Seattle Senior Living Radio Show
Host: Ben Solomon - Right at Home Owner
Get the latest in home care news in Seattle with the Right at Home Senior Care Living Radio Show. Each week host Ben Solomon was joined by Seattle area Senior Care and Home Health experts to discuss the latest in home care.
Right at Home Seattle has been caring for Seattle seniors for over 19 years. The Right at Home Senior Care Living Radio Show will provide insight from the areas most experienced caregivers, experts in elder care, tips, suggestions and much more.
Prevent Emergency Visits to Trauma Hospitals - Fall Prevention
We met with Julie Ley, RN for over 40 years and Trauma Coordinator at St. Clare Hospital in Lakewood, which is part of the CHI Franciscan Health system. Julie shared with us that 60% of all visits to the ER are directly related to falls, and that for people over the age of 65 falls are the major cause of serious injury. We talked about the importance of recognizing the increased risk of falling as we age and steps that we can take to reduce our risk of falling.
Julie also wanted to share that the Pierce County Fall Prevention Coalition is hosting a Fall Prevention Awareness Day on Thursday, September 29th from 10AM – 1PM at the Meridian Habitat Community Center at 14422 Meridian E. Puyallup, WA 98374. For more information please call Bob Riler at Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources (253) 798-4600.
Showing the True Face of Grief
Today we were fortunate to have Carol Kummet, a licensed social worker from University of Washington Medical Center’s Palliative Care Department, and Dr. Katie Schlenker, a clinical instructor in the UW Division of General Internal Medicine and Palliative Care Services, talk with us about grief, dispelling some misconceptions, and providing us with tools on how best to approach grief in our lives and provide counsel to others.
For additional resources please read:
- Safe Passage by Molly Fumia
- A Time to Grieve by Carol Staudacher
Visit the following websites:
Or call your Local Hospice provider and ask for the Bereavement Counselor.
Why Do We Fall and How to Reduce the Risk of Falling as We Age
This morning we met with Kele Murdin, Physical Therapist and Nancy Butner, Executive Director from Life Care Center of Kirkland in Kirkland, WA. Nancy and Kele discussed that falls are often a sign of chronic health conditions that build up over time. Kele highlighted the importance of self-motivation as rehabilitation and shared a few inspiring stories with us. Kele and Nancy also emphasized the importance of self-advocacy for your care and the importance of discussing changes in condition with your primary care physician.
Nancy also mentioned the annual Classic Car Show that Life Care Center of Kirkland holds each August. You can learn more about the inpatient and outpatient therapy programs at Life Care Center of Kirkland by visiting their website www.lifecarecenterofkirkland or calling Nancy at (425) 823-2323.
Dispelling Myths of Alzheimer's
This morning we met with Deb Myers and Jan Wieder from Narrows Glen a Vintage Senior Living community in Tacoma, WA. Deb, the Assisted Living Director and Jan, the Executive Director at Narrows Glen, shared with us the difference between simple memory loss and Alzheimer’s. They also dispelled some long held myths about Alzheimer’s and the disease progression. We also discussed the importance of caregivers getting respite and support for their own health and well-being.
Deb and Jan also invited our listeners to join them on January 30th to an inspiration speakers series with Dennis Bowers at Narrows Glen. You can learn more about the talk and Narrows Glen by visiting their website www.vintagesenior.com or calling Shane Fowler at 253-564-4770.
Evergreen Elder Concierge - Rent a Daughter Service for Seniors in Need
This morning we met with Debora Morris and Teresa Harbottle, both Certified Senior Advisors who specializes in assisting senior clientele and their families in safely navigating the senior care continuum through a holistic approach focusing on positively impacting quality of life, peace of mind and freedom to enjoy time with loved ones. We talked about the importance of elder advocacy, bill paying, and advanced planning.
If you would like to learn more you can reach Teresa and Debora at 253-301-0361 or via their website at http://www.evergreenconcierge.com/.
Leigh Ann Breer - Breast Cancer Survivor and Gentiva Home Health Specialist Shares Her Story
On October 25th we met with Leigh Ann Breer, a Home Health Specialist with Gentiva Home Health and a Breast Cancer Survivor. Leigh Ann was originally diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 34 and has been in remission for over 10 years. In addition to talking about her experiences, she shared the important and under-utilized role Home Health can play in: client advocacy, medication management as well as physical and occupational therapy.
