Age With Dignity

**NEW ARTICLE**

Silent Suffering: 6 Ways to Recognize and Prevent Elder Abuse

By Jennifer Crane MS CDP

As people age, it's crucial to be aware of the signs and risks of elder abuse. It can occur within any culture, socio-economic status, any ethnic or religious group, or any other group. Abuse does not recognize any differences among us.

What is Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse occurs when an older adult, age 60 years or older, is mistreated or harmed by someone they trust. This can occur within family or professional circles and in the home or in a care facility. Elder abuse can be subtle or blatant, but either way can be easy to miss. This is especially true when children or others do not live near their loved one and cannot personally verify the truth of reports from others. Abuse can occur whether an older person experiences cognitive difficulties or whether they are cognitively intact.

The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) defines elder abuse as “an intentional act or failure to act that causes or creates a risk of harm to an older adult." Elder abuse often occurs at the hands of a caregiver, a family member, or a person the elder trusts.

Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, sexual, emotional, financial, and neglect. These forms of elder abuse can be summarized as follows:

- Physical abuse includes inappropriate touching, hitting, pushing or other forms of physical contact that cause illness, pain, injury, functional impairment, distress or death to the older person.

- Sexual abuse is inappropriate touch of personal areas on the body. It is forced or unwanted sexual interaction of any kind with an older person. This can include in*******se that is not consensual and often not even understood by people with cognitive difficulty.

- Emotional (or psychological) abuse takes the form of verbal or nonverbal actions that cause fear, distress, mental trauma, or anguish to the older person. This can include name calling, disrespect, humiliation, threats, gaslighting, and isolation from interpersonal relationships.

- Financial abuse (or financial exploitation) is defined by the US Department of Justice as the “improper use of an adult's funds, property or resources by another individual including, but not limited to, fraud, false pretenses, embezzlement, conspiracy, forgery, falsifying records, coercion, property transfers or denying them access to their wealth.”

- Neglect is ignoring the basic needs of an individual causing harm to their person, including not feeding or changing a person who needs help with these tasks. This can also include not checking on or verifying the well-being of an older loved one.

The Scope of the Problem

According to World Health Organization ("WHO") estimates, each year worldwide about 1 in 6 people age 60 years and older who live in the community experience some form of elder abuse. About 12% of these people experience several different types of abuse. experiencing the various forms of elder abuse. This is a big issue!

According to the US Department of Justice (USDOJ), "10% of adults over 60 in the United States experience some form of abuse each year. Studies have also shown that about two-thirds of elder abuse victims are women." USDOJ's research indicates that only about 1 in every 24 cases of elder abuse is reported, pointing to a likely higher prevalence.

In nursing homes and long-term care facilities, the rate of elder abuse is often much higher than in the general population.

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A Real-World Example of Financial Abuse and How It Was Handled

When I was working in a long-term care facility, one of the aides overheard a family member in the room with one of our residents telling her family member just to sign the several checks “so the monthly bills could be paid.” The resident asked the family member why the checks were blank and was assured they would be filled out with the correct payee and amount before they were sent out. The family member explained to the resident that they had forgotten the envelope containing the bills so they couldn’t fill them out together. So, the resident signed the checks with no further questions.

The aide was uncomfortable witnessing this conversation and so they came to my office to report it. The aide did the right thing. The facility’s management launched its own investigation and called the county’s adult protective services to report possible elder abuse. I later found out that four of the checks had, in fact, been used for bills. However, two of the checks had been made out to the family member in question for rather large amounts. This aide had been alert and was able to identify and protect a vulnerable elder from financial abuse.
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FACT: According to a report by AARP, older Americans lose an estimated $28.3 billion annually to elder financial exploitation. Many of these people are victimized by someone they know and most (about 88%) of these victims never report these incidents to authorities.
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Sometimes, it’s not as easy to spot elder abuse, especially if it’s not being directly observed.

Here are 6 ways to help you recognize and prevent elder abuse

1 - Recognizing the Signs

It’s important to learn to recognize possible signs of elder abuse. Just what should you be aware of to spot if anything is wrong? Look out for unexplained injuries, sudden changes in behavior, withdrawal from activities or people, and financial discrepancies, and unusual anxiety and fear when around others. These could be signs of elder abuse. If someone is cognitively intact, they may be able to verbalize what is happening to them. However, someone with any level of cognitive loss is often not able to either understand or verbalize anything that would indicate a problem.

