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Robert Goodman, MSW

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Preventing Suicide
Preventing Suicide 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Suicide Prevention
By Robert Goodman, MSW
Updated May 2022

 

Suicide is preventable and everyone must take action if someone is depressed or expresses suicidal thoughts. Older Americans are disproportionately likely to die by suicide. Although they comprise only 16.5 percent of the U.S. population, people age 65 and older accounted for 18 percent (or 8,500) of suicide deaths in 2019.

Depression, one of the conditions most commonly associated with suicide in older adults, Studies show that many older adults who die by suicide — up to 75 percent — visited a physician within a month before death. The risk of depression in the elderly increases with other illnesses and when ability to function becomes limited.

Signs of depression:

  • Feeling nervous, empty, worthless, that you don’t enjoy things you used to, restless, irritable, unloved, that life isn’t worth living,
  • sleeping more or less than usual, or eating more or less than usual

A suicidal person also may:

  • talk about or seem preoccupied with death
  • give away prized possessions
  • take unnecessary risks
  • have had a recent loss or expect one
  • increase their use of alcohol, drugs or other medications
  • fail to take prescribed medicines or follow required diets
  • acquire a weapon.

Suicide is preventable. Learn the signs. Immediate action is needed if a person is threatening or talking about suicide. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline toll-free number, available 24 hours a day, every day: 1-800-273-TALK (8255). All calls are confidential. Call 211 for information on local mental health or counseling services. You can also call the South County Mobile Crisis Center at 561.495.0522, #2.

Sources: www.nimh.nih.gov,  www.healthyplace.com

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Kim Fitzpatrick
Kim Fitzpatrick 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW
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I recently attended the Health Fair that was sponsored by Florida Navigator with my mother in law – a Century Village resident. I would like to express my gratitude for a job well done. I obtained information from several vendors there that i believe will be extremely beneficial in obtaining some needed services. Thank you for organizing this event and making it available to the public.

— Kim Fitzpatrick

Health Fair Attendee

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Mental Health Issues for Older Adults
Mental Health Issues for Older Adults 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Mental Health Issues for Older Adults

The Savvy Senior

By Robert Goodman, MSW

Mental Health Issues for Older Adults

 

  1. Many older adults experience problems with gambling, misuse of prescription drugs, alcohol, anxiety, and depression. The American Psychological Association estimates that around 20% of adults age 55 and above face mental health issues. Yet, less than 3 percent of older adults report seeing a mental health professional for their problems. Anxiety and depression are the most common mental health problems faced older adults. Mental health professionals have found that as a result of coronavirus restrictions the risk for social isolation and loneliness, anxiety and depression increases among seniors. Virtual communication does not replace in-person contact. The use of Facetime and WhatsApp are ways to see others in person.

The Medicare Advantage.com website lists several ideas for coping with these mental health issues:

  1. Use telemedicine as a way to contact your health care
  2. Use computers and smartphones to stay connected.

4.    Make lifestyle improvements such as physical activities, improved nutrition and getting involved with hobbies and other activities to manage physical and mental health.

There are many symptoms associated with anxiety and depression. Some of the most common symptoms are:

  1. Hopelessness
  2. Sleep problems
  3. Social withdrawal
  4. Eating more or less than usual
  5. Loss or interest in once pleasurable activities, including sex
  6. Frequent crying
  7. Difficulty focusing, remembering, or making decisions
  8. Thoughts of death or suicide, or a suicide attempt

If you have several of these symptoms for more than two weeks, you may have depression.

The abuse or misuse of drugs was once considered a problem only among the young. According to the American Geriatric Society, substance abuse has become a growing problem among older adults as well. Misuse of alcohol or other drugs is a common cause of physical and mental health problems among older adults, especially men.

 

Four questions can provide a quick way to determine alcohol abuse:

  1. “Have you ever felt you should slow down on your drinking?”
  2. “Have you ever felt annoyed at criticism about your drinking?”
  3. “Have you ever felt guilty or bad about drinking?”
  4. “Have you ever felt the need for an “eye opener” in the morning to steady your nerves?”

 

A “yes” answer to any two of these questions indicates that a problem is likely? A “yes” answer to even one of question indicates a possible problem that should be further evaluated.