Leigh Ann also advocated for seniors to get genetically tested to determine if they carry the markers for certain types of cancer that are often passed down to their children. You can learn more about Gentiva’s services and how they can help someone diagnosed with cancer by visiting the Gentiva website at www.gentiva.com or calling them toll free at 1-888-984-7420.
Ret. Col. Merle Fister – A Life Dedicated to Service and Serving Others
On September 6th we met with Retired Col. Merle Fister who shared his life of service and serving others on our show this morning. Merle, who is 94 years young, and lives at Fairwinds-Redmond Retirement Community shared his lifelong philosophy of bringing people together to solve important problems and create community. Merle shared four distinct chapters in his life, as a farmer growing up on rural farm in Nebraska, as a military man and airplane pilot seeing action in WWII, as a small business advisor and owner in Arizona, and as a community organizer in a very active retirement phase of his life in Arizona and here in Redmond, Washignton.
Merle is still extremely active in his community and shares his philosophy of service with us on Right at Home Senior Care Living.
Wealth Preservation and An Alternative to Long Term Care
On August 30th we visited with George Shipe from National Benefit Advisory, Inc. George is wealth preservation specialist who has personal experience as a caregiver for his wife who was diagnosed with and later passed away from cancer. George shared that may people do not plan in advance and are not prepared for when tragedy may hit which can lead to personal, emotional as well as financial challenges.
We learned about the rising costs of long term care insurance and the unique insurance products that can help pay for long term care. If you would like more information you can reach George at: george@nationalbenefitadvisory.com. Or visit his website at www.nationalbenefitadvisory.com.
Understanding Unique Care Needs n the LGBT Community
On July 26th we met with Pat McIntyre and Steven King from Northwest LGBT Senior Providers , who introduced us to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Community. Pat is a Social Gerontologist and President of Tacoma Older LGBT, a non-profit organization that serves older LGBT adults and provides cultural fluency training for those that work with older adults Steven is the Admissions Coordinator for Linden Grove Health Care Center in Puyallup and advocate for gay and lesbian rights in the Puget Sound.
We learned about the history of discrimination within the LGBT Community and how that it affects the way care is received by elders in this community. We also learned about effective ways of communicating and that there is gender sensitivity awareness training available for health care institutions including skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, and nursing homes. If you would like more information you can reach Steven at 253-840-4400 or e-mail him at steven.king@reveraliving.com. You can also reach Pat at patricia@tacomaolderlgbt.org or check out www.tacomaolderlgbt.org website.
Daily Money Managers and How They Can Be an Asset for Seniors and Their Families
We welcomed John Platt, Business Manager for Ware, Egtvet and Associates to the show to introduce us to the concept of Daily Money Managers and how they can help seniors and their families keep their financial house in order. We discussed the difference between a daily money manager and a fiduciary, and the signs that a loved one may benefit from the services of daily money manager. We also explored what to look for when hiring one, and the costs associated with the services.
If you are interested in learning more about Daily Money Managers and are interested in a consultation, John welcomes your call. He can be reached at 206-781-6997 x104 or via e-mail at john@cwareassociates.com. You can also learn more about Ware, Egtvet, and Associates and find additional links to the field by visiting them at www.cwareassociates.com.
Music Therapy from Aegis of Shoreline
Our guests where Jennifer Creagan and Kristin Haglin from Aegis of Shoreline. Kristin is a music therapist and shared how music can provide therapeutic results.
If you are interested in learning more about Music Therapy or other programs at Aegis of Shoreline please contact Jennifer at 206-367-6700 or visit their website: http://www.aegisliving.com/aegis-living-of-shoreline.
The Ins and Outs of Reverse Mortgage
Desiree Yuzawa, mortgage consultant from Fairway Mortgage, discussed the in and outs of Reverse Mortgages. If you are interested in learning more please contact Desiree at 206-673-2156.
Medicaid Planning with Jerry Sprute
Jerry Sprute from Sprute Law came to the studio this morning to share some of the basics of Medicaid including benefits and eligibility requirements with us. He also spoke about advanced planning and the importance of having advanced directives in place.
Jerry is available for a free consultative meeting. If you are interested in speaking with Jerry you can reach him at www.sprutelaw.com or phone him at 425-892-4079.