2 - Stay Connected

Regularly check in with your elderly loved ones. Maintaining open communication can help prevent isolation and make it easier to spot any signs of abuse. If you suspect things might be changing, such as engagement with others or different behaviors or habits, bring it up and ask questions. Go visit more often and observe who is interacting with your loved one and what goes on. Pay attention to spending habits and any sudden changes to their financial situation. Talk about these things openly, building trust with your loved one and showing yourself a person who will protect and help them.

3 - Know the Resources

Familiarize yourself with local resources and support services for elder abuse. Having this information readily available can make a difference in a crisis. Consider taking a class about elder abuse and financial fraud to familiarize yourself with how to recognize what is happening and, more importantly, how to deal with it. Many times, libraries and senior centers will offer classes and/or information about this topic for free. Local, state and national governments also offer aging services and can be located on government websites.

4 - Report Suspected Abuse

If you suspect that an older adult is being abused, don't hesitate to report it. Reporting methods may vary by country. In the United States, the National Center on Elder Abuse has a resource page to help find your state’s reporting numbers, government agencies, state laws, and other resources. You can report abuse or suspected abuse to local adult protective services, long-term care ombudsman, or the police. In the United Kingdom, the government has provided a resource page for help in reporting suspected elder abuse. In France, there is a national platform for reporting abuse of vulnerable persons. Wherever you are located in the world, it's a good idea to use an internet search engine to determine the appropriate way to report suspected elder abuse.

If you feel it is necessary, in most countries reports can be made anonymously. These entities have the ability and resources to launch a full investigation and take immediate steps to protect your loved one. You are definitely not alone when facing this often-complicated issue.

5 - Educate Others

It is important to educate yourself first about elder abuse. Then spread awareness about elder abuse in your community. By educating others, you can help prevent abuse and protect vulnerable older adults. We often hear the phrase “it takes a village” in regard to keeping our children safe and healthy. The same can be true to keep our older citizens safe and healthy. By talking about these issues and with everyone keeping an eye out it becomes more difficult for people to harm the elders among us.

One other way to educate others is to get involved in activities that raise the awareness level. Every year, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (a program of the United Nations) is held on June 15th, which includes a number of ways to become educated and combat elder abuse.

6 - Seek Support

If you're a caregiver feeling overwhelmed, seek support from counseling services or support groups. Taking care of yourself is essential in preventing elder abuse. Practice coping strategies to employ when you recognize that you are getting frustrated and stressed. Give yourself grace as you live out each moment. As a professional, make sure you have training in recognizing signs of elder abuse. Understand that you are human and take moments to breathe and center yourself as you go through your day. Treat others with the dignity and respect you would want from a caregiver. Know the numbers for your and your loved ones medical team, know the number for adult protective services, and know how to contact people who will support and offer assistance.

By understanding the signs, staying connected, knowing the resources, and taking action, you can play a crucial role in preventing elder abuse. Together, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for older adults. We can help preserve their dignity, their happiness, their resources, and their peace.

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Disclaimer:

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained in this article are for informational purposes only. No material herein is intended to be a substitute for legal advice or professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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Additional Resources:

AARP. The Scope of Elder Financial Exploitation: What It Costs Victims. Jilenne Gunther, MSW, JDhttps://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/money/scams-and-fraud/2023/true-cost-elder-financial-exploitation.doi.10.26419-2Fppi.00194.001.pdf

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fast Facts: Preventing Elder Abuse.
https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/elderabuse/fastfact.html

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Elder Fraud Report 2022.https://www.ic3.gov/Media/PDF/AnnualReport/2022_IC3ElderFraudReport.pdf

National Council on Aging. Get the Facts on Elder Abuse. Feb 23, 2021 | 4 min read: https://www.ncoa.org/article/get-the-facts-on-elder-abuse

US Department of Justice. Elder Abuse. https://www.ojp.gov/feature/elder-abuse/overview

World Health Organization. Abuse of Older People. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/abuse-of-older-people

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You Need to Be Present, Not Perfect: 10 Tips for Caregivers of Loved Ones with Dementia


By Jennifer Crane MS CDP

In my work and in my personal life I have had the privilege to speak with people who are confronted by the reality of caregiving for a family member who is dealing with the debilitating symptoms of dementia. Caring for a loved one with dementia can be a challenging and emotional journey.