(Source: AGS Foundation for Health in Aging)

According to the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling a growing percentage of Florida seniors are developing serious gambling problems. Symptoms of problem gambling among older adults include:

1.     Preoccupation with gambling

2.     Withdrawing from family, friends or regular activities because of gambling

3.     Neglecting personal needs or health due to gambling

4.     Gambling larger amounts of money to experience the thrill

5.     Betting more than planned

6.     Experiencing unaccounted blocks of time due to gambling

7.     Communicating a sudden need for money or loans

8.     Uncomfortable feelings or lying when questioned about gambling habits

9.     Gambling to calm nerves, forget worries or reduce depression

10.  Experiencing mood swings based upon winnings and losses 

11.  Pawning or selling personal items

12.  Feeling restless or having anxiety when trying to cut down or stop gambling

13.  Using retirement funds or other savings to gamble

14.  Attempting to stop gambling but unable to do so

Answering “yes” to one of more of these questions may indicate a gambling problem. For information or help contact the 24 hour FCCG helpline at 1-888-236-4848.

There is no shame asking for help if you have one of these problems. Help is available through psychotherapy, consumer education, inpatient or outpatient management of symptoms, medication.

Call 211 for information on local programs to assist you in dealing with depression, anxiety, problem drinking, or problems related to gambling.

Many older adults experience problems with gambling, misuse of prescription drugs, alcohol, anxiety, and depression. The American Psychological Association estimates that around 20% of adults age 55 and above face mental health issues. Yet, less than 3 percent of older adults report seeing a mental health professional for their problems.  Anxiety and depression are the most common mental health problems faced older adults. Mental health professionals have found that as a result of coronavirus restrictions the risk for social isolation and loneliness, anxiety and depression increases among seniors. Virtual communication does not replace in-person contact. The use of Facetime and WhatsApp are ways to see others in person.

The Medicare Advantage.com website lists several ideas for coping with these mental health issues:

  1. Use telemedicine as a way to contact your health care
  2. Use computers and smartphones to stay connected.

3.     Make lifestyle improvements such as physical activities, improved nutrition and getting involved with hobbies and other activities to manage physical and mental health.

There are many symptoms associated with anxiety and depression. Some of the most common symptoms are:

  1. Hopelessness
  2. Sleep problems
  3. Social withdrawal
  4. Eating more or less than usual
  5. Loss or interest in once pleasurable activities, including sex
  6. Frequent crying
  7. Difficulty focusing, remembering, or making decisions
  8. Thoughts of death or suicide, or a suicide attempt

If you have several of these symptoms for more than two weeks, you may have depression.

The abuse or misuse of drugs was once considered a problem only among the young. According to the American Geriatric Society, substance abuse has become a growing problem among older adults as well. Misuse of alcohol or other drugs is a common cause of physical and mental health problems among older adults, especially men.

 

Four questions can provide a quick way to determine alcohol abuse:

  1. “Have you ever felt you should slow down on your drinking?”
  2. “Have you ever felt annoyed at criticism about your drinking?”
  3. “Have you ever felt guilty or bad about drinking?”
  4. “Have you ever felt the need for an “eye opener” in the morning to steady your nerves?”

 

A “yes” answer to any two of these questions indicates that a problem is likely? A “yes” answer to even one of question indicates a possible problem that should be further evaluated.

(Source: AGS Foundation for Health in Aging)

According to the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling a growing percentage of Florida seniors are developing serious gambling problems. Symptoms of problem gambling among older adults include:

15.  Preoccupation with gambling

16.  Withdrawing from family, friends or regular activities because of gambling

17.  Neglecting personal needs or health due to gambling

18.  Gambling larger amounts of money to experience the thrill

19.  Betting more than planned

20.  Experiencing unaccounted blocks of time due to gambling

21.  Communicating a sudden need for money or loans

22.  Uncomfortable feelings or lying when questioned about gambling habits

23.  Gambling to calm nerves, forget worries or reduce depression

24.  Experiencing mood swings based upon winnings and losses 

25.  Pawning or selling personal items

26.  Feeling restless or having anxiety when trying to cut down or stop gambling

27.  Using retirement funds or other savings to gamble

28.  Attempting to stop gambling but unable to do so

Answering “yes” to one of more of these questions may indicate a gambling problem. For information or help contact the 24 hour FCCG helpline at 1-888-236-4848.

There is no shame in asking for help if you have one of the above problems. Help is available through psychotherapy, support groups, consumer education, inpatient or outpatient care for management of symptoms and medication.

Call 211 for information on local programs to assist you in dealing with depression, anxiety, problem drinking, or problems related to gambling.

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Lessons Learned from COVID 19
Lessons Learned from COVID 19 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Lessons Learned from COVID 19
The Savvy Senior
By Robert Goodman, MSW

In 1620 the Pilgrims were exploring a new world. In 2020 the coronavirus is creating a new world for us to navigate. We have had to adapt to a lot of adjustments in our changed environment.

