How Do You Purchase the Right Long-Term Care Insurance Policy?
December 10, 2008
Caregiver Stress Check Quiz
December 9, 2008
If you are a caregiver for a person with Alzheimer’s or any other debilitating disease, take a look at the National Alzheimer’s Association’s Caregiver Stress Check. It’s very well done. Based on the issues you check off (ex., you feel like you are doing everything yourself with no backup, you think that your own health is suffering from the overload, etc.), the quiz takes you to different resources that can help you.
This quiz only takes a minute and can make a big difference to your own health and outlook, to your relationship with the person you care for, and to the quality of care you provide.
Newton Health Care Center
December 4, 2008
On a beautiful December Wednesday, I drove to Newton to tour the Newton Health Care Center. The owner, Healthbridge, also has the Weymouth Health Care Center on the South Shore. From the outside, it looks like an old-fashioned, brick nondescript nursing home, but inside, there is a lot going on. They offer an Alzheimer’s care unit, long-term care, short-term rehab, and post acute care.
Most interesting, though, is their “orthopedic unit.” This is a 22-bed wing designed for people who need a short stay while recovering from hip replacements, knee replacements, or other orthopedic surgeries. It is such a change to see a unit built for baby-boomers – rooms are private, each has a flat screen TV, there is internet access, and the wing is spacious and tastefully decorated. Very different from the usual institutional experience!
Through all the units, I noticed a few things that I liked. One was sunlight – lots of it. Plenty of natural light is key to mood and health. Despite being right off the highway, there were also peaceful views out many of the windows, whether of trees or a neighboring gold course. Again, soothing, natural sights help life mood and promote health. The courtyard used by the Alzheimer’s and dementia residents is larger than at many other facilities. And the two things I also look for when visiting facilities – the staff looked happy and calm, as did the residents.
Asperger’s Association of New England
December 3, 2008
Have you checked out the Asperger’s Association of New England? What a busy place. They provide services and support to teens, adults, family members, and educators and professionals.
Are you a teen looking for a social network? Are you a parent seeking workshops on parenting and advocating in the schools? Are you looking for a support group or an online chat room? They have it.
Or are you a friend or family member who simply needs to learn more about Asperger’s and on what to expect of your diagnosed friend and on how to best interact with her for a fruitful and loving relationship? They have information for beginners, too.
Be sure to check out especially the social outings and workshops – many are held at headquarters in Watertown, but there are several in Canton (held at the offices of Enable, Inc.), as well.