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Tips for everyday tasks for people living with dementia

Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias get worse over time. Even simple everyday activities can become difficult to complete. To help cope with changes in memory and thinking, consider strategies that can make daily tasks easier. Try to adopt them early on so you will have more time to adjust. You can:

Write down to-do lists, appointments, and events in a notebook or calendar.

Set up automated bill payments and consider asking someone you trust to help manage your finances.

Have your groceries delivered.

Manage your medications with a weekly pillbox, a pillbox with reminders (like an alarm), or a medication dispenser.

Ask your doctor to provide a care plan and write down care directions (or have a family member or friend take notes during the visit).

Sleep Tips for People Living With Dementia

Dementia often changes a person’s sleeping habits. You may sleep a lot, or not enough, and wake up many times during the night. Poor sleep quality can make dementia symptoms worse.

Tips for better and safer sleep:

Follow a regular schedule by going to sleep and getting up at the same time each day, even on weekends or when traveling.

Develop a relaxing bedtime routine with lowered lights, cool temperature, and no electronic screens.

Avoid caffeine and naps late in the day.

Have a lamp that’s easy to reach and turn on, a nightlight in the hallway or bathroom, and a flashlight nearby.

Keep a telephone with emergency numbers by your bed.

Talk to your doctor if you have problems sleeping.

Healthy and Active Lifestyle Tips for People Living With Dementia

Participating in activities you enjoy and getting exercise may help you feel better, stay social, maintain a healthy weight, and have regular sleep habits.

Try these tips for a healthy and active lifestyle:

Try to be physically active for at least 30 minutes on most or all days of the week. But be realistic about how much activity you can do at one time. Several short “mini-workouts” may be best.

Aim for a mix of exercise types — endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. For example, you could do a mix of walking or dancing, lifting weights, standing on one foot, and stretching. Even everyday activities like household chores and gardening help you stay active.

Your diet may need to change as dementia progresses to maintain a healthy weight. Talk with your doctor about the best diet for you, and choose nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean sources of protein and dairy products. Avoid added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium.

Stay social by talking on the phone with family and friends, joining an online support group, or going for a walk in your neighborhood.

Finding Care and Support: Tips for People Living With Dementia

Many people may be able to help in different ways. These people might include family members, friends, professional caregivers, community organizations, and others with dementia. For example, you can:

Ask friends or family to help with needs like cooking, paying bills, transportation, or shopping.

If you live alone, find people you trust who can visit often.

Consider letting trusted neighbors know of your diagnosis so they can help if needed.

Use social service agencies, local nonprofits, and Area Agencies on Aging to connect with in-home help, transportation, meals, and other services.

Learn more about support and services.

Four tips for older adults to stay motivated to exercise

“Are you sure this counts as exercise?”

Physical activity is a great way for older adults to gain substantial health benefits and maintain independence. Try to make exercise a priority. Remember that being active is one of the most important things you can do each day to maintain and improve health. Try these tips to help you stay motivated to exercise.

Some people like to walk on a treadmill at the gym. Others find that kind of activity boring. The key to sticking with exercise is to make it interesting and enjoyable. Be creative. Do things you enjoy but pick up the pace. Do all four types of exercise—endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. The variety helps keep things interesting! Try some new activities to keep your interest alive.

You are more likely to exercise if it’s a convenient part of your day. Try exercising first thing in the morning. Combine physical activity with a task that’s already part of your day, such as walking the dog or doing household chores. If you don’t have 30 minutes to be active, look for three 10-minute periods. As you progress, add more 10-minute sessions until you hit your goal!

There are many ways to fit physical activity into your regular schedule, even while you are at work! Look for easy ways to add physical activity to your regular schedule:

Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Take a walk with co-workers during your lunch break. An exercise buddy can help you stick with your plan to be more active!

Walk down the hall and talk with a co-worker instead of sending an e-mail, .

Park a little farther away from your office and enjoy the walk.

Join your company’s fitness center if there is one.

Search for Move Your Way: Tips for Busy Days on YouTube for more tips on fitting more activity into your day.

Many people agree that an “exercise buddy” keeps them going.

Take a walk during lunch with coworkers.

Try a dance class—salsa, tango, square dancing—it’s up to you.

Use family gatherings as a time to play team sports or do outdoor activities.Women exercising together

The best way to stay motivated is to measure and celebrate your successes:

Make an exercise and physical activity plan that works for you.

Track your daily physical activity.

Find new ways to increase your physical activity.

Keep track of your monthly progress to see improvement.

Update your exercise plan as you progress.

Quick Tip: Rewards for Being Active

Don’t forget to build rewards into your plan. Write down something you will do for yourself when goals are achieved. Treat yourself to something special: a movie, a trip to the museum, a new audiobook, or a massage. Celebrate your successes!

