The March-April 2024 issue of GENERATIONS MAGAZINE features the only municipal band in the United States, the Royal Hawaiian Band. Read about its origin, its director and its music. You’ll also find out about the founder of the AARP, Ethel Percy Andrus. We’ll take a look at Maui’s hub of senior activity, how music helps seniors who are having memory issues, and we give you some tips on co-signing a loan for your children.
The November-December 2022 issue of GENERATIONS MAGAZINE features an in-depth look at giving blood in Hawaii. GM Senior Editor Debra Lordan talks with the Donor Services Director of the Blood Bank of Hawaii and discovers the crucial need of giving blood and the many people who do on a regular basis but also why some people hesitate. We also take a look at Hawaii’s King of tropical music, Rolando Sanchez and his amazing energy. You’ll see that Hawaii is unique in places where multiple generations regularly sit down to eat with each other. And you’ll find out why laughter truly is the best medicine!
The March-April issue of GENERATIONS MAGAZINE features Executive Director Connie Mitchell and her team at the Institute of Human Services who face the problems and challenges of the “unhoused” population on Oahu. Does your computer need some spring cleaning? Christopher Duque has some tips. Kristina Wong of Altres discusses caregiver compatibility and more seniors are trying marijuana! You’ll find those stories and many more in the March-April issue of GENERATIONS MAGAZINE.
The January-February 2023 issue of GENERATIONS MAGAZINE features Hawaii music legend and icon Henry Kapono and how, at nearly 75, this remarkable musician keeps his career and family rolling happily forward. We’ll give you the breakdown on this month’s increase in Social Security benefits. Editor Debra Lordan takes a look a love, chocolates and senior romances in three articles. And everyone’s favorite radio personality and artist extraordinaire Frank B. Shaner has some off-beat thoughts on growing older.
The May-June issue of GENERATIONS MAGAZINE features a story about Kumu Kahua Theater in downtown Honolulu. Kathlyn Clore explores the people who contribute to Honoluluʻs home for local storytellers. Dr. Sandra von Doetinchem, a UH specialist in gerontology, discusses the benefits of learning late in life. Does Dad need help during the day and something to keep him occupied? In Kathy Wyattʻs article, she explains the benefits of kūpuna day care. And Debbie Kim Morikawa shows us the best exercises for getting up and down!
The July-August 2023 issue of GENERATIONS MAGAZINE features a cover story about the hottest craze sweeping the nation, Pickleball. Author Rosa Barker dives deep into the story about a sport that everyone loves, especially seniors! You’ll also read how a healthy lifestyle can help fight diabetes. Sophia Calio, director of the YMCA’s kūpuna programs, talks about all of the activities available to seniors. And Financial Advisor Michael Yee has some good words about paying off debt or investing.
The September-October 2023 issue of GENERATIONS MAGAZINE features a cover story about how long-term friendships can really make a difference in your life – and the lives of others. Youʻll learn how seeing your dentist might show signs of osteoporosis. Scott Makuakane gives some sage advice on making estate decisions. And Generations Magazine’s Wilson Angel reflects on the late Brian Suda, GMʻs photographer extraordinaire.
The November-December 2023 issue of GENERATIONS MAGAZINE features a cover story about two of the most well-known and most-loved coaches in Hawaii sports history – Dave Shoji and Vince Goo. Find out what they’re up to today! You’ll also get some important Medicare information – especially important during this open enrollment period. We’ll show you some self-care holiday gifts and tell you about Project Dana – who they are, how they got started and how they help our kūpuna.
The January-February 2024 issue of GENERATIONS MAGAZINE features a cover story about Hawaii’s very own Cybercrime Fighter, Esther Chan. Read her remarkable story about her battle again online crime. Humorist Frank B. Shaner says Whole Foods can play an important role for seniors who want to start dating. You’ll find out why the Y might be a good choice to get back into exercise. And good nutrition might have flown up the chimney over the holidays but Nutritionist Jennifer Davis as some solutions and even provides a tasty recipe!
The September-October 2022 issue of GENERATIONS MAGAZINE features three compelling stories about people who are in the business of caregiving and who have been caregivers themselves. We meet Kīhei resident Franny Durham who unknowingly serves as an inspiration to those around her through her. On Oahu, an all-women book club has been reviewing books and looking at life since the 80s. And we look at finding the right place for Mom or Dad – which turns out is both an art and science.
