Why Mental Health Counseling Matters for Older Adults May is Mental Health Month—a time to raise awareness and reduce stigma about mental health challenges that affect people of all ages. While mental health concerns are often associated with younger populations, older adults can and do experience depression, anxiety, grief and stress, especially during life transitions like retirement, the loss of a spouse or changes in health. Read more
A Personal Journey Through Caregiving for a Loved One with Early Onset Dementia Dementia Friendly Week in Cleveland Heights is a time to learn, connect, and come together in support of those affected by dementia. Hosted annually by Heights Libraries, this weeklong event features workshops, book talks and educational programs like Dementia Friends sessions. It’s about more than information: it’s about building a community that understands and supports individuals with dementia and their caregivers. For Nancy Levin, Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library, the mission of Dementia Friendly Week is deeply personal. Read more
How Loved Ones Can Intervene in a Hoarding Situation: Navigating the Process and Getting Professional Help Hoarding is a complex condition that can severely affect both the individual who hoards and their loved ones. While people who hoard often resist help, intervention is sometimes necessary to prevent further harm and ensure the person’s safety and well-being. Loved ones may feel unsure of how to begin this process, especially given the emotional and logistical challenges involved. Read more
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. Read more
Advocacy, Policy and Aging Services in the New Administration: A Conversation with Bob Blancato Bob Blancato discusses policy trends, funding challenges, and advocacy strategies for aging services. Read more
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. Read more
Mandated Reporting of Elder Abuse: What to Know Elder abuse affects millions of older adults every year. As our population continues to age, the risk of abuse, neglect and exploitation also rises. To combat this, many states have established mandated reporting laws requiring certain professionals to report suspected or confirmed cases of elder abuse. Read more
A Quick Intro to the GUIDE Model for Health Professionals GUIDE is well positioned to improve health outcomes by encouraging use of community resources, offering caregiver education to improve competence and confidence, and enhancing access to medical and behavioral specialists, along with seamless coordination of healthcare and support services. Read more
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. Read more
Medicare’s GUIDE Program Improves Dementia Care for Families For families caring for someone with dementia, a groundbreaking program from Medicare has been introduced that could dramatically improve the medical and support services you receive – at no cost to you. Called Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE), this program recognizes the needs of families dealing with dementia and provides Medicare-covered medical and support services to provide individualized assistance. Read more
