Miscellaneous Articles

  • Robert Goodman, MSW
  • No Comments

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

  • Robert Goodman, MSW
  • No Comments

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.

  • Robert Goodman, MSW
  • No Comments

Driving Alternatives
Driving Alternatives 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

The Savvy Senior

Driving Alternatives

By Robert Goodman, MSW

 

In light of some recent accidents in Century Village, including one that severely injured a resident, I think people need to look seriously at their ability to continue driving. I know it is a hard to decision to make to give up driving but your safety and the safety of others is of paramount importance. One of the hardest things in life to do is to give up driving. Giving up driving affects one’s independence and self-esteem. If vision, hearing and reflexes are impaired you need to look at driving alternatives.

As our population ages, so does the number of older drivers. Some drivers outlive the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Cognitive and sensory losses are gradual and often the driver is unaware of the changes.

According to the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles, the leading cause of injury-related deaths in 65-74 year olds are crash injuries. The second leading cause of injury related deaths (after falls) in 75-85 year olds are crash injuries. We read countless numbers of stories in the newspaper and on television about older drivers who confuse the gas and brake pedals and crash into buildings or other people.

In 2011 17.6% of the population was 65+. 19% of drivers were over age 65. 13.9% of older drivers were involved in crashes, 19.4% were fatal crashes and 16.2% involved injuries. (Source: http://www.safeandmobileseniors.org/FloridaCoalition.htm).

Poor vision, hearing, memory, and reaction time negatively affect one’s ability to drive. The most radical increase of at-risk crashes comes with medical conditions which impact cognitive skills. Co-piloting does not help.

When driving affects one’s own safety and the safety of others, it is time to stop driving. Indicators that it might be time to stop driving include confusing the brake and gas pedals, getting lost, near misses or multiple accidents, stopping in traffic for no reason, confusion at exits, parking inappropriately, hitting curbs, driving at inappropriate speeds, delayed responses to unexpected situations, not anticipating dangerous situations, or forgetting how to start the car or where things are on the car dashboard. Having a spouse or friend guide you as you drive is not an alternative.

The Pepper Institute on Aging and Public Policy publishes a booklet “Florida Guide for Aging Drivers”. This book has information that can help older drivers evaluate their driving skills. Questions include assessing how other drivers react to your driving and how well you function behind the wheel. To receive a copy  Email them at: safe-mobility-for-life@fsu.edu. Another resource is the Safe Mobility for Life Coalition at http://www.safeandmobileseniors.org.

One of the main fears of someone faced with giving up driving is loss of independence. Prepare now for the time when it may be necessary to give up driving. List your regular transportation needs and the modes of transportation available in our community. Compare your transportation needs with your transportation alternatives and the cost of driving and maintaining your car with the cost of alternative transportation.

How well do you fit into your car? How safe is your car? CarFit is a program that looks at the safety and comfort of one’s car. Each February Congregation Torah Ohr sponsors this program. CarFit checks safety features like seating, mirrors, lights, and other aspectso f your vehicle.

There are programs in our community that can help one evaluate his/her ability to drive safely. Florida Atlantic University Memory Wellness Center has a driver safety evaluation program. For information call 561.297-0502. Pinecrest Rehabilitation Hospital has a similar program. For information call 561.495-3634. AARP sponsors a driver safety program. For locations in this area call 888-2277669 or log onto www.aarp.org/drive. Florida offers a non-drivers ID card to place the driver’s license as a photo ID. This is available at local Driver’s License bureaus.

Living in Century Village gives us many alternatives to driving. We have just acquired new wheelchair (and walker) accessible buses that take residents to local shopping centers, supermarkets, as well as the library. Schedules are available at the Clubhouse information desk.

The County’s Palm Tran bus #91 travels eastbound to Town Center Mall, Boca Community Hospital, Mizner Park, and other destinations every half hour. The westbound bus travels to Publix, West Boca Hospital, Western Beef, and Sandalfoot Square every hour. The #91 bus connects with other routes that go to the VA hospital and other destinations in Palm Beach County. For bus route information contact Palm Tran at 877.930-4287. The #91 bus schedule is available in the clubhouse.

Palm Tran Connection is a door-to-door service that transports people who cannot use public transportation to any location in Palm Beach County between Jupiter and Boca Raton. For an application contact Palm Tran Connection at 877.870-9849.

Jewish Family Services provides a transportation program $50/year. They provide six round trip rides a month in the Boca Delray area. The client must be mobile and able to get in and out of the car. For information call 561-852-3333.

