Category: Articles

  • SSA Benefits Toolkits Explained

    We’ve released new resources to help you better understand Social Security benefits. We’ve designed easy-to-use toolkits to provide education about our programs for children and our benefits for families after the death of a loved one. Our School Professional and Survivor Benefits toolkits are downloadable PDFs that include ready-to-go communications, such as sample email blasts, newsletter articles, hand-outs and social media posts.

    SCHOOL PROFESSIONAL TOOLKIT

    The School Professional Toolkit at ssa.gov/marketing/assets/materials/toolkit-ss-benefits-and-ssi-payments-for-children.pdf is for teachers, school counselors and other educators. The purpose of this toolkit is to educate parents and guardians about the financial help we provide. We make payments to students with disabilities and to those who have experienced the loss of a parent or have a parent who is receiving retirement or disability benefits.

    The toolkit discusses the following:

    • Eligibility requirements
    • How to apply
    • How to respond to requests for school records and forms
    • Evidence we need from school professionals to determine whether a child with a disability may be eligible for SSI

    SURVIVORS BENEFITS TOOLKIT

    The Survivors Benefits Toolkit at ssa.gov/marketing/assets/materials/toolkit-ss-survivors-benefit.pdf is for funeral homes, care facilities and other organizations working with people who have lost a loved one. This toolkit increases awareness about survivors benefits for eligible family members. We make monthly payments to surviving spouses, minor children, adult children with disabilities and dependent parents of workers who paid Social Security taxes before they died.

    The toolkit discusses the following:

    • Eligibility requirements
    • How to apply
    • Evidence for processing applications

    For more information about our toolkits, visit the blog post titled “New Resources for School Employees and Survivors” at blog.ssa.gov/new-resources-to-educate-school-employees-and-survivors. Please help us spread the word about our tool-kits with your colleagues and others who may find them helpful.

    For more information on SSA benefits, including who is eligible and how to apply, visit ssa.gov/benefits. To make an appointment, call between 7am and 5pm, Mon–Fri: 1-800-772-1213 | socialsecurity.gov

    We’ve released new resources to help you better understand Social Security benefits. We’ve designed easy-to-use toolkits to provide education about our programs for children and our benefits for families after the death of a loved one. Our School Professional and Survivor Benefits toolkits are downloadable PDFs that include ready-to-go communications, such as sample email blasts,…

  • Recreation, Leisure & Assistive Technology

    Recreational activities provide a wide range of benefits for seniors, significantly contributing to their physical health, mental sharpness and emotional well-being.

    Engaging in leisure activities helps maintain physical fitness, stimulates cognitive function and fosters emotional resilience. Additionally, recreation offers seniors valuable opportunities to form and strengthen social connections, promoting a strong sense of community and reducing feelings of isolation.

    In recent years, assistive technology (AT) has emerged as a powerful ally in helping older adults stay engaged in recreational and leisure pursuits. AT enables seniors to maintain independence, explore new interests, and participate in social and physical activities despite age-related challenges. With the help of technology, seniors can remain active, socially connected and mentally engaged, enhancing their overall quality of life.

    What is Assistive Technology?

    Assistive technology is a broad term that includes tools, devices and systems designed to help individuals maintain or improve their functional abilities. These technologies assist with mobility, communication, cognition, vision, hearing and self-care. As people age, they often face physical or cognitive limitations. AT can help bridge those gaps to support health, participation and inclusion.

    AT for Staying Physically Active

    A wide range of assistive technology is available to help seniors engage in physical and recreational activities. Adaptive equipment makes hobbies like fishing, golf, billiards, bowling, photography, cycling and gardening more accessible. Specialized tools for card and board games and arts and crafts allow seniors to continue enjoying their favorite pastimes.

    Mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, scooters and canes are vital for enabling recreation participation. Some wheelchairs are specially designed for sports such as tennis or basketball.

    Fitness trackers serve as adaptive technologies by helping seniors monitor their physical activity and health data in real-time.

    Sensory assistive devices like vibrating timers, tactile maps and audio beacons, enable individuals with hearing or vision impairments to enjoy outdoor and sports activities safely and independently.

