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Aging

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Institution
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Articles 1 - 30 of 36

Full-Text Articles in Social Work

Adventure And Spiritual Restoration: Older Adult Motivations For Undertaking A Pilgrimage On El Camino De Santiago, Holly Nelson-Becker, Joseph G. Pickard, Florian Sichling Feb 2023

Adventure And Spiritual Restoration: Older Adult Motivations For Undertaking A Pilgrimage On El Camino De Santiago, Holly Nelson-Becker, Joseph G. Pickard, Florian Sichling

Social Work: School of Social Work Faculty Publications and Other Works

A pilgrimage is an intentional journey undertaken for reasons that can increase a sense of well-being. Although originally completed for religious purposes, motives in contemporary times may include anticipated religious, spiritual, and humanistic benefits as well as appreciation of culture and geography. This quantitative and qualitative survey research explored the motivations of a sample subset age 65 and over from a larger study who completed one of the Camino de Santiago de Compostela routes in Spain. Consistent with life course and developmental theory, some respondents walked at life decision points. The analyzed sample was 111 people, nearly 60% of whom …


Leveraging Public-Private Partnerships During Covid-19: Providing Virtual Field Opportunities For Student Learners And Addressing Social Isolation In Older Adults, Omolola E. Adepoju, Sheara Jennings, Patti Schrader, Kathleen Reeve, Tracy Mcmanaman-Bridges, Lauren Gilbert, Ben King, Jessica Dobbins, Andy Rollins, Luis Torres-Hostos Apr 2022

Leveraging Public-Private Partnerships During Covid-19: Providing Virtual Field Opportunities For Student Learners And Addressing Social Isolation In Older Adults, Omolola E. Adepoju, Sheara Jennings, Patti Schrader, Kathleen Reeve, Tracy Mcmanaman-Bridges, Lauren Gilbert, Ben King, Jessica Dobbins, Andy Rollins, Luis Torres-Hostos

School of Social Work Faculty Publications and Presentations

While preventive and management measures are important to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, strategies like social distancing can have devastating effects on older adults who are already at risk for social isolation and loneliness. In response, two Colleges of Health Professions (Social Work and Nursing) at a large public University leveraged a partnership with a national health and wellbeing company to address social isolation and loneliness in Houston area older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. This intergenerational linkage initiative involved 707 older adults and 177 graduate social work and nursing students. This study describes the process of developing a virtual …


Most Home-Delivered Meal Recipients With Dementia Receive Support From Friends And Family, But More Social Activity Is Needed, Claire Pendergrast Mar 2022

Most Home-Delivered Meal Recipients With Dementia Receive Support From Friends And Family, But More Social Activity Is Needed, Claire Pendergrast

Population Health Research Brief Series

Home-delivered meal programs reduce hunger and food insecurity, promote socialization, and improve health and wellbeing for older adults. Regular social support from home-delivered meal drivers, alongside social support from friends and family, may be key to preventing isolation and improving health for older adults with dementia. This research brief shows that home-delivered meal recipients with dementia receive significant support from friends and family, but 83% would like more social activity. To better support older adults with dementia and family caregivers, aging services providers should expand virtual and dementia-friendly social engagement programming.


Combating Loneliness In Assisted Living Facilities: An Evidence-Based Practice Guide For Social Work Practitioners Working With Older Adults, Annie Alexis Romano Apr 2021

Combating Loneliness In Assisted Living Facilities: An Evidence-Based Practice Guide For Social Work Practitioners Working With Older Adults, Annie Alexis Romano

Evidence-Based Social Work Practice Guide Series

It has been well documented that social needs do not change with aging (Teater, Chonody, & Davis, 2021), but often, older adults are left out of the conversation when it comes to loneliness and the feelings that come with social isolation. In the same way that researchers are de-stigmatizing the mental health conversation for youth and middle-aged adults, we need to bring to light the issues that come with those who live in assisted living facilities or nursing homes and the social issues presented in that population.


Chapter 15: Family Caregiving, Anna Hammersmith Jan 2021

Chapter 15: Family Caregiving, Anna Hammersmith

Books and Contributions to Books

The United States’ aging population has led to a greater need for caregivers. This responsibility often falls to family members. Social workers can support family caregivers, but mindfulness about group and individual differences is crucial. Understanding diverse needs of family caregivers and recipients will help social workers effectively implement interventions.


