Caregiver eLetter

Because We Choose

The gauntlet was passed to us and we accepted it. Therefore we will cope, and in so doing, set an example for our children, and the generations to follow.

October 2011

Volume 14, Number 9

In This Issue:

·    Rent-a-Buddy

·    Book: A Long Bright Future

·    Dementia scam

·    Medicare enrollment 

·    Alzheimer's Caregiver Conference

·    "Finishing Well"

·    October Calendar

·    Mental Aerobics

Contact Kay

kay@kaypaggi.com

972.839.0065

Fax: 972.907.3799

Visit www.kaypaggi.com for practical, useful information about ElderCare. Kay Paggi is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Gerontological Counselor (NCGC), Care Manager Certified (CMC), and a Certified ElderCare Mediator.

The Caregiver eLetter is edited and published by Kay Paggi, a Professional Geriatric Care Manager in private practice since 1996 in the DFW area.

Follow Kay at Kay Paggi's answers at Caring.com

This will send you to Kay’s answers to questions sent in by readers like you.

Kay’s Blog

http://kaypaggi.wordpress.com

Directions to the Richardson Group

The group meets at 421 Custer in Richardson, the Episcopal Church of the Epiphany. This is on the west of Central. Take the Arapaho exit; turn left at the first light (Custer). Stay on Custer, go past condos on both sides, pass 1st Methodist on the left, and turn right into the parking lot at Epiphany. There are 2 main buildings. We do not meet in the sanctuary; we meet in the other one. Come in the double doors, not the glass door off the patio (the note on the door that says otherwise is for daytime visitors when the secretary is there) We are usually the only meeting in the building. Look for the large room with a circular sofa and fireplace. See you at 7PM.

Directions to the Dallas Group

Signature Pointe faces Preston Road just south of the intersection with Belt Line. It has a small lake in front. The parking is fairly limited. There are spaces toward the back of the building and some on the street. Come in the main entrance, where there is a reception desk, then turn left, and cross the living room. Come down the hall, past the water fountain, to the small meeting room. Signature is providing refreshments that help boost our spirits.

MENTAL AEROBICS

THE

TEN

MEN

------

MEET

This is a correct addition problem in which letters have been substituted for numbers. The letters represent the same number throughout the puzzle, i.e., E always represents the same number.

Note that M must be 1. Since T+T+M=M, there is no possible way M can be more than 1. [if T = 9, then T+T = 18, so M=1 and E = 8.]

The unknowns are T, H, E, N, and M (1).

I recommend 'guess-and-check' as the best way to arrive at the correct answer. Try substituting a number for E and another for N, and see what happens.

Solution is at the bottom of the eLetter.

www.FarfallaBags.com

Janie Block's passion is designing/creating carry-all pocket bags for walkers, wheelchairs, rollaters & power scooters. My mother utilized a wheelchair after her stroke and frankly, there was nothing on the market that showcased her style and personality. This led me to create Farfalla Bags. I would greatly appreciate if you would keep me in mind for anyone that you meet that would love a beautiful and functional carry-all pocket bag! I accept custom orders and requests to make sure they receive their favorite color, sports/military theme, etc. I can add a personal photo onto the fabric/front pocket for the ultimate in personalization. Tell Janie that Kay sent you.

Mental Aerobics HINT

E=0

ELDERCARE LOCATOR

Eldercare Locator, a free service under the U.S. Administration on Aging, has been around for 20 years. Previously, Eldercare Locator maintained a toll-free hotline for older adults and caregivers looking for information about resources with regards to aging.

But to keep up with aging baby boomers, Eldercare Locator has upgraded its services. The new call center allows callers to speak with an Information Specialist who can connect them to a local agency that can answer questions about long-term care alternatives, transportation options, caregiver issues and government benefits eligibility. Upgrades also include a redesigned website.

http://www.eldercare.gov

ELDERHUMOR

  THE CLASS REUNION

Every five years, as summertime nears,

An announcement arrives in the mail,

A reunion is planned; it'll be really grand;

Make plans to attend without fail.

I'll never forget the first time we met;

We tried so hard to impress.

We drove fancy cars, smoked big cigars,

And wore our most elegant dress.

The homecoming queen, who once had been lean,

Now weighed in at one-ninety-six.

The jocks who were there had all lost their hair,

And the cheerleaders could no longer do kicks.

At our next get-together, no one cared whether

They impressed their classmates or not.

The mood was informal, a whole lot more normal;

By this time we'd all gone to pot.

By the fiftieth year, it was abundantly clear,

We were definitely over the hill.

Those who weren't dead had to crawl out of bed,

And be home in time for their pill.

And now I can't wait; they've set the date;

Our sixtieth is coming, I'm told.

It should be a ball, they've rented a hall

At the Shady Rest Home for the old.

Repairs have been made on my hearing aid;

My pacemaker's been turned up on high.

My wheelchair is oiled, and my teeth have been boiled;

And I've bought a new wig and glass eye.

I'm feeling quite hearty, and I'm ready to party

I'm gonna dance 'til dawn's early light.

It'll be lots of fun; But I just hope that there's one

Other person who can make it that night.

Solution to Mental Aerobics

490

407

107

____

1004

                            This group meets on the 2^nd Monday of every month

7- 8:30 PM, 421 Custer, Richardson

The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany

Next Dallas Support Group is Thursday, October 20

7-8:30 PM, Signature Point on the Lake, 14655 Preston, Dallas

Signature Pointe Caregiver meetings have been changed to the third Thursday of October, November, and December to avoid holiday conflicts. Please let me know if you would prefer to leave the meeting on the 3rd Thursday next year.