The July-August 2022 issue of GENERATIONS MAGAZINE features the story of Dr. William Won, one of Honolulu’s foremost brain surgeons – the first Hawaii-born Chinese-American neurosurgeon in the state. You’ll also read the heartfelt story of two women who seemingly fell in love at the wrong place and the wrong time. You’ll also read about hoarders. Does this include you? And we’ve got a story about the brotherhood of senior softball!
The March-April 2022 issue of GENERATIONS MAGAZINE leads with a story about cancer in Hawaii and even though we live in paradise, we’re still susceptible to cancer in all its forms. You’ll also get some tips on navigating your first year in retirement, the benefits of again at home, and you’ll read some good news for Hawaii’s kupuna who are taking insulin.
The May-June 2022 issue of GENERATIONS MAGAZINE features the story of philanthropist and pianist Ginny Tiu – a remarkable story of a child prodigy who went on to devote her life to humanitarian and animal welfare efforts. You’ll also read about protecting your pets after you’re gone and how is your estate going to be divided? A question all of us have to ask.
The January – February 2022 issue of GM features Jessica Lani Rich, president of VASH – the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii, an organization that provides support – and comfort – to visitors who have been victims of crime and other adversity. We also feature stories in this issue about how massage is good for the body and soul; we review some common misconceptions about hospice care; and for small business owners, some tips on retirement for people who aren’t sure if they’ll even get a chance to retire.
The October – November 2021 issue of GM features a tradition in Hawaii that everybody loves – the making and giving of lei. The colorful and fragrant strings of flowers has a rich history and many meanings which you’ll discover. We’ll also get some tips on relationships with people with dementia, how to navigate today’s crazy housing market, and we’ll give you some tips on Social Security and retirement.
The June-July 2021 issue of Generations Magazine sports one of Hawaii’s best-known coaches – Larry Price. You’ll read about his remarkable football and coaching career and you’ll get the players’ perspectives, as well. We also look this month at how seniors can improve their nutrition in the face of COVID-19; how you can get free dental care and education; and we’ll examine a popular new sport among seniors: riding an E-Bike!
The April – May 2021 issue of Generations Magazine features Auntie Carolee, a kumu hula, a musician, a teacher, a cultural practitioner – and – a living treasure. Youʻll also read about the new rules for work after the pandemic; defying whatʻs called the “silver tsunami” stereotype; help on deciding when itʻs time to go into assisted living; and youʻll read about the importance of doing a dress rehearsal for retirement!
The February-March 2021 issue of Generations Magazine takes a look at one of Hawaii Island’s iconic grocery store chains, KTA Superstores. You’ll see how this family-owned business celebrates it’s 100th birthday by continuing its owner’s commitment to “humbly serve and do what is right for the community.” You’ll find some tips on how to handle adult children who have moved back home; you’ll find out if those Medicare commercials that are all over TV are really accurate; and you’ll meet an Oahu couple who are taking a second chance at love!
he December 2020-January 2021 issue of Generations Magazine explores Chinese-American soldiers who served the United States with dignity during World War II but have never received their medals. Kathlyn Clore brings the issue and several soldiers’ stories to light. You’ll also read about age-related muscle loss, Covid testing, safe family activities for the holidays as well as caregiving tips at Christmas. You’ll also get a couple of tasty recipes for our partners’ kitchens, including Aloha Fried Rice!
The October-November issue of Generations Magazine features the heartwarming story of popular Hawaii performer Kalani Pe’a’s grandmother and her progression into dementia from Alzheimerʻs. You’ll also read about help that’s available to kūpuna during the pandemic; a story on how the power of music helps those with dementia; we have some hearing tips for the Covid-19 days; and you’ll learn about “Purpose Pals,” a kūpuna-youth connection.
The April-May 2020 issue of Generations Magazine, Hawai‘i’s Resource for Life, features an in-depth look at Leslie Wilcox, President and CEO of PBS Hawaii, we look at lifework and planning amid Covid-19, the expansion of telehealth services and a look at solutions for loneliness and housng.
It’s no secret that poor oral health can lead to many overall health issues, such as heart disease, diabetes and other ailments. But studies show poor oral health may also lead to an increased risk of dementia. People who have gum disease for 10 years or more are 70 percent more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than those who have healthy gums.
