A demographic shift is taking place throughout much of the world. Population aging is changing lives and institutions. Never before have so many people lived to such old age. In the USA, the number of people age 65 and over is projected to leap from about 54 million in 2019 to more than 80 million by 2040. By 2030, all Baby Boomers (1946-1964) will be 65 years of age and older.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) wants people to know how to get help when they need it. This is especially important during the pandemic, when in-person service is by appointment only for limited issues. SSA created a new flyer that explains how to get help.

When I was a child, I used to imagine what it would be like to be as old as my great-grandfather, Sterling Grim. My great-grandfather was a Pennsylvania Dutchman and an active member of the Church of the United Brethren in Christ. He sometimes spoke in German or Pennsylvania Dutch and tried teaching me the language. I had enough difficulty with the English language and could never quite grasp his German tongue. For some reason, his thick white hair and wrinkled face never frightened me. In fact, I was attracted to my great-grandfather because I felt special by his love.

There are currently over 16 million people in the US providing care to a person with dementia. While caregiving can be very rewarding, many caregivers also experience a significant amount of stress, and struggle to find meaning in their role as a caregiver.

Caregiving can be both an opportunity and a burden. It’s often a long journey with no end in sight. Few people face more daily challenges or overcome more obstacles than caregivers. During the COVID pandemic, the challenges of caregiving have been exacerbated for many who receive care and those who provide it.

by Pat Brandenstein I recently visited a local store to purchase Halloween candy. And to what to my wandering eyes did I see, but a Santa Claus and 12 tiny reindeer. What?! We haven’t had Thanksgiving yet and there are Christmas ornaments. I guess I better start planning, I hadn’t even thought about the holidays. People grieving the recent loss …

The legendary late great pitcher Satchel Paige is credited with asking, “How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are?” In your own mind, what age are you? Be honest. If you’re like me, your answer depends on the time of day and how you’re feeling at that particular moment! Our traditional idea of aging is …

In April FEMA began disbursing $2 billion — $9,000 per funeral — in funeral reimbursement. The money also covers cremation without other services. If the family incurs cemetery or memorial-related costs, FEMA’s funeral assistance will not fully cover those.

This week I had the privilege to celebrate the life of a good friend, Cornelia Frank. She was 101 years old and was one of the first persons I met when I moved to Winchester 20 years ago. It is difficult moving into a small town and getting acquainted after you have retired. Everyone has their circle of friends. However, the first Sunday I attended Winchester First United Methodist Church, Cornelia came up to me, introduced herself, and invited me to deliver Meals on Wheels with her. I was her co-pilot delivering some 10 meals together each week.

Medicare Plans Patient Resource Center provides resources to help guide Tennessee seniors through all of the available Medicare plan options and a list of helpful community organizations across the state.