Serving Our Seniors Magazine Oct-Dec 2023

80 people attended “Would I feel Better If I Took Fewer Medications?” Dr. Ken Koncilja, Geriatrician, Cleveland Clinic, spoke. After the forum, I asked a member of the audiene what she learned. Here is what she had to say: • I learned that older people should not take Benadryl because it is not good for their mind/ memory, in later life. • I learned we should not rely on the health care system’s computer to know my medications. I have to know what medications I am taking and why I take each medication. • I learned Serving Our Seniors has a medication wallet card, which I am now using to keep my own record of medications and why I take each pill. • I learned that I need to be my own advocate when it comes to my health care. On Dec. 14, 1:30-3pm we are holding a forum on “How to Talk to Your Doctor About Taking Fewer Medications.” (see page 4 for details). RSVPs required. In 2019 (Pre-Covid), the caregiver shortage was bad. Serving Our Seniors had 30 people on its waiting list for help with personal care (bathing/showering, shampooing hair, applying lotion to the body for healthy skin, etc..) and light housekeeping. Since that time, our list has dwindled down to 0. We know there are older adults, throughout Erie County, who need such help. Have they given up due to the caregiver shortage? Did I just describe you? If so, call our office (419-624-1856) and make us aware of what you need. Serving Our Seniors is experimenting with an idea to find at least one person to go into the field of in-home caregiving. How? By selling a car for $60.00 to $75.00/ month to a new applicant who has been hired and trained by TLC Home Health of Ohio, LLC, as a home health aid, to take care of Serving Our Seniors’ clients. (Other stipulations do apply. Space prevents me from going into detail.) Serving Our Seniors will also provide funds to keep the car in good repair and gas to drive to the homes of Serving Our Seniors’ clients who need personal care and housekeeping. Caregiving is not easy work. It requires kindness, patience, the ability to perform heavy lifting, bending and stooping. If you know of such a person, tell them about this employment opportunity to become a certified home health aid and the option to purchase an affordable, safe, roadworthy car. For more information, call Serving Our Seniors, 419-624-1856. Ask for Sue Daugherty. Better Health in Later Life CAREGIVER SHORTAGE: Do You Need Help in the Home? Pam and Bree model the wallet card 15