Monday, January 16th, 2023
Older Adults Should Plan to Get Help Early This Tax Season Many seniors turn to their senior center or other community resources for help with their taxes. This year, many centers still have limited appointments available, making it critical for seniors and family caregivers to reach out early to get an appointment booked. Kelly Elswick, an AgeWays Resource Specialist who manages our Resource Database, has been busy contacting local organizations to understand ...
Continue ReadingWednesday, January 4th, 2023
We know that caring for an aging parent, spouse or other loved one can be tough. We also know a little bit of help can go a long way. We put together a list of support resources available in our 6- county region of southeast Michigan to help spark some ideas: Meals on Wheels: Having a hot meal and a friendly visit for your loved one on weekdays might do a lot ...
Continue ReadingThursday, December 22nd, 2022
Winter has arrived in lower Michigan, and will most certainly bring snowstorms, icy road conditions, power outages and other inconveniences. It pays to be prepared for emergencies. If you have a generator, keep it outside because of the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning from the unit. Make sure you've got three days' worth of canned goods to eat and 1 gallon of water per person for at least three days. Keep a flashlight and ...
Continue ReadingTuesday, November 29th, 2022
The holidays are upon us again. (How did that happen so fast?) If you are a caregiver, the season might be a crazy emotional mix—equal parts stress, joy, sticky family dynamics, nostalgia, and maybe a sprinkle of anticipatory grief. So how do you get through this busy season as an already overwhelmed caregiver? Here are some tips to help you make it through to the New Year. Keep It Simple and ...
Continue ReadingTuesday, November 8th, 2022
From Our Family to Yours Caring for an older loved one can often involve sacrifice. We know that every hour given to unpaid caregiving is one less hour you can give to earning a living and one less hour you have for your other responsibilities. It means less time for yourself. Family caregivers suffer from stress and illnesses in far greater numbers than those who are not caring for a loved ...
Continue ReadingWednesday, September 21st, 2022
If you have Part D Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan, it’s a good idea to review your drug coverage to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck – and your health. Open Enrollment, from Oct 15-Dec. 7, is the period of the year when you can switch your plans. Certified counselors from the Medicare Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) at AgeWays are taking appointments to help review your plan, ...
Continue ReadingTuesday, August 30th, 2022
Michigan fortunately doesn’t get earthquakes, hurricanes, massive snowstorms, wildfires and other disasters that hit other parts of the country with regularity nowadays. But boring stuff like water main breaks (that left thousands of homes in Macomb County without clean water last month), power outages and pounding rainstorms can be catastrophic for older adults. Bottom line: It’s good for you and your caregiver to be prepared for emergencies, whether that's a boil-water advisory ...
Continue ReadingFriday, August 12th, 2022
On August 11, 2022 AgeWays and special guest LaToya Hall, Director of the Wayne State University Institute of Gerontology SAFE Program, shared important information on the financial aspects of caregiving. View this webinar to learn about: How to approach a conversation about finances with your loved one Practical tips for managing your loved one’s finances How to keep your loved one safe from financial exploitation If you missed the webinar, no problem. ...
Continue ReadingMonday, August 1st, 2022
Stretched by Inflation? Save a Buck or Three with these Tips Everything seems to be more expensive today. And while you can’t fight inflation, you can find ways to substantially save money. There are assistance programs that can reduce utility costs, lessen the pinch at the supermarket, and offset Medicare costs. Find tips and resources below that can help you keep more of your money: Save on Medicare Costs You might be financially eligible ...
Continue ReadingFriday, July 1st, 2022
An On-Demand Educational Video for Family Caregivers Who Are Caring for a Loved One with Dementia or Alzheimer's Jim Mangi, a volunteer from the Alzheimer's Association Michigan Chapter, recently presented the webinar: Dementia Conversation—Driving, Doctor Visits, Legal & Financial Planning. This educational workshop offered offered helpful tips to assist families in having honest and caring conversations with family members about dementia. The workshop reinforces the need to plan ahead and build ...
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