As your parents' age, it is important that you have conversations with them about their changing life situation. Make sure it is clear to them the conversation comes from a place of love and concern, and that you want to find out what you need to know to make sure their wishes are honored, and their autonomy and quality of life is maintained. 

​The COVID-19 pandemic's heavy toll on older Americans highlights the need to strengthen the nation's safety net for people in need of long-term services and supports, according to an Oregon Health & Science University researcher in a new report published by Milbank Quarterly.

The report proposes a system of universal coverage to support the long-term care of all older Americans.
​
"This approach would protect against financial catastrophe and end the current system that is based on the need to be financially destitute in order to access coverage via Medicaid," the authors write. "Such an approach would benefit both individuals and families and would also create a far more stable and more generous funding stream to providers."

Link to article

Link to report

The coronavirus has left many both confused and anxious. While we can’t predict when something like COVID-19 might strike, we can take steps to prepare for an unexpected crisis to help reduce the stress on ourselves and family members.

"A growing body of research suggests that dance, notably the tango, can improve balance, strength and walking ability in people with neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, as well as multiple sclerosis and stroke.
​
“People who dance do better over the long term,” said Dr. Joy Antonelle de Marcaida, medical director of Hartford Hospital‘s Movement Disorders Center in Vernon."