Category: Articles

Navigating Your First Year in Retirement

Like most Americans, you’ve probably spent years working to achieve the retirement of your dreams. There comes a point when this milestone changes from a distant goal to an imminent reality. You can make your first year away from work more rewarding and less stressful if you anticipate potential challenges and prepare for how you will handle this life change.

Your State of Mind
As a new retiree, it’s normal to feel both excitement and trepidation. You’re eager for more time with friends and family, and for the activities you love. Stepping away from your career can reduce stress levels and free you from competing priorities. However, saying goodbye to your workplace may also trigger anxiety and sadness.

If your spouse or significant other is already at home, your new lifestyle may cause similar emotions for him or her. The change would mean a departure from both of your schedule and habits, even if it means more time together.

For those experiencing mixed feelings, it’s helpful to acknowledge them, remind yourself why you chose to retire and remember all you accomplished to reach this point.

Your Purpose
With your calendar clear of work obligations, it’s important to identify a few ways to fill your time. To start, keep the commitments you’ve made about what your retirement will include. If you’ve promised distant relatives that you’ll reconnect, then organize a reunion. Alternatively, you may decide to pursue an encore career, part-time job or an opportunity to open your own business.

With all your new possibilities, it’s important to avoid overcommitment. Give yourself some breathing room each day and ease into volunteering or new activities. Now that you have the freedom to do so, be sure that you’re choosing to spend your time in ways that are most gratifying to you.

Your Finances
Adjusting your mindset from building your nest egg to spending it can be challenging. To make your initiation to retiree life easier, create a plan for paying yourself in retirement. Start by tallying your income sources before determining which ones you’ll tap into first. Next, estimate your cash flow for year one. Planning this in advance can help ease worries and reduce your risk of overspending. As a benchmark, have enough cash to cover three years of potential unexpected expenses. Once you’re in retirement, monitor your cash reserves regularly to gauge your spending and make adjustments as needed.

If you’re uneasy or need reassurance that your income and cash flow plans are sufficient, meet with a financial advisor. Together, you can look at the impact of taxes, evaluate your portfolio diversification and prepare for the legacy you’d like to leave your community and family.

Becoming a retiree means enduring a lot of change. Although you can’t prepare for every challenge you might face in your first year, planning for what you can control will allow you to move into this new life stage with confidence.

MICHAEL W. K. YEE, CFP
1585 Kapiolani Blvd., Ste. 1100, Honolulu HI 96814
808-952-1222, ext. 1240 | michael.w.yee@ampf.com

Michael W. K. Yee, CFP®, CFS®, CLTC, CRPC®, is a Financial Advisor,
Certified Financial Planner ™ practitioner with Ameriprise Financial Services Inc. in
Honolulu, Hawai‘i, with Na Ho’okele Financial Advisory Team, a financial advisory
practice of Ameriprise Financial Services Inc. He offers fee-based financial planning
and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 29 years.
The Pay Yourself in Retirement study was created by Ameriprise Financial utilizing
survey responses from 1,305 Americans ages 55 to 75 with investable assets of at
least $100,000. The online survey was commissioned by Ameriprise Financial, Inc.,
and conducted by Artemis Strategy Group from November 16–22, 2015.
Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameri- prise
Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser.
Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC
© 2016 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. File #1438828

Like most Americans, you’ve probably spent years working to achieve the retirement of your dreams. There comes a point when this milestone changes from a distant goal to an imminent reality. You can make your first year away from work more rewarding and less stressful if you anticipate potential challenges and prepare for how you…
Keeping the Mind Engaged for Life

“It’s really an important part of my life,” said member Jeanne Nowaki. “The classes are interesting, but the bonus is meeting people from different fields.”

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa was founded in 1996-97, when a group of community elders, retired professors and university administrators established the Academy for Lifelong Learning (ALL). Its mission was to strengthen connections between the university and the community, and promote lifelong learning, leadership, and community service for older learners. A generous endowment from The Bernard Osher Foundation emphasizes providing older adults with opportunities to learn purely for the joy of learning.

What is the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute?
OLLI-UHM is an educational membership program offering noncredit, college-level courses and other activities to encourage learners ages 50 and over to engage their minds, enrich their lives and serve the community.