If you are providing care for a frail or aging loved one, attend a support group.

Being in the room with people who understand your current reality will help you be a better caregiver.

If you wish to be added or subtracted from the mailing list for this eLetter, please contact kay@kaypaggi.com.  Your name, email address and any other personal information will NEVER be given to anyone without your written permission.

Caregiver eLetter

Because We Choose

The gauntlet was passed to us and we accepted it. Therefore we will cope, and in so doing, set an example for our children, and the generations to follow.

September  2011

Volume 14, Number 4

In This Issue:

·    Rent-a-Buddy

·    Book: Turn of Mind

·    VA Aid & Attendance

·    State of Health Care in Texas

·     Plus 50 Program at Richland College

·    Caring for Aging Seminar for caregivers at Collin College, Plano

·    September Calendar

·    Mental Aerobics

Contact Kay

kay@kaypaggi.com

972.839.0065

Fax: 972.907.3799

Visit www.kaypaggi.com for practical, useful information about ElderCare. Kay Paggi is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Gerontological Counselor (NCGC), Care Manager Certified (CMC), and a Certified ElderCare Mediator.

The Caregiver eLetter is edited and published by Kay Paggi, a Professional Geriatric Care Manager in private practice since 1996 in the DFW area.

Follow Kay at Kay Paggi's answers at Caring.com

This will send you to Kay’s answers to questions sent in by readers like you.

Kay’s Blog

http://kaypaggi.wordpress.com

Directions to the Richardson Group

The group meets at 421 Custer in Richardson, the Episcopal Church of the Epiphany. This is on the west of Central. Take the Arapaho exit; turn left at the first light (Custer). Stay on Custer, go past condos on both sides, pass 1st Methodist on the left, and turn right into the parking lot at Epiphany. There are 2 main buildings. We do not meet in the sanctuary; we meet in the other one. Come in the double doors, not the glass door off the patio (the note on the door that says otherwise is for daytime visitors when the secretary is there) We are usually the only meeting in the building. Look for the large room with a circular sofa and fireplace. See you at 7PM.

Directions to the Dallas Group

Signature Pointe faces Preston Road just south of the intersection with Belt Line. It has a small lake in front. The parking is fairly limited. There are spaces toward the back of the building and some on the street. Come in the main entrance, where there is a reception desk, then turn left, and cross the living room. Come down the hall, past the water fountain, to the small meeting room. Signature is providing refreshments that help boost our spirits.

Dallas Museum of Arts

Meaningful Moments

Designed specifically for individuals with early stage dementia and their family members or caregivers, Meaningful Moments is a monthly program that includes a gallery discussion, an interactive component, and an art-making activity in the Art Studio. Participants will have the chance to relax and connect with art in the galleries, share stories, and gain inspiration.

The program is free, but reservations are required and spaces are limited. For more information or to register, call 214-922-1251 or e-mail Access@DallasMuseumofArt.org.

Meaningful Moments is also available for groups from assisted-living facilities and community organizations. Please call to check date availability and to schedule a visit. Every third Tuesday with some exceptions, 10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m.

Meadows Museum at SMU

Connections

This three-day program for individuals with early stage dementia and their caregivers will involve a variety of creative activities in a relaxed setting. Participants will explore the galleries through interactive exercises and puzzles, experiment with different materials to create individual and group projects, and discover works of art through music, dance, literature, storytelling and role play. Light refreshments will be served.

Space is limited and advanced registration is required. For more information and to register, call 214.768.4677. Meadows Museum Galleries

Three consecutive Fridays - 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m, November 4, 11 & 18

    (Registration begins October 3)

MENTAL AEROBICS

Read aloud:

1. The bandage was wound around the wound.

2. The farm was used to produce produce.

3. The dump was so full it had to refuse more refuse.

4. We must polish the Polish furniture.

5. He could lead if he would get the lead out.

6. The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert.

7. Since there was no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present.

8. A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum.

9. When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes.

10. I did not object to the object.

11. The insurance was invalid for the invalid.

12. There was a row among the oarsmen on how to row.

13. They were too close to the door to close it.

14. The buck does funny things when does are present.

15. A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer line.

16. To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow.

17. The wind was too strong to wind the sail.

18. After a number of injections my jaw got number.

19. Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear.

20. I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.

21. How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend?

These wonderful words are called Heteronyms, words that are spelled the same but pronounced differently with very different meanings. When you see them you may never notice them, because you read them in context of the sentence. Only when you read them in this way, both in the same sentence, can you really appreciate the beauty of English.

ELDERHUMOR

    
   Some Senior personal ads seen in the Florida newspapers: (Who says older adults don't have a sense of humor?)

FOXY LADY: 
Sexy, fashion-conscious blue-haired beauty, 80's, slim, 5'4' (used to be 5'6'),
searching for sharp-looking, sharp-dressing companion. Matching white shoes and belt a plus.

LONG-TERM COMMITMENT: 
Recent widow who has just buried fourth husband, looking for someone to round out a six-unit plot. Dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath not a problem. 

SERENITY NOW: 
I am into solitude, long walks, sunrises, the ocean, yoga and meditation. 
If you are the silent type, let's get together, take our hearing aids out and enjoy quiet times. 

WINNING SMILE: 
Active grandmother with original teeth seeking a dedicated flosser to share rare steaks, corn on the cob and caramel candy. 

BEATLES OR STONES? 
I still like to rock, 
still like to cruise in my Camaro on Saturday nights and still like to play the guitar. 
If you were a groovy chick, or are now a groovy hen, let's get together and listen to my eight-track tapes.

