Senior Advocacy

What’s your first thought when you see an individual in a wheelchair? Do you view that person as less-than, someone in need of being fixed? Do you assume they need special treatment, as though a physical disability impacts intellect as well? How does your thinking shift to see someone standing upright, without the need for a wheelchair; would you think they were better-abled than the wheelchair-bound older adult?

These are tough questions that call for honest answers if we’re to understand and respond accordingly to hidden disabilities in seniors and ableism.

What Is Ableism?

Ableism is identified as “the discrimination of and social prejudice against people with disabilities based on the belief that typical abilities are superior.” It leads to harmful misconceptions and stereotypes.

The Two Sides of the Disability Coin

Individuals with visible disabilities encounter ableism in many … Read More »

The highest quality LGBTQ+ senior care begins with understanding and implementing cultural competence practices.

As we strive to create compassionate and supportive environments for seniors, the concept of cultural competence takes center stage, particularly when addressing the unique needs of LGBTQ+ individuals in their later years. In the context of LGBTQ+ senior care, embracing cultural competence is essential to ensure that each person receives the respect and understanding they deserve as they navigate the intricacies of aging.

What Is Cultural Competence?

At its core, cultural competence refers to the ability of individuals or organizations to effectively interact with people from different cultures. It involves understanding, respecting, and responding to the needs and preferences of individuals from diverse backgrounds. In the context of LGBTQ+ seniors, cultural competence extends beyond a general understanding of aging to encompass the unique challenges, … Read More »

Older adults in the LGBTQ+ community face a number of hurdles that we all need to understand.

When it comes to growing older, the experiences of seniors are as diverse as the colors of the rainbow. Within this spectrum, older adults in the LGBTQ+ community often face unique challenges that warrant our attention and understanding. As a leading home care provider in Novato and the surrounding areas, we know that fostering inclusivity is crucial for providing support to all members of our community. It begins by understanding some of the hurdles specific to the LGBTQ+ population that need to be overcome.

Isolation and Social Stigma:

One of the key challenges confronting LGBTQ+ seniors is the potential for isolation and the enduring social stigma that has persisted throughout their lives. Many individuals from this community grew up in an … Read More »

Trusting someone you love to the care of someone else is never easy, particularly for a senior family member. Whether at home or in a facility, you’ll have questions you need answered. You will also want to be ready to advocate for an aging parent to proactively address any potential problems and also to quickly take care of issues that do take place.

For instance, review the following common situations and how to most effectively advocate should they arise with an older adult you love:

The person has dementia. A loved one with Alzheimer’s might not be able to effectively communicate their wishes and needs. As an example, a new caregiver may not realize that Dad wears inserts in his shoes and she may put his shoes on each day without them. Dad may not know how to communicate this … Read More »

Being a better advocate for your older loved ones begins with these four tactics.

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” – Dr. Seuss, The Lorax

Serving as an advocate for your older loved ones is perhaps one of the greatest honors – and responsibilities – you’ll have as a family caregiver. It means fully comprehending their needs and wishes, and communicating them to those who can help to make sure they’re achieved.