One concern that caregivers consistently communicate to me is that they feel they are “screwing it all up!” They tell me they don’t feel up to the task. They express worry that they can’t be good enough or perfect enough when interacting with their loved ones. Some of these caregivers may even be at the point of exhaustion or breakdown.

As a caregiver, it’s important to remember that being present and providing support is more valuable than striving for perfection.

Here are 10 tips for caregivers of loved ones with dementia:

1. Practice Patience

Dementia can cause confusion and frustration for your loved one as well as for you. Practice patience and understanding when communicating with them, even if they repeat themselves or seem agitated.

Don’t beat yourself up when you lose it with your loved one. Again, you are human. Apologize and move on. Sometimes the person with dementia is hurt by your outburst. However, a conversation that includes an apology and an “I love you” can go a long way.

Especially before dementia progresses into later stages, people with dementia are aware that their behavior and/or speech is confused. They don’t know what to do about the confusion. Caregivers can help to defuse a frustrating situation by admitting that they, too, are confused, don’t know what to do, or don't know how to handle the circumstances. This journey is a new experience each day for both a person experiencing dementia symptoms and for a caregiver. The two can learn together.

2. Create a Routine

Establishing a daily routine can help your loved one feel more secure and reduce anxiety. Stick to a schedule for meals, medication, and activities to provide structure and stability. It allows your loved one to feel safe and to be able to know what to expect, especially in earlier days. Often, a routine will allow a person to be independent for longer, therefore helping to provide a sense of dignity. and confidence.

A regular routine also provides a caregiver with an established “norm” that can help reorient and calm down a confused or agitated loved one. A big benefit of a routine for a caregiver is the chance to plan moments to recharge and focus on self-care. It becomes easier to plan appointments, alone time, and other things with minimal interruption for a loved one.

3. Stay Calm

It's natural to feel overwhelmed at times but try to remain calm and composed when caring for your loved one with dementia. Your demeanor can have a significant impact on their emotional well-being. In fact, it is almost guaranteed that when you exhibit signs of distress or distraction, your loved one with dementia will pick up on it and react accordingly.

You need to be calm and leave all stressors at the door when with your loved one. Pray, count to ten, hum, do whatever it takes to set your mind to a calm place and think about only things that calm you. It is an exercise that takes some practice, but you will see the benefits in the responses of your loved one.

Less anxiety and agitation, and more calm interactions bring joy to both of you. You will also notice benefits for you as you spend time not worrying and stressing. You can refocus and think more clearly later about the things that worry you.

4. Encourage Independence

Allow your loved one to do tasks on their own as much as possible, even if it takes longer or isn't done perfectly. Encouraging independence can help maintain their sense of dignity and self-worth. It also can help to preserve their skills longer, somewhat slowing the progression of the dementia. You may have heard the phrase “Use it or lose it.” The longer you allow your loved ones with dementia to do things for themselves, the longer they will be able to do things for themselves.

5. Practice Active Listening

Listen attentively to your loved one's concerns and emotions. Show empathy and validate their feelings, even if they may not always make sense to you. If you respond by reflecting back the emotion they are presenting, your loved one will feel heard and understood even if they can’t clearly state their thoughts. Sometimes cues will be present to help you discern what is being communicated.

Remember that behavior is also communication, so be sure to observe what they are doing. Active listening will involve not only your ears but also utilizes other senses, including your eyes, sense of smell, and sense of touch. Finally, active listening involves listening with your heart.

6. Seek Support

Don't hesitate to reach out for help when needed. Join a support group, seek guidance from healthcare professionals, or enlist the assistance of other family members to share the caregiving responsibilities. The internet is a good source of assistance as well. There are many reputable resources on YouTube and many websites that offer information and training for the handling of different situations. Organizations such as The Alzheimer’s Association have professionals available to talk and to offer assistance.

7. Take Care of Yourself

Remember to prioritize your own well-being. Make time for self-care, exercise, and relaxation to prevent burnout and maintain your physical and mental health. When caregivers neglect their own needs, they are at risk of experiencing fatigue, depression, and even physical health problems. This can ultimately impact their ability to provide effective care to their loved ones.