This group meets on the 2^nd Monday of every month

7- 8:30 PM, 421 Custer, Richardson

The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany

Next Dallas Support Group is Thursday, September 22

7-8:30 PM, Signature Point on the Lake, 14655 Preston, Dallas

If you are providing care for a frail or aging loved one, attend a support group.

Being in the room with people who understand your current reality will help you be a better caregiver.

Turn of Mind, by Alice LaPlante

A stunning first novel, both literary and thriller, about a retired orthopedic surgeon with dementia, Turn of Mind has already received worldwide attention. With unmatched patience and a pulsating intensity, Alice LaPlante brings us deep into a brilliant woman’s deteriorating mind, where the impossibility of recognizing reality can be both a blessing and a curse.

As the book opens, Dr. Jennifer White’s best friend, Amanda, who lived down the block, has been killed, and four fingers surgically removed from her hand. Dr. White is the prime suspect and she herself doesn’t know whether she did it. Told in White’s own voice, fractured and eloquent, a picture emerges of the surprisingly intimate, complex alliance between these life-long friends—two proud, forceful women who were at times each other’s most formidable adversaries. As the investigation into the murder deepens and White’s relationships with her live-in caretaker and two grown children intensify, a chilling question lingers: is White’s shattered memory preventing her from revealing the truth or helping her to hide it?

A startling portrait of a disintegrating mind clinging to bits of reality through anger, frustration, shame, and unspeakable loss, Turn of Mind is a remarkable debut that examines the deception and frailty of memory and how it defines our very existence.

If you wish to be added or subtracted from the mailing list for this eLetter, please contact kay@kaypaggi.com.  Your name, email address and any other personal information will NEVER be given to anyone without your written permission.

Caregiver eLetter

Because We Choose

The gauntlet was passed to us and we accepted it. Therefore we will cope, and in so doing, set an example for our children, and the generations to follow.

August  2011

Volume 14, Number 7

In This Issue:

·    Rent-a-Buddy

·    Book: Once a Spy

·    Encore Adult Day

·     Plus 50 Program at Richland College

·    Caring for Aging Seminar for caregivers at Collin College, Plano

·    August Calendar

·    Mental Aerobics

Contact Kay

kay@kaypaggi.com

972.839.0065

Fax: 972.907.3799

Visit www.kaypaggi.com for practical, useful information about ElderCare. Kay Paggi is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Gerontological Counselor (NCGC), Care Manager Certified (CMC), and a Certified ElderCare Mediator.

The Caregiver eLetter is edited and published by Kay Paggi, a Professional Geriatric Care Manager in private practice since 1996 in the DFW area.

Follow Kay at Kay Paggi's answers at Caring.com

This will send you to Kay’s answers to questions sent in by readers like you.

Kay’s Blog

http://kaypaggi.wordpress.com

I hope to do daily blogs. If you post a comment, that will encourage me. Thanks!

Directions to the Richardson Group

The group meets at 421 Custer in Richardson, the Episcopal Church of the Epiphany. This is on the west of Central. Take the Arapaho exit; turn left at the first light (Custer). Stay on Custer, go past condos on both sides, pass 1st Methodist on the left, and turn right into the parking lot at Epiphany. There are 2 main buildings. We do not meet in the sanctuary; we meet in the other one. Come in the double doors, not the glass door off the patio (the note on the door that says otherwise is for daytime visitors when the secretary is there) We are usually the only meeting in the building. Look for the large room with a circular sofa and fireplace. See you at 7PM.

Directions to the Dallas Group

Signature Pointe faces Preston Road just south of the intersection with Belt Line. It has a small lake in front. The parking is fairly limited. There are spaces toward the back of the building and some on the street. Come in the main entrance, where there is a reception desk, then turn left, and cross the living room. Come down the hall, past the water fountain, to the small meeting room. Signature is providing refreshments that help boost our spirits.

MENTAL AEROBICS

FIRE!!

How many words can you find that have 'fire' in them?  We found 40.

(Answers at the bottom)

ELDERHUMOR

Retirement is different for everyone

One day, while going to the shop, I passed by a retirement village.  On the front lawn were six old ladies, lying naked on the grass.  I thought this was a bit unusual, but continued on my way.
 
On my return trip, I passed the same retirement village with the same six old ladies lying naked on the lawn.
 
This time my curiosity got the better of me and I went inside to talk to the retirement village Administrator.  I asked her "Do you know there are six ladies lying naked on your front lawn?"
 
"Yes," she said, "aren't they darlings?  They're retired prostitutes - they're having a yard sale!"

Answers to Mental Aerobics:

Alarm, Ant, Arm, Back, Bird, Bomb, Brand, Chief, Cracker, Dept., Fighter, Fly, Hose, House, Hydrant, Light, Log, Man, Place, Power, Proof, Side, Stone, Tower, Trap, Truck, Wall, Water, Wood.

Break, Fox, Gun, Bon, Brush, Camp, Cease, Cross, Mis, Spit, Sure, Wild.

Next Richardson Support Group Meeting is Monday, Sept. 12

This group meets on the 2^nd Monday of every month

7- 8:30 PM, 421 Custer, Richardson

The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany

Next Dallas Support Group is Thursday, August 25

7-8:30 PM, Signature Point on the Lake, 14655 Preston, Dallas

If you are providing care for a frail or aging loved one, attend a support group.

Being in the room with people who understand your current reality will help you be a better caregiver.

If you wish to be added or subtracted from the mailing list for this eLetter, please contact kay@kaypaggi.com.  Your name, email address and any other personal information will NEVER be given to anyone without your written permission.

