Category: caregiver support

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A Day At The DMV

 

  • Recently my daughter and I spent a few hours at the DMV. She was getting registration, new license and other requirements for her car. It was another way for us to spend quality time together. (If you are familiar with DMV lines, you know we had more than enough time to share special moments)
    She received her number and was told it would probably be a 45 minute wait. We left for a snack and returned. Her number B105 had not been called when we returned.
    How do you spend time at the DMV? We waited, talked and observed others.
    As we were watching and waiting, we noticed several seniors entering with their caregivers. (we assumed) Some of them were using assistance devices — walkers and canes. My daughter’s question to me was, “Mommie, why are they here? Is it for State Identification?” My response was “They are here for drivers licenses.”
    The disbelief on her face was quite apparent. Our watching and waiting continued. We heard their numbers being called. We watched them take their vision test. We observed as their #caregivers assisted them with all transactions. (check writing, holding them up to read signs, assisting with walking)
    The question is, how safe is it for seniors to drive? We all age differently and if you receive my blog or newsletter, we are Aging Gracefully. It must be noted that as we age, our strength is reduced along with our vision and our reaction times.
    There are precautions we all must take as we drive. Some are more important as we continue to age.
    Be certain we know the road signs.
    Travel on less busy streets.
    Drive during daylight hours.
    Use public transportation.
    Try ride sharing.
    It is everyone’s responsibility to be a safe and defensive driver. Let’s do our part to continually improve as we age and to understand that age can interfere with our driving. Have that conversation with your loved one about driving. Refer them to DMV or have their physician have a talk with them if you are not successful in convincing them to drive less or to allow others to assist them with their driving.
    Happy Driving to You.
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New Beginnings for Summer

 

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It’s hard to believe it’s August already.  My how time flies. It has been a busy summer.  Trust you are getting in some relaxation, some” time outs” and managing your time of self care more effectively.

 

If your summer activities have been limited, take the time to participate and engage in something that is fun for you and simple to do.  Some ideas are summer concerts.  Many parks anphoto (11)d beaches have free concerts and free movies.  Grab a blanket, some of the wonderful fruits and vegetables that are readily available during the summer months, share with some friends and family and enjoy. You deserve this special treat for yourself.

Are you a panicking Paul or a worried Wanda?  I shared many ideas and tips to overcome the stressful and overwhelming day to day activities that can become a normal part of the life of caregivers during a presentation on June 28th with  as a presenter with an estate planning attorney.

My Aging Gracefully presentation was a real hit with the community.  The discussion went from being “fabulous at 50 to being a novel 90.  How are you Aging Gracefully?

Some upcoming activities are listed below.  Tell your friends or those you know who can use the services.  Remember it’s all about “self care”.

First Tuesdays is another lifestyle presentation that starts on August 5th with a preview call.  Each month a new topic is discussed that is relevant to self-care and baby boomers.  Join us on the August 5th preview call at 712 432 1212; access code 725 356 151.   August is Aging Gracefully.

  • September  Self Care
  • October  Sibling Rivalry
  • November  Grief Support
  • December  Caregiving During the Holidays

September is filled with activities.  On September 13th, our second annual Standing UP for Caregivers.  It is an afternoon filled with wonderful surprises for your self care.  Relaxation, great and nutritious food, soothing music and art are included in this special afternoon. Sign up today. Call me for more information.  310 673 3349

September 26th-29th  Sail with New Beginnings and Getting My Pretty Back for an action packed, fun filled and thought provoking weekend cruise on Carnival Cruise Lines. This conference will allow you to get in touch with your divine destination.  It’s all about you. for more information on the cruise, contact Paul Saunders at 800 8193902 ext 85189.

Most importantly, take the time out TODAY to do something special for yourself.  You deserve it and You matter.

Joy and light,

Angela

310 673 3349

[email protected]

 

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Caregivers Survival Guide For the Holidays

As you prepare for the holidays, are you thinking about what’s for dinner; whose on the invitation list, what recipe to use for that traditional meal, how your loved one will handle the upcoming holidays with all the busyness that is a part of celebrating? New Beginnings on Saturday November 12, for a Lunch and Learn new ways to overcome holiday stress confusion balance comfort and well – being. The holidays are about family and relationships.During this lunch and learn you will enjoy a copy of my most recent book The ABC’s for Caregivers and receive an inspirational CD for caregivers.

Visit www.newbeginningstoday.eventbrite.com. Sign up for a new lease on the holidays. Caregivers really do need care too. Let me hear from you.

Email me [email protected] or call me at 310 673 3349.

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Alzheimer’s Walk

I am counting down the days to this week’s Alzheimer’s Walk on Sunday October 9. I will be joined by thousands of men, women, children, grandchildren, friends, husbands, wives and those afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease on this walk. Some will be walkers. The walkers usually attract their friends to join them. It is an occasion to get together for a tremendous cause. Others are professional runners who are determining how quickly they are able to complete the walk/run. I remember last year’s walk. There were kids in strollers. Some beyond the official stroller age, but parents aware these toddlers and young children might not be excited or able to complete a 5K walk. I passed adults in wheel chairs and children in strollers. Supporters were on the sidelines cheering us all on as we made this trek through the turns and street closures specifically for this walk. There was music and refreshments strategically located at various points of the walk. The crowd was excited. Celebrities joined the walk. Everyone was there for the cause — to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through research and support for caregivers. Have you made your donation or signed up to volunteer for this walk to end Alzheimer’s disease? Someone develops Alzheimer’s disease every 69 seconds. Caregivers need want and deserve your support for the Alzheimer’s Association. I will be looking for you on Sunday and want to hear all about your walking experience.

Remember, caregivers need care too. Send me an email about your experiences.
www.newbeginningstoday.com
310 673 3349