    AT for Staying Social

    Technology also plays a significant role in helping seniors to maintain social connections. Tools such as video chat apps, adaptive phones and digital group platforms help older adults to stay in touch with family, friends and community groups, promoting their social engagement and reducing their isolation.

    AT for Mental Health and Enrichment

    Devices like speech readers, screen readers, FM systems, virtual reality, smart home assistants and communication aids provide mental stimulation and entertainment. Voice recognition software, braille displays and alternative input devices allow those with physical or cognitive impairments to access digital content and interact with the world around them.

    By integrating assistive technology into their lives, Hawai‘i’s seniors can enjoy a more active, social and enriched lifestyle. ATRC is committed to helping older adults explore how AT can support their well-being and fully empower them to participate in the activities they love.

    ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY RESOURCE CENTERS OF HAWAI I (nonprofit)
    200 N. Vineyard Blvd., Ste. 430, Honolulu, HI 96817
    808-532-7110 | info@atrc.org | atrc.org
    ATRC does not sell products, but recommends vendors. Device demonstration and lending programs give individuals and groups the opportunity to make an informed choice about an AT device prior to acquiring one.

    Recreational activities provide a wide range of benefits for seniors, significantly contributing to their physical health, mental sharpness and emotional well-being. Engaging in leisure activities helps maintain physical fitness, stimulates cognitive function and fosters emotional resilience. Additionally, recreation offers seniors valuable opportunities to form and strengthen social connections, promoting a strong sense of community and…

  • How to Find the Right Senior Care Home

    Gen Xers may find themselves helping parents age in place at home or at a senior care facility. Finding the right senior care home requires careful planning, research and consideration of a variety of factors:

    • Consider your parents’ current and future needs. Are they independent, need memory care or a higher level of care? Does a chronic illness require special care?
    • Choose a location that works for everyone. A senior facility in close proximity to family makes visiting more manageable.
    • Financial planning is crucial. Understand what is included and what additional services will cost. Review long-term care insurance and what is covered. Familiarize yourself with your parents’ pensions, which can help offset costs.
    • Take a tour. Is the facility well-kept and odor-free? How do staff members treat residents? Would your parents prefer an active or quieter environment? Are daily activities offered? Request a lunch tour for you and your parents to assess the food.

    Choosing a senior care home for your parents is a major decision. But after considering these questions and doing your research, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, keep searching to find a place where your parents will feel safe, cared for and happy.

    THE PLAZA ASSISTED LIVING
    900 Fort Street Mall, Ste. 1722, Honolulu, HI 96813
    808 628-6635 | nkamai@plazaassistedliving.com
    Plazaassistedliving.com

    Gen Xers may find themselves helping parents age in place at home or at a senior care facility. Finding the right senior care home requires careful planning, research and consideration of a variety of factors: Choosing a senior care home for your parents is a major decision. But after considering these questions and doing your…

  • Summer Tips for Healthy Teeth and Gums

    You may have heard of the saying “Drink well, eat well, live well.” What we eat and drink directly affects our overall health and our oral health. That’s especially true during the summer months, when it is typically hotter in Hawai‘i.

    Dehydration, especially for kūpuna, can lead to dry mouth, which may put them at greater risk for cavities and gum disease.

    The solution is simple: Drink plenty of water. Native Hawaiian wisdom notes, “ola i ka wai,” which loosely translates to “water is life.” Drinking water helps remove food particles and harmful bacteria in our mouth and stimulates saliva production. This prevents plaque buildup and tooth decay. Avoid sweet, acidic beverages or rinse with water immediately after drinking them.

    This summer, remember that what you eat also affects your health. Nutritional foods help to maintain healthy tissues and bones, including your teeth. Avoiding foods that contain excessive sugar also help us maintain healthy teeth. Remember, your children and grandchildren are looking to you as their role model!

    With these simple reminders, you can have a more enjoyable, healthy summer. Eat well, drink well, live well and smile more!