Caregiver eLetter

Because We Choose

The gauntlet was passed to us and we accepted it. Therefore we will cope, and in so doing, set an example for our children, and the generations to follow.

June  2011

Volume 14, Number 6

In This Issue:

·    Books:

A Bittersweet Season

The Daughter Trap

·    The Plus 50 Program at Richland College

·    Caring for Aging Seminars for caregivers at Collin College, Plano

·    June & July Calendar

·    Mental Aerobics

Contact Kay

kay@kaypaggi.com

972.839.0065

Fax: 972.907.3799

Visit www.kaypaggi.com for practical, useful information about ElderCare. Kay Paggi is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Gerontological Counselor (NCGC), Care Manager Certified (CMC), and a Certified ElderCare Mediator.

The Caregiver eLetter is edited and published by Kay Paggi, a Professional Geriatric Care Manager in private practice since 1996 in the DFW area.

Follow Kay at Kay Paggi's answers at Caring.com

This will send you to Kay’s answers to questions sent in by readers like you.

Kay’s Blog

http://kaypaggi.wordpress.com

I hope to do daily blogs. If you post a comment, that will encourage me. Thanks!

Directions to the Richardson Group

The group meets at 421 Custer in Richardson, the Episcopal Church of the Epiphany. This is on the west of Central. Take the Arapaho exit; turn left at the first light (Custer). Stay on Custer, go past condos on both sides, pass 1st Methodist on the left, and turn right into the parking lot at Epiphany. There are 2 main buildings. We do not meet in the sanctuary; we meet in the other one. Come in the double doors, not the glass door off the patio (the note on the door that says otherwise is for daytime visitors when the secretary is there) We are usually the only meeting in the building. Look for the large room with a circular sofa and fireplace. See you at 7PM.

Directions to the Dallas Group

Signature Pointe faces Preston Road just south of the intersection with Belt Line. It has a small lake in front. The parking is fairly limited. There are spaces toward the back of the building and some on the street. Come in the main entrance, where there is a reception desk, then turn left, and cross the living room. Come down the hall, past the water fountain, to the small meeting room. Signature is providing refreshments that help boost our spirits.

MENTAL AEROBICS

Take your time and see if you can
read each line aloud without a mistake.
The average person over 40 years of age cannot do it!

1. This is this cat.
2. This is is cat.
3. This is how cat.
4. This is to cat.
5. This is keep cat.
6. This is an cat.
7. This is old cat.
8. This is coot cat.
9. This is busy cat.
10. This is for cat.
11. This is forty cat.
12. This is seconds cat.

Now go back and read the third word in each line from the top down

ELDERHUMOR

 The local news station was interviewing an 80-year-old lady because she had just gotten married for the fourth time. The interviewer asked her questions about her life, about what it felt like to be marrying again at 80, and then about her new husband's occupation. "He's a funeral

director," she answered.

"Interesting," the newsman thought.

He then asked her if she wouldn't mind telling him a little about her first three husbands and what they did for a living. She paused for a few moments, needing time to reflect on all those years.

After a short time, a smile came to her face and she answered proudly, explaining that she had first married a banker when she was in her early 20's, then a circus ringmaster when in her 40's, and a preacher when in her 60's, and now in her 80's, a funeral director.

The interviewer looked at her, quite astonished, and asked why she had

married four men with such diverse careers.

She smiled and explained, "I married one for the money, two for the show, three to get ready, and four to go."

MEDICAID IN TEXAS

On Monday, May 30, the Dallas News ran a story by Melissa Repko about Medicaid reimbursement for nursing homes.

http://www.dallasnews.com/incoming/20110529-local-nursing-homes-face-tight-budgets-tough-decisions.ece

For years I have been telling people that Texas is 49^th in Medicaid reimbursement but I did not have a site to point to for confirmation. Thanks for Melissa’s diligence, I now have a starting point:

http://www.ahcancal.org/research_data/funding/Documents/2010%20Medicaid%20Shortfall%20Report.pdf

This is the PDF form of “A Report on Shortfalls in Medicaid Funding for Nursing Home Care” by ELJAY, LLC for the American Health Care Association, written in December 2010. Page 7 has a state-by-state comparison of rates and costs, showing that Texas ranks at the bottom, but this chart only shows 40 of the 50 states.

This lack of reimbursement for Medicaid nursing homes is frightening for ALL of us. Because facilities lose money with their Medicaid residents, they charge more for their private pay residents. They may also be forced to reduce the food quality for all their residents, and reduce the number of aides or cut back on their meager pay. Many facilities are no longer accepting new Medicaid residents. This means, for you and me, that if/when we run out of our own money for nursing home care, we might have no place to go.

Jane Gross is one my favorite writers. She contributes to a blog called The New Old Age,  before that she wrote articles about aging and Eldercare. She has recently written a book about the caregiving for her mother, A Bittersweet Season: Caring for Our Aging Parents — and Ourselves, Jane Gross, 350 pp. Alfred A. Knopf. $26.95.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/29/books/review/book-review-a-bittersweet-season-caring-for-our-aging-parents-and-ourselves-by-jane-gross.html?_r=1&emc=eta1

This book review is not complimentary, but my respect for Jane Gross’s writing and reporting abilities leads to me recommend the book to you. AT the very least, sign up to receive her blogs. Your caregiving experience will be enriched.

 THE DAUGHTER TRAP: Taking Care of Mom and Dad…& You

By Laurel Kennedy

     This excellent book is mis-named; it is not really about daughters, it is about caregiving by both daughters and sons and friends and relatives. The book is based on hundreds of interviews with caregivers, who the author describes as underappreciated, overstressed, and caught between competing demands of parents, children, jobs, and spouses.

