Q I am an only child with parents who are nearing their mid 70s.
My mother recently pointed out that some of their friends are speaking to their children about power of attorney for health and financial matters in the event of an illness or loss of capacity.
Is it automatic that I, again as an only child, should be responsible for everything? Is that wise? I am not even sure what all of that responsibility would entail.
(From a daughter in Portage).
JANESVILLE — The […]
BELOIT — Rock County Council on Aging will be offering “Powerful Tools for Caregivers®,” a nationally recognized education program to help family and friends caring for older adults and anyone who cares for someone with a chronic health concerns.
“Taking Care of You — Powerful Tools for Caregiving” is designed to help family caregivers take care of themselves.
This class teaches the caregiver necessary emotional tools to reduce guilt, anger, and depression; how to deal with difficult feelings; taking care of yourself; help you relax; set goals; solve problems; and effective communication with family members and health service providers.
MADISON — As our parents age, they may experience some decline. That can cause a sometimes difficult transition from being their child to being their primary caregiver.
How do we address these changes and challenges with love, strengthened and supported by our Catholic faith? How do we care for ourselves and remain grounded in hope?
JANESVILLE — Rock County Council on Aging will be offering a six-week LIVING WELL workshop series Tuesdays, Sept. 16 through Oct. 21 at the Rock County Council on Aging office, 3328 Hwy. 51 North, Janesville, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.
LIVING WELL is a program for people with chronic diseases and their caregivers. Chronic diseases are ongoing health conditions and include diabetes, arthritis, HIV/AIDS, high blood pressure, depression, heart disease, chronic pain, anxiety, multiple sclerosis, and fibromyalgia.
JANESVILLE — Rock County Council on Aging will be offering “Powerful Tools for Caregivers®”, a nationally recognized education program to help family and friends caring for older adults and anyone who cares for someone with chronic health concerns.
“Taking Care of You — Powerful Tools for Caregivers” is designed to help family caregivers take care of themselves. This class teaches the caregiver necessary emotional tools to reduce guilt, anger, and depression; how to deal with difficult feelings; take care of yourself; help you relax; set goals; solve problems; and effective communication with family members and health service providers.
 |
|
Q I am concerned about my mother. She is in her mid 80s and recently moved to an apartment for older adults — at the strong suggestion of her children. The reason is we thought that she would love to make new friends, get involved in some of the activities they hold, go on some of the outings, and in general be more active and involved. So far, she has not ventured out of her apartment without a family member with her. I wonder if this was a mistake.
(From a daughter in Madison)
BELOIT — The Rock County Council on Aging is offering a six-week educational class on healthy eating for successful living.
The program is open to older adults interested in learning about nutrition and how lifestyle changes can promote better health through nutrition and exercise.
Participants will learn goal setting and brainstorming strategies to increase bone and heart healthy food choices.
 |
|
| A standing-room only crowd listens to the morning keynote session at the at the fourth annual Catholic Charities Aging Conference held May 15 at the Bishop O’Connor Center in Madison. (Catholic Herald photo/Kevin Wondrash) |
MADISON — All of us want to know how we can live well and age well. Catholic Charities (CC) of the Diocese of Madison gave plenty of suggestions on making that happen at its annual Aging Conference.
The fourth annual conference held on May 15 at the Bishop O’Connor Center in Madison drew a record number of participants.
Bill Hamilton, director of Aging Services for Catholic Charities, welcomed those attending the day. “As a leader in providing aging services, Catholic Charities is happy to provide this community outreach,” he said.
He noted that CC has six programs for older adults: Elder Mentor, Companion Care, Respite Care, Adult Day Center, Caregiver Training, and the All Saints Neighborhood. “We have a really nice package of services for older adults,” said Hamilton.
Throughout my life I have many times been reminded of Sister Gregory, my favorite teacher’s comment that God has a sense of humor.
