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Robert Goodman, MSW

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Know Who Your Homecare Providers Are
Know Who Your Homecare Providers Are 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Know Who Your Homecare Providers Are

 Let’s learn about the types of healthcare workers that provide services in the home and in a long-term care setting.

 

Companion/Homemaker May do the following: Prepares/serves meals, does housekeeping, and accompany client on errands/trips. The Companion/Homemaker must have some training in topics related to human development and interpersonal relationships, nutrition, marketing, food storage, use of equipment and supplies, planning and organizing of household tasks, and principles of cleanliness and safety.

 

Home Health Aide (HHA) In addition to the services provided by a Companion/Homemaker, a HHA may provide “hands on” personal care, which includes assistance in the activities of daily living, such as bathing, grooming, dressing, personal hygiene, eating, and assistance in physical transfer and ambulation.

 

Some HHA’s can be trained to supervise medication and receive a Home Health Aide Certificate. Training courses are 40 hours and  include basic nutrition; maintaining a clean, safe environment; taking vital signs; infection control; and how to handle emergencies.

 

Most HHA’s have a high school diploma, although it is not required. Florida does not have a state administered test for home health aides. To work for a Medicare or Medicaid home health agency, a HHA must complete 75+ hours of training or successfully complete a competency evaluation given by the home health agency.

 

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) provides the same types of services as the Home Health Aide, but the CNA is certified by

the state, a high school or G.E.D is required, and typically receives a higher rate of pay. The programs are 6-12 weeks in length and include “hands-on” care giving experience.

 

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides

services such as monitoring vital

signs, preparing and giving injections,

enemas, help in evaluation of the needs

of the client, and supervising nursing

assistants and aides. LPN’s can also be

involved in teaching and training family

members in simple nursing tasks.

 

LPN’s must go through a State-approved

Nursing Program, which typically last one

year and include classroom and clinical

practice. A LPN provides care under the direction of a registered nurse (RN). The RN provides supervision and support for the LPN.

 

Registered Nurse (RN) work to promote

health, prevent illness, educate patients and families, and develop/manage nursing care plans. RN’s are educated in the science and theory behind the care they are administering and supervising. The RN assessment involves a more holistic approach to evaluating the patient, making sure both their physical and psychology needs are being addressed.

 

There are three major educational levels

of RN’s: an associate degree in Nursing (ADN), a bachelor’s of science degree in nursing (BSN), and a diploma program administered in hospitals. These degrees take from 2-4 years to complete. Periodic renewal of licenses and continuing education are required. A RN may assign portions of client care to LPN’s and HHA’s, but always retains the full responsibility for the care.

 

Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) is a RN who has advanced education and experience and generally requires a master’s level education. ARNP’s diagnose and treat common ailments, perform routine tests, prescribe medications, and work closely with the client. ◙

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Make Your Mark
Make Your Mark 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

The Savvy Senior

By Robert Goodman, MSW

Make Your Mark

 

May is designated as Older Americans Month. The theme for this year is Make Your Mark. The Administration for Community Living selected this theme to encourage and celebrate countless contributions that older adults make to our communities. “Their time, experience, and talents benefit family, peers, and neighbors every day. Communities, organizations, and individuals of all ages are also making their marks. This year’s theme highlights the difference everyone can make in the lives of older adults, in support of caregivers, and to strengthen communities.”

Residents of Century Village make their mark on the community every day. We have many residents who have accomplished great things in their lives. Our residents volunteer their time and energy to help coordinate activities and events. Whether as an association president, director, COBRUA delegate or a building social president. They run classes, work at the clubhouse, or volunteer at their houses of worship or local hospitals. Many institutions could not survive without volunteers, whether it be food pantries, cultural institutions or museums.

We have people in their 80s and 90s who are active adults. They go the gym, work in the community and continue to make their mark each day. Volunteers help run my health fairs and the CarFit program. Some of my 90 year-old plus volunteers have more energy than residents in their 60s and 70s. We Care was staffed by volunteers for over 30 years.

We must applaud our caregivers who tirelessly and patiently take care of a loved one. Family caregivers and employed caregivers make their mark every day in helping to maintain the independence of so many seniors and their spouses.