Estate Planning: Getting Your Affairs in Order
This morning we were joined by Sharon Perlin, an attorney with Flaccus Law in North Seattle. Sharon shared valuable information regarding setting trusts, probate, and the importance of estate planning beyond property issues. Sharon and her partner, Karl Flaccus, offer a free legal clinic at the Shoreline Senior Center the second Tuesday of each month.
Call the senior center at 206-365-1536 to schedule time with Sharon and Karl. You can also reach Flaccus Law at www.flaccuslaw.com or phone them at 206-523-0297.
Downsizing Tips with Laurie Lamoureux
Our guest was Laurie Lamoureux from Seamless Move. She shared with us how a move management could help empty nesters, seniors, and other people who are downsizing and moving to a smaller home. She gives some great tips on where to start along with important Dos and DONTs. Laurie is part of the Eldermove Alliance and is speaking for free in Bellevue April 21 and 28.
If you would like more information on Move Managers please call Laurie at 425-746-1334 or visit her website at www.seamlessmoves.com.
Active Day - Adult Health Programs
Peter Adams and Joan Engle from Active Day - Adult Day Health came by the studio to introduce us to the concept of Adult Day Health Programs. They provide wonderful programming for isolated seniors and adults with disabilities in addition to therapies found through traditional home health agencies. We also discussed the role these programs can play in providing respite to family caregivers.
If you live in South King, Kitsap or Pierce Counties, please give Joan or Peter a call at 253-732-0062 to learn about their program or visit them online at www.cascadecares.com/cascade-park-active-day.
Discussing Memory Fitness Programs with Linda White and Sarah Gerhard
Linda White and Sarah Gerhard from Era Living's assisted and independent living communities, The Lakeshore and University House Issaquah, joined us this morning to introduce us to their Memory Fitness Program. The program combines therapies and approaches that help their residents with dementia stay engaged and lead more fulfilling lives. Linda and Sarah shared some techniques that can be used by family caregivers to improve the lives of people dealing with cognitive impairment.
If you want to learn more about the Memory Fitness Program you can reach out to Linda at The Lakeshore at 206-772-1200 or Sarah at University House Issaquah at 425-557-4200.
What is the process, who qualifies and what type of benefits are available for veterans?
Aaron Steele of U.S. Senior Vets discusses what type of benefits are available for veterans. He also details who can qualify for those benefits and the process to apply for pension benefits.
If you have questions or want more information please contact Aaron by calling 360-464-2979 or emailing at steelcap@outlook.com.
Are you thinking about making a move? Make sure you find the right realtor - Conversation with Mindy Garner, Real Estate Specialist
Mindy Garner is a realtor and a Senior Real Estate Specialist with Coldwell Banker Bain and cofounder of the ElderMove Alliance. Mindy shares with us some information on the current market and what to look for when choosing a realtor. She also introduced us to the ElderMove Alliance and its role in educating seniors and their family members on the various services in the community that can help seniors make important life decisions and maximize their independence.
Please learn about ElderMove Alliance's next two-day seminar series by visiting www.eldermove.com or calling them at 425-466-5345. You can also speak to Mindy about selling your home by visiting her website at www.mindyshouse.com or giving her a call at 206-914-2970.
Identity Theft - Jonathan Bingham with Legal Shield
Jonathan shared with us how to protect our identities and how to keep ourselves and our loved ones from becoming victims of financial scams and abuse.
If you have questions or want more information regarding financial abuse and ways to protect yourselves, you can reach Jonathan at 253-279-7710 or online at www.lglshld.info.
Solutions for Long Term Care Planning - Answering the questions you have about this type of insurance with Andria Bovey of myLTCexpert.com
Andria Bovey is a long term care planning specialist based near Seattle. She educates people about their risk of needing long term care and, if they wish, to select the most appropriate insurance carrier and policy options to plan in advance to preserve their nest eggs and not rely on children or friends to provide unexpected care someday. Listeners are invited to get a FREE copy of a booklet she co-authored The Essentials of Long Term Care Planning available on her website at www.myltcexpert.com/request.
On today's program Andria reviewed several basics about how long term care insurance works, who it's appropriate for, and why people need to plan in advance to ensure choices in how and where care is provided when the time comes. Andria loves to educate people about long term care and how to finance its cost. Andria often says: "Let your family be your family not your caregiver." She's a phone call away at 425-789-1020 or by email at andria@myltcexpert.com.