The Volen Center provides transportation in the Boca Delray area. For information on services and cost call 561-395-8920 ext 228 & 229. They also provide transportation to the Volen Center which offers a variety of services for seniors.

When driving safety becomes an issue, make a confidential report to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Florida law requires any physician, person or agency who knows of any licensed driver’s or applicant’s mental or physical disability that prevents him/her from driving safely should report this to the Florida Division of Driver’s Licenses at 850.617-3814 or fill out Form #72190 which can be found at www.flhsmv.gov/forms/72190.html. The report should be made in writing giving the full name, date of birth, address and a description of the alleged physical or mental disability of any person over 15 years of age that could affect the driving ability.  No civil action can be brought against any person who provides this information.

As a service to Century Village residents who give up driving, I am willing to familiarize them with local bus services. For information contact Robert Goodman at We Care at 487-2827.

  • Robert Goodman, MSW
  • No Comments

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.

  • Robert Goodman, MSW
  • No Comments

Are You a Good Self Advocate?
Are You a Good Self Advocate? 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Are You a Good Self Advocate?
The Savvy Senior
By Robert Goodman, MSW
When you are a patient in the hospital or in a doctor’s office, or trying to get services, you must be able to make your needs known and stand up for your rights. Here are a few pointers to help you better navigate the health care and social service systems.
Before you go to the doctor’s office or call an agency, have a list of questions to ask and make sure you understand the answers you are given. Keep a list on the refrigerator of your medications and special needs in case of an emergency or pending hospitalization.
When speaking to a doctor you want to be sure you understand your diagnosis and what impact it will have on your life and family. You want to be aware of what medications he/she is prescribing, what they are expected to do, how they interact with medications, vitamins, and supplements, and any of its side effects. Also, ask about any community resources that may relate to your diagnosis. An example would be someone who is diagnosed with macular degeneration may need information on the Lighthouse for the Blind or low vision aids.
If you end up in the emergency room you should be able to clearly describes your situation at home or emergency room. Are you living alone? Is there anyone at home who can help care for you when you are discharged from the hospital? What medical equipment do you have at home, such as grab bars, a hospital bed, a walker, or a shower chair?
When calling an agency be prepared with a list of questions. You should include information on what you or the person you are calling for needs and who, if anyone is available to meet those needs.
Being a good advocate also include letting your elected officials know your concerns. Write and visit with your elected officials. Greet them when they come to Century Village. If you have an issue of concern prepare a statement describing the issue, how it impacts on your life, and what you would like your elected official to do about it. The Florida Legislature meets in March and April and will be considering many laws that impact your life as a condo owner, renter, or senior. Your elected officials need to know how what they do in Tallahassee or Washington impacts you.
Here are ten steps to help you become an effective self-advocate:
1. Believe in yourself
2. Realize you have rights
3. Discuss your concerns with your service provider
4. Get the facts in writing
5. Use the chain of command to solve a problem-ask to speak to a supervisor if an issue wasn’t resolved to your satisfaction
6. Know your appeal rights if services are denied
7. Be assertive and persistent, not aggressive
8. Outline your concerns and be a good listener
9. Ask for help from other agencies
10. Follow-up. Be sure you’re getting the service that meets your
needs…and say thank you

