Minnesota - Twin Cities

We all have fears in our lives, and at certain times, most of us would admit that theyve held us back from doing something we wanted.But, when it comes to fear, theres also a silver lining: the feeling of overcoming it and moving forward. And from that day forward, that personal victorythat sense of accomplishment is something we can turn to whenever we need some extra courage.Ken, age 70, is no stranger to adversity and fear. And in this season of his life, hes been reflecting on his fears and is no longer content letting them hold him back.One fear has been with him since he was young. Kens family lived close to an airport while he was growing up. Standing in his backyard, he would look up and marvel at the airplanes coming and going all day long. He wondered what it would be like to be inside one of these planes, looking out the window and floating through the clouds. But paired with his curiosity, a sense of fear was also growing inside him.This fear of heights and flying has followed Ken into adulthood. Adulthood came early for Ken, as hes been working hard to provide for himself and his family for as long as he can remember. In fact, Ken was already working at age 12.Ken had a job in a state park close to his home. One day, while Ken was helping remove debris in the park, a falling tree knocked him into the water. Ken was stuck, and he remained submerged until he was rescued.It was a terrifying moment that has stayed with him since that day, resulting in a deep fear of water.Its true that Ken has faced many obstacles and heartbreak throughout his life. But hes never allowed that to stop him from working hard, especially when it comes to providing for others. Ken is proud to have raised a family, including adopting two children with his wife, Elizabeth. He shared that this has made him the proudest and happiest hes ever been.Those who know Ken well would tell you hes the kind of person who shows he cares through his actions. Like how he mowed his mothers lawn for over a decade, caring for her until she passed away three years ago.Ken was everyones favorite BINGO caller at his local church and would help them with maintenance and by fixing things whenever he could. The same goes for any neighbor or friendall they had to do was ask, and Ken would be there.Kens dedication and generosity have kept him continually working, and not having many opportunities to do something meaningful for himself. But, recently, Ken has expressed the urge to conquer his fears.When Wish of a Lifetime heard Kens story, we were honored at the chance to help him take some time for himselfand to face his fears in the process by flying on a commercial flight for the first time.When asked what this experience would mean to him, Ken said, Id be happyId get to do something I never did and face my fear of going high.But thats not the only fear Ken would face during his wish of a lifetime!Every flight must have a destination, and Kens was the ocean. Ken was thrilled to share this special trip with his wife Elizabeth. Together, they flew from Pennsylvania all the way to Florida, landing in Tampa.Kens first time on an airplane was positive, and he said the flight felt like riding in a Cadillacit was so smooth.After they arrived at sunny Clearwater Beach, they could see the glittering, white sand welcoming them. Hand in hand, Ken and Elizabeth walked across the beach, taking in all the sights and smells of the ocean.I think he was amazed, Elizabeth said, describing the moment when Ken saw the ocean for the first time in his life. With deep emotion breaking up her voice, she expressed how much the experience meant to them both.Thank you guys very much, I dont know how to express the thank you, I really enjoyed it, she said.As he stood with the tide tickling his feet, Ken felt the warmth of the sunshine on his back, but also the glow of pride from within him.I feel this would make me fulfilled that I overcame two lifelong fears, he said.Reflecting on his wish, Ken said he hoped his story could help others to do the same, at any age. And, to keep hope alive, even through challenging times:Keep your nose to the grindstone, he said. Someday, something good will happen.

Protecting the Rights and Future of Aging SeniorsAs our loved ones age, many important legal decisions arise that require professional guidance. Elder law encompasses a variety of legal issues affecting seniors, from estate planning to guardianship, and even long-term care planning. In Minneapolis, Minnesota, with its growing senior population, it's essential to understand the role of an elder lawyer and how they can help navigate these complexities.This blog will explore what elder law is, how it can benefit Minneapolis seniors, and how to find the right elder law attorney to protect your familys future. What is Elder Law?Elder law is a specialized area of legal practice that focuses on issues affecting seniors. This can range from long-term care planning to protecting assets from nursing home costs. Elder law attorneys offer advice and assistance with a variety of concerns that are common for older adults.Key areas covered under elder law include:Estate planning: Ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after passing, which often includes the creation of wills, trusts, and powers of attorney.Medicaid and long-term care planning: Helping seniors understand and access Medicaid benefits and strategies to protect assets while planning for long-term care.Guardianship and conservatorship: Assisting families with appointing a legal guardian for an elderly person who is no longer able to make decisions for themselves.Elder abuse and neglect: Offering legal assistance if abuse or neglect is suspected, whether it's in a nursing home or from a family member.An elder lawyer is essential for ensuring that the senior's legal and financial rights are protected as they age. Why Do You Need an Elder Lawyer in Minneapolis?Minneapolis, with its vibrant senior community, is home to many families who are navigating the complexities of aging loved ones. As seniors age, they face many challenges that require careful legal planning. Here are a few reasons why consulting an elder law attorney is important in Minneapolis:Planning for future care: Minnesota has a variety of senior care options, and it's crucial to make informed decisions about long-term care facilities or in-home assistance. An elder law attorney can help families navigate these options and ensure that their loved ones' wishes are respected.Protecting assets: Many seniors are concerned about the high costs of healthcare and nursing home services. An elder lawyer can provide legal strategies to protect assets while still qualifying for Medicaid or other benefits.Ensuring proper healthcare decisions: In cases where a senior becomes incapacitated, an elder lawyer can help appoint a power of attorney to make healthcare decisions on their behalf.Avoiding probate: Proper