Talking about Dying Won't Kill You: Knowing and protecting your end of life choices - Conversation With Robb Miller from Compassion and Choices of Washington
Robb Miller is the Executive Director for Compassion and Choices of Washington, a non-profit organization that assists people with all aspects of end-of-life decision making as they face incurable and terminal illnesses. Robb shared with us some strategies on how to bring up the conversation of advanced planning with your loved ones. We also discussed different ways one can approach the end-of-life, we explored the death with dignity law, and reviewed the importance of palliative and hospice care.
Please review the Compassion and Choices Website at www.compassionwa.org for seminars that Robb and his team are hosting throughout Western Washington. You can also reach Robb and his team at info@compassionwa.org or call them Toll Free at 1-877-222-2816.
Concierge Medicine - Looking into the past to find new approaches to primary care
Dr. AJ Shergill, a Board-Certified Internist who founded MEDTRIQ Concierge Clinic in Bellevue. Dr. Shergill shared with us that the current model of delivering primary care does not create the best quality care and makes an excellent argument and shares statistics that the Concierge approach can deliver superior health outcomes and fosters a more meaningful patient-physician relationship.
For more information on MEDTRIQ Concierge Clinic and Dr. Shergill please you can contact him directly at: http://medtriq.com/contact and at 425-214-5316.
Communication strategies and community resources for families with a loved one who had hearing loss
This morning we spoke with Christine Seymour, Owner of CS Deaf and Hard of Hearing Specialists. Christine is a professional advocate and educator for people who are deaf and hard of hearing, who became deaf as an adult. Christine shared her personal experiences of losing her hearing and how she know helps others. We discussed what it is like for people who have lost their hearing, resources available for people with hearing loss, and some basic communication strategies that foster understanding and empathy.
For more information about CS Deaf and Hard of Hearing Specialists, to hire her for a consultation, and to ask Christine a question, you can reach her at: http://www.cs-dhhrs.com/ Voice (253) 256-4690 --- Text (253) 495-5825 --- Videophone (253) 256-3938 Email: Christine@cs-dhhrs.com
Educate Yourself - Learn what to look for in choosing a hospital and rehabilitation center
This morning's show features Rachel Weber, RN and Director of Nursing at Snoqualmie Valley Hospital in North Bend. Rachel shared with us the importance of doing your homework before choosing a hospital and that not all rehabilitation centers are the same. We learned about the Swing Bed Program at Snoqualmie Valley and how their unique product offerings helps reduce hospital readmissions.
Rachel invites all of our listeners to give her a call at Snoqualmie Valley Hospital at 425-831-2300 or visiting their website at http://www.snoqualmiehospital.org/. Rachel gives tours along with the staff at the hospital.
What I need to know about Medicare if admitted to hospital or skilled nursing facility: Conversation with Mike Steiner, Admissions Director for Washington Care Center
This morning we spoke with Mike Steiner, Admissions Director for Washington Care Center in Seattle, Washington. We discussed the importance of having your insurance documentation in order and letting your caregivers know where you keep it so they can assist with admissions process if you need help. We also discussed the difference of how care is accessed and paid for depending on whether you have insurance through a Managed Care Organization vs. Straight Medicare. We also reviewed the difference between being in the hospital under observation status vs. being admitted and the potential ramifications for payment in a skilled nursing facility.
If you have questions about your Medicare benefits and are considering rehab in a skilled nursing facility, please reach out to Mike and he would be happy to speak with you and maybe even give you a tour of their facility. You can reach Mike at Washington Care Center by calling at (206) 725-2800. You can also visit their website at http://www.wacenter.com/.
Mobility Equipment: Taking the steps to make sure you have the mobility equipment that best meets your needs - Conversation with Gary Chambers, Certified Assistive Technology Professional and General Manager for American Seating & Mobility
This morning we spoke with Gary Chambers, a certified assistive technology professional with American Seating & Mobility in Fife, Washington. We discussed the importance of being properly fitted for your mobility equipment. Gary shared with us that many people have progressive and changing conditions, and it is important to make sure your equipment meets those changing needs. We also explored how insurance works for durable medical equipment.
If you have questions about your current equipment or want to learn more about mobility equipment, you can reach Gary at their retail location in Fife at 253-896-3535 or visit their website at www.asmrehab.com.
