Resources
Articles
What to Do When Medical Costs Compete with Daily Living Expenses
Should I pay my utility bills this month, or for my prescription medicine? It’s an all-too-familiar and heartbreaking scenario for many older adults. With inflation driving up household and medical costs, older Americans often find themselves caught in a painful trade-off—paying for heat or electricity vs. filling a prescription or seeing a specialist.
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Managing Life After a Serious Diagnosis
Hearing a diagnosis of a serious disease or chronic condition—such as cancer, dementia, Parkinson’s or advanced heart disease—can be one of the most overwhelming moments in a person’s life. For many older adults and their caregivers, the moment is followed by what some describe as “diagnose and adios,” where medical staff provide the diagnosis but little in the way of ongoing guidance or support. Suddenly, you’re left with questions, uncertainty and a need to navigate unfamiliar territory without a clear map.
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Planning Ahead: Why Housing is Key to Aging Securely
When we think about aging, we often focus on health, retirement savings and estate planning. But one of the most important and overlooked factors in aging securely is housing. Where we live as we grow older plays a huge role in our physical and financial stability and emotional well-being. Yet many people don’t consider the long-term impact of their housing decisions until it’s too late.
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Access to Resources in Ohio for Individuals Living With Dementia and Their Caregivers
Since 2022, Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging has partnered with Ohio State University, the Ohio Department of Aging, and several other aging organizations throughout the state to develop critical resources for individuals living with dementia and their family and friend caregivers. This partnership has led to the creation of Ohio’s first Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias Statewide Resource Program, offering both virtual and in-person access to training, resources, and research on dementia and dementia care.
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Tax Tips for Older Adults: Simplifying the Process
Filing taxes can be a daunting task, particularly for older adults who may have unique financial circumstances or qualify for certain deductions that others may not. Add that to the fact that tax laws frequently change and even accidental inaccuracy can cause numerous issues, it’s no wonder that most people face tax season with dread.
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How Older Adults Can Navigate Cold, Flu and COVID Season
Winter months are notorious for an increase in illnesses like the common cold, flu and COVID-19. Older adults in particular are at a higher risk of severe complications from these illnesses due to existing chronic conditions and age-related changes in immunity. With proper preparation and quick action, however, older adults can stay safe and healthy during the season.
Articles
Hoarding Clutter Image Rating Scale
The Clutter Image Rating (CIR) Scale is a visual tool developed by International OCD Foundation to help assess the severity of clutter in different areas of a home—specifically the living room, kitchen, and bedroom. It features a series of images ranked from 1 (least cluttered) to 9 (most cluttered), allowing professionals, family members, and individuals to objectively identify and communicate the extent of clutter. This scale is especially helpful in recognizing potential safety or health risks associated with hoarding behaviors. To use it, compare the space in question with the images and select the number that most closely matches the current level of clutter.
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Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder and Its Impact on Older Adults
As the days grow shorter and sunlight becomes scarce, many people experience a change in their mood and energy levels in winter. For some, these changes are more severe and have a greater impact on their everyday life, a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This form of depression, linked to seasonal changes—particularly the change from summer to fall/winter—affects millions of people annually, including a significant number of older adults.
Articles
Managing Life After a Diabetes Diagnosis: Key Steps for Your Health
Being diagnosed with diabetes can feel overwhelming, but with the right steps, you can manage it effectively and continue to live a healthy, fulfilling life. There are key actions to take, along with other areas of your health to monitor for preventing complications.