One thing I like to remind people of during Older Americans Month is the need to improve their independent living skills. As a social worker, I have noticed too often how many men and women are ill prepared to lead a single life after many years of marriage.

It is important for men and women to be able to take care of family finances in the event of the death of a spouse. I have noticed over the years that many men do not know how to cook, shop, do laundry or clean house. It is easy to say that you can hire someone to do some of these tasks, but that gets expensive. I remember running a cooking class for men at my senior center in New York.

Being able to do these tasks shows your children your ability to be independent and it also improves your self-esteem. It is not easy to adjust to the death of a loved one after so many years of marriage, but having the skills to be independent can make the adjustment a little easier.

Let us take time in May to celebrate the volunteers, caregivers and independent older adults who are active and make their mark by improving their community every day.

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Things to Know as We Plan to Retire
Things to Know as We Plan to Retire 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

The Savvy Senior

By Robert Goodman, MSW

Things to Know as We Plan to Retire

 

May is Older Americans Month. This is a good time to discuss some important things to keep in mind when we retire and as we age.

I used to tell my clients “All you need to know when you retire is how to sign your name and know your Social Security number”. The world has changed a lot since those days. Now you have to be informed about health care, available social services, advocacy, legislation, Medicare fraud, scams against the elderly, and your rights and benefits.

Independence is very important to all of us. Many of us have grown up in a society that assigned certain roles to men and women. Those roles may change when one is alone after divorce or losing a loved one. In today’s world it is important for both men and women to know how to shop, cook, plan a menu, clean and maintain a home, manage finances and make small repairs. It is important to learn them before you need them.

It is also important to learn about nutrition. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) health.gov website explains that many older adults don’t eat enough foods that contain calcium, potassium, fiber, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, D, and E. Fruits and vegetables contain many of these nutrients. Vitamin E is found in many ready-to-eat cereals, nuts, and vegetable oils. Calcium and vitamin D are found in fat-free and low-fat milk. At the same time, many older adults eat too many foods high in calories, saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, added sugars, and salt.

Getting the nutrients you need through a healthy diet is essential for overall health. HHS recommends selecting foods that are enriched with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other nutrients, but lower in calories. (Sources: www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines and www.healthfinder.gov/prevention).

Your health is also important as you age. Make a list of your health conditions, medications, surgical history, and allergies. Include the phone numbers and addresses of all your doctors and pharmacies and bring it with you when visiting a new doctor. In addition, carry with you a list of medicines and supplements that you are currently taking. Request and keep copies of important test results and your latest lab reports.

Medicare now provides for an annual wellness visit. Take advantage of this to check your blood pressure, cholesterol, vision, hearing, and osteoporosis. Also, remember to get screened for colorectal, prostate, and breast cancer.

One issue that is often overlooked is one’s mental health. It is important to learn the signs of depression, anxiety, and addictive behaviors (I have written on these topics in earlier columns). There is nothing wrong with asking for help.

If you are a caregiver, remember to take care of yourself first so that you can better care for your loved one. It is imperative that caregivers learn about services in the community. There are services that provide care in the home, facilities that can care for a loved one, support groups for caregivers, and organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association. For information on services in Palm Beach County you can call 211 or the Elder Helpline: 1-866-684-5885.

It is important to understand your rights and benefits as you get older. You may be entitled to services under the Older Americans Act, Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and or Food

Stamps. If you are employed or looking for a job you are covered against job discrimination under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act. (www.eeoc.gov/laws)

An important step to take before retirement is formulating a plan. Review your interests. Make a list of activities or hobbies which you hope to. Have a financial plan that includes savings. Learn about maintenance fees and local taxes. Determine where you plan to live, whether independently or in a senior community. Learn about services for seniors in the community where you plan to live.

If you are planning to live in a senior community, check activity, such as clubs and entertainment, and transportation. If possible, check sidewalks and lighting. Also check community amenities. Familiarize yourself with health facilities and availability of medical care.