Affordable Housing for Today's Baby Boomers - Conversation with Jay Woolford, Executive Director for the Senior Housing Assistance Group (SHAG)
This morning we spoke with Jay Woolford who has been in charge of SHAG Housing since 2009. We discussed the difference between affordable housing from Public Housing and the income/asset requirements to be eligible for affordable housing. We also learned how SHAG is promoting active and fulfilling lifestyles for seniors and helping residents connect with community resources to age in place.
For more information and to tour one of their communities, please contact SHAG at 1-888-450-SHAG or visit them online at www.housing4seniors.com.
Fun Based Therapies in a Family Friendly Setting Improves Outcomes at Saint Anne Nursing and Rehab Center
Our guests this morning are Marita Smith and Oudi Kumendong from Saint Anne Nursing and Rehab Center. Marita and Oudi discussed the importance of having fun with activities; physical and cognitive activities as well as the importance of providing FUN events for seniors.
They also shared with us their use of a video game style therapy tool called the OmniVR System that motivates patients to do their therapies. Marita and Oudi extend an invitation to our audience to visit Saint Anne and try the OmniVR System. They also extend an invite to join them at their Halloween Party on Friday, October 31. You can find Saint Anne Nursing and Rehab Center online at www.saintannenursing.com or give them a call at 206-363-7733 and ask for Paula or Lori.
Eldercare Consultants Provide Free Guidance and Direction to Families in Need of Elder Care Resource
Our guest this morning was Michelle Graham, a Certified Senior Advisor and Co-Owner of Graham and Graham Eldercare Consultants. Graham and Graham provides seniors and their families with personalized options for care. Their services are free to the client and are paid by the providers they contract with, allowing them to provide support to people who might otherwise not be able to afford it on their own.
Michelle and her team at Graham and Graham would be happy to take your calls and discuss your needs directly at 1-888-217-1655. They help families and their loved ones from Bellingham to Vancouver, Washington. They can also be reached through their website at www.grahamandgrahamec.com.
Facing a Health Crisis That May Require Hospitalization - Contact a Medical Social Worker
Our guests this morning were Chris Strand and Danielle Harthorne, Medical Social Workers with Careage Home Health. Careage is a provider of Medicare home health services serving King County.
Danielle and Chris shared the importance of working with a Medical Social Worker when you are needing to better understand your care options, community resources, and how to best pay for it. The cost for their services may be covered through your Medicare benefit.
Danielle and Chris also introduced a topic around hospitalization that can have a great impact on what care is covered and at what amount.
Inpatient vs. Observation Status. They gave an overview of this complicated topic that can have a major impact on your care and the choices you should be advocating on your behalf. Danielle and Chris would be happy to take your calls and discuss your needs with the directly at 1-425-579-1265. They can also be reached via their website at http://www.careagehealth.com.
Falling in Love Later in Life
Being widowed many seniors give up on the thought of ever falling in love again or are concerned about what their children and friends will say. Joe and Marianne Russell from Aegis Lodge joined Ben in the studio to share their story of falling in love and marrying in their golden years. Listen to their inspiring story!
Free In-Home Program for Washington Residents with Dementia and Their Caregivers Through University of Washington
Today's guest was Linda Teri, Ph.D., a Clinical Psychologist and Professor of Geriatrics in the School of Nursing at the University of Washington shared theProgram Reducing Disabilities in Alzheimer's Disease(RDAD). This program is designed to help improve health and quality of life for those living with dementia and their caregivers. The RDAD program is brought directly to the home by trained caregivers free of charge.
After listening to the program you are interested in learning how you can participate please contact Amy Cunningham, Program Coordinator for RDAD at the University of Washington. Amy can be reached at 206-616-5550.
Senior Living Options: Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)
Our guest was Jean Henkels, a Healthcare Sales and Outreach Coordinator for Covenant Shores, a CCRC on Mercer Island. Jean shared what it is like to live in a CCRC and the values and approach to care at Covenant Shores. After listening to our interview, you would like to learn more about Covenant Shores you can contact Jean at (877) 591-0515 to arrange for a tour.
What is Dementia and Alzheimer's - Diagnosis, Definitions, and Support Options
We interviewed Kathy Stewart (RN) and Shirley Newell (MD) from Aegis Senior Living to better understand dementia and Alzheimer's. Kathy is the General Manager of Aegis Lodge in Kirkland, Washington and author of Mom's Losing Her Memory - I'm Losing My Mind (Taking Care of Mom and Dad with Memory Decline) with over 30 years of delivering care to seniors. Shirley is a board certified internist and geriatrician with over 30 years of experience and currently Chief Wellness Officer and Medical Director for Aegis Living.
