Illinois - Chicagoland Metro & Cook, Dupage and Will Counties

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.

Communication can be challenging when talking to a loved one with dementia. How you communicate with your loved one is very important, the goal being to confuse them as little as possible. Here are a few things to keep in mind when talking to your loved one with dementia.Phrases to avoidMany phrases are used frequently in our day-to-day conversations that we may not think are harmful but can be challenging for those with dementia. For example, the phrase "Do you remember" can lead to embarrassment. Your senior doesn't want to tell you they have forgotten a memory, especially a meaningful one. Asking a senior with dementia if they remember something will bring more sadness to their insecurity about having dementia. Instead, use the phrase "I remember when" to avoid putting pressure on your senior by not asking them a question directly about memory.Another phrase to avoid, "As I already said" When talking to someone with dementia, you will often repeat yourself, but you don't want your senior to feel embarrassed, and you don't want them to know you have repeated yourself already. Other phrases like "I already told you" only reminds your senior of their struggle. Instead of saying those phrases, kindly repeat yourself.Be directYou don't want to be too vague, so it is important to be specific with your words. For example, avoid using general pronouns like he, she, or they or vague terms such as that and those. Instead, be specific and say, "Jack bought a car," and "the spoon is under the napkin on the counter." Dementia makes it difficult for seniors to follow conversations like they once did, so it is key to use short sentences, speak clearly, and give them your full attention.Don't offer too much helpSeniors want to feel independent. We understand that you want to help your loved one as much as possible. Find that even balance of helping your senior and knowing when it's too much help. We don't want our seniors to feel like they are no longer competent.At The Legacy: Memory Support, our care for seniors with dementia is unmatched. Schedule a tour to learn more about all the different memory care activities we provide for our amazing residents.

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.

Moving can be a stressful experience at any age, but it poses unique challenges for seniors. The emotional and physical demands of downsizing, relocating, and adjusting to a new environment can be overwhelming. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we understand the importance of making this transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. Senior Move Management is an art that combines empathy, organization, and practical solutions to empower elders during their move. This guide offers insights and tips on how to manage senior moves effectively.The Emotional Aspects of MovingUnderstanding Emotional AttachmentsSeniors often have strong emotional attachments to their homes and belongings, accumulated over a lifetime of memories. Moving can feel like letting go of a significant part of their lives. Acknowledge these emotions and approach the process with sensitivity and compassion.Tip: Spend time listening to their stories and memories associated with their belongings. This can help them feel valued and understood, making it easier to let go of certain items.Involving Seniors in the ProcessEmpower seniors by involving them in the decision-making process. This can give them a sense of control and reduce anxiety. Discuss their preferences, needs, and concerns regarding the move. Create a collaborative plan that respects their wishes and eases the transition.Tip: Break down the moving process into manageable steps and celebrate small accomplishments along the way. This can help maintain a positive outlook and reduce overwhelm.Preserving MemoriesWhile downsizing, its crucial to find ways to preserve cherished memories. Help seniors select a few meaningful items that can be prominently displayed in their new home. Consider creating digital photo albums or memory boxes to retain sentimental value without the physical clutter.Tip: Create a memory lane in their new home with framed photos, favorite books, or other treasured items. This can make the new space feel familiar and comforting.Practical Steps for a Smooth MovePlanning and OrganizationEffective planning and organization are key to a successful move. Start by creating a comprehensive timeline that includes sorting, packing, moving, and settling in. Assign specific tasks and deadlines to ensure a systematic approach.Tip: Use a color-coded labeling system for boxes and furniture to simplify unpacking and arrangement in the new home. This can save time and reduce confusion on moving day.Decluttering and DownsizingHelp seniors sort through their belongings to decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. Focus on the practical needs and available space in the new home. Encourage them to keep items that serve a purpose or bring joy, while gently guiding them to let go of unnecessary possessions.Tip: Set up a dedicated area for donations and arrange for pick-ups or drop-offs to charity organizations. This can streamline the decluttering process and provide a sense of contribution to the community.Hiring Professional HelpConsider enlisting the help of professional organizers or senior move managers. They bring expertise, efficiency, and emotional support to the moving process. Professionals can handle logistics, packing, and even the setup of the new home, allowing seniors and their families to focus on emotional well-being.Tip: Research and choose reputable senior move management services that align with your specific needs and budget. Personal recommendations and reviews can be helpful in making the right choice.Creating a Comfortable New HomeEnsure that the new living space is comfortable, safe, and accessible for seniors. Arrange furniture and belongings in a way that promotes ease of movement and accessibility. Personalize the space with familiar items to create a sense of home.Tip: Conduct a safety assessment of the new home to identify and address potential hazards such as loose rugs, inadequate lighting, or steep stairs. Simple modifications can significantly enhance safety and comfort.Empowering elders during their move is about more than just logistics; its about honoring their past, respecting their emotions, and creating a positive experience. Senior Move Management, with its blend of practical solutions and compassionate care, can transform a potentially stressful process into a journey of empowerment and renewal.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we are dedicated to supporting seniors and their families through every step of the move. By understanding the emotional aspects, involving seniors in the process, and employing practical strategies, we can ensure a seamless transition that celebrates the richness of their lives and helps them embrace the next chapter with confidence and peace.By following these tips and approaches, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of your elderly loved ones, ensuring their move is not just a change of residence, but a positive and empowering experience.