Finally, one of the most important things to learn as we get older is about advocacy and how to be an effective self-advocate. Legislation is being proposed on the federal, state, and county level that affects your everyday life. Keep track of these issues and contact your elected officials and express your opinion. Register to vote! Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself when it comes to the services you need, whether medical or retail.

Talking Books Library 1-888-780-5151

Caregiver Action Network 1-855-227-3640

Well Spouse Association (732) 577-8899

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The Aging Network
The Aging Network 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

The Aging Network

By Robert Goodman, MSW

 

The Aging Network is made up of agencies that provide services for seniors. Some of these agencies are government run and some are private. Eligibility, services provided, and costs vary from one agency to another.

To meet the diverse needs of the growing numbers of older persons in the United States, President Lyndon Johnson signed into law the Older Americans Act (OAA) in 1965. The OAA created the state units on aging and the local area agencies on aging to fund local services. The OAA established the Administration on Aging (AoA) (www.aoa.gov) under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The AoA is the federal agency that administers programs at the federal level. These programs provide assistance to older adults and their caregivers, as well as critical support services, such as nutrition and transportation for older adults at risk of being prematurely or unnecessarily institutionalized.

Many states and local governments sponsor programs that serve the aging community. These local services can include counseling, information and referral and other age-related services.

Area Agencies on Aging are the local agencies that provides information on aging issues, advocacy, and one-on-one assistance. Services include: · Foster Grandparent Program provides one-on-one teaching support for children. · SHINE Health Insurance Counseling Services. · Senior Advocacy Program delivering support to seniors in need. · Abuse Registry offers helpful information on how to identify and prevent abuse, neglect and exploitation of seniors.

Palm Beach County Division of Senior and Veteran Services

 

Other services:

Other community-based services include home health care, senior centers, and adult day care centers. Senior centers offer programs and services in five main categories: health (including mental health), social, nutritional, educational and recreational. In a protective, non-institutional environment, Adult Day Care Centers provide daily therapeutic programs of social and health services as well as activities for adults who have functional impairments.

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Locating & Accessing Community Resources & Services
Locating & Accessing Community Resources & Services 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Locating & Accessing Community Resources & Services

By Robert Goodman, MSW

“I need help and I don’t know where to turn!” Where would you begin to look if you needed help for a loved one? There are many government and community-based services available to assist children; older adults; people with mental, developmental, or physical disabilities; and caregivers. Finding them and accessing their services is often where the difficulty begins. How do I begin the search?

 

ORGANIZE RECORDS

  1. Personal Records

Name, address, dates of birth/marriage/divorce/death of spouse, children’s contact info, social security number, birth certificate, identification cards, etc. Military service: branch, dates of duty, date and type of discharge.

  1. Legal Documents

Attorney name/contact info, living will, healthcare surrogate, will/trust, power of attorney.

  1. Medical Records
  • Doctors names (including specialty) and contact information.
  • Chronic health issues /acute illness/surgeries/injuries , symptom/diagnosis dates, doctors/clinics/hospitals that treated the condition.
  • Tests beyond those done as part of routine checkup (x-rays, cat scan, MRI, blood work) with dates, doctors, and location.
  • Medications (pharmaceutical/over-the-counter) strength, dosage, frequency, date of first Rx, pharmacy name and contact information.
  • Food/drug allergies, past drug reactions
  • Identify what to do in a medical emergency: Emergency contact info, hospital name and contact info, doctors/family members/friends contact information.
  1. Health Insurance File

Policy numbers ID cards, agent contact info, brochures/literature for health insurance: Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental, Medigap, Private, Major Medical.

  1. Financial
  • Taxes, insurance policies, will/trust, investments, financial advisers/brokers/accountants contact info
  • Organize bills and receipts by category:

Medical (health condition, doctors, tests, hospitals stays, medications, insurance),    professional services (lawyer/    account              ant). List bill paying info: provider, service      and dates, date paid by insurance, etc.

  • Add the following forms of income: Wages, social security, SSI, pension, annuities, stock dividends, IRA, bonds, mutual funds, health savings account, rental income, royalties, IRA, interest, etc.

