Chicagoland Area - Chicago North/West Suburbs, DuPage County, Chicago Southland & NW Indiana

For decades researchers have tried to figure out on a global scale why more people die in January than any other month of the year?Known by statisticians as excess deaths it appears to have nothing to do with weather. The spike in deaths is as true in tropical areas as it is in the snow shoveling northern parts of the United States. This also eliminates the theory that staying inside because of the cold weather spreads more germs and results in a higher January death rate. They also eliminated the connection on a socio-economic basis as the reaper makes no distinction between affluence and poverty when it comes to the end of life. The final myth is that the bump in deaths is due to people being sent home from the hospital too early just for the sake of the holidays.The data shows that hospitals are actually a dangerous place and you are more likely to die there then at home. Since it is so confusing I went to some online apps that offer to predict your day of death. I asked three of them to consider my chances: The Death Clock, Lifespan Calculator, and Fateful Day, to give me their best shot. Death Clock.com asked my gender, if I smoked, my outlook on life and how many alcoholic drinks I had each week. It reported that Wednesday, July 2, 2031 will be my last day on earth and a countdown clock was clicking away toward a ripe age of 88. Lifespan Calculator.com, provided by an insurance company, resulted in an age rather than a date. Turns out I will live to the age of 91. But wait theres more. I could pick up two more years by dropping 15 pounds or getting 4 inches taller. And finally, I turned to FatefulDay.com. It was fairly easy and after entering all my information, it returned with this ominous message: You have 0 years left to live. The site predicted I died in 2016, which was oddly enough the year of my heart attack. Life is a mystery even in death. So live, laugh and love!Editors Note: This article was submitted by Barry Kolanowski. Barry is the Executive Director of Senior Services of Will County and may be reached at 815-723-9713 or by email at bkolanowski@agingspecialists.org.

As the warmth of summer envelopes us and nature bursts into full bloom, we are reminded of the beauty and inevitability of change. Just as the seasons transition from the chill of spring to the heat of summer, so too does technology seem to experience constant changes. For many older adults, these changes can seem daunting. However, by embracing these shifts, much like we do with the changing seasons, we can not only adapt but also thrive in this technologically driven era. Nature offers us countless examples of rapid change. Consider the transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly, a process that is both remarkable and essential for the butterfly's survival, the sudden bloom of flowers in spring leading to the lush greenery of summer, or the emergence of the recent cicada broods.  Did you know that once a cicada nymph emerges from the ground it begins to molt within 15-30 minutes and within only an hour the newly emerged nymph has transformed into a fully formed adult. Talk about rapid change! These natural processes illustrate that change, while sometimes challenging, sudden, and rapid, is necessary for growth and adaptation. In much the same way, technology undergoes constant evolution and rapid change, presenting new opportunities and challenges for users of all ages. From the introduction of personal computers to the widespread adoption of smartphones and tablets, the digital landscape has transformed dramatically and rapidly in a relatively short period. The world of technology is truly evolving at an unprecedented pace. While these advancements may initially appear overwhelming, they also offer tremendous potential for learning, growth, and connection. According to a report by the Pew Research Center, the percentage of adults aged 65 and older who own a smartphone has increased from 18% in 2013 to 61% in 2021. This statistic highlights a significant shift in the adoption of new technologies among older generations. Yet, for many, the rapid pace of technological advancement can feel overwhelming. Despite the initial discomfort, there are numerous benefits to embracing these changes. For instance, smartphones and tablets offer a plethora of applications designed to simplify daily tasks, enhance communication with loved ones, and provide access to a wealth of information and entertainment. Learning to use these devices can significantly improve ones quality of life, offering greater independence and connectivity. The key to adapting to technological changes is to start small and build a foundational knowledge. Just as you wouldnt attempt to run a marathon without first learning to walk, its important to take incremental steps when familiarizing yourself with new technology. Begin with the Basics: One of the first steps in adapting to technological change is recognizing the value of building a foundation of knowledge. Much like the roots of a tree provide stability and nourishment, a