Creating A Paradigm Shift: Culture Change Around Dementia, Ahna H. Soli May 2019

Creating A Paradigm Shift: Culture Change Around Dementia, Ahna H. Soli

2019 Symposium

A Culture Change Presentation about Creating Dementia Friendly Communities that support residents who are affected by Dementia remaining integrated in their community through supports and community trainings. According to the Dementia Action Collaborative of Washington State, over 100,000 people live with Dementia’s or Alzheimer’s in Washington with that number continuing to grow. Our society and culture is not equipped with the tools to help them lead productive, purposeful lives. Currently, the population affected by Dementia is placed in institutional care communities where they are considered safe and well taken care of. Using the behavior strategies and culture change tools presented …


On My Own Terms: Effectiveness Of Death With Dignity Legislation In Oregon, Megan E. Russell Apr 2018

On My Own Terms: Effectiveness Of Death With Dignity Legislation In Oregon, Megan E. Russell

Student Publications

As the elderly constitute a greater proportion of the population, end-of- life issues have taken on a greater sense of urgency. This paper will address the heart of the debate, which is a terminally ill patient's right to dignity and self-determination. To further explore this social issue, a literature review will be conducted using a variety of relevant literature including, peer reviewed journals, and accredited online resources to assemble evidence of researchers. In some states, the discussion on this social issue has resulted in the enactment of policy. One of the first groundbreaking public laws was the Oregon Death with …


Recapturing The Power Of Ritual To Enhance Community In Aging, Holly Nelson-Becker, Kimberly Sangster Jan 2018

Recapturing The Power Of Ritual To Enhance Community In Aging, Holly Nelson-Becker, Kimberly Sangster

Social Work: School of Social Work Faculty Publications and Other Works

Ritual returns us to the center of who we are. In times of transition, loss, disconnection, and loneliness, ritual offers transformative power. It can provide a language for expression, stability, serve an integrating force in community, mediate tradition, and offer emotional support. This article explores the need for ritual in coping with late life changes, the relationship of ritual to suffering, value of ritual in storytelling and mourning, and explains the role of witness facilitated through community. Therapeutic functions of ritual are addressed and a framework for ritual design is suggested.


Expand Paid Family And Medical Leave, Ernest Gonzales, Nancy Morrow-Howell, Huy Ho Mar 2017

Expand Paid Family And Medical Leave, Ernest Gonzales, Nancy Morrow-Howell, Huy Ho

Center for Social Development Research

This policy action statement was developed by members of the network engaged in the Grand Challenge to Advance Long and Productive Lives. The Grand Challenges initiative’s policy action statements present proposals emerging from Social Innovation for America’s Renewal, a policy conference organized by the Center for Social Development at Washington University in collaboration with theAmerican Academy of Social Work & Social Welfare, which is leading the Grand Challenges for Social Work initiative to champion social progress through a national agenda powered by science.


Coping Strategies Used By Lgb Older Adults In Facing And Anticipating Health Challenges: A Narrative Analysis, Kristie L. Seelman, Terri Lewinson, Lily Engleman, Olivia Maley, Alex Allen Jan 2017

Coping Strategies Used By Lgb Older Adults In Facing And Anticipating Health Challenges: A Narrative Analysis, Kristie L. Seelman, Terri Lewinson, Lily Engleman, Olivia Maley, Alex Allen

SW Publications

Given that lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) older adults face notable health disparities compared to their heterosexual counterparts, there is a need for understanding how LGB adults cope with health challenges in late life. The current study analyzes narratives from nine LGB adults age 65 and older living in an urban area in the Southeast U.S. Participants spoke of coping strategies related to health promotion behaviors, shifting perspectives of health and body, trusting in spirituality for comfort, and accepting the end of life. We discuss implications for social services professionals who work with older LGB adults and for future research.


Spirituality In Professional Practice With Older Adults, Holly Nelson-Becker, Edward Canada, Mitsuko Nakashima Nov 2015

Spirituality In Professional Practice With Older Adults, Holly Nelson-Becker, Edward Canada, Mitsuko Nakashima

Social Work: School of Social Work Faculty Publications and Other Works

No abstract provided.


Domestic Violence Or Elder Abuse? Why It Matters For Older Women, Teresa Kilbane, Marcia K. Spira Jan 2010

Domestic Violence Or Elder Abuse? Why It Matters For Older Women, Teresa Kilbane, Marcia K. Spira

Social Work: School of Social Work Faculty Publications and Other Works

Law enforcement and legal services are 2 systems that respond to reports of abuse against women through programs such as adult protective services (APS) and domestic violence (DV). APS and DV systems operate independently and define the cause of the abuse differently. The designation of a woman as having suffered domestic violence or having been abused often depends on which system she enters. This designation can lead to different options for women to obtain services. Aging may further complicate access and usability of these systems to respond to the needs of abused elderly. Using vignettes, this article explores the definitions …


Spirituality And Aging (Review), Holly Nelson-Becker Dec 2009

Spirituality And Aging (Review), Holly Nelson-Becker

Social Work: School of Social Work Faculty Publications and Other Works

Review of Robert C. Atchley 'Spirituality and Aging.'


