Category: Articles

  • Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program

    This year, we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP). Part of the Executive Office on Aging, an ombudsman is primarily an advocate for residents living in a nursing home, assisted living facility, community care foster family home, or an adult or expanded adult residential care home. Having an advocate is especially important for residents who are comatose, have dementia or cannot speak for themselves.

    The LTCOP is federally mandated to visit every facility at least once a quarter. With 1,779 facilities (12,895 beds) spread over six islands, that can only be accomplished with volunteers.

    We are not state inspectors. We don’t cite facilities for deficiencies when regulations are violated. The state Department of Health’s Office of Health Care Assurance does that. We champion quality of life and quality of care for all residents.

    The LTCOP utilizes both staff and certified volunteers to promote its mission to provide culturally sensitive advocacy and referral services to Hawai‘i’s long-term care residents.

    For more information on becoming a volunteer, use the contact information below.

    STATE LONG-TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN
    Executive Office on Aging
    Hawai‘i State Department of Health–Ka ‘Oihana Olakino
    250 South Hotel St., Ste. 406 Honolulu, HI 96813
    john.mcdermott@doh.hawaii.gov | C: 808-892-9306
    808-586-7268 | Toll Free: 1-888-229-2231
    hi-ltc-ombudsman.org | health.hawaii.gov/eoa

    This year, we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP). Part of the Executive Office on Aging, an ombudsman is primarily an advocate for residents living in a nursing home, assisted living facility, community care foster family home, or an adult or expanded adult residential care home. Having an advocate is…

  • SSA Issues Imposter Scam Alert

    Social Security (SS) imposter scams continue to be widespread across the United States. Scammers use tactics to deceive you into providing sensitive information or money. If you receive a suspicious letter, text, email or call, do not respond.

    SSA WILL NEVER:

    • Text or email images of an employee’s official government identification
    • Suspend your SS number
    • Threaten you with arrest or other legal action unless you immediately pay a fine or fee
    • Require payment by retail gift card, wire transfer, internet currency or cash by mail
    • Promise a benefit increase or other assistance in exchange for payment
    • Mail or email “official” letters or reports containing your personal information

    WE ONLY SEND TEXT MESSAGES IN LIMITED SITUATIONS, INCLUDING:

    • When you have subscribed to receive updates and notifications by text
    • As part of our enhanced security when accessing your personal my Social Security account

    If you owe money to us, we will mail you a letter with payment options and appeal rights. SS employees do contact the public by telephone for business purposes. Ordinarily, the agency calls people who have recently applied for a SS benefit, are already receiving payments and require an update to their record or have requested a phone call from the agency. If there is a problem with a person’s SS number or record, SS will mail a letter.

    Report suspected SS imposter scams and other SS fraud by going to the Office of the Inspector General’s website: oig.ssa.gov/report. Find more information about scams at ssa.gov/scam. Please share this information with your friends, family and colleagues to help spread awareness about Social Security imposter scams.

    For more SSA information, call 7am–5pm, Mon–Fri:
    1-800-772-1213 (toll free) | socialsecurity.gov
    Your COLA Notice

    Individuals who have a personal my Social Security account can view their COLA notice online, which is secure and faster than receiving a letter in the mail. Users can also receive text or email alerts when there is a new message waiting for them, including a COLA notice. Set up a my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount.

    SSA ONLINE SERVICE HOURS
    Eastern Standard Time
    Mon– Fri 4:15am–1am
    Sat 5am–11pm
    Sun 8am–11:30pm
    SSA COLA: ssa.gov/cola
    ssa.gov/news/press/factsheets/colafacts2025.pdf
    SSA Full Retirement Age Chart:
    ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/agereduction.html
    Medicare & You 2025:
    publications/10050-medicare-and-you.pdf

    Social Security (SS) imposter scams continue to be widespread across the United States. Scammers use tactics to deceive you into providing sensitive information or money. If you receive a suspicious letter, text, email or call, do not respond. SSA WILL NEVER: WE ONLY SEND TEXT MESSAGES IN LIMITED SITUATIONS, INCLUDING: If you owe money to…

  • Key Roles in Long-Term Care Planning

    Long-term care events can happen without warning—and in an instant, everything changes. Having long-term care insurance is important, but what truly matters is having the right people by your side. Without them, even the best policy benefits can be delayed or go unused.

