Kind Hearts Senior Care

Community Resource

Community Resource: National Association of Area Agencies on Aging

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The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, or the n4a, is a membership association. It represents America’s national network of 622 Area Agencies on Aging. The n4a also works as a voice advocating for aging programs at the nation’s capital.

The goal of the n4a is to build a society that values and supports people as they age. The association’s mission is to help build the capacity of its members so they can help older adults and people with disabilities live their best lives, make their own choices in their own homes and communities for as long as possible.

Aging Services

Caregivers

Daughter Puts Arm Around Mother While Looking At Flowers

The n4a recognizes how vital caregivers are. The n4a states that an estimated 65.7 million Americans provide for an older adult, or someone living with illness or disability. The study also mentioned that the value of unpaid caregiving has reached $522 billion annually. 

In most cases, older adults would rather stay in their own homes and communities for as long as they can. This means other family members have to step up and take care of them as well as their own families. Caregiving can be mentally, physically, and financially exhausting.

The n4a provides direct support to caregivers through the National Family Caregiver Support Program. Contact your local Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) to learn more about aging services. 

Elder Justice

Older Adult Reads Off Credit Card Over The Phone

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers elder abuse a major public health problem. Elder abuse can come in a variety of ways. Whether it is financial abuse, physical abuse, mental abuse, or neglect. 

The n4a helps combat elder abuse through the Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). 98 percent of the agencies across the country have at least one service or program designed to help address elder abuse. The programs include community education and training, public awareness campaigns, elder abuse prevention coalitions, and more. AAAs also provide support in the form of legal help related to guardianship, longer-term care, etc. 

Healthy Aging 

Two Older Adults Jog On A Dirt Path In The Forest

Chronic health conditions come with the aging process. Learning how to manage and combat these conditions is vital for aging people’s physical and mental well-being. The AAAs offer programs to help older adults stay active, healthy, and engaged in their communities. 

The AAA has access to resources through the Older Americans Act to create and implement programs to help older people with chronic health conditions. Some of the programs include:

  • Chronic Disease Self-Management
  • A Matter of Balance
  • Diabetes Self Management 
  • Tai Chi Moving for better balance

Contact your closest AAA to see what programs are available to you

Health Insurance Assistance

Pen And Stethoscope Lay On Top Of Medicare Enrollment Form

Navigating health insurance is rarely easy, most times it is complex and can get confusing fast. Because of this issue, the federal government provides a service that helps consumers navigate and make decisions about Medicare. This organization is called the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).

A majority of AAAs serves as the local SHIP. SHIP counselors work one on one with clients to help them make decisions that make the most sense for them. Understanding health insurance empowers older adults to make better decisions that will give them the independence and care that they need. 

575-513-9139 Dylan Penson Transportation

Older Woman Smiles As She Drives

As people age, they may modify their driving habits or stop driving altogether.

This prevents them from feeling independent and taking care of their health. Transportation is still needed to go grocery shopping, go to doctor’s appointments, and stay social. 

AAAs recognize that this is an issue. AAAs help plan and manage transportation for their local older adults and people with disabilities. Contact your local AAA for transportation options. 

N4a Initiatives

The n4a backs numerous initiatives that benefit and protect older adults. Here are few initiatives the n4a has taken and support:

Financial Exploitation

Financial exploitation is prevalent amongst older adults. This form of abuse is becoming the fastest-growing tuple of elder abuse. To combat this, the n4a has partnered with Wells Fargo to create the Wells Fargo Advisors on the Answers on Aging Financial Exploitation initiative. This program helps spread awareness and helps provide older adults and caregivers with resources and tools to avoid becoming a target of financial scams.

Pharmacy Benefits

Pharmacist Scans Medication

The n4a partnered with Walgreens to implement an initiative that provides Medicare Counselors and consumers with resources to help them get the most out of their Medicare pharmacy benefits. 

Medicare & Benefits Enrollment 

Since its inception, the n4a has supported and done extensive work to help older adults with Medicare enrollment. Learn more about the n4a’s Medicare programs here.

To learn more about the n4a’s initiatives and what resources it has to offer visit their website. For additional resources visit our community resources page.

Community Resource: American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)

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It is easy to get overwhelmed with all the information that is on the internet. Not to mention how much time it takes to find the information you are looking for. Growing older comes with change, which means new questions that need answers. 

You may find yourself searching for information about retirement or how to save for retirement. A loved one could be scouring the internet for caregiver resources. No matter what your question or needs are, there is one organization that can help get you the answers and resources you need.

The American Association of Retired Persons or AARP is a nonprofit organization that focuses on assisting retired people in their next stage of life. AARP provides people 50 and older with numerous resources and assistance with things they may need. From travel, health, finances, to entertainment, the AARP can help. 

Why become a member of the American Association of Retired Persons?

Being a member of AARP gives you full access to the perks and resources the organization has to offer. 

Member Resources

The brain is a complex organ. It controls all the aspects of day-to-day life. Brain health should be a priority at any age. The AARP understands the importance of brain health which is why it offers a course called “Staying Sharp”. This course educates its users about the functions of the brain. It also accesses your brain health, and various activities to improve brain health. 