    HAWAII DENTAL SERVICE
    Kahala Howser Pimentel, Wellness & Events Manager
    808-529-9391
    Kahala.Pimentel@HawaiiDentalService.com
    HawaiiDentalService.com

    You may have heard of the saying “Drink well, eat well, live well.” What we eat and drink directly affects our overall health and our oral health. That’s especially true during the summer months, when it is typically hotter in Hawai‘i. Dehydration, especially for kūpuna, can lead to dry mouth, which may put them at…

  • UV Protection is Important for Eye Health

    Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can do permanent damage to our eyes. Regardless of age, it’s important to keep our eyes safe from the powerful summer sun, as our vision quality helps to support a long, healthy and happy life.

    For UV Safety Month in July, there are many things we can do to help protect our eyes; these preventive measures are crucial:

    • Wear sunglasses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. This is a simple yet highly effective way to protect your eyes. Your sunglasses should wrap completely around your temples so the sun can’t enter from the side.
    • Wear a broad-brimmed hat. This can reduce the amount of UV radiation that reaches your eyes by up to 50%.
    • Stay in the shade. Or make sure you are blocking out UV rays during peak UV hours—10am to 2pm—when UV rays are most damaging.

    If you experience any signs or symptoms of vision problems, schedule an eye exam as soon as possible. Note that some common eye diseases can show little or no symptoms or may not be vision-related, such as headaches or dizziness.

    Take precautions before heading outside to safeguard your vision and reduce the long-term impact of UV damage, ensuring your health and vision for years to come.

    HAWAIIAN EYE CENTER
    606 Kilani Ave., Wahiawa, HI 96786
    808-621-8448 | HawaiianEye.com

    Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can do permanent damage to our eyes. Regardless of age, it’s important to keep our eyes safe from the powerful summer sun, as our vision quality helps to support a long, healthy and happy life. For UV Safety Month in July, there are many things we can do to help protect our…

  • Balance: Body, Mind & Spirit

    Easy Balance Exercises for Seniors, A Holistic Approach to Improve Stability, Prevent Falls and Maintain Independence for All Abilities was written by Lena Ihara, a Maui-born actor, retired teacher and wellness educator.

    Lena acknowledges that as we age, “movements that were once automatic begin to slow down and feel uncertain. We may lose balance but we can rebuild with determination.”

    Lena knows how determination can affect change. After she was injured in a bicycle accident in 2020, she wrote this book as part of her come-back story and mission to affect a positive change in the world. Her book is based on the belief that everyone deserves to feel steady, confident and free in their body—regardless of age or ability. If you’re looking to regain your footing after a fall, maintain your independence or simply move with more ease, this book aims to support you with compassion, encouragement and practical tools.

    But you’ll find more than exercises—you’ll discover a holistic approach to balance that connects the body, mind and spirit.

    Throughout the book, Lena encourages you through moments of doubt and guides you toward a more balanced, empowered life.

    EASY BALANCE EXERCISES FOR SENIORS
    by Lena Ihara, is available in paperback and Kindle formats from Amazon.
    amzn.to/4k9ruA3

    Easy Balance Exercises for Seniors, A Holistic Approach to Improve Stability, Prevent Falls and Maintain Independence for All Abilities was written by Lena Ihara, a Maui-born actor, retired teacher and wellness educator. Lena acknowledges that as we age, “movements that were once automatic begin to slow down and feel uncertain. We may lose balance but…

  • Tūtū, Take Me to the Library!

    We all love stories, no matter our age. But younger children are especially eager to listen to them! Taking the keiki in your life to a storytime program at your local library can be a wonderful bonding experience. They’ll enjoy hearing fun stories, singing songs and doing activities together. These activities help children build early reading skills, develop a love for books and grow socially and emotionally. You’ll get some quality time with them while helping to prepare them for success in school.

    Libraries offer many other ways for you to connect with your young ones. For a unique shared experience, borrow an ‘ukulele from the library and learn how to play together. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned musician, the ‘ukulele offers a fun meaningful way to share Hawaiian culture and make lasting memories through music.

    You can also enjoy year-round library events designed to enrich the lives of people of all ages. From crafting workshops to musical performances, there’s something fun for everyone to engage in together. To learn more about upcoming events, visit the online events calendar at librarieshawaii.org/events or contact your local library.