Older adults are a resource for society, with continuing social, developmental and intellectual needs. OLLI-UHM provides a forum to meet those needs and validate their contributions.

How does the program benefit participants?
We know that lifelong learning keeps the mind sharp, fighting cognitive impairment most effectively when mentally challenging activities are combined with active social engagement. That is exactly what OLLI-UHM excels at, providing members with an ever-expanding array of courses, workshops, film series, arts events, museum tours and more, in an engaging supportive social environment.

Who teaches classes?
Classes are taught on a volunteer basis by active and retired professors, as well as community members who are experts in a particular subject. Some members teach in areas entirely different than their professional expertise, as they expand their knowledge base with post-retirement passions. Members may be students in one class and the instructor or facilitator in another.

As Jack Sullivan, a member since the program started in 1996, said, “They love their subject so much they are willing to do this without pay.”

How can people sign up?
The OLLI-UHM 2017 Spring Term will run from Jan. 23 to April 28, with no classes during UH’s Spring Break the last week of March. We offer noncredit courses and special events on a wide-range of topics and disciplines.

The spring course brochure will be completed and available by mid-December.

Contact Carole at mandryk@hawaii.edu or 808-956-8224 to learn more about workshops and special events, and to be added to the mailing list.

COLLEGE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES
University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
2500 Dole St., Krauss Hall 113-C, Honolulu HI 96822
808-956-8224

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa was founded in 1996-97, when a group of community elders, retired professors and university administrators established the Academy for Lifelong Learning (ALL). Its mission was to strengthen connections between the university and the community, and promote lifelong learning, leadership, and community service for older…
Grandparents Provide ‘Roots & Wings’

Chaplain Ken Revell and his grandson are happy with the significant academic progress Brandon has made with the help of Sylvan Learning Center.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Center for Health Statistics reports that fatherless children are at a dramatically greater risk for drug and alcohol abuse, mental illness, suicide, poor educational performance, teen pregnancy and incarceration.

My mission is not to debate or vet the validity of these statistics or to “drop dimes” on fathers who are missing in action, because many fathers are doing the best they can with what they have.

I will say that my role as a grandpa to Brandon Revell is to stand in the gap and be a part of the solution.

The challenge for me is how I will move Brandon from adolescence and the so-called “turbulent teen years” to adulthood.

Essentially, the questions are: How do I provide my grandson with roots and wings? How do I build on, augment and refine the foundation his parents sought to put in place.

While there are several components involved in this challenge, one immediately comes to mind as a key — education. Instilling in Brandon an appetite for learning is a critical component of helping him to be a successful human being.

I was given legal custody of Brandon in 2014, when the roles of surviving spouse and single parent were added to my already full plate as a full-time soldier.

As Brandon and I navigated and developed our new relationship together, I could see he was a bright kid who was full of untapped potential. However, academically, he was on life support — and the situation was critical. A code blue was imminent if I did not act quickly.

As providence would have it, my chaplain assistant recommended Sylvan Learning Center, promising me that it was a tried and proven program for his kids with academic challenges.

Enrolling Brandon in Sylvan Learning Center was one of the best decisions I made. Sylvan’s intervention played a critical role in improving his grades, increasing both his reading and math skills, as well as providing an environment conducive to learning.

Sylvan Learning Center provided the assessment tools and tutoring methodology needed to take a tough situation and turn it around.

I am happy to report that Brandon has made significant progress, and he is currently in the 10th grade. I attribute much of this success to the professionals at the center.

While we tout Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and youth programs as tools to help shape our grandchildren’s character, I see investing in a good tutoring program as another critical tool to move our grandkids in the right direct — particularly those who are struggling academically.

We are far from perfection in this adventure and we still have a ways to go in this journey, but I am confident we are on the right track.

Brandon and I highly recommend Sylvan.

SYLVAN LEARNING SYSTEMS
4211 Waialae Ave., Ste. 30, Honolulu HI 96816
808-735-8811 | www.sylvanlearning.com/kahala

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Center for Health Statistics reports that fatherless children are at a dramatically greater risk for drug and alcohol abuse, mental illness, suicide, poor educational performance, teen pregnancy and incarceration. My mission is not to debate or vet the validity of these statistics or to “drop dimes”…
Social Security is Here to Stay

It’s healthy to be skeptical in a world of uncertainties. But rest assured, there’s no reason to think Social Security won’t be here for you well into the future.