    Here are some of your key team players:

    CARE ADVOCATE

    This is the person who knows the plan, where relevant documents are and who to contact. They know how to file claims and make sure benefits are accessed without delay.

    RESOLUTION ADVOCATE

    After the crisis, this person handles transitions, expenses and tasks. They bring closure and peace of mind during emotionally difficult times.

    FINANCIAL ADVOCATE

    This person ties your care plan to your overall financial goals. They help prevent financial strain by preparing for care costs, coordinating accessible benefits and building a strategy that protects your assets and family’s legacy.

    Having insurance is one thing. Knowing how to use it and who will help is everything.

    Building a strong long-term care team is vital in order to ensure that you and your family are prepared for future care needs.

    HAWAI‘I LONG-TERM CARE SOLUTIONS
    1555 Ala Puumalu St, Honolulu, HI 96818
    808-330-4691 | roger@rogerhiga.fun
    HawaiiLongTermCareSolutions.com

    Long-term care events can happen without warning—and in an instant, everything changes. Having long-term care insurance is important, but what truly matters is having the right people by your side. Without them, even the best policy benefits can be delayed or go unused. Here are some of your key team players: ◆ CARE ADVOCATE This…

  • Prostate Cancer in Hawai‘i

    It is estimated that there will be 1,160 new cases and 190 deaths from prostate cancer in Hawai‘i in 2025. If it is diagnosed at an advanced (metastatic) stage, the five-year survival rate is just 37%. If diagnosed at an early stage, the five-year survival rate is more than 99%.

    Early-stage prostate cancer often does not have any symptoms. Screening starts with a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. Individualized risk assessment and imaging can now help determine if a biopsy is necessary.

    Non-aggressive prostate cancers may not need treatment. New treatments available in Hawai‘i, such as focal therapy, target only the cancerous part of the prostate, minimizing side effects.

    Men don’t have to face prostate cancer alone. The Us TOO Hawaii support group offers virtual monthly meetings for patients/their loved ones, providing information, education and support.

    Patients often have choices in their cancer treatment. Learning about prostate cancer terminology, various diagnostic and treatment options and talking with other prostate cancer patients helps them make informed decisions for their individual situation.

    US TOO HAWAII 501(c)(3) nonprofit
    Gary Kim, 808-486-9675 | garyhkim@hawaii.rr.com
    hawaiiprostatecancer.org
    bit.ly/cancer-facts-and-figures-2025
    bit.ly/survival-rates-for-prostate-cancer

    The information and opinions expressed on this article are not an endorsement or recommendation for any medical treatment, product, service or course of action by Us TOO Hawaii and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Consult with your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.

    It is estimated that there will be 1,160 new cases and 190 deaths from prostate cancer in Hawai‘i in 2025. If it is diagnosed at an advanced (metastatic) stage, the five-year survival rate is just 37%. If diagnosed at an early stage, the five-year survival rate is more than 99%. Early-stage prostate cancer often does…

  • Healthy Teeth and Gums at Every Age

    September is National Gum Care Month—a great reminder for kūpuna to care for their oral health and protect their smiles. As we age, maintaining healthy gums becomes even more important to overall well-being. One common concern is gum disease, also called periodontal disease, which affects nearly 60% of adults over age 65.

    Often caused by poor brushing and flossing habits, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and increase the risk of other health problems if left untreated. It is fortunate that it’s both preventable and treatable, especially when caught early.

    Early signs include red or swollen gums, tenderness, bleeding, bad breath, painful chewing and receding gums. These symptoms may seem small but can lead to serious problems.

    To keep your gums healthy, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Regular dental visits are also important, especially if you notice changes. Your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning, such as scaling and root planing, or surgery.

    Caring for your gums is a lifelong habit. This September, make oral health a priority and keep your smile strong for years to come.