Total Monthly Income =  $________

  • Add the following assets: home/rental/other property value, cars, burial policy, life insurance type/value, collectibles, antiques, personal belongings, etc.

    Total Value of Assets = $________

  • Add the following monthly expenses: mortgage, rent, maintenance fees, assessments, utilities, landline/cell phone, custodial care (yard work, cleaning), food, clothing, transportation, taxes, insurance (homeowners, rental, life, long term, health, auto), unreimbursed medical expense including medication, special needs care, transportation, durable medical equipment, gifts/charitable contributions, professional services (legal/accounting), etc.

Total Monthly Expenses = $________

  • Add the following examples of debt: home mortgage, other property, car/other loans, credit cards, etc.

Total Debt = $________

 

DETERMINE WHAT KIND OF HELP IS NEEDED

Make a list of the things the person can or cannot do and who is available to help, with what, and how often.

Needs Assessment Can the person:

__ Take medication on time and in the

correct dosage

__ Go shopping for food and clothing

__ Visit friends or drive a car

__ Travel by bus or taxi

__ Do light housekeeping

__ Do heavy housekeeping

__ Do the laundry

__ Do yard work

__ Afford to pay the bills

__ Write checks and pay bill efficiently

__ Take care of legal matters

__ Maintain personal cleanliness

__ Get dressed

__ Use the toilet

__ Sleep through the night

__ Safely use the stairs & outdoor steps

__ Look up telephone numbers and make     calls without help

__  Be safely left alone

WHERE DO I FIND THE SERVICES I NEED?

  1. Florida Health & Social Services Navigator Resource Guide (this publication) and other health and social services resource guides
  2. Internet (do a “Google” or other search engine search)
  3. Library
  4. White/Yellow Pages
  5. Information & Referral/Crisis Helplines (ie, 2-1-1)
  6. City/county/state/federal government
  7. Area Agencies on Aging
  8. Hospital social work/case management departments
  9. Community health fairs/expos
  10. Religious institutions
  11. Referrals from friends, relatives, and colleagues.

 

WHAT DO I DO AFTER I HAVE LOCATED A PARTICULAR SERVICE?

Once services are located, it’s important to learn about the services and how they can address the needs of the person who needs help.

 

A valuable place to learn about services prior to making phone calls is to visit the agency/organization’s website. Read through the services and information described and take notes. The information you glean may be enough for you to know this agency or program isn’t what you’re looking for or on the other hand, it may sound like a perfect match. Narrowing down your choices this way without having to make numerous phone calls saves a lot of time and energy. Doing an internet search also provides prior knowledge about the agency, which is very convenient to have in advance of placing a call to them.

 

Although some services and programs can be applied for online, others should be contacted by phone.

 

PRIOR TO CALLING AN AGENCY FOR

SERVICE

  1. Determine your goals: What services does the person need? Be clear about the services you’re looking for by putting your goals and questions in writing.
  2. Make a list of agencies you want to call.
  3. Have your previously organized records near the phone for reference. Having quick access to answers will save you frustration, time, and money.
  4. Have a notebook and pen ready for taking notes—don’t use small scraps of paper that could easily be lost. Do role playing to calm nerves.

 

CALLING THE AGENCY

A Sample Script
“My name is ________. I am caring for ________ who is my ________. I need ________. The hours I need this help are ________. Can you help me?”

If the answer is no, ask “Can you give me another name or agency to call?” If the answer is yes, ask “What services do you provide? What are the costs and how are they paid? Eligibility requirements? How long must we wait to get services? Can you send a brochure and application? What is your website address? Can you do an intake over the phone? To whom am I speaking? Do I need to speak to anyone else?”