Self-care can take many forms, from taking short breaks throughout the day to engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation. It's important for caregivers to prioritize activities that recharge them and help them unwind.

No human being can “be on the clock” 24 hours a day without significant impact to their own well-being and health. If something happens to you then you will not be able to carry on your caregiving responsibilities. Learn to recognize the signs of stress in your life and immediately take steps to relieve that stress.

Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury—it's a necessity. By practicing self-care, caregivers can better support their loved ones and maintain their own health and well-being in the process.

8. Stay Educated

Learn as much as you can about dementia and its progression. Understanding the condition can help you anticipate challenges, provide better care, and make informed decisions.

When dealing with dementia, caregivers and family are always dealing with a “new normal” in the life of a loved one affected by this disease process. The disease process of dementia causes deterioration in the brain, is usually progressive in nature, and promotes periodic personality and functional changes in the affected loved one. These changes are hard for caregivers and family members to watch and understand.

Caregivers and family members sometimes refer to the way the affected person “used to be.” They may even express a desire to get their person back to “normal.” One of the hardest realities to face is that the former version of the person with dementia does not exist anymore. Who they are now and what they can do now is their new normal. It is important for caregivers and family members to understand this new normal and how it dictates their required care.

As the dementia progresses, the affected loved one may experience additional new normals, causing the caregiver to need to adapt the approach and strategy of care. Understanding and accepting this truth will help the caregiver to relax and better handle each day.

9. Embrace Moments of Joy

Despite the difficulties of caregiving, as a caregiver you can cherish the moments of joy and connection with your loved one. Find activities that bring them happiness and create meaningful memories together.

For a person with dementia, long-term memories often remain more intact for a longer period. It is helpful to them to reminisce and talk about their past. Caregivers can provide great benefits by being a listening ear. As a caregiver, you might also want to record their stories and ask questions.

Other ideas:

Consider singing their favorite songs or even read together with them.
Use the filters on Snapchat to make silly pictures of yourselves and laugh.
Have a favorite snack together and chat.

These moments of joy make the harder moments that much easier by comparison.

10. Be Kind to Yourself

Remember that you're doing the best you can in a challenging situation. Be kind to yourself, forgive your mistakes, and focus on the love and compassion you're providing to your loved one. No one is perfect! Apologize when you do make a mistake and ask for forgiveness. Especially in the beginning stages of dementia, it is good to treat your loved one with respect and dignity.

Admitting that you are unsure of yourself or don’t know what to expect can free your loved one to feel these things too. It is a process that you can navigate together. Even as things are progressing, and a loved one with dementia cannot respond the same way they used to, apologies and grace for self are a necessary part of navigating the new normals that appear every day.

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By practicing some or all of these 10 tips, you can find a healthy perspective, provide patience, and rest in relief while caring for your loved one with dementia. You don't have to be perfect. You just have to be there for them. It's important to remember that being present and providing support is more valuable than striving for perfection. It is love, not perfection, that makes all the difference!

You can do this! Please contact us with any questions.

Warmest regards - Jennifer Crane MS CDP

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What is Ageism?

Ageism refers to the stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel), and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.

Ageism is a prevalent issue that affects individuals of all ages. Whether in the workplace, social settings, or healthcare, ageism can have a significant impact on a person's well-being and quality of life.

⬇ Five Ways to Combat Ageism ⬇

Here are five effective ways to combat ageism and promote a more inclusive society.

1️⃣ Educate Yourself
One of the first steps in stopping ageism is to educate yourself about the issue. Take the time to learn about the stereotypes and prejudices that exist towards different age groups. By understanding the root causes of ageism, you can better recognize and address discriminatory behaviors.

2️⃣ Challenge Stereotypes
Challenge stereotypes and assumptions about age by promoting positive representations of individuals of all ages. Encourage diversity and inclusivity in your community and advocate for equal opportunities for people of all age groups. By challenging ageist beliefs, you can help create a more accepting and respectful environment.

3️⃣ Speak Up
If you witness ageism in any form, don't stay silent. Speak up against discriminatory comments or actions and educate others about the harmful effects of ageism. By being an advocate for change, you can help raise awareness and promote a more inclusive society for people of all ages.