basic understanding of technology can serve as a solid footing for further learning and exploration. Start with the fundamentals, such as familiarizing yourself with your existing devices and their functions. Learn how to turn them on and off, charge them and navigate their home screens. Learn how to navigate the internet, send emails, and use basic applications. As you become more comfortable, you can gradually expand your skills and explore new possibilities. Seek Out Resources: Many local libraries and community centers offer classes specifically designed to teach older adults how to use technology. Additionally, there are numerous online tutorials and user-friendly guides available as well as local companies that specialize in supporting older adults with their use of technology. Much like natures adaptive strategies, embracing a positive mindset towards technological change is crucial. Accept that learning something new takes time and patience. Celebrate small victories along the way, and dont be afraid to ask for help. According to a study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, older adults who received support and training were more likely to adopt and continue using new technologies. The benefits of embracing technology are manifold. Telemedicine, for example, has revolutionized healthcare, making it easier for older adults to consult with doctors from the comfort of their homes. According to the American Telemedicine Association, telehealth visits increased by 154% during the first quarter of 2020 compared to the same period in 2019, largely driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift not only reduces the need for travel but also provides timely medical advice and monitoring. Similarly, smart home devices can enhance safety and convenience. Voice-activated assistants like Amazons Alexa or Google Home can set reminders for medications, control home lighting, and even call for help in emergencies. Learning to use these devices can greatly enhance ones sense of security and independence. Despite the clear advantages, there is still a significant digital divide among older adults. The same Pew Research Center report indicates that 34% of adults aged 65 and older do not use the internet. Bridging this gap is essential for ensuring that all seniors can benefit from technological advancements. Community initiatives play a vital role in this endeavor. Programs that offer free or subsidized devices, coupled with training and support, can make a significant difference. Additionally, family members can help by encouraging and assisting their older relatives in learning and using new technologies. Just as we prepare for and adapt to the changing seasons, we must also embrace the rapid changes in technology. By starting small, maintaining a positive mindset, and seeking out resources and support, older adults can build a solid foundation upon which to thrive in this digital age. Nature teaches us that change is not only inevitable but also essential for growth. Similarly, by embracing technological change, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities that can enhance our lives in meaningful ways. As the days grow longer and summer unfolds its warmth and vibrancy, let us welcome the changing tides of technology with the same spirit of adaptation and renewal. The possibilities are endless, and the adventure awaits!

WOW (Widows or Widowers) was founded by Dolores Bonfield Cortis in May, 1975. Dolores was widowed at the young age of 38. She joined Parents Without Partners in the area where she resided. The group was made up of recently divorced people. Being a grieving widow with young children who also were dealing with their sorrow, is not the same as a divorced parent.Through Parents without Partners, she met other newly widowed men and women. They formed the first WOW group in the Western Suburbs. It is a place to go for understanding, companionship, and to participate in social activates with like individuals. The idea was and is that Step we need to take to get back to living a normal life without the one we loved. To give us the understanding that although we are now widowed, we can resume life with all others and feel accepted as a new person.After 43 years, we now have a membership of over 185 members. Our membership has gone up and down over the years for a variety of reasons death or members that have moved to retirement areas around the country. But we have remained consistent in our zeal to prosper, and we have 43 years to prove that!We publish a monthly News Letter that lists our social activities and support meetings. WOW continues to offer support, friendship, education and social activities to the widowed people in the western suburbs of Chicago. A monthly Social Gathering is held at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 537 South York Road, In Elmhurst, IL. At 7:00 pm on the third Thursday of each month. Feel free to join us at our monthly meeting. We welcome guests of all ages!For additional information, check out our website at (www.wow.cfsites.org) or contact Dave Spero, WOW President at (630-620-4060).