Tips When Speaking with the Agency

  1. Try to call in the morning.
  2. Describe exactly what you need, when you need it, and any limitations you may have in paying for the service. Ask about services, fees, eligibility requirements, waiting lists, for their website address , and to send you a brochure.
  3. Interview the agency; ask lots of questions. Determine by their demeanor and response if this would be the appropriate agency to fill the need.
  4. Call several agencies to compare.
  5. Keep good notes, including the name and number of the agency, the person you spoke to, additional phone numbers and/or email address, website, questions and responses, and names and contact info of additional agencies you were referred to.
  6. Enlist the support of those you are calling; don’t put them on the defensive.
  7. Be persistent and patient—it may take many calls to get the services you want.
  8. Be assertive—call back and ask for a supervisor if you are not satisfied with the answers or advice. Document date, time, and contents of call, and file a complaint with appropriate funding agency, better business bureau, or chamber of commerce.
  9. If denied services, ask how to appeal. You have the right to a written decision.

 

DENIALS AND APPEALS

  • Make a log of all correspondence and phone calls regarding denials. Include dates and names of people. When did you receive notice of the denial? How did you receive notification of the denial?
  • Most programs and insurance plans have a formal grievance procedure. Get the procedure in writing and follow through (see DCF Fair Hearings page 16, Medicare Appeals page 24, and Social Security Appeals page 29).

ONCE SERVICES ARE APPROVED

  1. Develop a detailed file: name/contact info of agency, description of service, referrals of other services needed.
  2. Follow up to be sure the services are appropriate and are being provided for in an efficient and effective way.
  3. Document any gaps in service or prob-lems and follow up with agency to resolve problem.
  4. If gaps of service are due to budget or other cuts, advocate before your elected officials (see page 38). ◙

 

To request a workshop on Locating &

Accessing Community Resources, contact Robert Goodman, MSW at 561.245.7143 rgoodman@flnavigator.com

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Older Americans Month: Blazing a Trail
Older Americans Month: Blazing a Trail 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Older Americans Month: Blazing a Trail

The Savvy Senior

By Robert Goodman, MSW

 

A recent theme for Older Americans Month in May was “Blazing a Trail”. The focus is on how older adults in our community are leading and inspiring others, how we can support and learn from them, and how we might follow their examples to blaze trails of our own.

Every day I walk around our community I see our residents debunking stereotypes about older adults. I see people in their 80s and 90s in the gym, others are working hard to better our community while many residents are still working either in paid jobs or volunteering. The people participating in the annual resident’s show are certainly an inspiration to us all. All of these residents are blazing a trail for future generations of older adults.

Many retirees are finding new inspiration in second careers, helping others, discovering new interests, and pursuing dreams.

Reinventing yourself can be fun and rewarding.

It is never too late to get more active or revamp your diet. It

Securing your financial future and improving your health and diet are also part of the “Blazing the Trail” theme.

Getting involved in your community means working to make a difference in the lives of community members through volunteering. Older Americans are volunteering in higher numbers than ever before.

Beyond helping and the people around you, being involved in your community benefits you. From preventing mental health issues by engaging in meaningful work to the physical benefits of being active and social, civic engagement is a win-win. It is never too late to give back!

Another way to spend your time and give back to the community is by volunteering. There are many volunteer opportunities available. You can start by volunteering in your own community.

I have recently been involved with SCORE, the Service Corp of Retired Executives. They are a wonderful organization with dedicated volunteers who make themselves available to help up and coming entrepreneurs. SCORE offers information and assistance for a business or business idea. Every month SCORE provides FREE counseling to hundreds of budding entrepreneurs in the South Florida area. They also offer a variety of workshops. If you have at least 10 years of business experience as an owner, officer of your own business, or served at mid-level management or higher in the corporate world, and would enjoy helping men and  women seeking to start or grow their own businesses, call SCORE at 561-981-5180.

The local hospitals use volunteers for a variety of patient related duties, like answering phones, transporting patients, and delivering flowers.

Other volunteer opportunities include organization such as the American Red Cross, agencies working with seniors, literacy coalitions and hospice.

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Living and Working with Seniors
Living and Working with Seniors 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Living and Working with Seniors

By Robert A, Goodman, MSW

 

I am often asked what is it like to have worked with seniors all of my career versus living in a senior community. There are many differences between working with and living with seniors. Living with seniors I see everything up close and personal.

When I was a young social worker I was often told that time flies. I did not realize that time really does go faster as we get older. I can’t believe it is summer again. It seems like it was summer yesterday ( which it usually is in Florida).