    We think you’ll be just as excited to visit the library as the keiki you bring!

    HAWAI‘I STATE PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM
    44 Merchant St., Honolulu, HI 96813
    808-586-3704 | stlib@librarieshawaii.org
    librarieshawaii.org

    We all love stories, no matter our age. But younger children are especially eager to listen to them! Taking the keiki in your life to a storytime program at your local library can be a wonderful bonding experience. They’ll enjoy hearing fun stories, singing songs and doing activities together. These activities help children build early…

  • Kobumaki: Okinawan Lau Lau

    Recipe by Joyce Shimabukuro, written by her grandniece, Cynthia Arnold

    Kobumaki is a great potluck item. This
    batch made by Dad and Cathlene fed
    over 30 guests last Mother’s Day.

    This kobumaki recipe has been passed down and enjoyed through many generations of my Okinawan family — from my great-grandma Nagamine to my grand-aunty, Joyce Shimabukuro, age 98, and now to her daughter, my Aunty Lisa. But my dad, Cliff Goya, with help from my sister, Cathlene, make it for our family. Making kobumaki is a labor of love; it takes time to prep and cook. But it is a family favorite and definitely one of the dishes that we will continue to pass down and enjoy with future generations.

    Ingredients
    1 pkg. konbu (dried kelp)
    2 lbs. pork belly, very lean and local
    2 stalks gobo (burdock root)
    1 pkg. kanpyo (dried gourd or squash)
    1 piece ginger to taste, grated
    1–2 cloves garlic to taste, grated
    1 cup sugar
    1 cup shoyu
    3 cups water
    20 wooden toothpicks

    Directions
    Konbu preparation: Wash konbu under running water, then soak it in water until it is pliable. Cut it into 7- to 8-inch by 2½- to 3-inch strips.

    Pork belly preparation: Cut pork belly into 2-inch by 1/2-inch strips.

    Gobo preparation: Scrape gobo skin with knife; do not use a peeler. Cut into 2-inch by 1/4-inch strips. Soak pieces in water to remove acidity.

    Kanpyo preparation: Soak kanpyo in water, then cut it into 2-inch strips.

    Assembly

    • Place the konbu pieces on a large sheet of waxed paper.
    • Place one piece of pork belly lengthwise at the bottom edge of each konbu strip.
    • Place one piece of gobo and one piece of kanpyo on top of the pork belly.
    • Roll the konbu ingredients like you are making maki sushi.
    • Secure the roll with a toothpick through the open side.

    Cooking Instructions

    Place the kobumaki rolls in a large pot. Add shoyu, sugar and water, ensuring the liquid covers the kobumaki. Add grated ginger and garlic to taste. Cook over high heat. When the liquid comes to a boil, lower the heat to medium and simmer until soft, about 1 hour. Or you can put them in a slow cooker for 4 to 6 hours on low.

    Storing

    After you have cooked and cooled the kobumaki, it freezes well in an airtight container, so you can make it ahead of time for your next gathering.

    Prep time: 1 hour
    Cook time: 1 hour or more
    Serves: about 20 as a side dish

    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.

    KOBUMAKI RECIPE NOTE: You can find the ingredients at Marukai Wholesale Mart in Honolulu or in the Asian food aisle at many grocery stores. Times Supermarket, for example, carries the ingredients.

    Recipe by Joyce Shimabukuro, written by her grandniece, Cynthia Arnold This kobumaki recipe has been passed down and enjoyed through many generations of my Okinawan family — from my great-grandma Nagamine to my grand-aunty, Joyce Shimabukuro, age 98, and now to her daughter, my Aunty Lisa. But my dad, Cliff Goya, with help from my…

  • Celebrating the Okinawan 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 fourth article in this ongoing series on the many cultures that comprise Hawai‘i, we focus on how the Okinawan people arrived in the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and a few widely celebrated observances, with a focus on the upcoming Okinawan Festival.