Recently, the Social Security Board of Trustees released its 76th annual report to Congress, presenting the financial status of the Social Security trust funds for the short term and over the next 75 years. We’re pleased that legislation signed into law by President Barack Obama last November averted a near-term shortfall in the Disability Insurance (DI) trust fund that was detailed in a previous report.

With that small, temporary reallocation of the Social Security contribution rate, the DI fund will now be able to pay full benefits until 2023, and the retirement fund will be adequate into 2035. It is important that members of Congress act well before 2023 in order to strengthen the finances of the program. As a whole, Social Security is fully funded until 2034; after that it is about threequarters financed.

Many people wonder if Social Security will be there for them. Here’s a fact that will relieve any skepticism you might have: the increased cost of providing Social Security benefits for baby boomers is less than the nation’s increase in spending was for public education when baby boomers were children.

Put your skepticism aside and know that Social Security is with you today and will be with you tomorrow. Read the entire report at www.socialsecurity.gov/OACT/TR/2016.

For questions, online applications or to make an appointment
to visit a SSA office, call from 7am–5pm, Mon–Fri:
1-800-772-1213 (toll free) | 1-800-325-0778 (TTY)
www.socialsecurity.gov

It’s healthy to be skeptical in a world of uncertainties. But rest assured, there’s no reason to think Social Security won’t be here for you well into the future. Recently, the Social Security Board of Trustees released its 76th annual report to Congress, presenting the financial status of the Social Security trust funds for the…
Missions of Help and Hope

Some of the most helpful nonprofits for seniors are small operations that cannot afford to advertise. We will be helping them by getting their message to you. Read below to learn how the volunteers and coordinators in these noteworthy organizations may help you and your family.

PATIENT NAVIGATION PROGRAM

The nonprofit Pacific Cancer Foundation offers programs and support groups in Maui County. Its Patient Navigation Program plays an important role in connecting patients to their healthcare providers, including transportation, coordinating services and meeting their non-clinical needs.

“When someone is first diagnosed with cancer, they go to the navigator,” said Nancy La Joy, PCF’s executive director. “The navigator helps him or her with anything needed along the journey.”

Shari Osajima, a highly trained certified patient navigator, helps patients and their loved ones find resources and services.

“What I enjoy most is meeting the patients and their family,” said Shari, “initially getting to know them and working with them to address some of their issues. Part of my job is to teach them and guide them to be advocates for themselves.”

One of the greatest challenges for patients in Maui County is interisland transportation. PCF flies medical professionals and staff to Maui from O‘ahu. Local community agencies provide transportation to and from appointments on-island.

Call PCF to learn more about the about the foundations and its Patient Navigation Program.

At Maui Memorial Medical Center, the PCF Navigation Office is located near the Radiation Oncology Department.

PACIFIC CANCER FOUNDATION
95 Mahalani St., Ste. 8, Wailuku, Maui HI 96793
808-242-7661
navigator@pacificcancerfoundation.org
www.pacificcancerfoundation.org

EMPOWERING WOMEN

Na Wahine Ho‘omana, a women’s resource center on Maui, offers education on health and wellness, support groups and guidance.

Na Wahine Ho‘omana offers a holistic and nutrition workshop, self-defense and self-empowerment programs, and more to women of all ages.

A weekly Women Will Support Group is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 5:50 to 6:30 pm in Ki¯hei, where woman share experiences and help each other stand up for themselves. The turnout for the support groups is usually small (one to eight attendees) with a total of 32 women registered. Their ages range from 28 to 70.

“It’s hard to say why that elderly women attend the group,” said Na Wahine Ho‘omana President Donna Stockwell. “It may be due to declining health, an increased feeling of vulnerability or a loss of power that some experience as they age.

“It’s natural stuff; it’s the aging process,” Donna said about women’s concerns.

Na Wahine Ho‘omana was formed in 2014 by women wanting to make a difference in the lives of South Maui women and their families.

The nonprofit, 100 percent volunteer-based organization would like to find a permanent home “where it is open and where people can just come by to be safe,” said Donna. “We are striving to be that all-inclusive clearing house of resources that’s connected and bridged with different agencies.”