We learned that there are reversible forms of dementia that proper nutrition, medication, and counseling can address. We also learned about a number of diagnostic tools available for people to determine whether a loved one has Alzheimer’s. Kathy and Shirley shared that Aegis Living provides a number of community support groups and helps people connect with community resources.
Contact Information: If you are interested in learning more about Alzheimer's and Dementia, and would like to learn more about support groups that are hosted at Aegis Lodge or are interested in following up on a topic you heard during the interview please contact Aegis Living at 1-866-688-5829 or www.aegisliving.com.
Home Care vs. Home Health - (Understanding the Differences and How to Pick the Right One
Ben Solomon CSA and Dan Murphy from KIXI talk about the differences between home care and home health. They explored how home health and home care services are paid and what is covered under the Medicare Benefit. They also talk about how to hire a great in home care provider.
Contact Information: If you are interested in learning more about home care, home health, and choosing an in home care provider, please contact us at Right at Home Seattle and Eastside.
Poverty of Touch – Sex, Sexuality and Feelings of Loss within the Senior Population
We interviewed Kathy Bates, a Mental Health Therapist with over 35 years of experience working with the senior population currently with Foss Home and Village in North Seattle. We discussed sex and sexuality amongst the elderly in our community. The importance of looking for and addressing inappropriate behaviors such as disrobing in public but respecting individual choice and encouraging relationships at all ages.
Contact Information: If you are interested in learning more addressing inappropriate behavior around sexuality amongst people with dementia and memory loss Kathy recommends contacting social workers at Senior Centers in your community, the Alzheimer’s Association and the support groups they run http://www.alz.org/, and the National Center on Caregiving and their number is 1-800-445-8106.
Parkinson's Disease, Proper Diagnosis and Community Resources
We interviewed Suzanna Eller, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Social Worker and president of the Board for the Washington State Chapter for the American Parkinson Disease Association and Kristi Murphy, the Executive Director for the Washington State Chapter for the American Parkinson Disease Association.
Suzanna and Kristi spoke with us about Parkinson’s Disease in recognition of April as Parkinson’s Disease Month. We learned how best to be properly diagnosed and about resources in the community for those who have the disease.
Contact Information: If you are interested in learning more the American Parkinson Disease Association and resources in the community please contact Kristi Murphy at Kristi@waparkinsons.org or visit their website at http://www.waparkinsons.org/ or call them at 425-243-2732
We also reviewed the Momentia Calendar for activities in our community for people with Early Stage Memory Loss.
Contact Information: http://www.momentiacalendar.com/
Brain Health and Nutrition
We interviewed Dr. Lisa Meserole, a naturopathic doctor and founder of Sage Healing, a consulting practice in Coupeville, WA. Dr. Meserole specializes in nutrition and botanical medicine to enhance health. Dr. Meserole provided us with some tips for caregivers and seniors on brain health and nutrition.
Contact Information: If you are interested in learning more how nutrition can support brain health please contact Dr. Meserole at http://www.sagehealing.org/
We also interviewed Dr. Jane Tornatore a therapist in Seattle who specializes in working with people who are dealing with memory problems, anxiety and depression. She spoke with us about taking away the car keys from an aging parent and having that difficult conversation of balancing Safety with Freedom and Independence.
Contact Information:
Jane B.G. Tornatore, Ph.D.
Individual, Family & Group Therapy
www.doctortornatore.com
Tel: 206.769.8108
Addressing Acute Care Needs of the Elderly
We interviewed Susan Abolafya, Director and Kellie Meserve, RN, Clinical Leader of Virginia Mason Medical Center's Acute Care for the Elderly Unit (ACE Unit). Located on First Hill in Seattle, this unit part of the hospital's 336 bed acute facility and attracts patients throughout the Pacific Northwest.
We spoke with Susan and Kellie about how the unique approach they take at Virginia Mason to address the acute care needs of the elderly. We also explored tips in how to reduce the risk of falls and how medication review can reduce the risk of delirium. Contact Information: If you are interested in learning more about the ACE Unit you can e-mail Susan at susan.abolafya@vmmc.org.
Grief and Bereavement and Roles Relationships Play in Rebuilding Mental Health
We talked to Cliff Warner, LICSW, Director of Resident and Family Supportive Programs at EraLiving. We spoke with Cliff about grief and bereavement at times when one experiences personal loss and the roll relationships play in rebuilding mental health and well-being.