     Kennedy’s research showed that older adults do not look for care options that would minimize demands on their family; they are often unwilling to discuss “those places”, meaning nursing homes. They fail to investigate the many care options that now exist between living independently in their own home – to a nursing home. This neglect places an enormous burden on the family to either accept what the parents want (continuing care in their home) and what is best for the extended family.

     [Those of you who know me understand that I believe what older adults really want is to become their former selves, healthy, active, and able to manage their own affairs. This is something that even the best caregivers cannot give them.]

     Kennedy writes, “Our living accommodations must evolve to compensate for the physical and mental changes associated with aging……Denial is a powerful nostrum for coping. Not an effective one but an extremely popular one.” BRAVO!

     Kennedy researched why the adult children accept this burden, since it is basically unreasonable. She offers 5 reasons. The social exchange theory holds that adult children are ‘paying back’ their parents for parenting. Attachment theory views eldercare as an extension of the filial bond. Socialization theory purports that women are socialized to become caregivers of children, the ill and aged, and they accept this without question. Moral imperative theory says that there is an inherited obligation to provide care, part of the Judeo-Christian ethic. Finally, the filial maturity theory assets that providing care is a midlife marker, a developmental task along the path to maturity.

     “Guilt is a great control mechanism.” Most older adults prefer to stay in their homes and die there. Given the current realities, this is usually not affordable or possible. Adult children are “living life insurance” that make the impossible possible for frail parents. Advance planning for where and how to age is more rare than planning what new car to purchase. This concept probably dates back to the farming tradition, when big families were common, women stayed at home, and very few people survived into later life.

     The solution is to set Boundaries, say No to unreasonable expectations. Firmly but gently explain that staying at home is not feasible, and that much research needs to be done in order to make late life pleasant for all involved. Do not explain more than once, don’t rationalize, don’t argue; instead present alternatives and begin discussions with them about which one is best.

     The book is full of research, advice, options, financial planning. This is a GREAT dead, very helpful to caregivers of either sex. I highly recommend it.

Amazon.com $18.97

     CareCalls are daily reassurance calls for seniors and disabled adults. CareCalls can be used for medication reminders, meal and activity reminders, or just to "check-in" and provide some friendly conversation. Calls are made by live representatives (not an automated system). We can even keep family members updated with a daily email status report.

     CareCalls are an affordable alternative to in-home services (for seniors who are living independently) or can be used to fill in the gaps between visits from family and home care aides. We offer a variety of customizable plans to fit any need and budget. CareCalls start at only $30 per month for one-call-per-day.

     To learn more about CareCalls Phone: 1.888.477.0435     Email: hello@carecheckers.com     http://www.carecheckers.comAnita Wood, Owner, CareCheckers LLC

Kay’s note: I can’t recommend this company because I’ve had no feedback from clients who use the service. However, I think it’s a wonderful idea. If any of you enroll in the service, please let me know whether to recommend it in the future. Thanks, Kay

If you wish to be added or subtracted from the mailing list for this eLetter, please contact kay@kaypaggi.com.  Your name, email address and any other personal information will NEVER be given to anyone without your written permission.

Caregiver eLetter

Because We Choose

The gauntlet was passed to us and we accepted it. Therefore we will cope, and in so doing, set an example for our children, and the generations to follow.

August  2011

Volume 14, Number 7

In This Issue:

·    Rent-a-Buddy

·    Book: Once a Spy

·    Encore Adult Day

·     Plus 50 Program at Richland College

·    Caring for Aging Seminar for caregivers at Collin College, Plano

·    August Calendar

·    Mental Aerobics

Contact Kay

kay@kaypaggi.com

972.839.0065

Fax: 972.907.3799

Visit www.kaypaggi.com for practical, useful information about ElderCare. Kay Paggi is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Gerontological Counselor (NCGC), Care Manager Certified (CMC), and a Certified ElderCare Mediator.

The Caregiver eLetter is edited and published by Kay Paggi, a Professional Geriatric Care Manager in private practice since 1996 in the DFW area.

Follow Kay at Kay Paggi's answers at Caring.com

This will send you to Kay’s answers to questions sent in by readers like you.

Kay’s Blog

http://kaypaggi.wordpress.com

I hope to do daily blogs. If you post a comment, that will encourage me. Thanks!

Directions to the Richardson Group

The group meets at 421 Custer in Richardson, the Episcopal Church of the Epiphany. This is on the west of Central. Take the Arapaho exit; turn left at the first light (Custer). Stay on Custer, go past condos on both sides, pass 1st Methodist on the left, and turn right into the parking lot at Epiphany. There are 2 main buildings. We do not meet in the sanctuary; we meet in the other one. Come in the double doors, not the glass door off the patio (the note on the door that says otherwise is for daytime visitors when the secretary is there) We are usually the only meeting in the building. Look for the large room with a circular sofa and fireplace. See you at 7PM.

Directions to the Dallas Group

Signature Pointe faces Preston Road just south of the intersection with Belt Line. It has a small lake in front. The parking is fairly limited. There are spaces toward the back of the building and some on the street. Come in the main entrance, where there is a reception desk, then turn left, and cross the living room. Come down the hall, past the water fountain, to the small meeting room. Signature is providing refreshments that help boost our spirits.

MENTAL AEROBICS

FIRE!!

How many words can you find that have 'fire' in them?  We found 40.

(Answers at the bottom)

ELDERHUMOR

Retirement is different for everyone

One day, while going to the shop, I passed by a retirement village.  On the front lawn were six old ladies, lying naked on the grass.  I thought this was a bit unusual, but continued on my way.
 