NA WAHINE HO‘OMANA
Trinity by-the-Sea, 100 Kulanihakoi St., Ki¯hei, Maui
Donna Stockwell, President
808-280-3118 | donnastockwell@nawahinehoomana.org
www.nawahinehoomana.org

Some of the most helpful nonprofits for seniors are small operations that cannot afford to advertise. We will be helping them by getting their message to you. Read below to learn how the volunteers and coordinators in these noteworthy organizations may help you and your family. PATIENT NAVIGATION PROGRAM The nonprofit Pacific Cancer Foundation offers…
Senior Wellness Centers: Caregiver Option

As our loved ones grow older, they often want to live at home for as long as possible.

But many seniors who live alone are often unable to manage their daily needs.

Senior wellness centers, also referred to as adult daycare centers, offer services to those who are unable to stay at home on their own.

These centers provide an excellent option for seniors in need of services and assistance for a halfday or full day.

SIGNIFICANT BENEFITS

Gives a sense of purpose: Older adults have a reason to wake up every day in anticipation of something fun and exciting.

Provides a safe environment: Seniors living alone are at a higher risk for accidents. Senior wellness centers offer personal care assistance and the peace of mind that a loved one is in the hands of compassionate professionals trained in senior care.

Medication administration: Licensed staff are available to administer medications while at the senior wellness center.

Hot, nutritious meals served family-style: Many seniors turn to processed convenience foods. Others forget to eat altogether. While at the senior wellness center, families are confident that loved ones are enjoying nutritious meals.

Exercise and recreation: Programs designed specifically for seniors help meet the need for physical exercise and mental stimulation through active choices, creative arts projects, and recreational activities, such as mini golf, table tennis, entertainment groups, cooking activities, holiday events and more.

Socialization: One of the most common concerns is isolation. Senior wellness centers create opportunities for individuals to engage in meaningful conversation and interaction with friends.

Respite for caregivers: Family caregivers and seniors who provide care for their spouses are often overwhelmed with the difficulty of coping with responsibilities and life’s day-today demands.
It’s a daunting task to manage a job, raise families and be a caregiver. Adult daycare centers allow you the time to take care of your obligations and yourself.

Affordable: Senior wellness centers are one of the most costeffective ways to provide quality care.

As the cost of private caregivers and healthcare facilities continues to rise and as seniors are now living longer than ever, senior wellness centers can help relieve the financial burden that many families are experiencing.

Senior wellness centers are a viable option to address the emerging needs of older adults by promoting healthy aging, safety, exercise and recrecreation, social connections, meaningful programs and peace of mind for families.

LIVE WELL AT IWILEI BY KA¯ HALA NUI
888 Iwilei Road, Ste. 105, Honolulu HI 96817
808-218-7777 | www.livewellhi.org

As our loved ones grow older, they often want to live at home for as long as possible. But many seniors who live alone are often unable to manage their daily needs. Senior wellness centers, also referred to as adult daycare centers, offer services to those who are unable to stay at home on their…
A Legacy of Caring for Aging Parents

A trusting relationship between consultant and family is key to determining the proper care that is necessary and fulfilling.

According to a state Department of Health report, 82 percent of adults have at least one chronic disease and over half (53 percent) have two or more chronic diseases.

“We find that like the foundation of a family, experienced home healthcare agencies form a structure that is effective, efficient, and responsive to the needs and values of seniors and their families,” said Marissa Ramos, RN.

“Even though studies show Hawai‘i seniors live longer, they are still more likely to have one or more chronic conditions, such as cognitive impairment or heart disease,” said Marissa. “With chronic conditions come a greater likelihood of pain, loss of function and increased dependence. Skilled, licensed providers can help by carrying out physician’s orders, making assessments, assisting with managing pain and educating and training families.”

Home healthcare agencies are uniquely equipped to help seniors and their families manage a wide range of care. Experienced providers can assess needs that are less complex, yet very important to the ongoing safety and quality of life of a senior family member.

As seniors continue to age, more direct personal care may be needed. Home health aids and nurse supervisors are trained to provide both basic and more advanced levels of care.

“When consulting with adult children and their parents, it’s important to understand the fine details of our senior’s life and history,” said Janet Grace, a home healthcare sales and marketing director. “This brings a special level of trust to the discussion and allows for a more comprehensive clinical plan of care to be developed, making an uncertain and difficult task better to accomplish.”