  • Robert Goodman, MSW
  • No Comments

Watch Where You Are Driving
Watch Where You Are Driving 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Watch Where You Are Driving
The Savvy Senior
By Robert Goodman, MSW
As our population ages, so does the number of older drivers. Some drivers outlive the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Cognitive and sensory losses are gradual and often the driver is unaware of the changes.
At the same time, the number of pedestrians with visual disabilities is also increasing. Some use no walking aid and others use a red tipped long white cane. Recently, I was almost hit by a car whose driver either was not paying attention or could not see well enough to see my two white canes.
At some point in one’s driving life, he or she must reevaluate the ability to safely drive. I have written several columns on driving alternatives and evaluating one’s ability to keep operating a vehicle.
One of the hardest things in life to do is to give up driving. Giving up driving affects one’s independence and self-esteem.
According to the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles, the leading cause of injury-related deaths in 65-74 year olds is crash injuries. The second leading cause of injury related deaths (after falls) in 75-85 year olds is also crash injuries. When driving affects one’s own safety and the safety of others, it is time to stop driving. Indicators that it might be time to stop driving include needing help in seeing where you are going, not seeing pedestrians clearly, multiple accidents or having delayed responses to unexpected situations.
Florida law gives pedestrians the right of way. But more specifically Florida’s White Cane Law requires one to stop when a visually impaired person is crossing the street using a red tipped white cane. The law states: “Whenever a pedestrian is crossing, or attempting to cross, a public street or highway, guided by a dog guide or carrying in a raised or extended position a cane or walking stick which is white in color or white tipped with red, the driver of every vehicle approaching the intersection or place where the pedestrian is attempting to cross shall bring his or her vehicle to a full stop before arriving at such intersection or place of crossing and, before proceeding, shall take such precautions as may be necessary to avoid injuring such pedestrian. A person who is convicted of a violation of this subsection is guilty of a moving violation punishable as provided in chapter 318.”
Another way in which you can improve safety is to check how well you fit into your car? Can you see your blind spot? CarFit is a national program that looks at the safety and comfort of one’s car. Log onto https://car-fit.org/ to find a CarFit program near you.
There are services in our community that can help one evaluate his/her ability to drive safely. Florida Atlantic University Memory Wellness Center has a driver safety evaluation program. For information call 561.297-0502. AARP sponsors a driver safety program. For locations in the Palm Beach county area call 888-2277669 or log onto www.aarp.org/drive. Florida offers a non-drivers ID card to place the driver’s license as a photo ID. This is available at local Driver’s License bureaus.

  • Robert Goodman, MSW
  • No Comments

Cell Phone Etiquette
Cell Phone Etiquette 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Cell Phone Etiquette

By Robert Goodman

 

Each day I ride the buses I hear cell phones going off and people having loud conversations about private health and personal matters, arguments over personal things, or what they are cooking for dinner. I remember on several occasions sitting in restaurants and the person next to me taking a call. First of all some of the ring tones are really annoying. But this patron was talking so loud that the manager had to ask her to step outside and not disturb his customers. I have heard some of the most intimate conversation that I have no interest in knowing about.

 

These are topics unwilling eavesdroppers can do without. Sometimes we need to take calls to confirm appointments or to discuss an urgent situation. There are some rules of etiquette that many cell phone users may not be aware of so I thought I would share a few.

 

  1. Private conversations should be private.
  2. Speak quietly when taking calls in public.
  3. Keep calls brief when they are necessary to take in a public place. Let the other party know that you are in a public place and will call them back.
  4. Identify yourself when texting
  5. Always turn off your cell phone or put it on vibrate when on line in the supermarket, on buses, in restaurants, in offices, etc. Store clerks find it annoying and difficult to help a customer or ring up an order while the person is holding their cell phone and having a conversation on it.
  6. Don’t light up your phone’s screen in a dark theatre.
  7. Don’t talk and hold your cell phone while driving.
  8. You should stay about 10 feet away others when talking on your cell.
  9. In the company of others excuse yourself when taking a call.

 

I hope these tips will make your cell phone use less intrusive to others.

  • Robert Goodman, MSW
  • No Comments

Aging is Not for Sissies
Aging is Not for Sissies 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Aging is Not for Sissies
By Robert Goodman, MSW
Geriatric Social Worker
You’ve heard the expression “aging is not for sissies”. It’s true. It takes a lot of energy to successfully age. Everyone ages differently. Our bodies go through many modifications as we age. These include changes in memory, bone health, hearing, vision, taste, and smell. Our skin also can be affected by too much sun. It is important to stay out of the sun as much as possible and keep covered.
Changes in memory are a normal part of aging. As we get older, we may become more forgetful and feat that we are getting Alzheimer’s Disease or other types of dementia. However, scientists now know that people can remain both alert and able as they age, although it may take them longer to remember things. Engaging in new activities or doing crossword puzzles are ways to keep your mind alert and active.
The weight-bearing bones and the movable joints undergo much wear and tear as the body ages. The most common age-related conditions are osteoporosis and arthritis.
The question is how to cope and adjust to these changes. Here are some suggestions.
Regular physical, dental and eye exams are important to catch any problems early. Following doctor’s orders and treatment regimens are crucial to staying healthy.
It is important to stay active. Exercise is important to keep your body in good condition. Exercises can be vigorous or non-strenuous, like chair exercises. Exercise is also important to prevent falls. Falls are the leading cause of injury and death among older adults. Our Century Village gym and exercise program offers many options.
Volunteering your time to help others is another way of staying active. There are many volunteer opportunities both in our community and in the Boca area.
One of the hardest things to adjust to is giving up driving. People feel they are giving up their independence. No one wants to be dependent. However, many communities offer transportation for people with disabilities called Paratransit, such as Palm Tran Connection in Palm Beach. Palm Tran Connection can be used by people who have difficulty using public transportation.
As we age, one of our biggest fears is becoming dependent on others. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if needed. There are many social services available to provide assistance. Family members and friends may be available to help but you need to let them know what your needs are. If you find yourself in a situation that you need assistance, make a list of the types of assistance you need, who might be available to help and ask them when and how often they can help.
Depression can result when we feel we are losing control over the changes in our lives. It is okay to ask for help. Many counseling services are available in the community to help older adults cope with loss and grief and other changes. Many offer individual and group counseling. Support groups can also be of help. Sharing your thoughts with others can be cathartic. There are support groups for people who have lost a spouse. Depression can be treated.
There are many services in the community to help us age gracefully. Call 211 or the Elder Helpline at 866-684-5885. There are some very good websites on this topic. Do a search for coping with age-related changes and you will find many resources on aging. Two excellent websites for coping with changes as we age are www.familycaregiversonline.net and www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/magazine/issues/winter07/articles/winter07pg10-13.html.

