“Interdependence is all about giving and taking, or having seniors accept help with grace while creating opportunities for them to reciprocate.”

As Independence Day approaches, Steve Barlam, MSW, LCSW, CMC, Chief Professional Officer of LivHOME, discusses the idea of independence as an aspiration for seniors. He explains just what seniors mean when they say they want their independence, and points out that what they actually need is interdependence. Steve offers advice for family members seeking to introduce this idea and explains that there is a lesson in this for all who serve as caregivers and friends to seniors.

To listen, visit: www.livhome.com/podcast

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Tags: independence, interdependence, Podcast, seniors, steve barlam

Mother’s Day is coming up on Sunday, and for seniors this holiday can have special significance.  If you’re still scratching your head wondering what to get Mom, here are a few last-minute ideas.

• Get something she wouldn’t spend money on herself, like having the windows cleaned.

• Order a nice meal. You can even do it online at places like Omaha Steaks.

• Pictures are always a big hit and help seniors stay connected.

• Flowers never get old.

The key is this — keep things simple.  Large crowds or elaborate plans can be overwhelming.

It’s the sentiment that counts.

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Tags: gift ideas for mother's day, mother's day, seniors

LivHOME has a nice article in this month’s CARING magazine. Steve shows how with Care Managers and Caregivers we create “The LivHOME Experience.” Enjoy!

To read the article, click here.

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Tags: Care Managers, Caregivers, CARING magazine, holiday, holiday for seniors, LivHOME, livhome experience, seniors

Just wanted to share some good information I found about fantastic new technologies for aging.

Technologies are being developed to support independence for seniors in many different areas like safety, health, communication and socialization.  A few practical technologies are: Presto - a service that converts any email (including photos) into a print out on the senior’s special printer (no computer needed).   A senior can make free video calls with anyone in the world no matter where they are.  All you need to get started is a webcam and the Skype service.

Seniors are getting hooked on the Wii game systems.  Many of the senior residences I work with have Wii competitions.  Seniors are putting aside bridge and puzzles for a friendly round of bowling, golf and tennis.

Next month, the Eskaton National Demonstration Home in Roseville, CA, will be open for tours.  This house embraces senior smart innovations in home design, digital health, lighting technologies and eco-friendly building practices. Visit their website for more information.

In addition, there’s a wonderful online video that depicts one family’s use of technology to help a senior remain in his home: “Imagine—The Future of Aging.”  Visit the Center for Aging Services Technology (CAST) website. This website has lots of great information about technology and aging.

This is an exciting area of growth and opportunity.  Feel free to email me if you have any ideas or want to discuss.

Claudia Cook, MSW
Eldercare Consultant, LivHOME

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Tags: aging, blog, claudia cook, seniors, technologies, technology