Tips on Caring for the Elderly: Elderspeak

by Di Patterson on February 1, 2010

in Elder Care

advice on Elder Care ~ February 1, 2010

002 daughter 300x225 Tips on Caring for the Elderly: ElderspeakI am pretty fluent in “elderspeak”: my term for the language of what matters to the elderly. As a Gerontologist, a social scientist who studies research, trends and the promotion of successful aging specific to ages 60 and above, I know that older adults respond better to some approaches than others. Fortunately, there are a growing number of professionals out there to assist families and individuals in using compassion and common sense as loved ones age and their needs change.

Whether you are caring for aging parents or new to the aging marketplace, here are a few of my Successful Strategies in Elderspeak. These recommendations have their foundations in biology of Aging and psychology of Aging coursework and in my many years of experience with older adults.

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Planes, trains and triple A?

by Di Patterson on May 8, 2009

in Thrifty Travel

advice on Thrifty Travel ~ May 8, 2009

plane Planes, trains and triple A?Question:
Di, which websites should I use when looking for cheap plane tickets? And are there other cheaper options when traveling?

Di Patterson:
Expedia.com
and Priceline.com are great sites to search for cheap plane tickets. But don’t forget about car/train trips… {read more...}

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Get organized!

May 1, 2009
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Let’s get real: We all have stuff we need to go through and extra possessions we could move out of our lives. Whether we donate, sell, pass around or throw out, the goal of de-cluttering our space is a very positive one. Organization of possessions, papers, and personal parameters will cause peace and patience [...]

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How can I protect my credit?

April 20, 2009
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Question:
Di, we’re not in a bad place financially right now, but if things get worse I’m concerned about my credit score. How can I protect my credit?
Di Patterson:
I’m so glad to hear that you’re being proactive about this, because that’s the best way to fortify your credit and ensure you’ll be able to withstand difficult [...]

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Travel Guide

April 20, 2009
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Now is the time to start planning for that vacation that you probably can take…in 2010. That said, there are many travel opportunities that can be arranged on shorter notice. Many of us are postponing the out-of-town vacation we had hoped for in 2009 and opting for checking out local flavors and sites. There are [...]

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Are cruises good for a family trip?

April 15, 2009
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Question:
Di, I am hearing more and more about cruises as a good family vacation option. Is this something I should look into for my next family trip?
Di Patterson:
Cruising is just a great way to travel for families! The all-inclusive prices are great for budgeting, because most of the costs are covered up front. Souvenirs [...]

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What about educational vacations?

April 10, 2009
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Question:
Di, I want to take a vacation where I can learn and see new things. Is there a way to do that without spending thousands of dollars?
Di Patterson:
I’m happy to say that there is a way to do that. Here are a couple options below:

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Any suggestions for a mini vacation?

April 1, 2009
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Question:
Di, my family is short on time and money for a full vacation. Any suggestions for a mini vacation?
Di Patterson:
You are not the first person to ask me this question. These are tough times financially for all of us and I commend you for wanting to watch your pocket-book, and also setting aside quality [...]

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Vacations: The New Options

March 20, 2009
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Question:
Di, I want to try a new kind of vacation. What kind of alternatives are there for me out there?
Di Patterson:
I’ve been waiting for someone to ask this question. I have so many ideas but here are just a few:

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Do you have golf-vacation suggestions?

March 20, 2009
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Question:
Di, my wife and I are looking for a place to travel to that is relaxing but that has things for us to do as well. Any ideas?
Di Patterson:
Yes! You should go on a destination vacation to a Golf Resort. There are Golf Resorts all over the world and they are often cheaper than most [...]

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