    HAWAII DENTAL SERVICE
    Dr. Vinh Tran, DDS, Dental Director
    808-529-9213
    vinh.tran@hawaiidentalservice.com
    HawaiiDentalService.com

    September is National Gum Care Month—a great reminder for kūpuna to care for their oral health and protect their smiles. As we age, maintaining healthy gums becomes even more important to overall well-being. One common concern is gum disease, also called periodontal disease, which affects nearly 60% of adults over age 65. Often caused by…

  • Think Pink in October

    The pink ribbons and pink merchandise at retail stores mean it is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, commemorated annually in October. Think Pink is a campaign for prevention, perseverance in finding a cure and the possibilities for surviving breast cancer.

    According to the National Cancer Institute, 1 in 8 women and 1 in 800 men in America will develop breast cancer. Yes, men are susceptible, too. Breast cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer in the US, and No. 1 in Hawai‘i. Although diagnosis rates are high, death rates have significantly decreased.

    The best way to increase your chance of survival is to detect cancer early. Getting tested according to your doctor’s recommendations is so important. If you are due or overdue for a mammogram, please call your doctor’s office today! Many insurance plans do not charge a copayment for mammograms. And if copay amounts are a concern, most hospitals will work with patients to provide financial assistance or a payment plan.

    In between machine screenings, everyone can benefit from self-exams. If at any time you see or feel anything unusual or suspicious, contact your doctor.

    Do it for yourself and the ones you love.

    ALOHACARE
    1357 Kapiolani Blvd., Ste. G101, Honolulu, HI 96814
    808-973-0712 | toll free 1-877-973-0712
    kreid@alohacare.org | alohacare.org

    The pink ribbons and pink merchandise at retail stores mean it is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, commemorated annually in October. Think Pink is a campaign for prevention, perseverance in finding a cure and the possibilities for surviving breast cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, 1 in 8 women and 1 in 800 men…

  • Ready, Aim, Fun!

    Archery, the sport of kings, is finding its way into our city parks. The City and County of Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation has introduced archery into its programs. Many participants say they first shot a bow and arrow at a summer camp. Then they grew up and found other interests. With cartoons and TV series recently including the sport, archery interest has resurged.

    City and County of Honolulu Parks and Recreation programs are open to people of all ages. But the group seeing the most growth is ku¯ puna. It is never too late to recreate and archery is a sport in which they can shine!

    Archery is one of the few sports in which men and women compete together at a venue. In our program, men and women shoot side by side at the range.

    It is both a social sport and a “private” sport. You can enjoy the camaraderie of all the other archers, laughing and talking between shots, or you can find your “Zen” space and use it as a contemplative time. Our island seniors have found both. We may have a wife talking to her archery friends between shots while her husband finds his relaxation drilling holes in a gold circle.

    Archery equipment is not extremely expensive for a beginner. It costs way less than a set of golf clubs and the range is free.

    Archery is also not difficult to start. Equipment can be borrowed from the recreation center; you will buy your own as you get into the sport.

    The strength needed to pull the string is adjusted to your physical capability. As you develop your muscles, you will move up to better equipment. But many archers use the same bow for a long time. The arrows, of course, are reusable.

    Your biggest competition is yourself. You can shoot for fun and relaxation or you can shoot for higher scores. So, get up, get out and join other senior citizens in our programs who are re-finding the sport of archery!

    Clear your mind and sharpen your focus! Call your local park to find the nearest class.

    CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU DEPT. OF PARKS & RECREATION, RECREATION SUPPORT SERVICES
    1000 Uluohia St., Kapolei HI, 96707
    808-768-3045 | ssantiago@honolulu.gov
    honolulu.gov/dpr

    Archery, the sport of kings, is finding its way into our city parks. The City and County of Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation has introduced archery into its programs. Many participants say they first shot a bow and arrow at a summer camp. Then they grew up and found other interests. With cartoons and…

  • How Pickleball Changed My Life

    We don’t always know what’s missing until it shows up in our lives. For these three women, that “something” was a game called “pickleball.”

    For Lori Tokutomi, the discovery came in her late 50s. “Someone mentioned it at a gym, so I just showed up,” she says. “They told me to get on the court, explained the rules as we went—and that was it. I was addicted.”