Hawai‘i’s Sage PLUS (SHIP) counselors are often asked, “What is Medicare, and how does it affect me?” Medicare is the United State’s federal health insurance that is available to those 65 years and older, and to people at any age with certain disabilities. You can choose to use the government’s Original/Traditional Medicare, or a commercial Medicare Health Plan or a Medicare Supplement (also known as “Medigap” insurance).
For some people, playing ball into your 60’s, 70’s or even your 80’s may seem like a stretch. Well, not for the active seniors at Kawananakoa Park in Nuuanu. Every Sunday morning you can find teams sweating in the warm morning sun, trying to beat each other … and these guys are serious.
My mother just got her first cell phone. It doesn’t take pictures or play music — it just makes phone calls. It took her a while to get used to the idea — she would talk into the wrong end of the phone in the beginning. But she’s got the technology figured out and now she can call me any time. ANY TIME. But I’m glad about that.
Exercise is the closest thing to a complete remedy — a panacea — for heart disease. The heart fuels the entire body. If the heart gets too weak, it cannot sufficiently provide nutrients to organs and the body slowly deteriorates. Unfortunately, this is quite common for people in hospice care. Thankfully, prevention is readily available.
When under stay-at-home orders, online resources enable participation in the outside world. Visit the UH Center on Aging Facebook page for a continually updated list.
The April-May 2020 issue of Generations Magazine, Hawai‘i’s Resource for Life, features an in-depth look at Leslie Wilcox, President and CEO of PBS Hawaii, we look at lifework and planning amid Covid-19, the expansion of telehealth services and a look at solutions for loneliness and housng.
The April-May 2020 issue of Generations Magazine, Hawai‘i’s Resource for Life, features an in-depth look at Kawaiahaʻo Church, as well as tips on avoid Coronavirus and much more.
Spring cleaning can be a satisfying experience for seniors, but it’s important to do it safely. Take your time, rest often and stay hydrated. Do not climb on furniture or a ladder. Ask for help. Staying safe is more than wearing an alert device. Work safely so you don’t have to activate it!
Mellow Friends, a group of karaoke enthusiasts, visited 11 senior centers and assisted living facilities starting in 2011. Melvin Watarai, the founder of this volunteer ensemble, had the karaoke equipment and a format for the singers to perform solo songs, duets and group sing-alongs with the seniors. Three years ago, Gary Shimabukuro took the helm, adding more equipment and four more locations, increasing their total number of monthly visits to 15.
More than 9,950 injuries from falls occur annually among seniors statewide. Each year, the Hawai‘i Fall Prevention Consortium (HFPC) identifies individuals with passionate dedication to reducing the number and severity of injuries from falls among seniors and honors their efforts to promote fall prevention initiatives in the state.
Senior advocates understand personal rights, elder abuse, consumer rights, the legislative process and how programs are funded. They also see that agencies correctly implement laws and draw attention to the ones needing changes. This article focuses on personal rights and elder abuse law.
An interview with author Michael W. K. Yee, Financial Advisor and Ameriprise Certified Financial Planner
Dying at home can be traumatic for loved ones. We long for a peaceful walk into a beautiful sunset. But most have never seen anyone die and that first indelible experience will stick with us. We may wish to die in our sleep, suffer an accident where we “never knew what happened” or drop dead while enjoying a favorite activity. But the odds are even — just as many people suffer and fight death to the last breath. Loved ones who witness such death throes simply don’t talk about it. We are compassionate people who avoid pain and go to great lengths to protect our loved ones from suffering. So why is there controversy about Hawai‘i’s Our Care, Our Choice Act, the aid-in-dying law that allows terminal patients to have medications that will ensure a peaceful passing?
I was a guest on “Generations Radio,” AM 690, on Nov. 22, 2019 with Lt. John McCarthy of the Financial Crimes Unit of the Honolulu Police Department. The 39-year department veteran is nationally recognized as an expert in financial crimes and elder abuse. On the show, we discussed how scams go undetected because victims don’t recognize the warning signs of abuse. What follows are danger signals that should prompt further investigation…
The October-November 2019 Issue features Anona and Joseph “Nappy” Napoleon and their love of the sea, “Kō ā Moana: Those of the Ocean.” Youʻll also see stories about our long journey on Earth, a local prostate cancer support group, how to handle your aging parentsʻ finances and much, much more.