    Okinawan Arrival in Hawai‘i

    Following the annexation of the Ryukyu Islands by Japan in 1879, many Okinawans faced hardship and desired to emigrate in search of a better life. Twenty years later, led by emigration activist Kyuzo Toyama, 26 Okinawans journeyed to Hawai‘i, arriving in 1900. By 1908, more than 8,500 people in Hawai‘i were of Okinawan heritage. There are now 45,000 to 50,000, making up about 3% of Hawai‘i’s population.

    Culture and Tradition

    Because Okinawa was an independent country prior to annexation by the Japanese, they faced discrimination due to their linguistic and cultural differences. This adversity emboldened Okinawan migrants—known as Uchinānchu—to have great pride in their distinct cultural practices and traditions, especially those living in Hawai‘i.

    Today, this is evident in their love of merry-making and cuisine. Music became a meaningful way for laboring Uchinānchu to preserve and perpetuate their culture for their descendants and other laborers through expressions of folk songs and mo-ashibi (field play), where they gather to sing and dance. In terms of food, Okinawan sweet potato and gōyā (bittermelon) are found in many local recipes, such as a layer in haupia pie and an ingredient in champurū, a staple Okinawan stir-fry dish.

    Major annual Okinawan observances also include Irei no Hi, in memory of the end of the Battle of Okinawa (June 23), and Shīmī and Obon, separate but related traditions honoring ancestors.

    Celebrating Okinawans in Hawai‘i

    Though Okinawans honor their heritage every year, this year in particular is special because it marks the 125th anniversary of Uchinānchu’s arrival in Hawai‘i and the rest of the world. To celebrate, the Hawai‘i United Okinawa Association (HUOA) will host various events, including the 43rd annual Okinawan Festival on Aug. 30 and 31, when music/dance performances, martial arts demonstrations and craft-making activities will abound at the Hawai‘i Convention Center. Abroad, Okinawa hosts the World Uchinānchu Festival every five years, when Okinawan descendants return to their homeland and celebrate. Uchinānchu from Hawai‘i have consistently had the most representation at the festival.

    Visit HUOA’s website (huoa.org) and Generations Magazine’s Facebook page (facebook.com/genmag808) and calendar (generations808.com/calendar) for more community events.

    The next article in this series will feature the influences of Portuguese 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 fourth article in this ongoing series on the many cultures that comprise Hawai‘i, we focus on how the Okinawan people arrived in the Hawaiian Islands, their…

  • Grieving With Humor

    When we navigate grief or loss, we may find ourselves feeling guilty when we smile or have a good day. It’s common to get stuck in the darkness of this journey as you ride the waves of emotions and confusion that play out.

    The purpose of humor in grief is not to diminish the seriousness of that loss, but rather, to allow us to experience a version of balance in grief as we feel sorrow and joy crashing together. Humor intersects with grief in a special way and can play an important role in healing.

    When we laugh, smile or have positive thoughts, endorphins are released into our body that energize us and help us to feel good—even if for just a moment. These endorphins can help us navigate both the physical and the emotional elements of our grief.

    When we share stories and memories with laughter and joy, we bring people together into more joyous shared spaces by reviving bits of a past that might be missed otherwise.

    When humor enters grief in appropriate ways, it disrupts our darkness and helps us feel and see the whole spectrum. It allows pockets of light to peek through the dark clouds… and reminds us of love and hope, even in the storm.

    BEREAVEMENT NETWORK OF HAWAI‘I
    Facilitated by KŌKUA MAU (nonprofit)
    808-585-9977 | kokuamau.org
    kokuamau.org/grief-and-bereavement
    Learn more about grief and the healing process with this booklet:
    Help For The Bereaved—The Healing Journey
    kokuamau.org/wp-content/uploads/CtrOnAging-Booklet-5-REV_6-30-11.pdf

    When we navigate grief or loss, we may find ourselves feeling guilty when we smile or have a good day. It’s common to get stuck in the darkness of this journey as you ride the waves of emotions and confusion that play out. The purpose of humor in grief is not to diminish the seriousness…

  • Bop, Bang, Bling!

    Pickleball is not only a great game for seniors, but for all ages. For example, my daughter, Lexie, who is 13, and her partner, Chacha, have had a lot of fun playing in King Intermediate School tournaments.

