Question: For many years, I have been visiting my 82-year-old mother every week. We have always enjoyed good conversations about our lives, books we read, hobbies we shared and current events. I have enjoyed her energy, stories, and wisdom. Lately, it feels like she...
Ask Joan: Five ways to lower the risk of falling
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. About six months ago, I was walking to my car and fell in my driveway. The fall broke my hip, and I had surgery a few days later. My doctor suggested physical therapy and prescribed pain medication. It’s been an awful...
Ask Joan: Learning to cook for one can be a challenge
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. Last winter, my beautiful wife of 54 years passed away suddenly. I miss so many things about her and am trying hard to adjust to my new life. My wife was an amazing cook, so I never wanted for a meal. Now, I’m struggling...
Ask Joan: You too can go ‘for the gold’
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. This summer, I enjoyed watching the Olympics and seeing so many athletes do remarkable things. Whether it was gymnastics, swimming, archery, or anything in between, I was inspired seeing people “go for the gold.” I know my...
Ask Joan: Caregivers need to tap many ‘lists’
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. Earlier this year, my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. She has her good days and her bad days and recently agreed to join my family in our home. I treasure my time with my mother. At the same time, I find...
Ask Joan: Laughter is the Best Medicine
Q. One of the reasons I really enjoy summer is that school is out and I get to spend so much more time with my grandchildren and great grandchildren. They bring me joy and I smile a lot more when they are around. I also think I feel better physically after spending an...
Ask Joan: Lifelong Learning
Q. I’ve been in classrooms all my life, first as a student, then as a teacher for more than 40 years. I have some health issues and made the decision to retire a few years ago. While I don’t regret retirement, I miss being around students and others who love to learn....
Ask Joan: Spiritual Wellness
Q. My sister was recently diagnosed with cancer and our whole family is pulling together to help her. We give her rides to her regular treatments, help with chores around the house, and do all her weekly grocery shopping and cooking. At her most recent medical...
Ask Joan: Genealogy
Q. I come from a large family and have relatives all over the world, including South America and Europe. I have lots of stories about our family and have been doing my best to pass them down to my children and grandchildren. Recently, my granddaughter shared some...
Ask Joan: Technology & Innovation
Q. My 70-year-old neighbor recently sold her home because she wanted to move into a smaller apartment in town. When I went to visit her, she gave me a tour and seemed so happy in her new space. She described her place as a “smart home.” What exactly does that mean...