  • Robert Goodman, MSW
  • No Comments

Neighbor Watch
Neighbor Watch 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

The Savvy Senior
Neighbor Watch
By Robert Goodman, MSW
 
I recently had the unfortunate experience of finding a neighbor deceased in her apartment. She apparently passed away several days earlier. I was 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 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:

  1. A person not answering the door or phone when he/she is obviously home.
  2. Newspapers or mail piling up.
  3. Unanswered delivery notices.
  4. 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.
 

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

 

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

 
 

  1. Ask if any special discount offers are available.

 

  1. Make sure the company has been in business for a number of years.

 
 

  1. 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
 
 
 
 

  • Robert Goodman, MSW
  • No Comments

Self Advocacy
Self Advocacy 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

The Savvy Senior
By Robert Goodman, MSW
Are You a Good Self Advocate?
 
When you are a patient in the hospital or in a doctor’s office, or trying to get services, you must be able to make your needs known and stand up for your rights. Here are a few pointers to help you better navigate the health care and social service systems.
Before you go to the doctor’s office or call an agency, have a list of questions to ask and make sure you understand the answers you are given. Keep a list on the refrigerator of your medications and special needs in case of an emergency or pending hospitalization.
When speaking to a doctor you want to be sure you understand your diagnosis and what impact it will have on your life and family. You want to be aware of what medications he/she is prescribing, what they are expected to do, how they interact with medications, vitamins, and supplements, and any of its side effects. Also, ask about any community resources that may relate to your diagnosis. An example would be someone who is diagnosed with macular degeneration may need information on the Lighthouse for the Blind or low vision aids.
If you end up in the emergency room you should be able to clearly describes your situation at home or emergency room. Are you living alone? Is there anyone at home who can help care for you when you are discharged from the hospital? What medical equipment do you have at home, such as grab bars, a hospital bed, a walker, or a shower chair?
When calling an agency be prepared with a list of questions. You should include information on what you or the person you are calling for needs and who, if anyone is available to meet those needs.
Being a good advocate also include letting your elected officials know your concerns. Write and visit with your elected officials. Greet them when they come to Century Village. If you have an issue of concern prepare a statement describing the issue, how it impacts on your life, and what you would like your elected official to do about it. The Florida Legislature meets in March and April and will be considering many laws that impact your life as a condo owner, renter, or senior. Your elected officials need to know how what they do in Tallahassee or Washington impacts you.
Here are ten steps to help you become an effective self-advocate:
1. Believe in yourself
2. Realize you have rights
3. Discuss your concerns with your service provider
4. Get the facts in writing
5. Use the chain of command to solve a problem-ask to speak to a supervisor if an issue wasn’t resolved to your satisfaction
6. Know your appeal rights if services are denied
7. Be assertive and persistent, not aggressive
8. Outline your concerns and be a good listener
9. Ask for help from other agencies
10. Follow-up. Be sure you’re getting the service that meets your
needs…and say thank you

Florida Navigator
Americans with Disabilities Act
Robert Goodman, MSW

Location:

4037 Wolverton B
Boca Raton, FL 33434

Phone:

954-806-7321

Navigate
Subscribe


    I Agree to Recieve Subscription

    © 2010 - 2026 - FLNavigator.com - Powered by JMilanoDesigns.com

    Enter your
    text here