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Ask Joan - Weekly Q and A Column | Caregivers Connect | General | General Ideas and Support | Healthy Aging | Inspiring Aging | Resources | Self Care for the Caregiver

Ask Joan: Caregivers deserve so much gratitude
ByVeronica Reed February 25, 2025August 6, 2025

Q. There are so many people I know who are caregivers for their family or work as professionals in the industry. What can I do to show my appreciation and support for those who provide such compassionate care? This past week was National Caregivers Day, a dedicated moment to honor and celebrate the incredible caregivers…

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Ask Joan - Weekly Q and A Column | General Ideas and Support | Healthy Aging | Inspiring Aging | Resources

Ask Joan: Celebrate Black History Month
ByVeronica Reed February 10, 2025August 6, 2025

Every February, we come together to celebrate the incredible contributions, achievements, and sacrifices of African Americans during Black History Month. This year’s theme, “African Americans and Labor”, invites us to explore how work, whether free or forced, skilled or unskilled, vocational or voluntary, has shaped the lived experiences of Black people throughout history. The labor…

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Ask Joan - Weekly Q and A Column | General Ideas and Support | Healthy Aging | Inspiring Aging | Resources

Ask Joan: Here’s some signs of neglect, abuse
ByVeronica Reed February 3, 2025August 6, 2025

Q. I often wonder about some of the older adults in my neighborhood and whether they are being neglected by family or caregivers. What are some of the things I should look out for? A. Elder abuse is a serious issue that can affect vulnerable adults, often in their own homes or in care facilities….

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Ask Joan - Weekly Q and A Column | General Ideas and Support | Healthy Aging | Inspiring Aging | Resources

Ask Joan: Important to stay hydrated during the winter
ByVeronica Reed January 27, 2025August 6, 2025

Q. I’m worried that my parents aren’t staying hydrated enough, especially in the winter months when it’s so dry and they have the heat up. Do you have any tips I can give to them? Staying hydrated during the winter months can be just as important as in the warmer seasons, especially for older adults….

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Ask Joan - Weekly Q and A Column | General Ideas and Support | Healthy Aging | Inspiring Aging | Resources

Ask Joan: Bathroom safety
ByVeronica Reed January 22, 2025August 6, 2025

Q. As my mother’s mobility gets more limited, I’m concerned about her bathing and the risk of getting hurt. What can I do to improve the safety of her bathroom? As we age, our balance, strength, and flexibility can diminish, which increases the risk of accidents in the bathroom. Bathing, while a necessary and relaxing…

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Ask Joan - Weekly Q and A Column | General Ideas and Support | Healthy Aging | Inspiring Aging | Resources

Ask Joan: Carbon monoxide detectors can be lifesavers
ByVeronica Reed January 22, 2025August 6, 2025

Q. I was devastated to read about the Massachusetts family that died from carbon monoxide poisoning. It made me think about the safety of my parents’ place. What can I do to help them prevent household dangers like this? That story was truly heartbreaking. Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a silent, often deadly threat that…

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Ask Joan - Weekly Q and A Column | General Ideas and Support | Healthy Aging | Inspiring Aging | Resources

Ask Joan: AgeSpan’s Financial Resources Program
ByVeronica Reed January 13, 2025August 6, 2025

Q. I’m noticing my parents are struggling to keep up with their mail and pay their bills on time. Are there resources available to help them stay on track? With January being National Financial Wellness Month, it’s the perfect time to support your loved ones in assessing and improving how they manage their finances. At…

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Ask Joan - Weekly Q and A Column | General Ideas and Support | Healthy Aging | Inspiring Aging | Resources

Ask Joan: Best ways to wage war on cold, flu season
ByVeronica Reed December 23, 2024August 6, 2025

Q: It seems like colds and flu are making a comeback just as the holidays approach. How can I protect my parents during this time? The holiday season, a time for family and celebration, but also the season for colds and flu. As we prepare to gather with loved ones, here are some proactive steps…

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Ask Joan - Weekly Q and A Column | General Ideas and Support | Healthy Aging | Inspiring Aging | Resources

Ask Joan: Older adults must be aware of scams
ByVeronica Reed December 16, 2024August 6, 2025

Q. It feels like every day there’s a new online scam targeting my parents. Do you have any tips on how they can stay safe? A. Scammers are becoming increasingly crafty, and older adults are particularly vulnerable, especially during the holiday season. While we may think we’re immune, no one is completely safe from falling…

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Ask Joan - Weekly Q and A Column | General Ideas and Support | Healthy Aging | Inspiring Aging | Resources

Ask Joan: How to Stay Motivated in the Winter
ByVeronica Reed December 10, 2024August 6, 2025

Q. As the days get shorter and the cold sets in, I find myself struggling to stay motivated. I want to stay active and make the most of the time with my family during the winter months. Do you have any advice for staying engaged and upbeat? A. The winter months can be tough for…

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