Spirituality And Aging In Social Work: State Of The Art And Future Possibilities, Holly Nelson-Becker, Edward R. Canda Jan 2008

Spirituality And Aging In Social Work: State Of The Art And Future Possibilities, Holly Nelson-Becker, Edward R. Canda

Social Work: School of Social Work Faculty Publications and Other Works

This article identifies the unique contributions social work has made to the study of spirituality and religion in relation to aging, based on respect for their diverse expressions. Definitions of religion and spirituality that particularly relate to late life are provided. The study of spirituality and aging is situated in four historical phases ranging from sectarian origins (1890s to 1920), to professionalization and secularization (1920s-1970s), to renewed interest (1980s to mid 1990s), to the current phase characterized by transcending boundaries. Interdisciplinary research by social workers is prevalent. Topics of study include a wide range of religious and nonreligious spiritual perspectives, …


Silverwire, University Of Maine Center On Aging Oct 2007

Silverwire, University Of Maine Center On Aging

Maine Center on Aging Education and Training

The Silverwire Newsletter is a publication that highlights the work of the UMaine Center on Aging. The topics covered in this edition of the Silverwire Newsletter include the EPA Grant for Pilot Drug-Return Program, the relocation of administrative positions, quality assurance review to be conducted for Adult Protective Services, the Geriatric Mental Health Curriculum Project, trainings of the RSVP Station, issues of retirement preparedness, the Prescription Drug Conference, and a master’s level course in clinical practice being offered.


Health And Aging: A Roadmap For Maine’S Older Adults And Their Families, Lenard W. Kaye, Dyan M. Villeneuve Jan 2007

Health And Aging: A Roadmap For Maine’S Older Adults And Their Families, Lenard W. Kaye, Dyan M. Villeneuve

Maine Center on Aging Research and Evaluation

The rapid aging of Maine’s population has created a range of challenges associated with maximizing the health and well-being of our older citizens. This issue brief considers a series of policy and programmatic approaches to promoting healthy aging lifestyles in the state while ensuring the continued involvement of relatives and other informal supports in all such efforts. Much of the current legislation that governs policy decisions regarding social service delivery and allocation of funds for Maine’s elders is funneled through the Older Americans Act, but this has not kept pace over the past 20 years. One key factor that is …


Elder Abuse, Neglect, And Exploitation, Jason C. Charland, University Of Maine Center On Aging Sep 2006

Elder Abuse, Neglect, And Exploitation, Jason C. Charland, University Of Maine Center On Aging

Maine Center on Aging Research and Evaluation

Elder abuse is one of the most disturbing and rapidly growing areas of crime in the United States, and it remains hidden in our communities. It is estimated that as many as five million individuals 65 years of age or older are abuse in the United States every year. Approximately 84 percent of all cases are never reported. Furthermore, Maine has one of the highest elderly suicide rate in the United States. Many times, the abuser is a family member or a caregiver, of whom the elderly individual is dependent upon. There exists fear, embarrassment, and blame in the elderly …


Housing And Service Options For Older Adults In Maine, Julie Fralich, Kate Maggioncalda Sep 2006

Housing And Service Options For Older Adults In Maine, Julie Fralich, Kate Maggioncalda

Maine Center on Aging Research and Evaluation

In order to allow older adults to live at home and in their community as independently as possible for as long as possible, it is crucial to identify the needs in regard to housing and services. Meeting the needs of people with Alzheimer’s and dementia is particularly challenging due to the duration and complexity of the disease process. These aspects must be taken into consideration when evaluating the best location and services in a community. Housing should be affordable, accessible, and available to older adults in their communities. In Maine, almost one quarter of homeowners over the age of 65 …


Silverwire, University Of Maine Center On Aging Jan 2006

Silverwire, University Of Maine Center On Aging

Maine Center on Aging Education and Training

The Silverwire Newsletter is a publication that highlights the work of the UMaine Center on Aging. The topics covered in this edition of the Silverwire Newsletter include new grants to expand work in prescription drug issues and affordable housing, student learning, new professional staff members, the Geriatric Practicum Partnership Program, cultural diversity and grandfamilies, elder abuse, finding better alternatives for providing dementia-related care for people with intellectual disabilities, and plans for PEGs/GOLD sessions in the spring.


