When Michele Boyle’s husband was diagnosed with dementia, she faced the overwhelming reality of becoming his caregiver—until IOA’s Caregiver Coaching program helped her find structure, support, and a sense of stability. Through personalized guidance and community resources, Michele learned how to care for her husband and herself.
While dementia is often viewed through a lens of loss, a recent essay and insights from IOA’s Lead Caregiver Coach, Alexandra Kaplan, reveal the unexpected moments of connection, humor, and love that can still shine through. This fresh perspective invites caregivers to embrace the beauty that can exist alongside the challenges.
Communicating with a loved one who has dementia can be challenging, but asking thoughtful questions can spark meaningful conversations and foster connection. At the Institute on Aging, we provide resources like our Companioa program to support families in navigating dementia care with compassion and confidence.
Gene Hackman’s passing sheds light on the often-overlooked struggles of caregivers, who dedicate themselves to the relentless demands of supporting loved ones with dementia. As public figures like Emma Heming Willis advocate for more resources, it’s clear that caregivers need greater recognition, support, and relief to safeguard both their well-being and the quality of care they provide.
The Friendship Line, pioneered by Institute on Aging, is a vital resource addressing the growing crisis of loneliness among seniors by offering emotional support and social connection. Backed by scientific research, this program has demonstrated significant improvements in mental health, reducing loneliness, depression, and anxiety, while serving as a model for integrating social support into healthcare systems nationwide.
Caregiving is rewarding but exhausting, often leading to burnout. This blog highlights the signs of burnout and how programs like IOA Home Care, Corio, provide support, allowing caregivers to recharge while ensuring their loved ones receive proper care.
IOA promotes outdoor movement for aging adults through programs like the Enrichment Center and partnerships with Cycling Without Age, offering accessible activities such as tandem bike rides. These initiatives enhance well-being, independence, and cognitive health by fostering community and connection with nature.
Learn how social connection improves dementia care and supports brain health through Companioa’s innovative programs, Caregiver Coaching, and Enrichment Center activities.
Nestled in the heart of the Presidio, IOA’s Enrichment Center harnesses the power of nature to enhance dementia care, providing Companioa members with rejuvenating outdoor experiences that improve mood, focus, and overall well-being.
Starting a conversation about home care with an aging loved one can be challenging, but approaching it early and with compassion can ease concerns and highlight the benefits. IOA’s Corio Home Care program offers personalized support to help older adults maintain independence and enhance their quality of life at home, providing families with peace of mind and a proactive approach to care.
Institute on Aging (IOA) CONNECT is your direct line to us and the starting point for help with your concerns about the needs of older adults and adults with disabilities. IOA CONNECT links you with our services, as well as community services available. Reach out to connect with us.
Phone: (415) 750 – 4111 | Fax: (415) 750 – 5338
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