The October-November 2019 Issue features Anona and Joseph “Nappy” Napoleon and their love of the sea, “Kō ā Moana: Those of the Ocean.” Youʻll also see stories about our long journey on Earth, a local prostate cancer support group, how to handle your aging parentsʻ finances and much, much more.
Assistance is available for some people with limited income and assets who may be eligible for a program called “Extra Help.” It’s a Medicare health plan that assists in paying costs related to a Medicare prescription drug plan. This can include monthly premiums, annual deductibles and prescription co-payments. Extra Help is estimated to be worth about $4,900 per year. Many people qualify and don’t even know it.
Falling can become a major threat to our quality of life. According to Hawai‘i’s Department of Health, it is the No. 1 cause of fatal injuries in seniors. The DOH reports that one in three people over 65 will fall this year. While there are a number of precautions you can take, you can also protect yourself by learning how to fall safely.
It’s always comforting to have a best friend to share in the journey of life every step of the way. For seniors, while the idea of caring for a furry friend can seem overwhelming, the benefits are highly rewarding; pets can provide a whole new experience of joy and purpose.
The August-September 2019 Issue shines the spotlight on Breast Cancer awareness, from the cover story about the latest treatment options, clinical trials and the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure fundraiser, to stories about a cancer survivor who went on to become a star paddler and a group of Maui paddlers who, in their hot pink shirts, gives us all hope. You’ll also find a newly updated resource guide for Senior Savings and much more.
Almost one-third of the adult U.S. population is currently caregivers for an ill or disabled relative. The majority are female and 60 percent are employed part- or full-time. Caregivers need to take time to care of themselves so they stay well enough to care for others. Realize that your own health and well-being could suffer if you don’t take care to be well before tending to others needs.
I have spent a decade conducting educational workshops and meeting with individuals transitioning to Medicare or already there. I encourage everyone to explore resources at www.socialsecurity.gov and www.medicare.gov to become knowledgeable before services are needed. I also stress the importance of keeping Medicare cards, medication lists, the names of your physicians and any ongoing health conditions on hand.
At some point in our lives, most of us will be given the opportunity to care for someone with cancer. Even though our experience with cancer may be limited, we may have learned enough to ask initial questions of the patient after the diagnosis is made.
Although the medical system is driven by pain, preventative approaches are becoming more prevalent. For seniors, it is essential that falls are prevented. Any fall can cause severe damage and breaking a bone (usually the hip or hand/wrist) is quite common. The scary statistic is that one out of every five people will die within one year of breaking their hip.
You see the term “active aging” quite frequently, but what does it mean? Active aging is a term describing people and populations who live life as fully as possible. Particularly, they live within the seven dimensions of wellness — emotional, vocational, physical, spiritual, intellectual, social and environmental.
The June-July 2019 Issue includes stories on caregiving from affair, eating healthy with organic produce, changing lives with community action on Maui and the complete schedule of events at the 2019 Aging in Place workshop that’s coming in August.
After gaining years of experience working and caring for the elderly, I can imagine many ways to describe what “aging” means. There are multiple factors that determine if one is considered old. In other words, a high number of years someone has been on this Earth does not define them as being old. In today’s world of medical technology, health products and smarter lifestyles, it may be hard to identify our kūpuna.
Growing up in Hawai‘i, I played a ten-hole harmonica by ear, but lost interest because I could only play the same old songs and was not getting any better. As the years sped by and before I found anything interesting to enrich my life, I became a senior facing retirement. Doing nothing was not an option so I began to search for the elusive experience that would bring harmony into my life.
Excerpt from April – May 2019 Issue
Let go of the past. You are both the author and central character of your Third Act. Let your imagination wander as you read about new ways people over 50, 60, 70 and beyond are having fun, making money and devoting their creativity and energy to all the areas of their jam-packed lives.
Do you know a Person Living With Dementia (PLWD) who repeatedly asks the same question? Does your loved one obsess about leaving the house so that they can go home? Maybe you know of a grandmother who blames everyone in sight for stealing her items. Challenging behaviors are common among PLWD and care partners are burning out trying to address these problems.
How do family members prepare for the day their senior needs more help? The kind of help that requires loved ones to re-prioritize their lives. If only there were a date set aside for this change in everybody’s life. Planning on change at this level has never been easy because a plan may not be in place.