On my return trip, I passed the same retirement village with the same six old ladies lying naked on the lawn.
 
This time my curiosity got the better of me and I went inside to talk to the retirement village Administrator.  I asked her "Do you know there are six ladies lying naked on your front lawn?"
 
"Yes," she said, "aren't they darlings?  They're retired prostitutes - they're having a yard sale!"

Answers to Mental Aerobics:

Alarm, Ant, Arm, Back, Bird, Bomb, Brand, Chief, Cracker, Dept., Fighter, Fly, Hose, House, Hydrant, Light, Log, Man, Place, Power, Proof, Side, Stone, Tower, Trap, Truck, Wall, Water, Wood.

Break, Fox, Gun, Bon, Brush, Camp, Cease, Cross, Mis, Spit, Sure, Wild.

Next Richardson Support Group Meeting is Monday, Sept. 12

This group meets on the 2^nd Monday of every month

7- 8:30 PM, 421 Custer, Richardson

The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany

Next Dallas Support Group is Thursday, June 23

7-8:30 PM, Signature Point on the Lake, 14655 Preston, Dallas

If you are providing care for a frail or aging loved one, attend a support group.

Being in the room with people who understand your current reality will help you be a better caregiver.

If you wish to be added or subtracted from the mailing list for this eLetter, please contact kay@kaypaggi.com.  Your name, email address and any other personal information will NEVER be given to anyone without your written permission.

Caregiver eLetter

Because We Choose

The gauntlet was passed to us and we accepted it. Therefore we will cope, and in so doing, set an example for our children, and the generations to follow.

May 2011

Volume 14, Number 5

In This Issue:

·    Diabetes

·    Benefits Counseling

·    Openings at Plano Community Homes

·    April/May calendar

·    Mental Aerobics

Contact Kay

kay@kaypaggi.com

972.839.0065

Fax: 972.907.3799

Visit www.kaypaggi.com for practical, useful information about ElderCare. Kay Paggi is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Gerontological Counselor (NCGC), Care Manager Certified (CMC), and a Certified ElderCare Mediator.

The Caregiver eLetter is edited and published by Kay Paggi, a Professional Geriatric Care Manager in private practice since 1996 in the DFW area.

Follow Kay at Kay Paggi's answers at Caring.com

This will send you to Kay’s answers to questions sent in by readers like you.

Kay’s Blog

http://kaypaggi.wordpress.com

I hope to do daily blogs. If you post a comment, that will encourage me. Thanks!

Directions to the Richardson Group

The group meets at 421 Custer in Richardson, the Episcopal Church of the Epiphany. This is on the west of Central. Take the Arapaho exit; turn left at the first light (Custer). Stay on Custer, go past condos on both sides, pass 1st Methodist on the left, and turn right into the parking lot at Epiphany. There are 2 main buildings. We do not meet in the sanctuary; we meet in the other one. Come in the double doors, not the glass door off the patio (the note on the door that says otherwise is for daytime visitors when the secretary is there) We are usually the only meeting in the building. Look for the large room with a circular sofa and fireplace. See you at 7PM.

Directions to the Dallas Group

Signature Pointe faces Preston Road just south of the intersection with Belt Line. It has a small lake in front. The parking is fairly limited. There are spaces toward the back of the building and some on the street. Come in the main entrance, where there is a reception desk, then turn left, and cross the living room. Come down the hall, past the water fountain, to the small meeting room. Signature is providing refreshments that help boost our spirits.

MENTAL AEROBICS

THE FLOWER GAME

Fill in the blank with the name of a flower.

1. Part of an eye_____

2. Footwear_________

3. One way to get rich quick_____

4. A vegetable that does not need sugar_

5. A dressed-up ferocious animal____

6. A flower between hills___________

7. A pretty girl who has been jilted____

8. A man’s name and what he writes with___

9. What shepherds watch_______

10. What Billy did when he sat on a tack__

11. Results from Cupid’s arrow_______

12. A bird and a riding accessory_____

13. A sweetheart’s farewell_________

14. The rising sun_______________

15. A country with a lot of motor transportation__

16. A dairy product and a dish________

17. What unmarried men often lose____

18. What he did when he proposed______

19. An amiable man_________________

20. Neat ranks_____________________

  (Answer below)

www.caring.com

I am beginning to post reviews of assisted living communities in the Dallas area on this site. I would appreciate any feedback about those already posted, and any suggestions about facilities that are not yet online. Please send comments to Kay at kay@kaypaggi.com. Thanks.

ELDERHUMOR

    
   Sally was driving home from one of her business trips in Northern Arizona when she saw an elderly Navajo woman walking on the side of the road.
   As the trip was a long and quiet one, she stopped the car and asked the Navajo woman if she would like a ride.
   With a silent nod of thanks, the woman got into the car.
    Sally tried in vain to make a bit of small talk with the Navajo woman. The old woman just sat silently, looking intently at everything she saw, studying every little detail, until she noticed a brown bag on the seat next to Sally.
   'What in bag?' asked the old woman.
    Sally looked down at the brown bag and said, 'It's a bottle of wine. I got it for my husband.'
    The Navajo woman was silent for another moment or two. Then speaking with the quiet wisdom of an elder, she said:
      'Good trade....

Answers to Mental Aerobics:

1. Iris
2. Lady's slipper
3. Marigold
4. Sweetpea
5. Dandelion or Tiger lily
6. Lily of the Valley
7. Blue belle
8. Jonquil
9. Phlox

10.  ??  Johnny Jump Up??