    After that first day, she played every day she could, even driving 30 minutes across the Bay Area to find games. Now in her 60s, she still plays regularly and calls it her go-to for fun, fitness and stress relief. “It’s the perfect sport for any age. Easy to start and you don’t have to be the best to enjoy it.”

    At 61, Susan Seki discovered pickleball with her husband just before the pandemic. “We borrowed paddles at the rec center, played once—and immediately bought our own.”

    The couple now plays four to five times a week. “Pickleball is everything now. We drop everything to go play.” She didn’t expect to fall in love with the sport—or the friendships. “We’ve made so many new friends and I’m going to know these people for a long time.”

    A colon cancer survivor, Susan also credits pickleball with helping her stay healthy. “At my last cardiology appointment, I kept going and going on the treadmill. The nurse finally told me to stop—and the doctor accused me of showing off!” she laughs.

    Rachel Haili discovered pickleball in her 70s, soon after retiring from her Hawaiian
    catering and entertainment business of over 40 years. She found herself missing the daily interactions with staff and customers. Pickleball filled that gap—combining movement with social connection. “You meet new people from all over and all different parts of the island,” she says. She plays several times a week and complements it with yoga, tai chi and weight training. Her advice: “I say, just go out and try.”

    Each woman picked up a paddle at a different stage in life. What they found wasn’t just a game—it was movement, meaning and community in one beautiful surprise.

    Personal growth is always within reach. It’s never too late to discover something new and realize it’s exactly what you’ve been missing.

    HAWAII PICKLEBALL MAGAZINE
    P.O. Box 61514, Honolulu, HI 96839
    jen@hawaiipickleballmagazine.com
    hawaiipickleballmagazine.com

    We don’t always know what’s missing until it shows up in our lives. For these three women, that “something” was a game called “pickleball.” For Lori Tokutomi, the discovery came in her late 50s. “Someone mentioned it at a gym, so I just showed up,” she says. “They told me to get on the court,…

  • Gram’s Portuguese Bean Soup

    The Portuguese Bean Soup recipe my family has made for generations was never actually written down until my niece, Nadine, asked my mother for it. My mom, Vivian, would make a huge pot for parties or mainland visitors. The soup was prepped early in the morning and simmered on the stove well into the evening. To this day, the smell of the simmering soup always brings me back to the days when I was young, playing in the yard with the aroma in the air.

    In memory of Vivian August (2004)

    Ingredients

    2 lbs. red kidney beans (dry)
    3 links Portuguese sausage
    1 pkg. ham hocks
    2 large onions, chopped
    3 15 oz. cans tomato sauce
    salt & pepper to taste
    chili pepper flakes to taste
    2 bunches watercress cut into 1-inch pieces or… 1 head cabbage, chopped

    Directions

    Put beans in pot and rinse them well. Pick out any debris (little stones).

    Add water to 3 inches above the beans. Add sausage, ham hocks, onions, watercress (preferred) or cabbage and tomato sauce, and salt, pepper and chili pepper to taste.

    Bring to a heavy boil, then cover pot, lower heat and simmer for 5 or 6 hours.

    After 2 hours, taste to see that it has enough tomato sauce. Add a small can of tomato sauce if you think it needs more.

    After 5 or 6 hours, remove bones from ham hocks and cut up sausage into small pieces. Make rice. Put a large scoop of rice in a bowl and pour a healthy ladle of soup over the rice.

    Prep & cook time: 6–7 hours

    Serves: 15–20 medium bowls

    Do you have a favorite recipe and story to share? For consideration in the next issue, include a photo and mail them to Generations Recipe, PO Box 4213, Honolulu, HI 96812, or email them to Cynthia@generations808.com.

    The Portuguese Bean Soup recipe my family has made for generations was never actually written down until my niece, Nadine, asked my mother for it. My mom, Vivian, would make a huge pot for parties or mainland visitors. The soup was prepped early in the morning and simmered on the stove well into the evening.…

  • Celebrating the Portuguese Culture

    Since more than 1,500 years ago, Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians) have welcomed immigrants from every corner of the globe, cultivating and perpetuating a tapestry of diverse cultures. In the fifth article in this ongoing series on the many cultures that comprise Hawai‘i, we will focus on the Portuguese, how the people arrived in the Hawaiian Islands, the culture and a few widely celebrated observances, with a focus on Festa and celebrating construction of the new Portuguese Cultural Center on O‘ahu.

