Columns

Hoping the best is yet to come

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:24:43 GMT

From the Publisher

While we continue to reel from the bombings at the Boston Marathon and some of the other tragedies that have hit our nation recently, it might be a good idea to think like the Rev. Joseph R. Paquette, who states in a story in the May issue of “Senior Digest” that there is always hope. His hopefulness is partially based on what he hears from the younger generation. Frequently, he says, students tell him they want to pursue careers in which they can help the less fortunate and make a difference.

Restoring funds is quality of life issue

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:17:48 GMT

On the Senior Agenda by William F. Flynn, Jr.

This year the Senior Agenda Coalition and its partner group, the Rhode Island Organizing Project, have been arranging meetings of seniors with their legislators to ask for restoration of $1.8 million cut from senior services since 2008. During our meetings, we share stories with state senators and representatives about “aging in the community.” One of the best stories came from a senior I’ll call Jane.

Vintage glass bottles sought by collectors

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:16:37 GMT

Today's Antiques by Scott Davis

Who can say why so many folks seem to have a fascination with something as ubiquitous and humble as the glass bottle? However, for some reason, almost everyone has at least one old glass bottle stashed away in the attic or basement, or displayed on a shelf or window sill.

Make your mark at city middle school

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:15:25 GMT

Service Link by Corey Plante

Got some extra time on your hands? Looking to do something meaningful and possibly change lives? Then become a volunteer in a Providence or Pawtucket middle school.

Chained-CPI plan draws opposition

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:13:21 GMT

On the Inside by Kathleen S. Connell

Many of us were greatly dismayed last month when President Obama released a proposed budget that included an adjustment in Social Security benefits known as the Chained-CPI (Consumer Price Index). The president said that is a responsible approach to reducing the deficit.

Mental health issues require more attention

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:11:55 GMT

By Kathleen Heren

May is Mental Health Month so I thought it would be beneficial to write about mental health issues in connection with seniors. At least health care providers and clinicians have finally recognized that mental illness in older adults is not part of the normal aging process.

Simple steps for making yards animal kingdoms tuary

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:10:25 GMT

The Wild Life by Todd McLeish

Budding trees and longer days means the season of gardening has returned. While you focus on making your yard more colorful and appealing, it’s also a good time to think about how you can use your landscape to attract wildlife. Whether you live in suburbia, in a rural zone, or even if your “yard” consists of an apartment balcony in the city, you can provide a place that will benefit wildlife.

Life is more enjoyable with upbeat attitude

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:08:50 GMT

Healthy Aging by Martha Machnik

“There's always a lot to be thankful for if you take time to look for it. For example, I am sitting here thinking how nice it is that wrinkles don't hurt.” -Author Unknown

Historic site celebrates Samuel Slater

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:06:42 GMT

Rhode Trips by Mark Sweberg

In 1783, the rebellious colonies had just prevailed in the long struggle for independence from England. Faced with the dilemma of growing a new economy, America fortuitously found an unexpected ally amidst the ranks of its vanquished foe in the person of Samuel Slater.

Upcoming events add to Rio’s appeal

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:04:04 GMT

Senior Travel Talk by Moe Rondeau

Best known for spectacular New Year’s Eve and carnival celebrations, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is getting ready for a new era of international renown. Rio will play host to two of the world’s preeminent sporting events: the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Summer Olympic Games.

Show mom lots of love with delicious brunch

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:58:56 GMT

Budget Kitchen by Portia Little

Remember when a tray of food would arrive on your bed covers early in the morning on Mother’s Day? A small urchin would appear with a little smile, looking to see if mom would appreciate the slightly burnt toast smeared with red jam, or maybe some scrambled eggs or pancakes and syrup.

A word about dental sanitation procedures

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:57:47 GMT

Ask Your Dentist by Guillaume Lepine

A clean, safe, and comfortable dental office is essential to keeping everyone smiling long after their visit. Recently, there were several stories in the news about sanitation at dental offices. This column provides some information about dental office sanitation so you are aware of related regulations and procedures in time for your next checkup.

