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At GEDCO, our service coordinators link residents of our affordable housing buildings with various community resources, whether they are public agencies, not-for-profit organizations, or businesses providing services for older adults. We also want to provide some of this information to members and others living in the community.
Growing older is part of life for each one of us. At GEDCO and Stadium Place, we take a holistic approach to wellness, seeking to keep our minds, bodies, and spirits as healthy as possible. To keep our bodies healthy, we know what works. Eating healthy and getting some exercise every day are key ingredients to keeping healthy, whether you are 40, 60, or 80 years old. We know that obesity and smoking are leading causes of health problems in people of all ages. Research also shows that it is important to keep active socially and mentally, including visiting friends or family, participating in community events and religious services.
As many of our loved ones become older, society is presented with many opportunities and challenges. Our elders have so much experience to share with their families and communities. Many people will continue working well into their 60’s, and 70’s, and 80’s. However, they may be interested in learning new skills, starting their own businesses, volunteering, and continuing lifelong learning. There are a number of web sites that provide social networking for older adults, including EONS.COM. Many older people are looking for second careers or part-time work (call the Senior Community Services Employment Program at Family and Children’s Services 410-366-5614) and job training and learning opportunities (formal and informal), while others are looking for meaningful activities with community organizations and businesses such as Volunteer Central, Volunteer Match, and Experience Corps.
Older adults want to live in the community, as close to friends and families, as long as possible. As some elders become older and frailer, they need more support from friends and family to keep independent. Typical challenges include transportation, home repairs, companionship, and eventually, care with activities of daily living (eating, dressing, bathing, walking, etc.). In the North Baltimore area, Action In Maturity is a not-for-profit transportation provider in North Baltimore.
Family members and community organizations strive to provide whatever support is necessary for their loved one. Family and informal caregiving is one of the largest issues facing our society today. More than 50 million people provide over $300 million in support to loved ones, as noted in various AARP studies (link to studies). In addition, there are at least 2 million paid caregivers, providing home care and companionship for older adults and those with disabilities. Caregivers can obtain information and advice from The National Family Caregivers Association, Family Caregiving 101, and Caring.Com.
Other issues that families should be aware of include chronic disease self management and falls prevention. Many older adults have one or more chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, etc. Per the Centers for Disease Control, Chronic diseases—such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes—are the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. Chronic diseases account for 70% of all deaths in the U.S., which is 1.7 million each year. These diseases also cause major limitations in daily living for almost 1 out of 10 Americans or about 25 million people. Although chronic diseases are among the most common and costly health problems, they are also among the most preventable. Adopting healthy behaviors such as eating nutritious foods, being physically active, and avoiding tobacco use can prevent or control the devastating effects of these diseases.
The more information a person has about the disease and their own prognosis, the better they can manage their own care. Falls are one of the leading causes of disability and death among older adults. Older adults should review their medications with their doctors, continue to exercise, and review their living environments for safety issues.
In addition, local government and not-for-profit agencies have a wealth of information for older adults and their families:
Date: 5/28/2009
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