    Portuguese Arrival in Hawai‘i

    With the rapid growth of Hawai‘i’s economy in the mid 1800s came the demand for more sugarcane plantation workers. In 1876, Portuguese Consul and Hawai‘i settler Jason Perry (Jacinto Pereira) suggested plantation owners could source workers from the Madeira and Azores islands of Portugal. Both regions were similar in climate to Hawai‘i. Sugarcane was a staple in these areas of Portugal for hundreds of years, so the inhabitants were knowledgeable about the industry. So in 1878, about 400 Portuguese migrants began settling in Hawai‘i. By 1911, the population quadrupled. Today, there are about 45,500 Portuguese descendants in Hawai‘i—3.14% of the population.

    Culture and Tradition

    Unlike other immigrant groups, Portuguese settlers often came to Hawai‘i with their entire families, establishing strong family lines and preserving their traditions. Few could read or write, so many of their traditional and cultural practices were oral. Today, Portuguese culture is an important part of local life. Many grew up eating linguiça (Portuguese sausage) and learning ‘ukulele, the instrument inspired by the braguinha/ cavaquinho used by Portuguese paniolo (cowboys). One Portuguese tradition that undoubtedly many are familiar with is making (and eating) malasadas. Traditionally, they were made to use up butter and sugar on Terça-feira Gorda—also known as Carnaval, Mardi Gras, Shrove Tuesday, Fat Tuesday and Malasada Day—which took place the day before fasting for Lent began.

    Festa Season

    For the Portuguese diaspora, maintaining a connection to their homeland is a significant part of their identity. Festa (festival) celebrations are a prime example. Kicking off the season this year in July was the annual A Day in Portugal Festa by the Portuguese Culture & Historical Center (PCHC). Last month, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church on Hawai‘i Island hosted its Holy Ghost Festa to celebrate their heritage and express their faith. Finally, coming up on Sept. 17 is PCHC’s gala dinner in celebration of the upcoming construction of the new cultural center.

    For more information, see PCHC’s website (portugueseculturehistoricalcenter.org) as well as Generations Magazine’s Facebook page (facebook.com/genmag808) and website calendar (generations808.com/calendar) for community events and opportunities.

    The next article in this series will feature the influences of Filipino culture in Hawai‘i.

    Since more than 1,500 years ago, Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians) have welcomed immigrants from every corner of the globe, cultivating and perpetuating a tapestry of diverse cultures. In the fifth article in this ongoing series on the many cultures that comprise Hawai‘i, we will focus on the Portuguese, how the people arrived in the Hawaiian…

  • Striving for Peace 80 Years After WWII

    This year marks 80 years since World War II ended. To me, this is a time to reflect on the horrors of war and remind ourselves to take steps to resolve conflict without violence.

    Hawai‘i is in a unique position as the steward of two icons of WWII history. The USS Arizona Memorial, a powerful symbol of America’s entry into the war on Dec. 7, 1941, stands guard over the remains of the vessel sunk by bombs in Pearl Harbor. Visible from that memorial is the USS Battleship Missouri Memorial, where the Japanese signed the Instrument of Surrender, which officially ended World War II on Sept. 2, 1945.

    Between those two historic bookends, we all suffered the shame of killing each other, with both sides grieving for lost sons and daughters.

    After the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, approximately 300,000 Japanese immigrants in the US and Americans of Japanese ancestry (AJA) were considered “enemy aliens,” just because they looked like the enemy.

    The 1,432 AJA already in the US Army were segregated into a separate unit—the 100th Infantry Battalion. This small group, less than .5% of the affected population, would prove their fighting ability and loyalty to America, eventually leading to the formation of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team. Together, they were considered one of the most decorated units in US military history for size and length of service.

