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senior and nurse leaning on each other

Dealing with Emotional Loss

Dear Kara, I am the primary caregiver for my aunt. She is my late-mother’s sister, and we have always been close to her. A few months ago, her husband of almost 50 years passed away unexpectedly, leaving her on her own for the first time. Within a few weeks of his funeral, we realized she… Read more »

nurse and patient looking at each other

A Day in the Life at an Optalis Community

Long-term care is becoming an increasingly common need for older adults. In fact, it’s estimated that about half (52%) of Americans 65 or above will need some type of long-term care service in the future. However, those are just numbers. Your parent isn’t a number. Your loved one isn’t a statistic. If they end up in the… Read more »

older lady smiing at the camera

Is Assisted Living the Right Choice for Mom?

Dear Jana: We visited my mother in Columbus, Ohio, recently. For numerous reasons, we haven’t seen her since last Christmas. While she’s been telling us she is doing well, I’m not so sure that is true. At a minimum, she is lonely. She might even be depressed. Some of the other concerns I have are… Read more »

blocks that have medical symbols on them

Medicare Advantage Plan: How It Works

Dear Tracy: My husband and I are thinking of switching to a Medicare Advantage Plan. We’ve heard it is a great way to save money, but we are a little confused about a few details. Does signing up mean we are no longer part of Medicare? Can we sign up any time of year we… Read more »

Which Is Better—Assisted or Home Living?

Your senior parents need help. You know it. They probably know it, although they may not want to admit it. They may be having problems with: Chronic illness or disease, such as high blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol or diabetes Declining physical ability, such as vision, hearing, balance or walking Home safety Home maintenance and… Read more »

close up view of knees that had a surgery

Is a Skilled Rehab Center the Best Option?

Is it better to recover at home or at a skilled rehab center after an illness, accident, or injury? It all depends on your situation.  If you’re helping a loved one make this decision, read the following story and learn more about your options.  Is Home Care or Short-Term Rehab Better? Joy, whose father had… Read more »

senior at dining table getting food served to her by staff

Dining in Assisted Living

Dear Katrina, I’ve been helping my dad look into assisted living communities. I know this might not seem like a big deal, but one of his main concerns is what the food will be like. He’s worried that if he moves, he’ll be stuck eating boring, bland food every day. He’s also a pretty independent… Read more »

close up view of Columbus map

Historical Places Around Columbus for Seniors

Looking for interesting places to go in the Columbus, Ohio area? There are so many places to choose from that we’ve narrowed it down to historical sites. Step back in time and explore roads to the past at any one of these eight Columbus area historical places that are perfect for seniors and older adults!… Read more »

Get the Most Out of Optalis Care Centers

Dear Sarah, I’m going to be moving to one of the Optalis care centers soon and I’m starting to get a little nervous about what it’s going to be like. Do you have any tips or advice for getting the most out of the experience? Sincerely, Bert H. Hilliard, Ohio How to Get the Most… Read more »