Senior Advocate

Q: I was surprised to hear the price of hiring in-home care. How do people afford to pay for care at home?A: The cost of hiring a caregiver through an agency is at an all-time high. It can seem very overwhelming if you are not familiar with the industry. Rates right now range from $35 [...]

Q: This is the first Valentine’s Day since my father passed away, and I want to do something special for my mom. What can I do that will help her get through this day?A: The first holidays after a loved one passes are often the most difficult. It is very thoughtful that you want to [...]

Q: How can I manage my anxiety when there is so much uncertainty in the world? A: It is normal to feel some anxiety around times of uncertainty. Anxiety is when we have excessive or persistent worry and fears. We may experience it physically with a fast heartbeat, sweating, or heavy breathing. You may [...]

Q: I hear from friends how stressful and confusing hospital visits can be. How can I better prepare myself in case my husband or I need a hospital stay? A: A hospital stay can be stressful and often not what we expect. People frequently call Senior Concerns when their loved one is hospitalized they [...]

Q: I like to start the new year by cleaning out and organizing my home. What should I focus on this year? A: An annual home cleanout is a great way to help stay organized. It also can make you feel clearer and more ready to start the year feeling fresh. I recently helped [...]

Q: What is the Ombudsman Program, and how do they help people living in long-term care facilities? A: The Ventura County Ombudsman Program advocates for the highest quality of life and care for people who live in long-term care facilities. This includes skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, memory care facilities, as well as board [...]

Q: How can I make this year better than last year? A: I imagine most people start a new year feeling ready for change, and ready to be better than before. But what does that really mean? I think it is important to be thoughtful about what you want out of the next year. [...]

As the year comes to a close, it is a good time to look back and review the year. I often write about the use of reminiscence as a way to create acceptance in your life. It allows you to retell your story in a way that brings closure, acceptance, and satisfaction. Reviewing the [...]

Q: My adult daughter recently said I was being stubborn because I would not let her help me. How can I explain to her that I prefer to be independent? A: As parents age it is common for adult children to want to step in and be more involved. They may make assumptions about [...]

Q: My mother has dementia, and I have trouble getting her to drink enough water. How can I encourage her to drink more water? A: Good hydration is important for everyone, but especially for people with dementia. And yet for many reasons it can be a challenge to get them to drink the water [...]