11.  Bleeding heart or bridal wreath

12.  Larkspur

13.  Tulips or Forget-me-not

14.  Morning glory

15.  Carnation

16.  Buttercup

17.  ?? Bachelor's button? Baby's breath?

18.  Aster

19.  Sweet William

20.  Rose

If you are providing care for a frail or aging loved one, attend a support group. Being in the room with people who understand your current reality will help you be a better caregiver.

 These low cost apartments are among the best in the north Dallas area. There is rarely a vacancy, and usually a very long waiting list. If your care receiver is looking for a good place in a kind community in a nice neighborhood at a discount rate, these may be the answer.

Plano Community Home Sponsored Properties (PCHSP) has vacant apartments currently available for qualified applicants at our newly opened building, Pioneer Place Senior Housing Phase II (PP) located at 1932 Ave K in Plano.  Each PP Phase II apartment was built with a walk in shower designed for easy accessibility. 

 Applicants for Pioneer Place Senior Housing must be:

1.      At least 62 years of age or older at the time of application,

2.      Living on a limited income of not more than $23,950 for a single individual or $27,350 for a two person household.

The waiting list for efficiency apartments at Plano Community Homes East Campus, located at 1612 Ave. L, Plano, TX 75074, is extremely short at this time.  Plano Community Homes East Campus provides HUD subsidized apartments designed to serve:

1)      persons 62 years of age or older and

2)      persons 18 years of age or older who have a mobility impairment and who require the features of our accessible units which are wheel chair accessible and have roll-in showers. 

3)      Living on a limited income of not more than $23,950 for a single individual or $27,350 for a two person household.

Tenant rents are based on 30% of the applicant’s adjusted gross income.  Pioneer Place Senior Housing Phase II and East Campus will house eligible and qualified persons, who are able to live in these units with or without assistance, and meet the terms of tenancy.   

 Applications for occupancy are available:

1)      For download from our website at www.planocommunityhome.org,

2)       May be picked up from the East Campus business office located at 1612 Ave L., Plano, TX 75074 Monday through Sunday 9:00 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Please note our evening and weekend staff is not able to answer admission or waiting list questions, nor process applications.

3)      Application(s) may be mailed to you by calling (972) 423-6058 and requesting to listen to the admission script.  After the recorded information you will be prompted to leave a voicemail at the end of the admissions script requesting an application be mailed to you.  

 For more information , contact Carolyn Toliver, Benefits Counseling Coordinator, Dallas Area Agency on Aging, 214-954-4204

The instructor, Janet Hennard, co-authored an article on using yoga to help with getting out of bed safely that has been published in Today's Caregiver magazine. You can view the digital version at http://www.caregiver.com/magazine/index.htm. The article is called Rise & Shine with Yoga, found  on page 20. The article has some wonderful ideas for getting out of bed, and getting through the day safely and with confidence. Janet's website is www.brightpathyoga.com.

register or go to https://cereg.collin.edu:4443/flexibleregistration/index.jsp?frc=CE&q=subj=xced

*'Caring for Aging' at Collin College meets on 2 consecutive Saturdays beginning August 20 - 27th. Fee for either course is $69.

If you wish to be added or subtracted from the mailing list for this eLetter, please contact kay@kaypaggi.com.  Your name, email address and any other personal information will NEVER be given to anyone without your written permission.

Caregiver eLetter

Because We Choose

The gauntlet was passed to us and we accepted it. Therefore we will cope, and in so doing, set an example for our children, and the generations to follow.

April 2011

Volume 14, Number 4

In This Issue:

·    Alzheimer's Research

·    Aging in China

·    Stress

·    April/May calendar

·    Mental Aerobics

Contact Kay

kay@kaypaggi.com

972.839.0065

Fax: 972.907.3799

Visit www.kaypaggi.com for practical, useful information about ElderCare. Kay Paggi is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Gerontological Counselor (NCGC), Care Manager Certified (CMC), and a Certified ElderCare Mediator.

The Caregiver eLetter is edited and published by Kay Paggi, a Professional Geriatric Care Manager in private practice since 1996 in the DFW area.

Follow Kay at Kay Paggi's answers at Caring.com

This will send you to Kay’s answers to questions sent in by readers like you.

Kay’s Blog

http://kaypaggi.wordpress.com

I hope to do daily blogs. If you post a comment, that will encourage me. Thanks!

Directions to the Richardson Group

The group meets at 421 Custer in Richardson, the Episcopal Church of the Epiphany. This is on the west of Central. Take the Arapaho exit; turn left at the first light (Custer). Stay on Custer, go past condos on both sides, pass 1st Methodist on the left, and turn right into the parking lot at Epiphany. There are 2 main buildings. We do not meet in the sanctuary; we meet in the other one. Come in the double doors, not the glass door off the patio (the note on the door that says otherwise is for daytime visitors when the secretary is there) We are usually the only meeting in the building. Look for the large room with a circular sofa and fireplace. See you at 7PM.

Directions to the Dallas Group

Signature Pointe faces Preston Road just south of the intersection with Belt Line. It has a small lake in front. The parking is fairly limited. There are spaces toward the back of the building and some on the street. Come in the main entrance, where there is a reception desk, then turn left, and cross the living room. Come down the hall, past the water fountain, to the small meeting room. Signature is providing refreshments that help boost our spirits.

MENTAL AEROBICS

Ciphering

Letters have been substituted for numbers

  AB                               12

+CD                            +34

____                            ___

  DF                                 46               

In this example, the numbers 1,2,3,4,6, have been substituted for letter a,b,c,d, f.

A=1,   B=2,   C=3,   D=4,   F=6

Now solve these ciphers; any substitution remains the same throughout the problem.