“Every day, I have the privilege of hearing the amazing stories of our clients lives, the work they’ve done, the sacrifices they made and important lessons passed down through generations,” said Janet. “Because of these experiences, I’m deeply touched by how committed adult children are to making these same sacrifices for their parents by ensuring that safe and reliable home care is easy to access. This helps to preserve and perpetuate the legacies passed down from one generation to another.”

Caring for parents or loved ones may appear to be a relationship where one person gives and the other receives. However, research shows that the relationship actually goes both ways. Adult children caregivers experience tremendous moments of comfort, appreciation and great satisfaction.

Teaching our keiki to respect and love their kūpuna and informing them about their rich history and heritage will continue a family’s legacy of immense joy and reward far into the future.

ATTENTION PLUS CARE
Accredited by The Joint Commission
1580 Makaloa St., Ste. 1060, Honolulu HI 96814
808-739-2811 | www.attentionplus.com
AGING IN HAWAII EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH PROGRAM:
a monthly program to provide resources for seniors and
their families, instructed by a registered nurse, who covers
a different aging topic each month.
For class information on fall prevention and upcoming
topics, call 808-440-9356.

According to a state Department of Health report, 82 percent of adults have at least one chronic disease and over half (53 percent) have two or more chronic diseases. “We find that like the foundation of a family, experienced home healthcare agencies form a structure that is effective, efficient, and responsive to the needs and…
Prevent Injury When Caring for Kids

Bob and grandson, Corbin, enjoy playing at the beach. Photo courtesy of Jennifer Pimentel
Even for the fittest of grandparents, taking care of grandkids can really take a toll on your body. The most common areas of injury are the neck, shoulders, back and knees.

Here are tips to prevent those aches and pains.

If you are inactive, wrestling on the floor or walking around the zoo can have a real impact on your body. Regular exercise is important, but any type of physical activity will make it easier to keep up with your grandkids. Maintain an active lifestyle to keep those muscles strong and joints lubricated. If you don’t use it, you’ll lose it.

Repetitive movement can cause serious damage if you are not used to the activity. To avoid a rotator cuff tear when repeatedly throwing a ball or pushing a swing, you must know when to stop. Listen to your body, stop when you get tired and steer the kids to a break or a different activity.

Use good body mechanics when bending to pick up a child. Widen your stance and base of support to maintain balance, bend at your knees rather than hinging at the hips, hold the child close to your body, keep your shoulders back and avoid slouching.

Keep fit and take precautions to ensure that you stay healthy as you enjoy your grandchildren.

MOON PHYSICAL THERAPY, LLC
320 Ward Avenue, Ste. 107, Honolulu HI 96814
Aquatic, Land-based and Manual Therapy and
Cardiopulmonary Rehab Programs
808-597-1005 | www.moonpt.com

Even for the fittest of grandparents, taking care of grandkids can really take a toll on your body. The most common areas of injury are the neck, shoulders, back and knees. Here are tips to prevent those aches and pains. If you are inactive, wrestling on the floor or walking around the zoo can have…
The Link Between Diabetes & Hearing Loss

Studies show hearing loss is about twice as common in adults with diabetes than those who do not have the disease, mainly due to poor circulation. Elevated blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels, thereby reducing blood flow to certain areas. The lack of blood flow causes damage to the structures of the inner ear, which are highly vascularized and do not have a backup blood supply. Hearing loss could be the result of permanent damage to the blood vessels in the inner ear.

Diabetes is becoming an extremely common disease, making it a larger contributor to hearing loss. Because of the relationship between hearing loss risk and diabetes, it is a good idea that people with the disease get their hearing tested annually to watch for decreases in hearing ability.

Five Facts About Diabetes and Hearing Loss
1) There is a proven link between diabetes and hearing loss in adults over the age of 60.
2) Everyone should have their hearing screened as soon as they are diagnosed with diabetes.
3) Diabetic patients can experience progressive hearing loss.
4) Adult onset hearing loss often contributes to social isolation, cognitive loss and depression.
5) Hearing aids can help.

Hearing loss studies have shown the benefits of hearing aids, including improved overall health, better interpersonal relationships and a reduction in frustration, anxiety and depression.

