Social Services

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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.

  • Robert Goodman, MSW
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Aging is Not for the Faint Hearted
Aging is Not for the Faint Hearted 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Aging is Not for the Faint Hearted

The Savvy Senior

By Robert Goodman, MSW

 

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.

Volunteering your time to help others is another way of staying active. There are many volunteer opportunities in your community.

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 larger communities offer public transportation and special transportation services (paratransit) for people with disabilities who cannot use regular 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 where 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 services are available in the community to help older adults cope with loss and grief and other changes. These agencies 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 are experiencing a loss. Depression can be treated.

There are many services in the community to help us age gracefully. Call 211 or the Elder Helpline at 800-677-1116. 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 on coping with changes as we age are www.familycaregiversonline.net and www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/magazine/issues/winter07/articles/winter07pg10-13.html

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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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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.

  • Robert Goodman, MSW
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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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Advocacy
Advocacy 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Advocacy

The Savvy Senior

By Robert Goodman, MSW

         

          The word advocacy has been in the news a lot lately. You have the #MeToo movement, the Parkland students fighting for tighter gun controls and people fighting for legislation that impacts their lives.
Some people find that advocacy helps when they feel they are not being heard, or are not getting what they need.  They would like some support. Anyone may need advocacy at some time in his or her life, but it becomes especially relevant where:

  • People are being treated unfairly as a result of other people’s prejudices, or their own vulnerability, or both.
  • People feel they have no family, friends or anyone in the wider community to whom they can turn for support.
  • People may have professional paid workers involved in their lives who are not providing services which take into account their needs…

Think back to one experience where you either had witnessed or participated in where a social justice issue was effectively addressed by working on influencing public policy. How effective were your efforts?

There are two types of advocacy, self-advocacy and cause advocacy. Self-advocacy is speaking for, representing the interests of, or defending the rights of oneself. Cause or Public advocacy is speaking for, representing the interests of, or defending the rights of a particular group of people, or the general public. This includes legislative advocacy or advocating for a change in a policy or program.

Being a good advocate also includes letting your elected officials know of 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. When the Florida legislature meets, they 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 your life.

As we enter the campaign season, here is a great opportunity to get involved and influence policies that will affect your future. Issues like Social Security, health care and Medicare are important federal issues that the U.S. Senate candidates will be addressing. State issues include Medicaid, health care, senior services and condominium legislation.

Here are a few pointers to help you be an effective self-advocate and better navigate the health care and social service systems.

You must be able to make your needs known and stand up for your rights as a patient in the hospital, a doctor’s office, or trying to procure services,

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 and what effect they will have, how they interact with your other 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 describe your situation at home. Are you living alone? Is there anyone at home who is capable of assisting 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.

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 isn’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.

 

 

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Home Health Care and Medicare (updated 2018)
Home Health Care and Medicare (updated 2018) 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

by Robert Goodman, MSW

Medicare covers home health care services for someone meeting these conditions:

  1. Your doctor must decide that you need medical care at home, and make a plan for your care at home.
  2. You must need intermittent skilled nursing care, physical therapy, speech-language therapy, or to continue occupational therapy. 
  3. The home health agency caring for you must be approved by the Medicare
  4. You must be homebound, or normally unable to leave home without help.

If you meet all four of the conditions above, Medicare will cover the following types of home health care:

  • Skilled nursing care
  • Home health aide services
  • Physical therapy, speech-language therapy, and occupational therapy
  • Medical social services
  • Certain medical supplies
  • Durable medical equipment
  • Medicare does not cover homemaker services like shopping, cleaning, and laundry; and
  • Personal care given by home health aides like bathing, dressing, and using the bathroom when this is the only care you need.

There are several types of home care providers. Only Medicare approved home health care agencies are covered by Medicare. Private pay services include nurse registries and companion services. There are some private pay home health agencies that provide the services listed above.
Companion/Homemaker: Services include companionship, errands, escorts, meal preparation, and homemaking.
Home Health Agency: Recruits, screens, and hires their staff as employees. Services include home health care, skilled nursing, physical/occupational/speech therapy, companions, homemakers. May provide 24-hour live-in aides.
Nurse Registry: Recruits, screens, and refers aides, who are independent contractors, to clients. Services include nurses, respite care, home health aides, companions, homemakers, and 24-hour live-in aides.
There are many different types of personnel who may be handling your care. Besides therapists and social workers, there are different types of home care workers who may come into your home.
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. Most HHA’s have a high school diploma, although it is not required. 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.  
Registered Nurse (RN) works 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.
For more information log onto www.medicare.com/hhcompare

###

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

Locating & Accessing Community Resources & Services

The Savvy Senior

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 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?
 