In the journey of life, one constant companion often emerges: fear. It's a sensation that can grip us tightly, whispering doubts into our minds and urging us to retreat into the familiar.  I dont recall where I first heard the term, but I like to refer to this as The Velvet Rut.  Its a comfortable and safe space to be sure, but a rut, nonetheless. The question I pose today is, Will we remain in the comfortable velvet rut of technology avoidance and fear, or venture out, even if only taking baby steps, into the digital unknown? We encounter fear, in different degrees, throughout the various stages of our lives.  No age group or season of life is immune from it. Yet, for older adults and seniors, fear can sometimes take on a particular form: the fear of technology. In a world rapidly advancing in digital innovations, this fear can seem insurmountable at best and paralyzing at worst. Where do we even start? But what if we dared to confront it head-on? What if, instead of succumbing to apprehension, instead of running from it, we truly embraced technology as a tool for enriching our lives? Fear, in its various guises, is a natural part of the human experience. It's an evolutionary response designed to keep us safe from perceived threats. However, when left unchecked, fear can morph into something more incapacitating, preventing us from exploring new opportunities and hindering personal growth. The fear of the unknown, including unfamiliar technology, is a common manifestation of this phenomenon. Yet, just as there are different ways we can respond to fear, there are also various approaches to addressing our apprehensions about technology. Some may choose to avoid it altogether, clinging to the comfort of traditional methods and routines. My grandmother never was able to abandon her rotary phone. Others may cautiously tiptoe into the digital realm, testing the waters with trepidation. I applaud you.  Keep going! However, there exists a third pathone of courage and curiositythat beckons us to confront our fears directly. Technology, while admittedly a source of potential intimidation, has the power to enhance and enrich our lives in countless ways. From staying connected with loved ones through video calls to accessing a wealth of information at our fingertips the possibilities are endless. Embracing technology doesn't mean abandoning the past either; rather, it allows us to bridge the gap between generations and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the modern world. The key lies in acknowledging that growth and change are inevitable parts of life. Just as we once navigated unfamiliar terrain in our youth, so too can we navigate the digital landscape with resilience and determination. It's about recognizing that the discomfort we feel in the face of new technology is simply a temporary obstacleone that can be overcome with patience and perseverance. Moreover, by embracing technology, we open ourselves up to a world of opportunities for personal enrichment and fulfillment. Whether it's discovering new hobbies through online communities or accessing virtual resources for lifelong learning, technology has the potential to ignite our passions and expand our horizons. Rather than fearing the unknown, we can choose to view it as an invitation to explore and grow. Of course, stepping into the unknown requires couragea willingness to confront our fears and venture beyond our comfort zones. Yet, it's precisely through such acts of bravery that we discover our own strength and resilience. Each time we overcome a fear, whether it's mastering a new smartphone or creating a profile for a previously unexplored social media platform, we reaffirm our ability to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing world. In the process of embracing technology, it's essential to remember that we don't have to go it alone. There are trusted peoplebe they family members, friends, neighbors, or local companies specifically dedicated to helping older adults with technology support, training, and educationwho are willing to lend a helping hand. By reaching out to these resources, we can gain the confidence and knowledge we need to navigate the digital landscape with ease. Furthermore, it's important to approach technology with a spirit of exploration and curiosity. Instead of fearing our devices, let's push buttons, play around with settings, and make mistakes. It's through these trial-and-error experiences that we truly familiarize ourselves with our devices and gain a deeper understanding of how they work. And remember, there's no shame in seeking guidance or asking questions along the way. There are no stupid technology questions; at least not with me anyway. Each step we take brings us closer to understanding the technology that has so much potential to enriches our lives. In the end, embracing technology is not just about keeping up with the times; it's about embracing the fullness of life itself. It's about seizing the opportunities that lie beyond our fears and embracing the endless possibilities that technology affords us. By cultivating a spirit of curiosity, courage, and community, we can harness the power of technology to enrich our lives and enhance our well-being. So, to all the older adults and seniors who may feel daunted by the rapid pace of technological advancement, I urge you to take heart. Remember that fear is just a temporary obstacleone that can be overcome with courage, a willingness to explore and the right support. Embrace technology, and let it empower you to live a life filled with joy, connection, and fulfillment. And above all, never forget that the greatest growth often occurs when we have the strength to step boldly into the unknown.