1. A x B = B  (What is A, what is B?)

2. C x B = F

3. A more difficult problem is

  TEN 

+MEN

MEET

What numbers have been substituted for M, T, E, N?              

  (Answer below)

ELDERHUMOR

A  mature (over 40) lady gets pulled over for  speeding...
Older  Woman:  Is there a problem, Officer?  
Officer:  Ma'am, you were speeding.
Older  Woman:  Oh, I see.
Officer:  Can I see your license please?
Older  Woman:  I'd give it to you but I don't have one.  
Officer:  Don't have one?
Older  Woman:  Lost it, 4 years ago for drunk driving.  
Officer:  I see...Can I see your vehicle registration papers please.  
Older  Woman:  I can't do that.
Officer:  Why not?
Older  Woman:  I stole this car.
Officer:  Stole it?
Older  Woman:  Yes, and I killed and hacked up the  owner.  
Officer:  You what?
Older  Woman:  His body parts are in plastic bags in the trunk if you want to see  
      The Officer looks at the  woman and slowly backs away to his car and calls for back up.  Within minutes 5 police cars circle the car. A senior officer slowly approaches the car, clasping his half drawn gun.  

Officer  2:  Ma'am, could you step out of your vehicle  please! The  woman steps out of her vehicle. Older  woman:  Is there a problem sir?
Officer  2:  One of my officers told me that you have stolen this car and  murdered the owner.
Older  Woman:  Murdered the owner?  
Officer  2:  Yes, could you please open the trunk of your car,  please. The woman opens the trunk, revealing nothing but an empty  trunk.  
Officer  2:  Is this your car, ma'am?
Older  Woman:  Yes, here are the registration papers.
The officer is quite  stunned.  
Officer  2:  One of my officers claims that you do not have a driving license.  
The woman digs into her handbag and pulls out a clutch  purse and hands it to the officer.
The officer examines the  license. He looks quite puzzled.  
Officer  2:  Thank you ma'am, one of my officers told me you didn't have a  license, that you stole this car, and that you murdered and hacked  up the owner.
Older  Woman:  Bet the liar told you I was speeding,  too.  

Don't  Mess With Mature Ladies!

Thanks to Carolyn Musket

This year we will experience 4 unusual dates....
1/1/11,
1/11/11,
11/1/11, &
11/11/11.
NOW go figure this out....

Take the last 2 digits of the year you were born plus the age you will  turn THIS year and it WILL EQUAL 111.

Answers to Mental Aerobics:

1. A = 1, B = 2

 If you are providing care for a frail or aging loved one, attend a support group. Being in the room with people who understand your current reality will help you be a better caregiver.

    A young lady confidently walked around the room while leading and explaining stress management to an audience; with a raised glass of water, and everyone knew she was going to ask the ultimate question, 'half empty or half full?'..... she fooled them all... "How heavy is this glass of water?", she inquired with a smile.
    Answers called out ranged from 8 oz. to 20 oz.
     She replied, "The absolute weight doesn't matter. It depends on how long I hold it. If I hold it for a minute, that's not a problem.  If I hold it for an hour, I'll have an ache in my right arm. If I hold it for a day, you'll have to call an ambulance. In each case it's the same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes."  She continued, "and that's the way it is with stress. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, as the burden becomes increasingly heavy, we won't be able to carry on."
     "As with the glass of water, you have to put it down for a while and rest before holding it again.  When we're refreshed, we can carry on with the burden - holding stress longer and better each time practiced. So, as early in the evening as you can, put all your burdens down. Don't carry them through the evening and into the night... pick them up tomorrow.
     Whatever burdens you're carrying now, let them down for a moment. Relax, pick them up later after you've rested. Life is short. Enjoy it and the now 'supposed' stress that you've conquered!"
      (Thanks to Linda Medlen for sending this)

The Dallas Area Agency on Aging Benefits Counseling Program helps people 60+ and anyone on Medicare regardless of age with information on Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security,  Veterans Benefits.  We have locations throughout Dallas county where people can go to get help with these issues.  We also take appointments twice a month for people to come to our office to get assistance. 

 For more information , contact Carolyn Toliver, Benefits Counseling Coordinator

Dallas Area Agency on Aging, 214-954-4204

The 2nd Monday support group meets in the Church of the Epiphany. Over the past year or so, Janet Hennard has begun a series of free classes there (donations are appreciated but not requested). Everyone is welcome to attend. Caregivers in particular may find Yoga helpful. Yoga is a non-competitive, non-religious practice that will increase your awareness of your body and its connection to mind and spirit. Its many benefits include optimal balance, flexibility, fitness and longevity. Yoga accommodates all fitness levels and physical limitations. Bring a yoga mat, exercise mat or blanket, and wear comfortable, stretchy clothing.

Monday 5:45-7:00 pm:  Yoga for Fibromyalgia. Location: Narthex (entry to church)

Tuesday 10:30-11:45 am: Yoga for Seniors and Those with Physical Limitations. Location: Narthex (entry to church)

Tuesday 5:45-7:00 pm: Bright Path Yoga (mixed styles). Location: Dr. Susan Aten's Office, 500 N. Coit Rd, Ste 2094, Richardson

Thursday 6:15-7:30 pm: Epiphany Yoga (mixed styles). Location: Narthex (entry to church)

2. C = 3, B = 2, F = 6

3. 407

+107

______                       

1004   

If you wish to be added or subtracted from the mailing list for this eLetter, please contact kay@kaypaggi.com.  Your name, email address and any other personal information will NEVER be given to anyone without your written permission.