4️⃣ Support Anti-Ageism Initiatives
Support organizations and initiatives that are dedicated to combating ageism and promoting age equality. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, you can contribute to the fight against age discrimination and help create a more age-friendly world for everyone.

5️⃣ Embrace Age Diversity
Embrace age diversity in your personal and professional life by valuing the perspectives and experiences of individuals of all ages. Foster intergenerational relationships and collaborations to promote understanding and respect across different age groups. By embracing age diversity, you can help break down barriers and create a more inclusive and harmonious society.

By following these five tips, you can play a vital role in stopping ageism and promoting a more inclusive and equitable society for people of all ages. Together, we can work towards a future where age is celebrated, not discriminated against.

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Today's post titled "Age is Not the End" was inspired by a photo collage by Taisiya Kozorez (shown in this post and used under license from Canva. com). which shows how older people are awesome!

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AGE IS NOT THE END

Who says getting older means losing your cool factor? Age is not the end, it's just the beginning of a new chapter filled with possibilities and adventures. Older people can rock the style game just as much as anyone else, if not more!

Do older people have style?

Absolutely! Older individuals can be just as stylish and fashionable as the younger crowd. They bring a unique flair and sophistication to their outfits that only comes with years of experience and confidence.

Are older people happy?

With a light in their eyes and a smile on their face, older people exude happiness and contentment. They have lived through ups and downs, and have come out stronger and more appreciative of life's simple joys.

Can older people dream?

Of course! Older individuals are dreamers and romantics at heart. They have a lifetime of experiences to draw inspiration from and are not afraid to dream big and chase after their passions.

Are older people cool?

Absolutely! Older people are the epitome of cool. They have a wealth of knowledge, stories to tell, and a sense of self-assuredness that is undeniably cool. They are the trendsetters, the trailblazers, and the ones who know how to truly enjoy life.

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NEW ARTICLE >> "Personal Choice: Key to Selection of Successful New Living Environment"

By Jennifer Crane MS CDP

When it comes to selecting a living environment for older adults, research shows that personal choice plays a crucial role in ensuring a successful transition. The decision to move to a new living arrangement can be overwhelming, but with the right information and guidance, older adults (along with family members and care professionals providing support) can make a choice that meets their needs and preferences.

What factors should be considered?

There are many quantitative factors that contribute to making the best selection when choosing a living environment for older adults. These include the level of care needed, the amenities and services offered, the location, the cost, and the overall atmosphere of the community. By taking these factors into account, older adults can find a living environment that promotes their well-being, lifestyle, and quality of life. Of prime importance over all of these factors is the qualitative factor of personal choice.

Why is personal choice important?

Personal choice is important because it allows older adults to have a say in their living arrangements. Researchers have identified this component of choice as a key factor of readiness that is crucial to a person’s ability to adapt to his or her new environment and successfully integrate to his or her surroundings and circumstances (Rossen & Knafl, 2007).

By choosing a living environment that aligns with their preferences and values, older adults can maintain a sense of independence and control over their lives. It is critical that the older person has time to reach a decision point for the new living arrangement. This "buy in" can lead to increased satisfaction and overall well-being.

Options and Concerns

Choices for living environment can include options to age in place, a transition to more transitory environments, or nursing home care. It can be a stressful thing for an older adult to contemplate necessary adjustments that come with a change to his or her living situation. Rossen (2007) identifies health concerns, upkeep and maintenance of the home or yard, financial considerations, safety, and even social isolation as a possible impetus for decisions regarding changes to an older person’s living arrangements. Wiles, Leibing, Guberman, Reeve, and Allen (2012), in their research about “Aging in Place,” point out that older people want choices regarding where and how they age, emphasizing issues such as access to friends, church, social clubs, doctors, and familiar services.

How can older adults make an informed decision?

Older adults can make an informed decision by researching different living options, visiting communities in person, and asking questions about the services and amenities offered. It is also important for older adults to consider their current and future needs when making a decision, as their living environment should be able to accommodate any changes in health or mobility.

Researchers have identified the component of choice as a key factor of readiness that is crucial to a person’s ability to adapt to his or her new environment and successfully integrate to his or her surroundings and circumstances

What are the benefits of choosing the right living environment?