    An annual memorial service is held at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu to honor the AJA units—those killed in service and those since passed, reminding us to avoid repeating the pain of war by exercising tolerance and conflict resolution. Although the AJA endured discrimination and loss of civil rights, they overcame these obstacles with positive outlook, high-performance thinking and quiet endurance. Postwar, when no bank would serve them, they didn’t give up. They built their own bank, which we know today as Central Pacific Bank.

    Although we all face challenges and setbacks, how we react affects the end result. Steve Sue of nonprofit ID8 keeps the AJA WWII legacy and values alive with a movie called, “The 100TH: Seeds of Aloha,” targeted for release in 2026. Steve notes, “…this is more than a war story—it’s an epic tale of service, sacrifice and an enduring legacy of aloha that spans over 80 years.”

    100th INFANTRY BATTALION VETERANS
    520 Kamoku St. Honolulu, HI 96826
    For more information: info@100thbattalion.org | 808-946-0272

    This year marks 80 years since World War II ended. To me, this is a time to reflect on the horrors of war and remind ourselves to take steps to resolve conflict without violence. Hawai‘i is in a unique position as the steward of two icons of WWII history. The USS Arizona Memorial, a powerful…

  • Benefits of Using Artificial Intelligence, Part I

    In this two-part series, the benefits, risks and how seniors can reduce the possibility of being negatively impacted by artificial intelligence (AI) will be explored, beginning here by examining how AI can significantly enhance the lives of seniors by promoting independence, improving health management and providing companionship and support.

    HOW DOES AI WORK?

    AI learns from data just like people learn from their experiences. For example, if you show an AI many pictures of cats and dogs, it can learn to tell the difference between them.

    AI can understand and respond to human language. For instance, when you talk to a virtual assistant like Siri or Alexa, AI is used to understand your words and give you answers.

    AI can help make decisions based on the information it has. For example, it can suggest the best route to take when driving, based on traffic conditions.

    AI can help with everyday tasks, provide information quickly and assist with health monitoring. AI helps machines think and learn, making them useful tools in our daily lives.

    HEALTH MONITORING & MANAGEMENT

    Wearable devices: AI wearables can track vital signs, alerting users and caregivers to changes.

    Medication reminders: AI devices can help seniors manage their medications and their health.

    SAFETY AND SECURITY

    Home monitoring: AI systems can monitor homes for unusual activity, providing alerts in case of emergencies, such as falls or intrusions.

    Emergency response: AI can facilitate quick communication with emergency services.

    SOCIAL INTERACTION

    Virtual companions: AI chatbots and virtual assistants can provide companionship, engage in conversation and help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

    Video calls: AI can enhance call experiences, making it easier for seniors to connect with family/friends.

    TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE

    Smart navigation: AI can help seniors navigate public transportation or provide ride-sharing options.

    COGNITIVE SUPPORT

    Brain games: AI can offer personalized games and activities designed to stimulate cognitive function and memory, helping to keep the mind sharp.

    Learning tools: AI can provide tailored educational content, allowing seniors to learn new skills or hobbies at their own pace.

    HOME AUTOMATION

    Smart home devices: AI can control lighting, heating and appliances, making it easier for seniors to manage their home environment with voice commands or automated settings.

    Voice assistants: Devices like Amazon Echo or Google Home can help seniors perform tasks hands-free, such as setting reminders, playing music or answering questions.

    PERSONALIZED SERVICES

    Customized recommendations: AI can suggest activities, entertainment or even meal plans based on individual preferences and health needs.

    Telehealth services: AI can facilitate virtual doctor visits, making healthcare more accessible and convenient for seniors.

    In the next issue, Chris will talk about the risks of AI and how to mitigate those risks.

    CHRIS DUQUE, Hawai‘i’s premier “cyber cop,” is a retired Honolulu Police Department detective and nationally recognized expert on a variety of computer crimes. Email Chris at aikea808@gmail.com with your security questions.

    In this two-part series, the benefits, risks and how seniors can reduce the possibility of being negatively impacted by artificial intelligence (AI) will be explored, beginning here by examining how AI can significantly enhance the lives of seniors by promoting independence, improving health management and providing companionship and support. HOW DOES AI WORK? AI learns…