Mother And Daughter Share a Smile And A Sweet Treat

Having a family member take care of a loved one can be hard for all parties involved.  AARP offers helpful resources to all parties. There are hundreds of articles on AARP’s website that cover a variety of caregiving topics. Some articles tackle the financial burden of family caregiving, and some discuss how to deal with caregiver burnout. Whatever the topic is, AARP is a helpful resource.

Finding a job at any age can be a struggle. Making a career change can be a struggle. Starting and running a small business can also be a struggle. AARP offers a variety of helpful articles to help you with these topics. 

Edge Of Computer Shows A Fraud Prevention Button Below the Return Key

In the age of technology scams and fraud run rampant. Whether it is by telephone, email, or through a pop-up message, being on alert to scams is essential. AARP stays up to date on different scams so you can be aware. Sign up for the free WatchDog Alerts to get the latest updates about scams, emailed to users biweekly. AARP also offers a free helpline if you or a loved one suspect a scam.

Retirement

 How much money do you need to retire? Can I start saving for retirement at 50? Whether you are ready to retire or are just starting to save, AARP can answer your questions. 

A Pen Hovers Over A Social Security Benefits Application Form

Figuring out social security can be a daunting task. The social security office can be intimidating, especially if you don’t know what kind of benefits you are eligible for. AARP provides resources that can help people learn more about social security and what kind of benefits they can receive. 

Couple Smiles Down At A Tablet

Looking to get back into the dating game, or maybe how to work all the new apps coming out? AARP has helpful blogs that can help make your home and family life the best it can be. 

Check out AARP’s politics and society section to stay up to date on politics that affect your daily life. From new healthcare legislation, to politician’s agendas when it comes to older Americans. 

Couple Stands On Beach And Looks Out At The Ocean

Growing older doesn’t mean the adventure has to stop, it is only the beginning! AARP has entertainment and travel ideas for everyone. Not keen on flying? No worries, there are plenty of road trip ideas. So whether you want to take a tropical cruise or take a day trip to a local museum, you can find the perfect plan on AARP. 

Member Benefits 

If you decide to become an AARP member you will be eligible for member benefits. AARP has partnered with a number of businesses to get its members discounts for a variety of things, including: 

  • Health & Wellness
Woman Stands At Cash Register And Receives Medication From Pharmacist

Get discounts on eyeglasses, pharmacy discount cards, discounts on listening products, and more. 

  • Travel

AARP has travel benefits for car rentals, cruises, hotels, and much more. 

  • Finances
Man Looks At Computer As He Figures Out His Finances

Members have access to retirement resources, fraud prevention, and financial planning programs through AARP. 

  • Insurance

AARP offers its members a variety of insurance options through various insurance companies. 

  • Gas & Auto Insurances

Get discounts on oil changes, car safety resources and browse AARP’s own courses and programs. 

  • Restaurants
Couple Shares A Cup Of Coffee Outside Café

Last but not least AARP members can get a discount at a number of restaurants listed here. 

As you move into this new stage of life, AARP is here to help. Visit the AARP website to learn more about the resources it offers. For additional resources visit our community resources page.

Community Resource: Memory Matters Utah/Nevada

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Acting as a caregiver for an individual with dementia is a daunting task. Every day, you will experience challenges, most of which you’ve never faced before. It’s easy to become overwhelmed, especially if you don’t have people around you who truly understand the role you’re playing.

Memory Matters Utah/Nevada is an organization working to help those experiencing dementia, and their caregivers. Serving the communities of southern Utah and southeastern Nevada, this nonprofit strives to provide education and support. 

Memory Matters Utah/Nevada is led by individuals with a true passion for helping those navigating the difficult path of dementia, and many of its staff members have acted as caregivers themselves. 

Two People On A Beach Overlooking The Water

Services For Individuals With Dementia

Early Stage Memory Loss Series

The Early Stage Memory Loss Series is a 10-week course. It was created to serve as an educational resource for both those in the early stages of dementia as well as their primary care partner. 

The series is offered twice a year, beginning in February and September. Each class covers topics such as financial preparation, stress management, and even brain training exercises. 

A donation of $25 is suggested, but costs are covered for those unable to afford the series on their own. For a sample of past sessions, visit their website.

A Senior Person Holding A Colorful Stress Ball

Memory Activity Club

The Memory Activity Club is a group for those in moderate stages of dementia. Through meaningful activities related to topics such as art, music, and poetry, attendees strive to improve their cognitive abilities. These activities exercise the brain without feeling like work.

Apart from working on cognitive function, those with dementia also have the opportunity to build friendships with individuals who face the same challenges they do. Many caregivers have found their loved one to have a positive change in outlook and attitude from regular meeting attendance.

The Memory Activity Club doesn’t just benefit those with dementia, however. It also offers a reprieve to caregivers taking care of their loved one. Meetings are four hours long and include snacks, lunch, and activities. They’re held three days a week and cost $35 per class. 