Choosing the right living environment can have numerous benefits for older adults, including improved social connections, access to necessary care and support, and a greater sense of security and peace of mind. By selecting a living environment that meets their needs and preferences, older adults can thrive and enjoy their golden years to the fullest.

Long-Term Satisfaction

It is important to allow for choice and a sense of control by the older person, in order to assure long-term satisfaction with life as one ages (Wiles et al., 2012). In a study involving older women, Rossen and Knafl (2007) confirmed the notion that choice is key in the success of late-life transitions. The authors specifically note that older women who perceive that they have a say in the decision to move, and some level of control over the process, will exhibit a higher level of adjustment and satisfaction than those who do not feel they had a say in the matter (Rossen & Knafl, 2007). Rossen (2007) emphasizes the importance of an older person feeling like he or she has a choice about, and is involved in, any decision regarding his or her future.

Choice, Readiness, and Outcomes

Rossen (2007) emphasizes that a persons’ perception about the choices and decisions being made, along with his or her feelings of being in control of what is happening, is the key to determining positive or negative outcomes. If a person feels that he or she has a choice, it is tied to feelings of psychological adjustment and overall satisfaction with life (Rossen, 2007). For example, older adults who have chosen to age in place enjoy the benefits of a retaining a sense of their identity, independence, and autonomy; this is due to the security of familiar environs and connectedness to a community of supportive individuals (Wiles et al., 2012). Rossen (2007) observes that positive outcomes for older people relocating to independent congregate living communities (ILCs) can include: improvements in health; opportunities for socialization; psychological benefits; and, a sense of safety. Conversely, when a person does not feel included in decisions regarding his or her life and future, it is common for that person to experience difficulty in adjusting to his or her circumstances (Rossen, 2007). Rossen (2007) affirms that negative outcomes can include: decline in health; reduced socialization, independence, and quality of life; depression and loneliness; and, even higher morbidity rates.

The opportunity for an older adult to voice his or her own opinions and needs regarding a possible living-environment transition is a key factor in a successful outcome. Rossen (2007) notes that the older adult’s perception that he/she has a choice in the matter results in a positive psychological adaptation, while coercing him/her to relocate can result in numerous declines in health and psychological status. Rossen (2007) recommends fruitful discussion with older people about their feelings and desires regarding: the environment in which they would like to age; their preparedness for a move; the disposition of their belongings (especially, what he/she can bring to where they might move); and their need to maintain the continued support of family and friends. Perhaps, it is the dignity of maintaining long-lasting relationships, treasured possessions and some familiar trappings of life that helps older adults adjust well and be ready for a new living environment. Choice and readiness are important components whether a person is aging normally or whether a person is experiencing some special need requiring more comprehensive care.

Conclusion

Of the many aspects that contribute to an older person’s successful aging process and adaptation to a living environment, perception of choice is the key factor. For a positive outcome, an older person facing this decision must: have a say in where and how he/she spends the last years; be consulted on the disposition of belongings and treasured items; and, be provided with a supportive family and social structure. These factors contribute to the older person’s sense of well-being in the new situations he or she will be facing as aging progresses. Positive adjustment to new experiences depends on feelings of readiness that come from a person having the perception of choice regarding his or her life. It is very difficult for people to make positive adjustments if they do not feel they had a choice in their path. It would be beneficial to investigate the ways in which the construct of choice affects the outcome for people who have cognitive deficits. The literature seems to assume a certain level of cognitive function, and older people with cognitive deficits may be unable to make their own independent decisions without a greater level of support.

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References:

Rossen, E. K. (2007). Assessing older persons' readiness to move to independent congregate living. Clinical Nurse Specialist, 31(6), 292-296.

Rossen, E. K., & Knafl, K. A. (2007). Women's well-being after relocation to independent living communities. Western Journal of Nursing Research, 29(2), 183-199. doi:10.1177/0193945906292539

Wiles, J. L., Leibing, A., Guberman, N., Reeve, J., & Allen, R. E. (2012). The meaning of "aging in place" to older people. The Gerontologist, 52(3), 357-366. doi:10.1093/geront/gnr098

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Jennifer Crane, MS, CDP, is a Gerontologist & Certified Dementia Practitioner® and founder of Age With Dignity. She provides education and consultation services for older adults, their family members and individuals who care for older adults, especially those with dementia.