Resources
Articles
Taking Over a Loved One’s Finances: A Step-by-Step Guide for Caregivers
Often caregivers find themselves in the position of needing to take over a loved one’s finances, especially following a dementia diagnosis. This can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re coming into the situation without a lot of prior knowledge of your loved one’s assets or the scope of their monthly bills. But, with the right approach and information, your help managing finances can work to secure your loved one’s comfort and stability as they age.
Videos
Age Discrimination in Employment—The Eras Tour
William Rivera, Senior Vice President of Litigation for AARP Foundation, discusses the evolution of age discrimination in employment laws in the United States with a focus on “hot topics” in the field, including the impact of technology and artificial intelligence on opportunities for older workers. He additionally discusses the work that AARP and AARP Foundation are doing to promote employment opportunities for older workers, and share tips for spotting and addressing age discrimination in the workplace.
Articles
Exploring the Benefits of Senior Centers
When you hear the term “senior center,” what comes to mind? For some, it might conjure images of nonstop games of bingo, or quiet afternoons spent knitting. And while knitting and bingo are certainly activities you might encounter—and enjoy participating in—at a senior center, summing up the experience with these stereotypes doesn’t do credit to the depth and breadth of activities available at today’s senior centers. These vibrant community hubs are continually evolving to meet the diverse needs and interests of older adults, offering a wide range of activities, services and opportunities that cater to a modern, active lifestyle.
Articles
Suicide Awareness and Prevention in Older Adults
Suicide among older adults is an often overlooked, public health concern. While conversations about mental health have become a lot more common and less stigmatized than in the past, the focus is frequently on younger generations, leaving older adults by themselves in the previous mindset of mental struggles being better left unspoken. Understanding the unique challenges faced by older adults is crucial in addressing this silent crisis and ensuring that those at risk receive the support and care they need.
Articles
The Importance of Immunizations for Older Adults
As we age, the body undergoes numerous changes, many of which impact our immune system. One of the most significant aspects of aging is the gradual weakening of the immune system, a process known as immunosenescence. This decline in immune function increases susceptibility to infections and diseases. Older adults make up about 70 to 85 percent of seasonal flu-related deaths, and are at the highest risk of severe-to-fatal pneumonia than any other age group. Accordingly, while immunizations are important for people of every age, they are of critical importance to older adults.
Articles
Balancing Your Caregiving: Prioritizing Self-Care While Supporting Your Loved One
Caregiving is an inherently demanding role because it involves caring for two individuals: not only the person you provide care for, but also yourself. This dual responsibility makes the role uniquely challenging, requiring you to balance the needs of your loved one with your own well-being. When you introduce family dynamics into this equation, the…
Videos
18th Annual Katz Policy Lecture: Mental Health & Aging
This 18th Annual Katz Policy Lecture examines emerging and existing policies associated with mental health and aging and their implications for older adults and their loved ones. Our keynote speaker, Matthew Fullen, Ph.D., LPCC, Associate Professor at Virginia Tech, discusses recent developments in Medicare policy related to older adult mental health care, and opportunities for stakeholders in the behavioral health and aging services sectors.
Articles
Supporting LGBTQ+ Older Adults: Tips for Caregivers
As our population ages and society continually evolves, awareness of the diverse needs of different communities of older adults has increased. LGBTQ+ rights have undergone some major changes over the past few decades, and while there have been great triumphs, there have been many challenges as well, including some that are particular to older individuals. Caregivers must be aware of these specific challenges and provide holistic, inclusive support to ensure the well-being of their LGBTQ+ older loved ones. Here are key considerations and strategies for caregivers dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ older adults.
Articles
Understanding the Impact of the Older Americans Act
May marks a significant celebration for the nation’s older adults—Older Americans Month. This yearly observance, established in 1963, is more than just a month-long recognition; it’s a celebration of the invaluable contributions and wisdom of older Americans, as well as a commitment to improving their quality of life through important services.