We have faced many challenges during this pandemic. Loneliness and isolation caused by the COVID19 virus has brought to the surface underlying depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. People have had to deal with fear of the unknown.

I was trying to think of some positive things that have come out of our experience during this COVID 19 pandemic. The creativity of children who could not leave their homes for months was incredible. The way our residents have adapted is also amazing. But it has not been easy for everyone.

Helping each other through this crisis became a goal of neighbors who shopped for someone who could not get out. More people attended classes online than before. They were uplifted by the many interesting lectures via Zoom.

We have learned new ways to interact with each other. Communication became communal since you could not speak one on one. Residents spoke to each other from their catwalk. We have participated in holidays, birthdays, bar mitzvahs, weddings, and funerals via Zoom.

People who were homebound or lived alone faced a number of challenges. Interacting meaningfully with family and friends was a big concern. We all had to learn about new ways to communicate using newer technologies, whether through email, texting, Zoom, WhatsApp or facetime. We learned to have meetings and therapy sessions via Zoom. The telephone never had so much use.

We have learned new ways of coping with life’s challenges. We have begun to exercise more, including taking long walks in the neighborhood. Virtual communication and working from home have become a natural phenomenon. Hopefully we have also learned to listen to health experts instead of politicians.

To survive these troubling times emotionally and physically experts advise people to stop dwelling on the news, try to get more sunshine, exercise regularly, eat healthy, sleep regular hours and maintain social contacts.

Let’s hope we can take the positive lessons learnt from coping during the pandemic as we move forward with our lives.

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Is Your Agency Vision Friendly
Is Your Agency Vision Friendly 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Is Your Agency Vision Friendly
Senior Savvy
By Robert Goodman, MSW

This may sound like a strange question to ask agencies that serve people with visual disabilities, but my experiences indicate that even agencies serving the blind and visually impaired need to learn how the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 affect their services.

In July we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act requires that any printed materials shared with clients of government agencies or social service agencies must be available in alternate format such as braille, large print, or audio. The Rehabilitation Act has the same requirement if you receive federal funds.

This also applies to websites and other means of communicating with clients. For example, the use of PDFs.

Assistive technology software cannot read or extract the words in a scanned, or graphical representation, of a text. Furthermore, users cannot select or edit the text or manipulate the PDF for accessibility. Scanned images of text must be converted into to searchable text using optical character recognition (OCR) before addressing accessibility in the document.

Many client contacts today are done via zoom. It is difficult for many of us to learn long passwords to get into a zoom meeting. The best method is to establish a waiting room and have the client wait to be invited into the meeting. If you need to use a password, make it short and simple.

If agencies for the blind and visually impaired don’t comply with the law how can we expect the business world to comply?

Many people with visual impairments are not aware of their rights under the ADA or Rehab Act. We need to educate our clients about this aspect of the law. Most people with visual impairments, particularly the elderly, are not aware of their rights to request written materials in alternate formats. We must educate the visually impaired community about their rights.

To be considered a vision friendly agency you must:

Provide documents and publications in large print, braille, or audio. Large print is considered to be 18 point with a non-seraph typeface such as Arial. An agency or organization may have a large print version available, which would meet the ADA expectations, but that doesn’t mean that the consumer will be able to see it, depending on the degree of vision loss. It can be appropriate to use different typefaces for some applications, like an Excel spreadsheet, posters or displays. Very thin, light, or bizarre typefaces make legibility difficult for people with vision impairment.
Be willing to assist consumers in filling out applications or other forms
Be willing to read any documents to persons with visual impairments.
Have an accessible website
Have these policies in writing.

Celebrate the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act by being vision friendly.

     For help with ADA compliance or for staff training please contact Robert Goodman, MSW at rgoodlobby@aol.com or 954-806-7321. Visit my website at www.flnavigator.com.

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Neighborhood Watch
Neighborhood Watch 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