Services For Caregivers

Private Caregiver Consultations

Memory Matters Utah/Nevada offers two types of consultations: Memory testing consultations and care consultations.

Memory testing consultations offer clients a cognitive assessment. Once completed, the results can be used to talk with your loved one’s doctor. 

Care consultations are open to both caregivers as well as other family members. Topics such as coping, strategies, and options for care may be discussed. The consultant can assist you in creating a care plan for your loved one, and they can also help you adjust this plan as the disease progresses.

Kitchen Table Set

Support Groups

A variety of support groups for caregivers are held in southern Utah and Nevada. Currently, support groups are active in St. George, Kanab, New Harmony, and Mesquite. These groups are held at various times and days of the week, and they repeat either weekly, monthly, or quarterly.

These groups are free and open to the public. View the support group calendar on their website.

Frontal-Temporal Dementia Support Group

In collaboration with the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD), Memory Matters Utah/Nevada holds a quarterly support group helpful for those caring for someone with frontal-temporal dementia. This group meets in the St. George area and is free to the public. It is facilitated by an individual with personal caretaking experience of a loved one with FTD.

Back Of Woman's Head While On Phone

Good Morning Sunshine Telephone Reassurance Program

The Good Morning Sunshine Telephone Reassurance Program gives caregivers who live alone extra peace of mind. For these individuals, they are their loved one’s sole lifeline. If something happens to them, the person they care for could be in danger.

The program connects caregivers to trained volunteers who call them each day at a convenient time. If the caregiver doesn’t answer or if there is an immediate need, their emergency contact will be sent to check on them.

Whether it’s the person experiencing the effects of dementia or the person taking care of them, all involved need educational and emotional support. Memory Matters Utah/Nevada is an excellent source of this support for those in southern Utah and southeast Nevada. For more organizations, you may find helpful, visit our community resources page.

Community Resource: The National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM)

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Growing older can be a time of significant transition. A time that results in having to wade through unknown territory, some of which may relate to a change in your loved one’s living situation. The good news is that there are now organizations dedicated to helping this challenging time be, well, a little less challenging. One of these is the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM).

Senior man sitting alone on a bench

Who are senior move managers?

Senior Move Managers are professionals who assist in the downsizing or moving process for those who are elderly. They specialize in minimizing the moving trauma that plagues both those who are being moved and family members or loved ones involved in the moving process. In addition to addressing the emotional aspects of change, they also assist with the logistics.

When might you need a senior move manager?

There are many situations in which having a senior move manager can make a world of difference, and not all of them even involve changing homes. Just a few examples in which senior move management may be useful include:

  • Planning and coordinating a move to a smaller home or an assisted living facility. This includes hiring movers in addition to things like packing and unpacking boxes.
  • Downsizing possessions so a loved one can more easily move in with their family.
  • Evaluating and subsequently reducing home safety hazards.
Senior woman washing a vegetable

Why are senior move managers important?

Just think about all the stress moving can bring when you’re young. Then consider how much more stressful this transition can be when the individual who’s moving has accumulated a lifetime of possessions, didn’t choose to move, or feels as though they’re losing their independence.

Relocation Stress Syndrome (RSS) is something that has been found to affect people of all ages as a result of a move, including the elderly. RSS can negatively affect those in all moving situations, whether they’re transitioning to an assisted living facility or just a smaller, more manageable home. Those who encounter RSS may experience symptoms such as exhaustion, anxiety, or depression.

Minimizing RSS can be accomplished by utilizing senior move managers with a background in the following:

  • Involving the senior in decisions that will affect where they live and the move to this new location.
  • Maintaining the senior’s daily routine as much as possible throughout the process.
  • Ensuring the senior is comfortable and safe in their new space.
A window with black shutters on a house

Why not take on the work yourself?

You may be asking, why do I need to hire someone to take on these tasks? Why can’t I just do them myself?

Well, there are a few things that may hinder your ability to do so, both practically and emotionally:

  • Often, family members are geographically dispersed across the country or even across the world. It doesn’t necessarily make financial (or any other type of) sense to relocate to your elderly family member’s area to take care of the tasks associated with downsizing or with a move.
  • A lifetime of belongings is not easily sorted through. Older adults have often collected countless sentimental items throughout the years. Items that hold meaning to you as well. It can be helpful to have an unbiased individual assist your family member in sorting through cherished memories.
  • You may be an older adult yourself. If this is the case, you might not have the physical stamina needed to pack and unpack a houseful of belongings. Even if you’re a young spring chicken, you may not have the time or energy! Moving is difficult work.
An elderly woman looking out of a window

Why should you utilize the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM)?

The NASMM is a premier membership organization for senior move managers. Members must meet a strict set of requirements that ensure you don’t have to spend copious amounts of time filtering through potential candidates.

The NASMM is also an incredible knowledge base surrounding senior move management. They have resources such as a curated list of questions to ask when hiring a manager, a comprehensive guide to “rightsizing” and relocation, and a search tool you can use to find senior move managers in your area. To learn more about all things senior move management, visit their website. 

For additional organizations, we think you may find helpful during this time of transition, visit our community resources page.