“A place where no Senior will ever walk alone”

STAYING IN CONTROL

Program 7

“NO CONTROL, NO LIFE”

The Bottom Line

Many older adults are unable to make decisions on their own, and do not have a family member or friend who can be their guardian, representative, or substitute decision maker. These individuals are often called “Elder Orphans”.

Because of the lack of data on “Elder Orphans” it raises many questions about the unmet care needs of this vulnerable population. These individuals need a public guardian. A public guardian is a case manager whose job is to make legal and personal decisions on behalf of these “Elder Orphans”.

It’s all about the memories! If someone could grant your loved one a wish, what do you think they wish for? Seeing their first love again? Knowing that their personal treasures will be loved and cared for? Not being a financial burden on their family? Making peace with their Maker? Dying pain-free? Well this program can help you, while helping your loved one fulfill their wishes.

1) Keeping in Touch
Old Friends are Memories

Sadly, the years go by quickly and it gets harder and harder to keep old friendships. Friends move away, go into retirement or long-term homes, and of course, some pass away. We will try to help you and your loved one to renew old friendships, and start new ones.

Help organize monthly get togethers for both old and new friends

Include as many of your elder’s friends when you plan an outing

Always contact every friend to invite them to all special occasions

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Making New Friends

If your loved one says why should I make new friends when they will get sick and die, just like my old friends have done. You’ll need to talk to Mom about dealing with grief. The list below will help you convince your loved one they need all the friends they can get.

A friend will help them reminisce about the good old times

A friend will put the fun back in their life

A friend will remind Dad about the good times with friends when they were young

A friend helps Mom to think about others and forget about themselves for a while

A new friend provides opportunities to try new things in life

A friend can help an elder cope with day to day problems

You need to get your loved one out of the house so they can meet and make new friends. Senior citizen groups at their church, volunteer organizations, adult education classes, senior centers, and adult daycare centers.

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2) Staying at the Helm
Seniors Need A Sense of Control

Never force your loved one to go to a long-term home. You’re just asking for a whole lot of grief for both you and them. If there are only a few concerns then let your Dad stay the “Captain of his ship”.

Here are some suggestions to help you, help them make their own choices.

Don’t take over your elder’s responsibilities because it’s convenient or efficient

Just because your loved one can’t make big major decisions, they can still make important decisions that matter to them

Show them the importance of using assistive devices

Allow your loved one to govern (control) his or her own life

Have a talk with your loved one about estate planning. Do they know about wills, do they have a filing system for important papers, power of attorney, living will, and “Do Not Resuscitate Order”?

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3) No Bill Collectors Aloud
Paying The Bills

The bills have to be payed and the bill collectors won’t wait around until you and your loved one to work things out.

You need to figure out your loved one’s assets and debts and locate all of their important papers.

Keep all family members aware of all income and expense decisions.

Try to pay all recurring bills electronically.

“Click here for Professional Help and support”

4) Keeping the Faith
Church At Home

When your elder can’t go to church, temple, or mosque, here are some ways to bring these houses of worship home.

Ask the house of worship for a home visit

Find someone to read your loved one religious’ tracts

Most Pastors, Rabbis, and Spiritual Leaders will record a personal message for your elder

Play your loved one’s special religious music

Getting Back to Religious Roots

Buy Mom religious books

Watch and listen to preachers on TV and Radio

Give them religious gifts for special occasions

Continue to give donations to their favorite charity

“Click here for Professional Help and support”

WITH RESPECT

THE SOSOPWORLD TEAM

416-500-8207

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