The theme for Older Americans Month 2012 is “Never Too Old To Play!” Reading about it on the U.S. Administration on Aging (AoA) website started me thinking about my Aunt Ina.  Even at 93 she was still active in playing bridge and other games.  She enjoyed games and life! Here is the article from the U.S. Administration on Aging about this year’s theme… Never Too Old To Play! May is Older Americans Month, a perfect opportunity to show our appreciation for the older adults in our communities. Since 1963, communities across the nation have come together to celebrate Older... (Read More ...)

Spring is a great time to think about doing an activity with a senior. The weather is nicer than just a few weeks ago.  Sunny warm days can be a great reason to spend time in a fun activity with a senior. Recently Tyra Ford asked me if she could write a guest post for Caregiving With Purpose about fun activities that can be done with a senior friend or relative. As I thought about her request, I remembered one of the most memorable visits I ever had with an elderly relative.  My Great Aunt Katie and I had a lovely visit at a family reunion. We sat together eating at the table.  During the meal,... (Read More ...)

Sometimes it’s easy for caregivers to forget that not all older folks need senior care. Many are independent well past usual retirement… My mother made one of her last quilts in her mid 80s. She designed the quilt, I cut it out and helped her piece it, and she quilted it.  It was beautiful.  She donated it to the local hospice, where it was raffled off.  And won by a lovely young woman. Seniors daily give to their local communities.  And this month their efforts are being recognized. In 1963 President John F. Kennedy established May as Senior Citizens Month.  President Jimmy... (Read More ...)

Will you soon be considered a senior citizen? Or is someone you love already a senior? Wondering if health and wellness or chronic diseases are in your future? If so, you’re not alone . . . Mary spent the last several years caring for various elderly family members. Mary eats healthy, usually preparing her own meals at home. She exercises regularly and never smoked. Now that she’s reached her 50s she wonders if she’s at risk for some of the chronic diseases her elderly family members developed . . .or if she’ll live like her great-grandmother — healthy, active and alert well into... (Read More ...)