    My sister, Cat, who is 34, plays in the 5.0 division for both women’s and mixed doubles. She’s won many tournaments in Hawai‘i and on the mainland with a variety of partners. Most recently, Cat and her partner won pro-level bronze at Hawaii Pacific Health ESPN Honolulu Open at the Hawai‘i Convention Center. Her son, Tanner, 4, enjoys watching his mom and chasing balls!

    Congratulations to my daughter and sister, and everyone who plays and enjoys this amazing sport, including some of our GM staff members!

    GM senior editor Debra Lordan (73) brought home the gold in women’s 3.0 doubles at the Maui Pukaball Tournament in Lahaina with her partner, Nanna Brown (39). Debra and David Kamalani, 76, won silver in the 3.0, 70-plus division.

    Battling rain delays and 30-degree temperatures, Leigh Dicks, 69, GM’s content coordinator, won the bronze medal in the women’s 3.5 doubles in the Pickleboo Halloween Tournament in Henrico, Va., with her partner, Cathy Broussard, 68.

    Well, I don’t really want to toot my own horn but—my partner, Tia Fulks, and I won silver in the 2nd Annual Charity Walk Pickleball Tournament on Kaua‘i in the Women’s 3.5 division, ages 8 to 49. I didn’t expect a medal, but it was sweet when we got one! Give pickleball a try! So fun!

    Pickleball is not only a great game for seniors, but for all ages. For example, my daughter, Lexie, who is 13, and her partner, Chacha, have had a lot of fun playing in King Intermediate School tournaments. My sister, Cat, who is 34, plays in the 5.0 division for both women’s and mixed doubles. She’s…

  • Hawai‘i Veteran Thomas Taro Higa

    It is an honor to celebrate the 125th anniversary of Okinawan immigration to Hawai‘i with the inspiring story of Thomas Taro Higa, a 100th Infantry Battalion WWII Veteran of Okinawan descent (generations808.com/125th-anniversary-of-okinawans-in-hawaii).

    Thomas was born in 1916 in Kahalu‘u, Hawai‘i, but was sent to Okinawa as a young child, where he gained a strong command of the Uchinaguchi, Japanese and English languages. While in Okinawa, his teacher inspired him to approach life like the gajumaru tree (Okinawa’s banyan tree) that endured the hardships of punishing typhoons and droughts, yet continued to grow bigger and stronger every year, happily giving shade and protection to the people.

    Thomas returned to Hawai‘i in his teens and was drafted into the US Army to protect shorelines from enemy invasion while in his mid-20s. About six months after the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, due to the hysteria of “looking like” the enemy, the Americans of Japanese ancestry (AJA) were segregated into a new unit called the 100th Infantry Battalion. They trained and fought hard to fight tyranny and prove their loyalty to America. In Italy and France, their combat performance and achievement changed America’s opinion and war correspondents started calling them the “Purple Heart Battalion.”

    Thomas was wounded twice early in the battles in Italy. He returned to the US, where he used his language skills to share news from the European warfront with soldiers’ parents living in incarceration camps. Later, he saved countless lives by convincing Okinawans that Americans would treat them fairly so they felt it was safe to come out of the caves to surrender.

    Like the gajumaru tree, Thomas and the AJA men of the 100th endured discrimination and suffered physically and mentally, yet became stronger. The 100th with the 442nd Regimental Combat Team would become the most decorated in US military history for size and length of service. Upon returning to Hawai‘i, Thomas became a leader in the post-war relief efforts to send food, clothing and breeding pigs to rebuild Okinawa.

    Thank you, Thomas Taro Higa, a Hawai‘i-born veteran, who helped liberate Europe while spreading the seeds of aloha.

    It is an honor to celebrate the 125th anniversary of Okinawan immigration to Hawai‘i with the inspiring story of Thomas Taro Higa, a 100th Infantry Battalion WWII Veteran of Okinawan descent (generations808.com/125th-anniversary-of-okinawans-in-hawaii). Thomas was born in 1916 in Kahalu‘u, Hawai‘i, but was sent to Okinawa as a young child, where he gained a strong command…