the site, you'll find expert advice on dozens of topics that
9 Brain Boosting Activities by Nancy Ludin, CEO Jewish Pavilio
Sing- Seniors choirs offer joy and a feeling of togetherness. Musical instruments are appealing and playing boosts brain health. Safe Sauna bathing Researchers say that the heat may activate protective proteins and better cardiovascular functioning, reduce inflammation, offer better sleep, reduce stress, and increase relaxation.Tai chi. Tai chi is a slow-motion exercise for self-defense and meditation.Cultivate a positive attitude toward aging. Negative attitudes about aging have a striking effect on memory
Managing Medication by Nancy Ludin CEO Of the Jewish Pavilion
According to the American Geriatrics Society, more than 80% of older adults are living with multiple health conditions. With each new health problem, things may become exponentially more complicated! A senior may see multiple doctors. There are many appointments to coordinate, and a confusing array of recommendations to follow. Medication management is quite a challenge. Many seniors take 10 or more medications. This is super complicated, because a drug prescribed for one health problem could worsen
Activities of Daily Living by Nancy Ludin, CEO of the Jewish Pavilion
The Activities of Daily Living (ADL’s) include: 1. Getting out of bed- Transferring 2. Toileting - Safe restroom use and maintaining continence 3. Bathing and Grooming 4. Dressing and undressing 5. Meal Preparation and feeding When a senior can no longer perform one of these tasks independently, help is needed. A home health agency may be contacted or the senior may want to consider Assisted Living. There are hundreds of companion care agencies in Central Florida. Most use a registry which means
Hurricane Safety by Nancy Ludin, CEO, Jewish Pavilion
The state of Florida is vulnerable to hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season (June-November.) When there is a warning of a hurricane or other natural disaster, elder-care communities ensure the comfort and safety of their residents. Senior communities have a Hurricane and Disaster Preparedness Plan which consists of recommendations from regulating authorities such as the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) as well as precautionary guidelines and procedures developed from their
Get Ready for Summer Travel
In just a couple of weeks, the summer travel season hits. Are you prepared to ensure your senior can experience a great vacation with you and your family? One of the more difficult things about traveling is accounting for the wheelchair. But it's not impossible! All you need to do is take a little bit of extra time to plan. In fact, one of the best ways to prepare for a longer trip is to do a couple of practice trips - ones that are short, but still give you the experience you need for
Communicating with a Loved One, Especially a Senior
If you are not getting along with your folks, it is probably your fault. You alone have the opportunity to change things. Conversations are like volleys that go back and forth, but they do not have to. They can be stopped by you at any point. If you do not argue back, the conversation will end. This technique will prevent you from saying something hurtful or argumentative that may later make you feel guilty. . For example, you may have a parent in a senior Living community who tells you that someone else
How to Choose a Home Care Company By Nancy Ludin, CEO, Jewish Pavilion
At the Orlando Senior Help Desk of the Jewish Pavilion, we are frequently asked to recommend a home care company. There are a few things to consider such as years of experience. Ideally, the caregiver you hire has worked with other individuals with similar medical condones. You want a home companion who has had good training and continuing education. There are many personal attributes that are imperative such as warmth and compassion, attentiveness, patience, good communication skills etc. Agencies should
How to Prepare for a Hospital Stay By Nancy Ludin, CEO of the Jewish Pavilion
I have a dear friend who went into the hospital for a hip replacement and never came out. It is very important to do lots of advance planning prior to a stay at the hospital.If possible, have someone stay with you in the hospital.Designate an emergency contact in advanceYou might want to prepare a notebook so that you bring all of the right medical documents such as a list of your medications, and healthcare providers. You will also need your legal documents such as your power of attorney, designated
Don’t Fall!!! By Nancy Ludin, CEO of the Jewish Pavilion
A large number of calls at the Orlando Senior Help Desk (40) 678-9363 come from family members after their loved one has fallen. There are so many reasons a senior may fall such as body weakness, vitamin D Deficiency, Difficulty with waking and balance, medications such as sedatives or anti-depressants, vision issues, foot pain or poor footwear and home hazards such as rugs and cords. It is a good idea to have your doctor schedule a Fall Risk Assessment to evaluate your risk of falling and talk about
Passover Seder Featured on Spectrum News 13
This Passover, The Jewish Pavilion has brought Seder to hundreds of seniors throughout Central Florida. These are individuals who may not have any other means of celebrating this holiday. Even several non-Jewish residents joined us to celebrate. We were honored that Spectrum News 13 took time to showcase the work we are doing with some very special seniors and volunteers at Watercress at Winter Park. Watch the video by clicking here.
What is Assisted Living? By Nancy Ludin, CEO of the Jewish Pavilion
Many people call the Orlando Senior Help Desk at the Jewish Pavilion (407-678-9363) for assisted living. What they often really want is assistance with living and an Assisted Living Community may or may not meet their needs. What is Assisted Living?Assisted living communities are for seniors who want to remain “independent” in a home-like setting but need assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as eating, bathing, dressing, maintaining good hygiene and toileting. The person in assisted
Living with a Companion/Aide
Assuming that you have hired an aide from a home health care agency, you can expect a lot of support in easing your anxieties. It is the agency’s job to answer your questions in advance and resolve any issues that arise. The key to facilitating your satisfaction and comfort is good communication with the agency management and with your aide.Here are a few tips for establishing positive relationships with your home health care professionals:Be completely honest about your needs- Overcome any embarrassment or