Q. My father made it a point to attend church and a men’s study group every week for as long as he was able. I always admired his dedication to his faith and his friends, and it made me realize that I might need to do a bit more of that myself. It’s sometimes hard to...
Blog
Aging Unbound: Jo Leary
The desire to help others was instilled in Jo Leary at a young age. When she was a child, Leary would go out with her mother to visit some of the older adults in her neighborhood. They’d check on these friends (some of whom were younger than her mother) to make...
Ask Joan: Volunteering a great way to give back
Q. My mother benefited from volunteer meal delivery service when she was no longer able to cook for herself, and I’ve always been so grateful for the help she received in her last years. Now, I want to do more to give back and help others, especially older adults...
Ask Joan: Options counseling for caregivers
Q. I am 76 years old and the primary caretaker of my wife, who has Alzheimer’s. While I love my wife and want to help her, there are days when I am exhausted and struggling, especially when I’ve been up all night with her. Our doctor suggested trying an adult day...
Ask Joan: Celebrating the joy pets bring to our lives
Q. Now that our kids have grown up and have families of their own, my husband and I are considering getting a dog. It’s been several years since we had a family pet, but we both agreed we miss having a four-legged friend around the house. We’ve thought about...
Ask Joan: Traveling alone doesn’t have to be lonely
Q. I have so many fond memories of our family’s vacations, and since I’ve been on my own, I have taken some road trips with friends. While I’m no world traveler, I enjoy getting out and visiting new places. In fact, I’m thinking about taking a trip by myself. I...
Aging Unbound: Linda Vieira
A broken elevator and nine flights of stairs in the summer would be a deterrent to some people. Not to Linda Vieira, who week after week made sure her Meals on Wheels recipients still received their daily lunch, a wellness check, and a smile. “Some of them told me to...
Ask Joan: Older adults in the workforce
Q: I’m 67, and lately people have been asking when I am going to retire. I am happy working full time and see no reason to stop. I enjoy getting up each day and spending time with my coworkers and clients. Is that so unusual? Should I have to think about...
Ask Joan: Getting a good night’s sleep
Q. My wife and I have many things in common, but getting a good night’s sleep is not one of them. She never seems to have any issues falling asleep and then staying asleep. However, I find it harder and harder to go to sleep or stay asleep all night. I have heard...
Ask Joan: Intergenerational activities benefit us all
Q: A friend and I recently attended an arts program at a local senior center that brought together older adults and high school students. It was such a great experience, and it made me realize how lucky I am to regularly spend time with my own grandchildren. Some...