Wendy Adlerstein, On Having the Conversation about Aging and the Next Chapter

Wendy Adlerstein, LSW, who has more than 20 years of experience in working with seniors. She holds a B.A. from Clark University, in Psychology with a concentration in Sociology and Human Services. In addition to her Massachusetts License in Social Work, Wendy holds a Certificate in Gerontology from the Worcester Consortium Gerontology Program. She is a member of the Aging Life Care Association (ALCA), formerly the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers. Finally, Wendy is a Certified Dementia Practitioner in good standing from the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners.Currently, she is Executive Director and Co-Owner of FirstLight Home Care of West Suburban Boston.In this episode, Wendy -Provides practical information about how to start the difficult conversation with your loved ones about their wishes for where they want to live as they grow older and their needs change.Provides this professional tip for families -  that each family member takes a different piece of the caring role - to avoid resentment.Explains the different living options for your aging relatives.Shares safety tips for those who want to age in place at home.How to spot troubling signals, indicating that it is time to re-assess your aging relative’s living status.Advises and specifies small steps to address a loved one’s resistance to accept help and/or make changes.Encourages caregivers to make a habit of taking time for self care and insisting upon it.Resources:Five WishesPlanning for financing assisted livingDo your research about assisted livingAging at homeDeclutteringSocialization is important for seniorsWhy you don’t want to fallPractical Tips:Call to action -Have you had the conversation with your loved ones about making plans for choosing options to live safely in the golden years?If so, is everyone on your team on the same page? Who is in charge?If you are a caregiver, what are your struggles?Share your comments and answers to these questions atEmail: [email protected]: yogimd.netFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/yogimdnet/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yogimdnet/Don’t wait until a situation is dire and emotions are high to make important decisions.The Mindful Minute:The next time you are faced with having a difficult conversation, take the time to really listen…with the intent to understand. don’t interrupt. if you feel the urge to do so, stop and drop your shoulders, relax your jaw, loosen you hands, and inhale deeply though your nose, expanding your belly. Exhale through your nose slowly, feeling your belly relax.