Contact Information: If you are interested in learning more about Era Living’s support group meetings you can reach Cliff at (206) 470-8040 Era Living at 206) or e-mail him at Warner@eraliving.com. You can also visit Era Living and learn about their supportive program at http://www.eraliving.com/communities/bellevue/supportive-programs
Palliative Care to Improve the Quality of Life
We talked to Dr. Scott Pollock, Medical Director and Josh Barnes, Hospice Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Manager at Kline Galland Hospice. Dr. Barnes and Josh explored with us the concept of Palliative Care and when applied appropriately can help improve the quality of life of one facing serious illness. We also dispelled some of the myths around Palliative Care and explained the relationship of Hospice Care with Palliative Care.
Contact Information: Call Kline Galland Hospice at 206) 725-8800 or e-mail Josh Barnes at JoshB@klinegalland.org. You can also visit Kline Galland Hopice and Palliative Care at http://www.klinegalland.org/hospice-palliative-care/palliative-care/
Community Support Systems, Momentia Movement and the Cafe
We talked to Judy Kinney, Executive Director of NEST (Northeast Seattle Together) the first Virtual Village established in the Puget Sound. Judy shared with us the idea of the community as a support system allowing people to age in place in their home with support from volunteers who live in their neighborhood. NEST services the greater Wedgewood neighborhood. Contact Information: Call NEST at 206-525-NEST (6378) or e-mail Judy at judy@nestseattle.org. Visit Northeast Seattle Together (NEST) at http://www.nestseattle.org/
We also spoke to, Mari Becker, Recreation Specialist with the Seattle Parks and Recreation and Ceclily Kaplan, of the Greenwood Senior Center. Mari shared with us the Momentia Movement, the idea of connecting people with dementia to others in their community through activities such as theatre improve classes, gardening, and Alzheimer Cafes.
Cecily shared with us the concept of the Café as a safe place of engagement and one she hosts in the Greenwood neighborhood. Contact Information: For more information on the local Momentia activities visit www.momentiacalendar.com or call Mari at 206-684-4664. For more information on Alzhemer Café you can contact Cecily at the Greenwood Senior Center at (206) 297-0875.
Concepts of Positive and Creative Aging and Spirit Centered Care
We talked to Rebecca Crichton, Executive Director of the Northwest Center for Creative Aging. Rebecca shared the concepts of Positive and Creative Aging., and how the Northwest Center for Creative Aging engages our community through programs and workshops. Contact Information: To learn more about programming in your neighborhood please visit Northwest Center for Creative Aging’s website at www.nwcreativeaging.org. You can also contact Rebecca and her staff at 206-382-3789.
We also spoke to Sarah Shelton, a Gerontologist and Board President for the Elderwise Adult Day Program. Sarah shared with us the concept of Spirit Centered Care and how it is practiced at Elderwise. We explored their use of painting through wet-on-wet watercolors as a tool for improved self-expression and social interaction. Contact Information: For more information call Elderwise Adult Day Center at 206-774-6606 or visit them on-line at www.elderwise.org
How Sibling Rivalries Affect Care for a Loved One and Modern Day Electro Convulsive Therapy
We talked to Amy Miller, Director of Care Planning Associates a Washington State non-profit corporation providing professional guardianship and case management services to seniors and adults with disabilities. Amy shared with us how sibling rivalries can affect care for a parent or loved one and what to do about it. Contact Information: Call Care Planning Associates at 206-340-1124 or e-mail Amy at info@careplanning.org. Visit Care Planning Associates at www.careplanning.org.
We also spoke to Hisam Goueli, MD at UW Medicine Northwest Hospital's Geropsychiatric Center about Modern Day Electro Convulsive Therapy (ECT) and how it is used to help seniors fight depression. .Contact Information: For more information call Northwest Hospital Geropsychiatric Center at 206-368-1747 or visit them on-line at http://www.nwhospital.org/services/gero_main.asp
Discussing Wartime Veterans's Aid and Attendant Benefit and Fall Prevention Awareness
- Mahala Murphy-Martin - National Association for Senior Veterans
- Rachel Manchester - Heartland Home Health Seattle
Discussing Wartime Veterans's Aid and Attendant Benefit and Fall Prevention Awareness.