HEARING CENTER OF HAWAII
848 S. Beretania St., Ste. 311, Honolulu HI 96813
808-597-1207 | www.hearingcenterofhawaii.com

Studies show hearing loss is about twice as common in adults with diabetes than those who do not have the disease, mainly due to poor circulation. Elevated blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels, thereby reducing blood flow to certain areas. The lack of blood flow causes damage to the structures of the inner ear,…
Exercise for Better Body Functionality

In 2012, at age 62, George Crowder retired from his profession as a regional fire prevention chief.

“I was a highly qualified, able-bodied firefighter,” said George. “Besides emergency responses and standbys, much of the days was consumed in maintenance. In my younger days, I was invincible. If you wanted something moved or carried, I was your man. As I aged, I noticed a decline in my muscle strength and tone. My balance and coordination were starting to decline, and most of all, I was losing my functionality.

George and his wife, Norma, reside in a four-bedroom home on a 6,000-square-foot lot in Windward O‘ahu.

“Maintaining my home, yard and automobiles was starting to become a huge chore,” said George. “After working in the yard or doing other maintenance chores, I would be sore for days and have to take aspirin for my aches and pains.

In August 2013, George and Norma attended Generation’s Magazine’s® Aging in Place Workshop at the Ala Moana Hotel.

George and Norma Crowder now work regularly together on balance, flexibility, strength and a disciplined diet.

“We were totally inspired by two senior women who were demonstrating exercises — Joan, 92, and Doris, 78,” said George. “They were exercising on a stability ball. I was absolutely blown away by their agility and vitality. I knew after seeing them there was hope for my wife and I to regain our function in our golden years.

George and Norma started working out twice a week, focusing on strength, flexibility and balance — all the things we lose as we age.

“Personal Trainer Diane Cadinha is a stickler for body functionality, and mind-body connection,” said George. “We are going on three years and my function, balance and flexibility have improved dramatically. Maintaining my home is no longer a huge chore. Gardening has become a joyful activity again, and aches and pains are no longer an issue.

George said his biggest challenge has been his diet.

“My highest weight was 330,” he said. “Now I’m down to 250. Diane educates us about the importance of getting enough fruits and vegetables every day. She always says that sugar is our worst enemy for creating inflammation in the body. Giving up the Coco Puffs from Liliha Bakery, the flaky doughnuts from Zippy’s and the crispy malasadas is not an easy task for me, but I’m working on it — one day at a time!

SHAPING UP FITNESS STUDIO
Mililani and Downtown: 250 Ward Ave., Ste. 206
808-221-3905 | shapingup@hawaii.rr.com
www.shapingup808.com

In 2012, at age 62, George Crowder retired from his profession as a regional fire prevention chief. “I was a highly qualified, able-bodied firefighter,” said George. “Besides emergency responses and standbys, much of the days was consumed in maintenance. In my younger days, I was invincible. If you wanted something moved or carried, I was…
Be Proactive to Prevent Falls

Falls are the most common cause of unintentional fatal injuries in Hawai‘i, averaging more than 101 senior incidents each year. Falls are also the state’s leading cause of non-fatal injuries, resulting in nearly 27,000 emergency room visits and 2,600 hospitalizations each year.

Over 8,000 seniors over 65 are transported by an ambulance to an emergency room because of a fall injury. That is almost one every hour.

The risk of a fall causing a fatality increases dramatically with age, and the emotional and fiscal burden associated with fall injuries are staggering. But there are steps seniors can take to prevent fall injuries and fatalities.

If you do not pay attention, you will fall.

It is very easy to become complacent — even lazy — and cruise along in life with your loved ones. Although it’s fine to relax, being aware is crucial — and so simple. I am pleading with every senior that reads this story to get deadly serious about fall prevention.

Several factors can contribute to a fall — poor vision, diminished physical strength and sense of balance, dizziness as a result of prescription drug interactions and hazards such as electrical cords and slippery floors. You can trip over your pet or your grandchildren’s toys during a micro-second of inattention.

However, a majority of falls can be prevented by making a conscious effort to be more aware of your surroundings and your physical limitations. This is not easy, as senior habits die hard.

Before I list five simplest things you can do to reduce your risk for injuries from falls, I will point out two areas that are the easiest to avoid, and which are also the most dangerous. These are two of the simplest fixes to make to avoid a life altering fall injury for seniors.