Don’t ignore decisions concerning care options

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:56:15 GMT

By Scott Sanborn

When I wrote this column, it was the day after this year’s ill-fated Boston Marathon. The events that surrounded this year’s race were a grim reminder that advance care planning is something we all should do and encourage others to do, regardless of age or current health. Discussing your wishes can be one of the most important gifts you ever give your loved ones.

Government wants agencies to increase telemonitoring

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:54:26 GMT

Home Care by David DiFilippo

Q: I recently read about legislation that expands telehealth technology? Can you explain what that means? ~ Michelle S., Cranston

Obtain ladybird deed before time runs out

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:53:11 GMT

Legal Corner by Paul A. Brule

There are many tools that attorneys use to save peoples’ assets from loss of payment for nursing homes expenses. While the methods may not be tools in the usual sense of the word, it presents a good analogy. Various types of legal documents or legal structures can be used like tools to achieve certain objectives.

Support association’s push for HOPE act

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:51:16 GMT

Living with Alzheimer's by Camilla Farrell

Dementia is the second largest contributor to death among older Americans, with one in every three seniors dying with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. And despite reliable diagnostic tests, evidence shows over half of those with Alzheimer’s do not know they have the disease.

IRS issues advice for late taxpayers

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:49:58 GMT

By Meg Chevalier

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has some advice for people who missed the tax filing deadline.

Seniors still have plenty of brain power

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:48:49 GMT

From the Director's Desk by Catherine Taylor

Older Americans Month has been observed annually during May since 1963 to recognize the contributions of seniors to the history, culture and traditions of the nation. This year, the theme for Older Americans month is “Unleash the Power of Age.” The theme exhorts us to change our attitudes toward aging to embrace the idea of a powerful, not frail, stage of life.

Senior Beat - Programs help seniors stretch their food budgets

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 18:48:50 GMT

By Larry Grimaldi

CRANSTON --- Good nutrition is one of the keys to maintaining good health as we age, but in today’s economy, it’s a challenge for many seniors to purchase nutritious food at reasonable prices. Fortunately, programs are available to help older adults stretch their food budgets so they can buy the items they need for a healthy, active and productive lifestyle.

Coalition starts conversation on finances

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 14:40:43 GMT

On the Senior Agenda by William F. Flynn, Jr.

Someone once said that truly wise persons are better known for their questions than for their answers. During the recent American Society on Aging Conference in Chicago, Debra Whitman, an economist who is executive vice president for policy at the national office of AARP, raised provocative questions about the economics of aging and said we have to find some answers. The questions follow.

Collectors track down model locomotives

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 14:39:22 GMT

Today's Antiques by Scott Davis

The concept of rolling wagons on a track is actually quite old, dating back to the Greeks as early as 600 B.C. By the 1500s, countries throughout Europe began using man or animal drawn wagon ways for mining and other similar uses.

Legislators should stop abusive lending outfits

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 14:37:54 GMT

On the Inside by Kathleeen S. Connell

Many people in my generation were inspired by John F. Kennedy’s “Profiles in Courage,” a small book with one big idea. It highlights politicians who took great political risks to stand up for what they knew was the right thing to do and would have lasting significance.

Committee tackling end of life issues

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 14:36:41 GMT

By Kathleen Heren

In February, U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse convened a meeting of individuals who represented all areas of health care in Rhode Island. As different as we all are, we have a common thread -- improving advanced care planning for Rhode Islanders.

AG: Help keep health care costs in check

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 14:35:37 GMT

AG's Corner by Peter F. Kilmartin

When you see your grandchild with a school notebook, you probably have fond memories of your school days. You remember filling your own notebooks with facts and school projects. However, notebooks aren’t just for kids.

Position sought determines educational requirements

admin@change.me (Administrator Account) — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 14:33:46 GMT

Home Care by David DiFilippo

Q: What education is required to work for a home care company? ~ Molly M., Warren