An Older Adult’S Rights, University Of Maine Center On Aging Jan 2006

An Older Adult’S Rights, University Of Maine Center On Aging

Maine Center on Aging Service and Consultation

It is important to remember that older adults have rights just like every other individual. These include the right to medical care, to live free from abuse, to feel safe, to report abuse without fear of retaliation, to determine how your money is spent, to appropriate food and clothing, to be happy, among others. To make a report of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an incapacitated or dependent adult, call Adult Protective Services at 1-800-624-8404. For more information about elder abuse and resources in your community, contact your local Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-353-3371.


Silverwire, University Of Maine Center On Aging Oct 2005

Silverwire, University Of Maine Center On Aging

Maine Center on Aging Education and Training

The Silverwire Newsletter is a publication that highlights the work of the UMaine Center on Aging. The topics covered in this edition of the Silverwire Newsletter include new funding opportunities, a VISTA profile, Maine’s older workers, governor’s service awards, recent publications, the Eastern Maine transportation needs assessment, and elder safety.


Silverwire, University Of Maine Center On Aging Jan 2005

Silverwire, University Of Maine Center On Aging

Maine Center on Aging Education and Training

The Silverwire Newsletter is a publication that highlights the work of the UMaine Center on Aging. The topics covered in this edition of the Silverwire Newsletter include new projects on elder transportation and relatives parenting children exposed to HIV, prescription drug return, the MePEP Elder Abuse Lunch and Learn series, the Aging Policy Conference, religious attendance and subjective well-being, and RSVP volunteers for homeland security.


Caregiving Resources: Family Fact Sheet #7, Eastern Agency On Aging, University Of Maine Center On Aging, Aroostook Area Agency On Aging, Senior Spectrum, Rosscare, Norumbega Medical, Horizons Health Services, Indian Township Tribal Health Center, Bucksport Regional Health Center Jun 2004

Caregiving Resources: Family Fact Sheet #7, Eastern Agency On Aging, University Of Maine Center On Aging, Aroostook Area Agency On Aging, Senior Spectrum, Rosscare, Norumbega Medical, Horizons Health Services, Indian Township Tribal Health Center, Bucksport Regional Health Center

Maine Center on Aging Service and Consultation

There are many resources available to assist informal caregivers, and not all are based on income requirements. Local resources that exist are your Local Area Agency on Aging, the Maine Alzheimer’s Association Helpline, and the Bureau of Elder and Adult Services. Federal resources include Elder Care Locator and AARP. Before calling a resource specialist, make sure to have basic information about your loved one, as they may ask about their demographic, health, legal, and financial information. Call ahead to familiarize yourself with options in order to be prepared before a crisis occurs.


Elder Abuse, Neglect, And Exploitation: Family Fact Sheet #5, Eastern Agency On Aging, University Of Maine Center On Aging, Aroostook Area Agency On Aging, Senior Spectrum, Rosscare, Norumbega Medical, Horizons Health Services, Indian Township Tribal Health Center, Bucksport Regional Health Center Mar 2004

Elder Abuse, Neglect, And Exploitation: Family Fact Sheet #5, Eastern Agency On Aging, University Of Maine Center On Aging, Aroostook Area Agency On Aging, Senior Spectrum, Rosscare, Norumbega Medical, Horizons Health Services, Indian Township Tribal Health Center, Bucksport Regional Health Center

Maine Center on Aging Service and Consultation

Elder abuse is often perpetrated by a family member. As a family caregiver, it is important to recognize if you are experiencing low self-esteem, feeling burnt out, isolated or hopeless, or if you have a history of domestic violence. Stress is a normal part of caregiving, and it is important to find efficient ways to cope with it, such as taking care of yourself. Identifying and preventing possible abusive behavior is important, and you can receive assistance through family members, friends, and respite services.


Silverwire, University Of Maine Center On Aging Jan 2004

Silverwire, University Of Maine Center On Aging

Maine Center on Aging Education and Training

The Silverwire Newsletter is a publication that highlights the work of the UMaine Center on Aging. The topics covered in this edition of the Silverwire Newsletter include a new federal grant, RSVP homeland security and performance indicators projects that are underway, the formation of a Maine Caregiving Alliance and an Alzheimer’s support group, senior college, osteoporosis awareness and action campaign, and the RAPP Public Forum.


