The Savvy Senior

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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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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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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.

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How is Your Mental Health
How is Your Mental Health 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

How is Your Mental Health
The Savvy Senior
By Robert Goodman, MSW
Many older adults experience problems with gambling, misuse of prescription drugs, alcohol, anxiety, and depression. It is estimated that around 20% of older adults face mental health issues. Anxiety and depression are the most common mental health problems faced older adults.
There are many symptoms associated with depression. Some of the most common symptoms are:

  • Hopelessness
  • Sleep problems
  • Social withdrawal
  • Eating more or less than usual
  • Loss or interest in once pleasurable activities, including sex
  • Frequent crying
  • Difficulty focusing, remembering, or making decisions
  • 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:

  • “Have you ever felt you should slow down on your drinking?”
  • “Have you ever felt annoyed at criticism about your drinking?”
  • “Have you ever felt guilty or bad about drinking?”
  • “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 problems 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:

  • Preoccupation with gambling
  • Withdrawing from family, friends or regular activities because of gambling
  • Neglecting personal needs or health due to gambling
  • Gambling larger amounts of money to experience the thrill
  • Betting more than planned
  • Experiencing unaccounted blocks of time due to gambling
  • Communicating a sudden need for money or loans
  • Uncomfortable feelings or lying when questioned about gambling habits
  • Gambling to calm nerves, forget worries or reduce depression
  • Experiencing mood swings based upon winnings and losses 
  • Pawning or selling personal items
  • Feeling restless or having anxiety when trying to cut down or stop gambling
  • Using retirement funds or other savings to gamble
  • 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.
Take action today! If you or if you know of someone who may have an alcohol or gambling problem get help. There are several state and Palm Beach County resources for help with these issues. They include:
Gamblers Anonymous 855-222-5542
Alcoholics Anonymous 561-994-5000
Crossroads Club 561-278-8004
Jewish Recovery Center 561-450-5503

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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. 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.
  5. Don’t light up your phone’s screen in a dark theatre.
  6. Don’t talk and hold your cell phone while driving.
  7. You should stay about 10 feet away from others when talking on your cell.
  8. In the company of others excuse yourself when taking a call.

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

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Grandparenting with a Disability
Grandparenting with a Disability 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Grandparenting with a Disability
The Savvy Senior
By Robert Goodman, MSW
Grandparenting, in general, can be fun and also exhausting. Adding a disability into the mix raises a number of issues. Having a disability gives you the opportunity to teach your grandchildren how to interact with people with disabilities.
The question of grandparenting with a disability was raised at our visually impaired support group last year. Many members were concerned that they could no longer care for their grandchildren. Grandparents with disabilities can still enjoy their grandchildren.
Young children are curious and notice changes in your health. They are eager to be helpful. The best approach is to explain your visual, hearing or physical disability in a way they can understand. Explain your abilities and limitations and how the grandchild can be of help. For example, if you have a visual disability you can explain that you cannot see small print but ask if they have any books with big print. Many children’s books are written in larger print. You can explain the proper etiquette in meeting a blind person such as not leaving a room without telling the person with a visual impairment. Teach about color contrast and use it when interacting with them. There are many games that are available in large print such as cards, Scrabble, and more.
Teaching your grandchildren about disability and people with disabilities can make them more compassionate toward others as they grow up. It also teaches them the best way to interact with someone with a disability. Another lesson you teach them is about overcoming obstacles in their lives. You have to have a positive attitude about your disability so that your grandchildren will better understand you and learn not to fear people with disabilities.
Babysitting was raised as a concern for someone who has a visual disability. My experience has taught me to be sure the grandchildren are in a safe place where you can see them or know where they are. Interact with them with games while they are awake. Putting them to bed should not be too difficult if they cooperate. Perhaps an older child can be of assistance. A monitor could help you keep an “eye” on the sleeping child.
There are two websites that offer suggestions on how to interact with grandchildren when you have a disability: www.karmanhealthcare.com/learning-from-grandparents-with-disabilities and
http://grandparents.about.com/od/grandparentingtoday/a/DisabledGPs.htm.
Some of their suggestion include the following:

  • Eat right and get plenty of rest. This will help with your interaction with your grandchildren.
  • If you are in a wheelchair ask someone to place a young baby in your lap so you can hold him or her
  • Tell stories about your life and family history
  • Use technology to communicate with your grandchildren. They can probably help you with your tech concerns. There are computer programs and games that can make it easier to interact with grandchildren.
  • Be a good listener. Discuss with them their concerns about their lives
  • Use assistive devices, such as wheelchairs to travel with your grandchildren.
  • You can do art and crafts projects with your grandchildren. If you can help them visually you can explain how to make things that you may have done in your life.
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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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Pitfalls of Traveling
Pitfalls of Traveling 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Pitfalls of Traveling
The Savvy Senior
By Robert Goodman, MSW
I have written many columns on fall prevention and the consequences of a fall. Now I can speak from experience. I had many falls this past summer and am now using a walker. My worst fall was on a cruise where I broke my ankle.
Falls are a major issue for older adults and can be prevented. While most falls occur at home, some occur when traveling.
Falls can lead to fractures, trauma, and death.
1.  Over 13 million older adults fall every year; 1 of 3 if over 65, and 1 of 2 if over 80 years old.
 2.  2.8 million older adults are treated in the ER for falls. 800,000 are hospitalized.
 3.  40% of nursing home admissions are fall-related. 
4. About 27,000 older adults died from unintentional fall injuries.
There are a number of causes of falls among the elderly. They include:

  • Lack of physical activity and muscle weakness
  • Balance and gait problems
  • Visual impairment
  • Mobility impairment
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Drop in blood pressure when standing up
  • Fear of falling
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Inappropriate footwear
  • Dehydration
  • Talking on cell phones and texting while walking

This is the time of year when people travel and take cruises. You have to be careful when going into a new environment. Look for any obstacles that may make the area unsafe. Be sure areas are free of clutter, aisles are wide if you use a wheelchair or walker. Check for steps, slippery areas, and other hazards. Be sure there is adequate lighting and grab bars. Look for obstacles in on sidewalks or in parking areas. When traveling in places such as Amsterdam or London, be sure to be aware of traffic patterns (driving on the left) and bike paths.
If you use a walker or wheelchair ask for a handicapped accessible
room or cabin. If you have a visual disability ask for information in large print and a well-lit room or cabin. When touring, explain to the tour guide any special needs you may have.
Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Even a small amount can affect your balance and reflexes. Choose safe footwear. Lastly, drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
There are a number of devices that can help prevent falls, but one must remember to use them. They include: canes, walkers, reachers, and emergency medical alerts. There are new types of medical alerts that can be used when traveling.

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Adjustment to Disability
Adjustment to Disability 150 150 Robert Goodman, MSW

Adjustment to Disability – The Savvy Senior
By Robert Goodman, MSW
Older adults age 65 and over are at higher risk for many types of injuries that can have devastating effects. In some cases, leading to loss of independence, disability, or death. Falls are the leading cause of injury death for Americans 65 years and older. Twenty percent to 30% of people who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries such as bruises, hip fractures, or head traumas. They are also the most common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions for trauma. People age 75 and older are in one of the age groups at highest risk for Traumatic Brain Injury.
What happens when someone suddenly becomes disabled? How do you react? What do they go through? What resources can help both the accident victim and the caregiver?
The individual with a new disability may be in shock, disoriented, and confused about the future. They may be asking themselves “how am I going to go on with my life, remain independent, or get help? “ They may experience a variety of emotions such as anger, denial, sadness, or depression.
Family members may experience similar feelings. They may feel isolated, not knowing what the future will bring or who can help them in this time of crisis.
Elizabeth Kubler-Ross identified five stages of grief that the person with a disability or family members may experience: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. A person can go through these stages in any order and they may be repeated. Each stage may last different amounts of time.
Various things affect how people live with their disability:

  • Type of disability
  • Cause of disability
  • Severity of disability
  • Visibility vs. invisibility of the particular disability
  • Coping abilities of the patient and family
  • Previous attitudes toward disability and illness
  • Reactions of family, friends, and health care professionals
  • Personality
  • Availability of supportive services

When illness or disability strikes the patient and families may become overwhelmed with questions and information. Your doctor is key to the process of treatment and recovery, whether you have a progressive illness that develops over time, or a sudden disability caused by an accident.
Becoming disabled means you may need support from health and social service agencies. The hospital social worker or case manager can assess your needs and connect you with services. These services may include home health care, financial aid, counseling and support groups, and other services for older adults.
Patients and families need to ask their health care professionals questions about the disability or health condition, treatment and recovery, and what services are available to help the individual and the family.
Caregivers need to take care of themselves. You need to take breaks, enjoy your own leisure activities, and delegate responsibilities to others if possible.
The following services are available for Palm Beach County residents:
For general information: Call 211
Area Agency on Aging (Elder Helpline) 561-684-5885 
For people with certain health conditions:
Alzheimer’s Association 24-Hour Crisis Line 1-800-272.3900
American Parkinson’s Disease Association
954-786-2305 
Arthritis Foundation
561-833-1133 
MS Society for South Florida 800-344-4867
American Cancer Society 561.394.7751
American Diabetes Association 1.800.342.2383
American Heart Association 561.697.6600
American Lung Association 561.659.7644
Coalition for Independent Living Options 561.966.4288
For people with visual impairments:
Lighthouse for the Blind 561-848-7200 
Talking Books Library 888-780-5151
Radio Reading Service 800-273-6677
Florida Outreach Center for the Blind 561.642.0005
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: West Palm Beach Blind Rehabilitation Center 561. 422.8426
NFB Newsline 1.866.504.7300
For people with hearing impairments:
Deaf Service Center 561-278-6444
Caregiver assistance and support:
Caregiver Magazine www.caregiver.com
Caregiver Action Network 800-896-3650, www.caregiveraction.org
Well Spouse Association 800-838-0879
Counseling and Support Groups
Ruth Rales Jewish Family Services 561-852-3333
Faulk Center for Counseling 561-483-5300
Morse Life Neighbors2Neighbors 561.531.9844
Transportation:
Palm Tran Connection 877-870-9849
Non-Driver’s ID card 501 S. Congress Ave, Delray Bch
Ruth Rales Jewish Family Services 561-852-3333
The Volen Center 561.395.8920
Senior Services (Adult Day Care, Senior Center)
Weisman Delray Community Center 561.558.2100
Alzheimer’s Community Care : 561.391.6955

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