It’s expensive living in paradise. It’s really expensive aging in paradise. Many seniors have had to resort to relying on the “cash economy” to help them out. “Cash economy” is the term used to refer to hiring or purchasing things“ under the table” or with cash so that there is no paper trail and therefore no taxes have to be paid.
Today, more seniors are receiving care in their homes for medical conditions. Many receive it following a hospitalization or discharge from a rehabilitation center and have complex needs. Seniors who require them may have difficulties adjusting to their care and can benefit from transitional care during this period.
There is no perfect time to discuss end-of-life care. Most seniors would prefer to age in place at home, as independently as possible. But too few take the time to discuss their preferences with their family, leaving family caregivers
stressed and scrambling. The most important thing any family can do to prepare for a loved one to live at home is to talk about it today.
From a very young age, Carole Kai showed a flair for the dramatic — sometimes pulling a bedsheet off the clothesline and holding it tightly across her shoulders while flying around the backyard like a superhero. Other times, she showed a more businesslike approach — like the time she hosted a boxing match in her backyard and sold tickets to neighborhood kids for 5 cents apiece.
Former first lady Rosalynn Carter was a caregiver herself and she believed that family caregiving is a cycle of life that touches everyone. In this issue, four people, each at a different point on the cycle, share their care stories from the heart, offering words of wisdom and points of caution. As you read, consider your journey on the Cycle of Caregiving.
When a senior member of your family is in need of 24/7 care, it is fortunate that Hawai‘i has many professional, caring and dedicated homes and facilities to welcome them. What every family wants to know is: “Will my mom or dad be happy living in someone else’s home, eat right, and stay mentally and physically strong?”
One of the trending online fraud schemes involves being contacted by either friends or relatives via email or through social networking services like Facebook about receiving large amounts of money through investments, a class action lawsuit, or even a random contest drawing. However, these “friends” or “relatives” are NOT who they claim to be.
The 12th Aging in Place Workshop held on August 18 at the Ala Moana Hotel brought our readers and their friends and family in contact with Generations Magazine’s partners in a vibrant atmosphere of sharing and learning.
As morning dawned on December 5, 1941, a fisherman cast his net along O‘ahu’s north shore. A college student helped his father open a new business. A volunteer took kids to the beach in Waimānalo. It was pretty much like most other days, for most people. But Sunday, December 7, 1941, would become known as “a date which will live in infamy” and President Franklin D. Roosevelt would announce to the nation the next day that, early on Sunday morning, “the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.”
The YMCA’s National Senior Health & Fitness Day was enjoyed by many on Wednesday, May 30th, at the Kahala Mall. The YMCA thanked the Kahala Mall and Generations Magazine for their co-sponsorship of the day. A number of nonprofit organizations participated, as well as more than 30 Generations partners, who offered valuable information to seniors and their families.
As we age, exercise becomes more and more important — not only for our bodies, but for our minds as well. But fitness doesn’t always have to happen from inside the local gym. You can get on a path to a fit and healthy lifestyle by incorporating cycling into your daily routine.
Giving back. That’s the theme and the name of a special — and talented — seniors group who entertain other seniors as a way of giving enjoyment back to their community.
Project Giving Back is a group of 36 singers, ranging in age from 60 to 87, who are now in their 8th year of performing. Wayne Uejo is the founder and administrator of the group, overseeing the singers and coordinating the concert schedule at venues across O‘ahu.
Generations Magazine celebrates “school pride” with the stories of two retirees who volunteer their time to support their school and its alumni family.
One of the people at the nexus of language revival in Hawai‘i is Dr. Marvin Puakea Nogelmeier
Maintaining a close relationship is more than saying, “I love you.”
Last November, my mother’s side of the family flew to Las Vegas to see my cousin get married. Family trips usually include everyone, from newborns to our wise elders. So, of course, grandma came along for the trip!
The One Mile Project at ‘Iolani stands out from traditional academic classes. It is a high school class that centers on building empathy and understanding for kūpuna in our
local community; it seeks to address the challenges that many kūpuna face in their daily lives. Students learn about aging, then develop and implement their own projects.
Wisdom and advice on the needs of the elderly from five Hawaii experts
Compassionate volunteers of Project Dana help seniors in need
Ukulele master and recording artist Roy Sakuma