estate planning can help avoid the lengthy and costly probate process, ensuring that assets are transferred smoothly to beneficiaries.Legal protection against abuse: Minneapolis has a range of senior care facilities, and elder law attorneys play a vital role in ensuring seniors are not victims of elder abuse, either in institutions or at home.An elder lawyer offers peace of mind, knowing that your loved ones future is legally secure. When Should You Contact an Elder Lawyer?Its never too early to start planning, but it's essential to reach out to an elder lawyer as soon as these legal matters begin to arise. Some common times when you should consider contacting an elder lawyer include:Before or after a diagnosis: If your loved one has received a diagnosis that may affect their ability to manage their own affairs, its a good time to consult an elder lawyer.Planning for end-of-life care: As individuals approach retirement age or experience health changes, its important to establish legal documents such as wills, trusts, and advance directives.Navigating care options: Whether choosing a nursing home or deciding on home health care, an elder lawyer can guide you through legal considerations to ensure the best outcomes.When dealing with elder abuse: If you suspect that your loved one is being taken advantage of or abused, an elder lawyer can help you take legal action to protect them. Finding an Elder Lawyer in MinneapolisIf youre seeking an elder lawyer in Minneapolis, you have access to numerous legal professionals specializing in senior issues. To find a reputable elder lawyer who can guide you through the legal complexities of aging, consider the following:Search online: Many law firms in Minneapolis specialize in elder law, and you can often find detailed information about their services, reviews, and specializations on their websites.Consult your local Senior Resource Centers: Local senior resources in Minneapolis often have connections with trusted elder law attorneys. For example, exploring directories such as Seniors Blue Book can help you find professionals in your area.Ask for referrals: Reach out to trusted friends, family, or healthcare providers for recommendations on elder lawyers they may have worked with or know to be reputable.When choosing an attorney, make sure they are experienced in elder law and have the necessary credentials. Its also essential to schedule an initial consultation to determine if they are the right fit for your needs. How Elder Law Can Help Seniors in MinneapolisElder law provides invaluable services to seniors by protecting their rights and helping them plan for the future. Whether you are concerned about healthcare decisions, asset protection, or ensuring your loved ones wishes are honored, an elder law attorney can provide the expertise needed to navigate these complex matters.For Minneapolis residents, finding the right elder lawyer is crucial for safeguarding your future and ensuring that aging loved ones are well cared for and legally protected.To begin your search for trusted elder law resources in Minneapolis, visit the Seniors Blue Book directory to connect with legal professionals who specialize in senior care.Explore Elder Law Services in Minneapolis Search Elder Lawyer Resources in Minneapolis Whether youre planning for the future or managing the legal complexities that come with aging, an elder lawyer in Minneapolis is essential to ensuring peace of mind and proper legal protection for your loved ones. Elder law professionals can help navigate the nuances of healthcare, estate planning, and asset protection, allowing seniors and their families to focus on what matters most. For more information or to find an elder lawyer in Minneapolis, explore the Seniors Blue Book directory today.

Asymmetry The shape of one half of the mole looks different than the other halfBorder The borders or edge of the mole look ragged or blurredColor The mole has uneven coloring, with shades of black, brown, gray or other colors.Diameter The size of the mole is greater than 4 mm or inchEvolving The mole is changes in size, shape, color, or there's a new mole.  It's especially important to pay attention to new moles.  A recent review of published research on melanoma skin cancer has confirmed what many skin doctors and cancer specialists already knew: Most melanomas (an estimated 70 percent) start as a brand new lesion, not in an existing mole.  That means you really need to know your skin. All adults should get in the habit of doing a monthly skin check, so they know where their moles are and what looks normal. That makes it much easier to notice a new or changing mole.   What does melanoma look like?Melanomas can vary a lot in how they look, and detecting them at an early stage can be critical and greatly increase your chances for cure. Generally, it is a good idea to follow the ABCDE signs to identify melanoma. However, you may find only one or two of these signs, and some moles may not fit the ABCDE rules. Many of us will develop moles throughout our lifetimes. Most of the time, they are merely harmless clusters of pigmented cells. If the mole is the same color and solid throughout, it shouldnt be anything to worry about. But keep an eye on moles that have different shades of the same color or different colors. Most melanomas are black or brown, but they can be almost any color: skin-colored, pink, red, purple, blue or white.When the melanoma is more advanced, the texture of the mole looks different as well; the skin surface may look broken or scraped. So watch out for moles that change appearance, especially with redness, scaling, bleeding, or oozing. Normal moles are round or oval, with a smooth edge, and usually within one-quarter inch (six millimeters) in diameter. Bigger moles can be a bad sign. However, size is not definitive proof of cancer. Be especially watchful for new moles.If you see any of the ABCDE signs, notice a new pigmented lesion (even if it doesn't have the characteristics described above) or a mole that's changed, you should talk with your doctor. Don't wait until your next annual physical to bring it upmake an appointment soon. The only way to be sure is to remove tissue and check it for cancer cells. If you do have a melanoma, a doctor can remove it before it has a chance to spread.If you are at a higher risk for melanoma, talk to your doctor about how best to monitor your skin.Melanoma Risk factors include:A personal or family history of melanomaFair skinBlue eyesHistory of sunburnsHaving a large number of moles (more than 50)Reduce your risk of melanoma and other skin cancers by protecting your skin from the sun: Wear a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen every day.Wear a hat, sunglasses and other sun-protective clothing.Seek shade when outside between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.Avoid tanning and tanning beds.Learn more about melanoma, screening, diagnosis and treatment options.