1. Falls from ladders and trees: Each fruit harvesting season, the number of serious fall injuries spikes at emergency rooms all over the state. Do not climb into your favorite tree or on the roof to harvest the fruits of your labor without someone holding the ladder. Also, do, do not lean or stretch to grab that papaya, because you will fall. Be absolutely aware of your limitations.

Call a nephew, or son or daughter — someone younger than you — and ask them help you for a share of your bounty.

2. Falls in the shower or tub: Far too often, our kūpuna fall in the bathroom. Many years ago, my own father fell and severely injured himself in the tub. We did not find him for over 12 hours…

The simple installation of safety grab bars in the bathroom and anti-slip adhesives stickers in the tub or shower add much-needed protection.

It is an easy and inexpensive solution, especially compared to the hospital bills you will get if you don’t use them.

If you seriously injury yourself — and survive — chances are very good you may be permanently disabled, lose your independence, and never be able to use the restroom or shower alone again. It is devastating to have to depend on someone else to help you with your basic bodily functions.

THE FIVE FALL PREVENTION TIPS

1) Medications can cause dizziness that can lead to falls. Simply make an appointment with your doctor or pharmacist today to review your medications, including any over thecounter drugs and supplements.

2) Maintaining good vision helps with balance and safety. Paying attention to where you place your feet is important, and so is being able to see where you are going. Have your eyes checked at least once a year.

3) Balance and strength are essential to preventing falls. Be active and do simple movements every day to prevent a fall, including walking, gardening, yoga, swimming, dancing or taking a tai chi class.

4) Make your home safer by removing fall hazards. Keep pathways clear and the floor free of objects. Be aware that seniors can trip over anything from the grandkids’ toys to the beloved family pet.

5) Invest in and use a personal electronic safety device. This is absolutely essential for any senior who lives alone. It has been proven that wearing one of these tiny devices saves lives every day.
View either of these two fall prevention videos online: www.tinyurl.com/FallPreventionVideo.
The videos were produced by Edgy Lee, an independent Hawai‘i-born filmmaker.
As seniors we have earned the right to live a full and complete life. Do not shorten that opportunity by thinking a fall will not happen to you. Falls happen.

Call 808-733-9202 or visit www.nogethurt.hawaii.gov for a home safety checklist or a free safety assessment.

HAWAII FALL PREVENTION CONSORTIUM
808-733-9202 | stanley.michaels@doh.hawaii.gov

Falls are the most common cause of unintentional fatal injuries in Hawai‘i, averaging more than 101 senior incidents each year. Falls are also the state’s leading cause of non-fatal injuries, resulting in nearly 27,000 emergency room visits and 2,600 hospitalizations each year. Over 8,000 seniors over 65 are transported by an ambulance to an emergency…
Film Confronts End-of-Life Issues

Me Before You, the No. 1 New York Times bestseller written by Jojo Moyes in 2012, was made into a film in 2016.

Although it seems like a believable romance story, it is a work of fiction. However, Me Before You raises awareness about some very real life-and-death issues.

The premise (no spoiler alert): A young woman is hired as a caregiver for a young man who has been quadriplegic since a motorcycle accident. The man had made a previous suicide attempt after his request to to end his life through Dignitas, a Swiss-based assisted suicide organization, was rejected. When the caregiver learns of his plans to pursue his plan to edit it all, she sets out to show him that life is still worth living. A love story ensues.

Although the plot of book and film have been criticized for even suggesting that life may not be worth living for some with severe disabilities, it has opened the door to discussion and has raised questions regarding end-of-life issues such as aid-in-dying medication, euthanasia, suicide and America’s public policy.

In the face of unbearable suffering, profound pain, terminal illness or devastating disability, can life become not worth living? If so, who should make that decision? Should public policy strive to improve care and expand choices for the end of life?

This film may help you decide for yourself.

Me Before You, the book and movie, are available online and in local bookstores.

Me Before You, the No. 1 New York Times bestseller written by Jojo Moyes in 2012, was made into a film in 2016. Although it seems like a believable romance story, it is a work of fiction. However, Me Before You raises awareness about some very real life-and-death issues. The premise (no spoiler alert): A…

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