The Healthcare Team Includes The Caregiver: Family Fact Sheet #3, Eastern Agency On Aging, University Of Maine Center On Aging, Aroostook Area Agency On Aging, Senior Spectrum, Rosscare, Norumbega Medical, Horizons Health Services, Indian Township Tribal Health Center, Bucksport Regional Health Center Oct 2003

The Healthcare Team Includes The Caregiver: Family Fact Sheet #3, Eastern Agency On Aging, University Of Maine Center On Aging, Aroostook Area Agency On Aging, Senior Spectrum, Rosscare, Norumbega Medical, Horizons Health Services, Indian Township Tribal Health Center, Bucksport Regional Health Center

Maine Center on Aging Service and Consultation

As an informal caregiver to an older relative, it is important to properly communicate information in order to ensure the best possible care of this individual. Open discussion between the physician and the informal caregiver will allow for the best possible options to be chosen in regard to treatment and cost.


Silverwire, University Of Maine Center On Aging Oct 2002

Silverwire, University Of Maine Center On Aging

Maine Center on Aging Education and Training

The Silverwire Newsletter is a publication that highlights the work of the UMaine Center on Aging. The topics covered in this edition of the Silverwire Newsletter include international perspectives on health policy, MPPC, continuing education, new organizational leadership, stories from master athletes, a Bucksport older adult housing assessment, osteoporosis awareness, mental health and substance abuse, and an Alzheimer’s support group.


Depression: Family Fact Sheet #2, Eastern Agency On Aging, University Of Maine Center On Aging, Aroostook Area Agency On Aging, Senior Spectrum, Rosscare, Norumbega Medical, Horizons Health Services, Indian Township Tribal Health Center, Bucksport Regional Health Center Sep 2002

Depression: Family Fact Sheet #2, Eastern Agency On Aging, University Of Maine Center On Aging, Aroostook Area Agency On Aging, Senior Spectrum, Rosscare, Norumbega Medical, Horizons Health Services, Indian Township Tribal Health Center, Bucksport Regional Health Center

Maine Center on Aging Service and Consultation

Caregiving does not cause depression, but some may experience it, as many sacrifice their own physical and emotional needs in order to provide care to others. Symptoms of depression may include a change in eating habits, sleep patterns, feelings of constant exhaustion, loss of interest in things that once brought you pleasure, thoughts of suicide, among others. If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it is important to recognize and get help with these issues. Depression is a highly curable illness with appropriate medical care.


Family Caregiving: Family Fact Sheet #1, Eastern Agency On Aging, University Of Maine Center On Aging, Aroostook Area Agency On Aging, Senior Spectrum, Rosscare, Norumbega Medical, Horizons Health Services, Indian Township Tribal Health Center, Bucksport Regional Health Center Jul 2002

Family Caregiving: Family Fact Sheet #1, Eastern Agency On Aging, University Of Maine Center On Aging, Aroostook Area Agency On Aging, Senior Spectrum, Rosscare, Norumbega Medical, Horizons Health Services, Indian Township Tribal Health Center, Bucksport Regional Health Center

Maine Center on Aging Service and Consultation

Family caregivers are a diverse group of individuals. Forty-eight percent of them care for spouses or life partners, 24 percent care for a parent, and 19 percent care for a child or grandchild. Approximately two out of every three caregivers are also working individuals. Almost half of family caregivers spend 40 hours per week on caregiving tasks. It is important for families to remember that there are resources available for them to utilize for support. The Eastern Agency on Aging, the University of Maine Center on Aging, Aroostook Area Agency on Aging, Senior Spectrum, Rosscare, Norumbega Medical, Horizons Health Services, …


A Handbook For People Who Care: Caring For Parents And Other Older Adults, Eastern Agency On Aging, University Of Maine Center On Aging, Aroostook Area Agency On Aging, Senior Spectrum, Rosscare, Norumbega Medical, Horizons Health Services, Indian Township Tribal Health Center, Bucksport Regional Health Center Jul 2002

A Handbook For People Who Care: Caring For Parents And Other Older Adults, Eastern Agency On Aging, University Of Maine Center On Aging, Aroostook Area Agency On Aging, Senior Spectrum, Rosscare, Norumbega Medical, Horizons Health Services, Indian Township Tribal Health Center, Bucksport Regional Health Center

Maine Center on Aging Service and Consultation

Family caregivers are a diverse group of individuals. Forty-eight percent care for spouses or life partners, 24 percent care for a parent, and 19 percent care for a child or grandchild. Nearly two out of every three family caregivers are working individual, and almost half spend 40 hours a week on caregiving tasks. Seventy-five percent of spousal caregivers receive little to no outside resources. Resources available include Meals for Me, Personal Care Services, Respite, and Senior Companion. There are options for community services, homemaker services, and home-based care. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to discover resources available to …