Whether facing health or mobility problems, or simply aging gracefully, theres no doubt that growing older can be a battle. On top of that, the older we get, the more time we have on our hands.  As such, its important to find ways to keep your senior loved ones engaged and thriving, both within and outside of their home environment. This season, rely on fall activities for seniors that create situations that allow them to keep their mind sharp, enhance their physical fitness or enjoy the positive emotions that stem from social interaction.  Explore some of the most exciting things for seniors to do this fall, all with a seasonal twist. Pumpkin Painting Carving pumpkins may require a little more physical effort than seniors are able to put in, but theres a new fall trend that is perfect for the elderly. Rather than opening up the top and scooping the insides out before slicing out chunks of the pumpkin, grab some paint and use it to decorate the gourd with the design of your choosing. From spooky scenes and classic jack-o-lantern faces to pop culture references and autumn-inspired patterns, you can really get creative and make it your own with endless possibilities. Apple Picking When caring for aging parents, one of the most exciting ways to explore the world is with the whole family. Gather everyone together for a special fall outing to an apple orchard. This quintessential autumn activity provides a chance for seniors to enjoy physical activity (tailored to their ability level), teamwork, stunning scenery, fresh air and time spent with loved ones. Baking with Fall Flavors One of the best fall activities for seniors is baking. From flaky pies to moist muffins and cookies that melt in your mouth, there is something so exciting about tasting something that you just created from scratch. Incorporate fall flavors, like apple or pumpkin, to give the project seasonality, but keep the focus on the process. Locating and measuring out the ingredients will keep your loved ones mind active. Seasonal Gardening A laid-back and tranquil activity, gardening is something that can be done year-round with very exciting results. Add a touch of fall to your garden by incorporating produce that will be harvested in the latter part of the year, like apples, squash, leafy greens, carrots, sweet potatoes, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. This can also be a great task for families looking for private caregivers, as FirstLight Home Care professionals can supervise or assist when family members arent around to do so. Leaf Peeping Walks As the leaves change and add color to the world, explore your neighborhood or a local park while looking for vibrant fall foliage. This is a great way to get some gentle exercise and fresh air while adding some excitement to the experience. Embrace the deep reds, golden yellows and rusty oranges while leaf peeping, a beloved pastime all over the country but especially in New England or the Pacific Northwest. Fall Picnic Delve into relaxation with a seasonal picnic, one of the best fall activities for seniors. A picnic is the perfect way to get your loved one out of the house for some fresh air and inspiration from nature. This is especially wonderful for those who dont have great mobility, as it doesnt require much movement upon arrival. Gather dishes that feature the flavors of fall to make it extra special or look for colored leaves as you dine and unwind.  Fun and Games Games can be one of the most thrilling pastimes and theyre something the entire family can enjoy together, no matter the ages. Plus, games can serve as a stepping stone to companionship for lonely elderly, as well as a way to keep their memory sharp. Play board games or card games, or get active with a round of cornhole or oversize Jenga. Crosswords, Sudoku or jigsaw puzzles can also be fun to complete together. Or add a touch of autumn by creating your own game, like a scent competition where participants must identify mystery smells like cinnamon or pumpkin. Companionship for Fall Activities Sometimes it can be hard to find the time to dedicate to our elderly loved ones. Whether navigating a demanding career, raising children or dealing with something else entirely, we may not be able to pencil in these affairs as much as we would like to. However, these fall activities for seniors can be crucial for their social, emotional, mental and even physical health. While you may not be able to be there for each and every activity, dont limit your loved one. Families looking for private caregivers should turn to FirstLight Home Care we will be by your side every step of the way with professionals who are well-equipped to provide companionship, care, comfort and more. Get started today  inquire about a personalized quote or call 612-473-3227 to talk with our FirstLight team.