The first step in looking for services is to organize your or your loved one’s records. These include:
1. Personal Records
2. Legal Documents
3. Medical Records
4. Health Insurance information
5. Financial records
Step two is to add all your sources of income to determine your monthly income.
Next, add the total value of all your assets.
Step three: Determine what kind of help the person needs:  EDS
Make a list of the things the person can or cannot do and who is available to help, with what, and how often.
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
__ 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. Internet (do a “Google” or other search engine search)
2. Library
3. White/Yellow Pages
4. Information & Referral/Crisis Helplines (ie, 2-1-1)
5. City/county/state/federal government
6. Area Agencies on Aging
7. Hospital social work/case management departments
8. Community health fairs/expos
9. Religious institutions
10. 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? Who notified you directly about the denial?
 Most programs and insurance plans have a formal grievance procedure. Get the procedure in writing and follow through.
 
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.

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

Aging in Place
By Robert Goodman, MSW
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 handles general estate planning issues and counsels clients about planning for their 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 Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys at www.afela.org or 850-656-3038.
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 the Center for Independent Living Options for a referral at 561-966-4288.
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.floridahealthfinder.gov is a great website aid in locating all kinds of health care facilities.

  • Robert Goodman, MSW
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A Neighbor Needs Help
A Neighbor Needs Help 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

A Neighbor Needs Help
By Robert A. Goodman, MSW
Perhaps you know of someone who can no longer take care of him/herself and has no one to help. Or perhaps you know of someone who is getting inadequate help. The question you need to ask is, does this person pose a danger to him/herself (or others)?
We all want to live independently for as long as we can. The idea of going into a nursing home is a horrible thought. Even assisted living is not considered a viable option by many. Families don’t want to institutionalize their loved ones. An aide 24/7 may not always be the best answer. So what do we do?
First, we are our neighbor’s keeper. 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 the family. If no one is taking responsibility and that person is in need of help you can call a local social service agency or call the state abuse hotline (1.800.96.ABUSE). You can call anonymously.
Here are some indicators that there may be a need for intervention:
1. APARTMENT:

  • Garbage piling up in the apartment.
  • Hazardous living conditions due to lack of repairs, utilities and/or equipment
  • Human excrement on floors and furniture
  • Evidence of obvious fire hazards, such as piles of boxes, newspapers, old clothes, blocked exits

2. FOOD AND CLOTHING:

  • Little or no food in the house
  • Food is spoiled or lying around
  • Insufficient/inappropriate clothing for the weather

When calling the Florida Abuse Hotline to report personal neglect (or abuse or exploitation), be prepared to provide the following information:

  1. Person’s name, address or location, approximate age, race and sex;
  2. Physical, mental or behavioral indications that the person is infirm or disabled;
  3. Signs or indication of harm or injury or potential harm or injury (physical description or behavioral changes);
  4. Relationship of the person responsible for the senior’s care, if known. If the relationship is unknown, a report will still be taken if other reporting criteria are met.

The Department of Children and Families will conduct an investigation of all reports received that alleges self-neglect by a vulnerable adult. The purpose of the investigation is to determine if there is evidence that a person is a danger to him/herself, and if assistance is necessary to protect the individual’s health and safety.
A protective investigator from the department will make face-to-face contact with the vulnerable adult within 24 hours of receiving an abuse, neglect or exploitation report. The protective investigator will interview all persons who may have knowledge of the victim’s situation, evaluate the information obtained, and make a decision as to whether the reported allegations did or did not occur. The investigator then refers the case to an agency for follow up so the victim can get the services s/he needs to be safe. This may include placement in a more suitable living environment.
Remember to report abuse, neglect, self-neglect, or exploitation call the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1.800.96.ABUSE. Help your neighbors who cannot help themselves.

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