For  many years I helped seniors get services and government benefits like Medicaid, Food Stamps and other government services. Living in Century Village I see up close how much of a need there is for services in the communities where seniors live.  That is why I do the Community Service Expos and Health Fairs twice a year. I bring County services like the Property Appraiser (homestead exemption), Social Services (Medicaid, Food Stamps), Consumer Affairs and other government agencies directly to our residents. Now you can apply for benefits or register to vote in one place close to home. We are trying to bring back the Department of Motor Vehicles.

I have organized seniors for advocacy campaigns for many years. Now I see a greater need for advocacy being a senior and living in this community. We need to advocate for the services we need on a county, state and federal level. If we don’t show our elected officials the importance of the programs they fund and how they impact our lives then why should they vote to continue funding them?

Every day I see how active my fellow residents are in their 80s and 90s. I used to tell my clients that they were busier after retirement than before. Now I see how true that statement was. I interact with people who are still working, who volunteer and who go to the gym every day. Having worked with frail and needy seniors, it is nice to see active seniors. But we still have to address the needs of our residents who are poor and who are homebound. Century Village offers many opportunities for education, recreation and socialization.

 

Several years ago, I became an official senior. Reflecting back on my career as a geriatric social worker and community organizer I believe I made the right choice for a career. I loved working with the senior population and am happy I had the opportunity to meet many wonderful people and helped people get the services they needed through the years. Living in a senior community has shown the importance of the work I have done.

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Aging in Place
Aging in Place 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

The Savvy Senior
Aging in Place
By Robert Goodman, MSW
Updated July 2024

 

As we grow older (not me!) our first choice is to remain in our homes for the rest of our lives. How many of us develop a plan to “age in place”? Just like you plan for college or retirement, we must also plan for the years beyond retirement. Aging in place refers to a person’s desire to remain in their own home and receive services, if needed, in their home or community.  To successfully age in place, one has to plan for the physical and mental changes that may occur as we age. This may include modifying your living space.

Several professionals can help you plan for your future. These include elder law attorneys, financial planners, health care providers, home accessibility consultants, for profit health related companies, and non-profit organizations.

An elder law attorney specializes in working with older adults. They handle general estate planning and counsels clients about planning for any future incapacity. The attorney would also assist the client in planning for possible long-term care needs, including nursing home care. An elder law attorney can help you locate the appropriate type of care, coordinate private and public resources to finance the cost of care, and work to ensure the client’s right to quality care.  There are many elder law attorneys in our area. Ask any attorney if he/she is certified in this field. To locate an elder law attorney, contact the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys at www.naela.org.

A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) is someone who is specially trained in personal finance.  To become licensed Certified Financial Planners must have demonstrated competency in seven important subjects: the General Principles of Financial Planning, Risk Management and Insurance Planning, Employee Benefits Planning, Investment Planning, Income Tax Planning, Retirement Planning, and Estate Planning.  These are the areas one would need to consider when planning for long-term care expenses either immediately or in the future.  CFP’s have been subjected to a background check and must also have demonstrated experience before becoming licensed. Select a certified financial planner who specializes in Medicaid, VA benefits, and elder care planning. Be sure to ask any prospective planner if this is their area of expertise. To locate a certified financial planner, contact the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards at www.cfp.net or call 800-487-1497.

Writing a living will and choosing a health care surrogate are important steps to take while one is healthy. A living will lets your doctor know what steps should be taken or not taken in the event that you cannot communicate your needs. A health care surrogate is a person you appoint to make decisions regarding your health care in case you are unable to. These forms are available at most hospitals or by going online to Aging with Dignity at www.fivewishes.org or calling 1-888-594-7437.

Safety is a major concern in the home as we age. Good lighting, use color contrast, eliminating throw rugs, and installing grab bars are all things that help make the home safer. There are home accessibility specialists that can help you determine what is needed in your home to make it safe and easier to use should you become disabled. Contact your local Center for Independent Living for a referral.

As part of the planning process, you may want to select a home care provider now who can provide you needed services in the future. You may also want to look at housing alternatives, such as an assisted living facility or nursing home if the need arises.  www.Medicare.gov is a great website aid in locating all kinds of health care facilities.

