Senior Sunrise

When Congress passed the Social Security of 1965, seniors across America were suddenly granted a wealth of health care benefits that hadn’t been readily available. The federal program known as Medicare covers people aged 65 or older. Hospital expenses are automatically covered under Part A of Medicare, but additional services such as doctor’s visits require a monthly premium.

One of the newest features of the Medicare system went into effect in 2006, and it’s of particular interest to anyone seeking elderly health care. This feature, known as Part D, provides prescription drug coverage in exchange for a monthly premium. Private health care companies administer the plans, but they must first be approved and regulated by the federal government.

The FDA approves drugs on a daily basis, but why must doctors change the medication for a senior if it working for them?  This is a question that has been bothering me for a long time.  Having been a caregiver for my grandparents and parents I saw this happen more than once.  I admit, I didn’t argue the decision at the time, but now being older and better informed, I do encourage my relatives to make a strong case with their doctors, and question the reason for changing medications.

From observation and experience it is evident that in general the drugs/medications that are being given to seniors are not only more  potent, but serious consideration must be taken into account for adjusting to a new medication. It is a slow process for anyone, and particularly difficult for the elderly. 

When seniors are taking medications for a long period of time and then are asked to change to some other one because it is the latest on the market, I strongly suggest that caregivers ask questions, and clearly understand the reason for the change.  Any drug that drastically changes the behavior and/or attitude of any patient, senior or loved one should be questioned.

The topic of planning for one’s funeral is probably not on the top ten list of most people, but actually it should be.  Over the last 25 years I have assisted at more than 50 funerals, and of all of those I can only recall one person who had pre-planned their funeral.  My great aunt, who to our entire family was known to be ” ahead of her time”, had everything planned out  and paid for.  She had set aside her burial clothes, and included the money for the reception after her passing.  She had taken care of every detail: the cemetery, the plot, the religious service, the wake, the funeral, the reception, and lastly how her belongings, and home were to be distributed and taken care of.

Because of her example and forethought, not a few of us have done the same. I took the time two years ago to make an appointment with the morturary that my family has dealt with for over thirty years.  I scheduled an appointment, and took care of the details of my own funeral.  I was able to start a payment plan that will soon be complete, and I feel that I have saved my family more than a few troubles in taking care of me when I die.  Just knowing that I am going to leave, and have things in order for them makes me feel happy.  They will not have the monetary burden, nor the stressful job of wondering what to do.  I encourage everyone to think about doing some funeral planning, for youself, and if possible for those that you love. 

At a certain point in our lives reality hits, and we realize that time is passing quickly.  We look around us, and not only do we see our sons, daughters, and grandchildren getting older, but we see ourselves aging. 

There are so many questions that follow that stunning reality.  Are my things in order?  Do I have a will?  Should I make a Living Trust instead of a will?  How do I decide who gets what, or to whom do I leave property and/or money   These questions and more can make us few stressed out and anxious.  To be able to decide what to do before it’s “too late” every senior should take the time, with someone they trust at their side, and make a decision about either making a Living Trust or Will.  

The idea of having to do this is sometimes haunting, but the completion of such brings peace and calm.  The positive outcome, of course will be knowing that your personal things, & more have been accounted for not only in your lifetime, but in your death as well.  Your family will know that what you have decided is to be fulfilled, and they also will be grateful that your wishes have been followed. 

Taking care of an elderly individual is a tremendous strain and a tremendously difficult proposition. But done with love, affection, and care, it can also be a rewarding experience. Still, because of the inherently difficult nature of the work, there are a growing number of cases of elder abuse every year. The following are some behaviors that people should watch for in elder care providers, as it might be indicative of abuse.

Of course, these behaviors are not a telltale sign of adult abuse. Rather, they are simply cause to check into the situation in greater detail. As such, watch for caregivers that don’t allow the elderly individual to speak to visitors. Also, watch for aggressive, unloving, or otherwise angry behavior towards the elder. And just as a risk factor, be careful when caregivers have a history of drug abuse, metal illness, or any kind of criminal behavior.