The Savvy Senior
Neighbor Watch
By Robert Goodman, MSW

Recently another Century Village resident was found deceased in her apartment. She apparently passed away several weeds earlier. I have been told that this is not an uncommon occurrence in our community.
We are our neighbor’s keeper. We need to create a buddy system in all our buildings. If you don’t see someone for a few days or can’t contact him/her, knowing the person should be home, you need to call Security or ask 911 to check on the person. Building and Association Floor Captains should know the neighbors on their floor, who is ill, who may need help, and be aware of potential problems. Residents of our community have a responsibility to be sure that their Director has a current working key or code and an emergency contact number.
If you suspect a neighbor is having difficulty taking care of him/herself you may want to voice your concern to a friend or member of their family. If no one is taking responsibility and that person is in need of help you can call a local social service agency or notify the state abuse hotline (1.800.96.ABUSE). This can be done anonymously.
Here are some indicators that there may be a need for intervention:
A person not answering the door or phone when he/she is obviously home.
Newspapers or mail piling up.
Unanswered delivery notices.
A foul odor coming from the apartment.
There are services available to help monitor the daily activities of seniors who may have health issues, who live alone, or may be homebound.
Sunshine Daily Telephone Reassurance is a free telephone reassurance program operated by 211 Palm Beach County to check on the well-being of seniors, the homebound or disabled.
Sunshine service is provided seven days a week between the 7:30AM-5:00PM. To register for this service just dial 2-1-1 and say that you would like to start receiving Sunshine calls.
We Care has a telephone reassurance and friendly visitor program for those who are homebound. To volunteer or to refer someone call 487.2827.

Another option is to get a personal emergency response service (PERS) or Medical Alert. There are several types of medical alert systems.

1.Self dialing, non-monitored systems
2. Basic home systems, with or without 2-way voice
3. Cell systems for homes with no telephone line
4. Mobile systems

Many of these services provide devices in the home that connect older adults to a 24-hour call center with the push of a button. The transmitter is typically worn on a neck pendant or wristband, and it sends a signal to a receiver that’s connected to the home telephone line. When the button is pushed, the staff at the call center evaluates the situation, deciding whether to call an ambulance or a designated friend or family member. With most PERS setups, your loved one can talk with the call center staff from anywhere in the house. 1
There are many of these services available. If you’re looking for a personal emergency response system, AARP and other professionals suggest keeping this checklist in mind:

1. Look at several systems before making a decision.

2. Compare costs. Charges for equipment and services typically include a setup fee ranging from $50 to $200 and a monthly fee ranging from $30 to $60. Most companies lease their equipment; a few require purchase. Private insurance or Medicare generally does not cover the devices.

3. Read through the contract carefully and understand the cancellation process.

4. Make sure the provider offers 24/7 customer care (preferably a call center) and technical support. (Ed. Note: Ask if they make daily contact with the customer.)

5. Ask how often and by what procedures they test their system.

Ask if a 30-day free or money back trial period is available2.

It is helpful if the company has local support personnel. Otherwise equipment must be shipped back, if there is a problem.

Ask if any special discount offers are available.

Make sure the company has been in business for a number of years.Ask if the system includes a key holder and lock box. Fire/Rescue explains that these are essential parts of such services.

1source: www.caring.com
2source: www.aarp.org

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Patricia F Waldron
Patricia F Waldron 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW
"

Known ROBERT for Years. Skilled at what he undertakes.

— Patricia F Waldron

Active Healthcare Solutions

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Student Services
Student Services 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW
Financial Aid & Scholarships For Students With Disabilities
Support For Students With Dyslexia
Careers For Students With Disabilities
Support For Students With Down Syndrome
Studying With ADHD
Going to College with Asperger’s & Autism
ADA Guide to Disability Rights
Academic Guidebook for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Students
Special Education Programs, Leadership & Financial Support Resources
Modifying Your Home for Disabled Individuals
Disability Resources for College Students
Graduate School Resources for Students with Disabilities
Students with Disabilities, Financial Aid Options
Vocational and Trade School Guide for Students with Disabilities
 
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What Can Your Elected Officials do for You?
What Can Your Elected Officials do for You? 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

What Can Your Elected Officials do for You?
By Robert Goodman, MSW
Each month I write about different services that are available to seniors. If you are having trouble getting those services from local, state, or federal government then there is a place you can turn to that a lot of people don’t think of: YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS. Constituent casework is a major function of their offices. Their staff can refer you to appropriate agencies for help and cut through red tape when dealing with federal, state, or county agencies. They can help expedite your receipt of services, and enable you to receive services you may need. They CANNOT give legal advice. It should be noted that speaking to a legislative aide is like speaking directly to your elected official. They run the office, have the ear of their bosses, and know how to get you the help you need.
When requesting help you should provide a detailed description of the problem and describe any actions already taken to address the issue. When visiting the office or mailing information, include copies of all documentation that support your claim or may be helpful, such as letters to and from agencies as well as any forms. Your U.S. Senators require that you fill out a consent form (available on their websites) giving them permission to assist you and to share their information with other agencies.
First, we need to understand who you go to for different issues. Caseworkers in Senate and Congressional offices specialize in various areas of concern to constituents. They can best help intervene with federal agencies. They have helped retirees resolve disputes with the Social Security Administration, assisted veterans in receiving long overdue military commendations, and filed complaints on behalf of Medicare beneficiaries related to fraud and other abuses. They also address problems with Veteran’s Benefits, Immigration, passports and travel visas.
The offices of your State Legislators handle problems with state agencies. The most common issues they handle include insurance Issues, Food Stamps, Unemployment Benefits, Medicaid, problems with condominium associations, and anything else relating to state law or services.
Local government officials oversee services in your area such as street light problems, zoning, roads, libraries, and community development.
It is important to let your elected officials know how their actions affect your life. Document how local, state, and federal programs have helped you and how cuts in services may hurt you. The State Legislature is in session until April 29th. Congress is in session year round. On the state level, you can track bills and watch video broadcasts during this current Legislation by going to www.flsenate.gov or www.myfloridahouse.gov.
The staff of each Congressional or Legislative office tried to match up a person’s story or issues to the agencies that address their issues. They don’t have all the answers, but know where to find them.
Take an active role in determining government policies. Call, write or email your Senator or Representative to voice your opinion on important matters that come before them. If there is an issue that you are for or against call your elected officials and voice your opinion. They keep track of who calls. Let the Senator and Representative know how their constituents feel about a particular issue. This helps them determine how to vote on an issue.