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A Rewarding Retirement
A Rewarding Retirement 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

A Rewarding Retirement
The Savvy Senior
By Robert Goodman, MSW
Geriatric Social Worker

 

Retirement is a major life changing event. One has to plan for retirement. More and more “younger” people are retiring to South Florida (and Century Village). Many decisions have to be made about how to spend your retirement.

Do you have a plan? What will you do after you retire? Will you move to South Florida as a snowbird, snowflake, or snowdrop or full time? What activities are you going to participate in? Will you continue to work?

Hopefully you have put away money for your retirement and can now live comfortably in this stage of your life. There is a lot to learn about being retired. You have financial, health and use of leisure time concerns. I always say you have to be healthy, wealthy, and wise to retire to Florida. You need your health to enjoy retirement, money to spend, and wise enough to make the right choices on how to utilize your time.

There are many activities to choose from in your community. There are all kinds of classes, clubs, gyms and first-rate local entertainment. There are theaters, educational opportunities, and other kinds of activities in your area. You can’t get bored!

Another way to spend your time and give back to the community is by volunteering. There are many volunteer opportunities available in your own community.

SCORE, the Service Corp of Retired Executives is a wonderful organization with dedicated volunteers who make themselves available to help up and coming entrepreneurs. SCORE offers information and assistance for a business or business idea. Every month SCORE provides FREE counseling to hundreds of budding entrepreneurs. They also offer a variety of workshops. If you have at least 10 years of business experience as an owner, officer of your own business, or served at mid-level management or higher in the corporate world, and would enjoy helping men and women seeking to start or grow their own businesses, Call SCORE at 1-800-634-0245 For to find a location near you. You can also contact the National Executive Service Corps via email at info@nesc.org. Their websites are www.score.org and www.nesc.org.

Local hospitals and social service agencies always need volunteers. Hospitals use volunteers for a variety of patient related duties, like answering phones, transporting patients, and delivering flowers. Volunteers are also needed by the American Red Cross, local area agency on aging, hospices, senior centers and literacy coalitions.

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The Caregiving Role
The Caregiving Role 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

THE CAREGIVING ROLE:

A MEANINGFUL QUALITY OF LIFE

 

By Robert Goodman

 

What is it like to be a Caregiver?  Your clients and their loved ones probably never expected to be caring for a person who is sick or has a disability.  As  professional caregivers we need to ensure meaningful quality of life for our clients, the care recipient, and ourselves.  Just as the care recipient has special needs, so does the professional.  Job security with appropriate pay and benefits contribute to a positive professional self image.  People who are appropriately compensated and trained are better workers. 

Respect by clients is another aspect of this issue.  Too often people who need our services      do not realize that we are trying to help them do   what is necessary to help them to maintain or achieve independence.  It is our responsibility to help our clients understand our roles and empower them to be good consumers of our services. 

Human service professionals must also serve as advocates for our clients.  We must work together (with our clients) to get public and private agencies to be more responsive to the needs and concerns of people who need our services. The caregiver and care recipient need to work  with each other in a respectful relationship.   The  care recipient and their families need  to  understand the role of the professional intruding into their lives. 

How do we accomplish this goal?  First, we must advocate for better conditions for ourselves and our clients.  Secondly, schools need to teach human service workers how to effectively work with people who have special needs.  Agencies need to reinforce this training with in-services and ongoing supervision.  Workers and clients need to learn to work with people of different cultures.   Thirdly, the government needs to be responsive to the concerns of people who have special needs or may be homebound, and their caregivers.  This includes providing better benefits and not cutting home care and other human services.

May is “Older Americans Month”.

The Theme  this year is “CAREGIVING”.  As we reflect on the role of the professional caregiver,  this month and in the future, let us appreciate the stress and abilities of all those involved in caregiving.

358 words and 39 lines in 11 point type.

Florida Navigator
Americans with Disabilities Act
Robert Goodman, MSW

Location:

4037 Wolverton B
Boca Raton, FL 33434

Phone:

954-806-7321

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