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Will Your Vanity Be Your Downfall?
Will Your Vanity Be Your Downfall? 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Will Your Vanity Be Your Downfall?
By Robert A. Goodman, MSW
Wikipedia defines vanity as “the excessive pride in or admiration of one’s appearance”. Is vanity preventing you from ignoring your safety?
Falls are the leading cause of injury and accidental death among older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control millions of older adults fall annually. Each year, 2.5 million seniors are treated in emergency rooms for fall injuries. One out of five falls causes a serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury. This can lead to permanent disability.
Falls can be prevented by taking proper precautions in the home and when traveling. The chances of falling increases with a physical or visual disability.
Which is more important to you: your vanity or safety? As a geriatric social worker I am constantly meeting people who refuse to use a mobility device because “it won’t look nice” or “what will people think of me” or “I will look old”. These are the same people who tell me about falling off curbs, getting lost, running into objects, tripping, falling and breaking bones. There is a lot of stigma associated with the use of a hearing aid, cane, long white cane (for people with visual disabilities), walker or wheelchair. We are so afraid of what others think that we ignore things that will make our lives safer.
People with visual disabilities are in greater danger of falling due to loss of depth perception or loss of peripheral or central vision. These changes can cause an inability to see changes in surfaces (curbs, steps, etc) or obstacles in their path.
If you feel embarrassed to use a long white cane consider how you feel when you see others using a long white cane. You probably barely notice them or if you do, you may want to help. People with partial sight who use a white cane are safer walking in their community than if they did not use one. The American Foundation for the Blind reports that the majority of people with vision problems (including those who use a white cane) have some remaining useful vision.
Benefits of using a white cane

  • Safely navigate your environment. The use of the white cane helps you detect changes in surfaces, curbs, obstacles (grass, cars, litter, etc).
  • Feel less afraid and more confident when moving around your community
  • Others (pedestrians, bus drivers, store clerks) will be quicker to assist when they see someone using a white cane
  • The cane is a reminder to friends and family that you have a visual disability and may not see them approaching

An orientation and mobility specialist can instruct a person with a visual impairment on the proper use of the white cane.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins recently found that people with mild hearing loss were nearly three times more likely to have a history of falling. The study found that people who can’t hear well might not have sufficient awareness of their overall environment, making tripping and falling more likely. (www.hopkinsmedicine.org).
The wearing of hearing aids increases one’s quality of life. In spite of this fact, many people who are in need of hearing aids refuse to wear them for purely aesthetic reasons.

The benefits of hearing aids

  • You will be able to hear sounds that you have not heard previously.
  • You will be able to hear speech over the telephone more clearly.
  • You will be able to communicate more easily with family and friends.
  • Your ability to communicate may improve in noisy listening situations (e.g. a restaurant or in a large group of people). www.fda.gov/medicaldevices

People with balance, gait, or coordination problems who are not using a mobility device are at greater risk for falls. The thought of using a walking cane or walker by many older adults is an inconceivable idea. They associate the use of a cane or walker with someone who is old or frail. When used properly a cane or walker can improve one’s balance, ability to participate in activities and overall independence. Their proper use can prevent falls and injuries. The improper use of a mobility device can result in an injury. Mobility device users need to undergo training by a physical therapist on the correct use of their mobility device. (A good article on this topic can be found at www.aafp.org/afp/2011/0815/p405.html.)
So put aside your vanity and get a mobility device that will increase your independence, keep you safer, and less likely to fall.

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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