Avoiding/Stopping various types of Senior Fraud

by Carol Leish

By being aware of different types of fraud/crimes occurring, you will become more aware of how to stop them/avoid them from happening. With knowledge, you will gain the power of ways to better cope and stop the fraud/crimes from happening to you and/or to your friends/loved ones.

According to, Debbie Deem, a retired victim’s specialist for the FBI, there are different types of fraud/crimes to be aware of in order to be able to stop/avoid them from happening.

Deem said that, “According to the FBI, romance imposter crimes occur when a criminal adopts a fake online identity to gain a victim’s affection and trust. The remote criminal than uses the illusion of a romantic or other close relationship to manipulate and/or steal from the victim. These criminals’ frequent social media sites, dating and word game sites, among others. Often the images sent to a victim are taken from an innocent victim who may not know their image is being used to defraud victims and break their hearts.”

“The FBI has information, helpful tips, and videos that describe these crimes in more detail,” according to Deem. “Go to: http://www.fbi.gov/scams-and-safety/common-scams-and-crimes/romance-scams.”

“Lottery and sweepstakes fraud,” according to Deem, “have been around for many years. According to AARP, the initial contact is usually a phone call, but may also be a social media post, an email, text or even direct mail offering congratulations for winning a prize or contest. But, before you can obtain your winnings (and usually a Mercedes car in addition to the prize money), there will be various fees, taxes, courier fees, insurance and custom duties to pay before you can obtain your prize winnings. These frauds may ask for cash, to send counterfeit checks, or to demand payments in gift cards or increasingly virtual currencies using special ‘ATM’s’ specifically for cryptocurrency payments.

“It’s important to know that, according to federal law, you never have to pay taxes or fees in advance of winning a prize or money. It is also illegal to participate in a foreign lottery or sweepstake. Beware of calling or taking calls from an unknown person using the Caribbean area codes of 876, 809 or 284 that suggest you have won money. If you get a call like this, just hang up.

“For more information on lottery and sweepstakes fraud, link to: https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2019/sweepstakes.html.”

“The Federal Trade Commission (FTC),” according to Deem, “says that Tech support or computer repair fraud/crimes can involve one of the following things. 1) You may get a pop up on your computer screen that looks like an error message or warning that urges you to contact a ‘toll free’ number immediately because a virus or suspicious activity was found on your computer. 2) You may also be getting a phone call from someone claiming to be a computer technician from a company such as Apple or Microsoft, saying there is a problem with your computer, asking for remote computer access to run a diagnostic test. In each of these cases, you are asked to fix a problem that doesn’t exist for a fee. Or, it may result in them putting a virus or accessing personal financial information, such as your banking information.

“The FTC has very useful information on what to do to both avoid tech support fraud, as well as what to do if you are a victim. Remember that legitimate companies won’t be contacting you by phone, email, text or via a popup message. Get more information at: https://ww.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-and-report-tech-support-scams.”

Thus, by being aware of the above types of senior fraud/crimes, you now have the tools to be able to stop/avoid it from happening.

Vol. 14, No. 25 – Sept 8 – Sept 21, 2021 – Mailbox

Hello Sheldon,

I follow your column each week but was saddened to read your insensitivity when you commented on Phil Valentine’s death with ” At least he won’t have a heart attack or paralysis.” I thought we were above that, that’s what they do, put down others, not us. This saddened me.
Hope your day is better.
Each new day is an opportunity to think better.

H. Olson

Olson:
Looking back at it I completely agree with you it was insensitive. I’ll try to do better.
Sheldon

Breeze:

Just thinking about the two little ——— who burned up the school: I wonder if it would be possible to put them to work with the crew rebuilding it? Maybe a few months of slave labor would give them a fresh perspective (I believe they’d have to be paid, but the money could go into a victim’s relief fund). They’d actually learn a trade, too. Or they’d get hurt on the job and sue the city for millions. What do I know?

Alfred Lewis

Dear Ventura County Elections Division:

It is very frustrating to discover that the Mail-in Recall ballot for Governor is folded in half when you get it through the mail, and that the NO bubble is below the fold so you do not see it until you open the ballot all the way. This favors the YES bubble.

I have also been told by friends that when you order a replacement ballot, the YES and NO bubbles are both visible at the same time.

This puts the integrity of the election for me out of bounds. I call for a new statewide recall ballot with equal visibility and access to YES and NO positions.

Robert Chianese

Ventura, CA

Opinion:

While waiting in line at the pharmacy for my medications, a number of thoughts came to me. I wonder if others have had similar thoughts. As a Type II diabetic its hard for me to find things to eat on the menu of most restaurants. With more and more people coming down with Diabetes II Maybe someone should make a restaurant that deals with low or no sugar dishes–with disserts what our requirements permit. I must admit I get rather tired of salads all the time.

There are enough people with this condition to make it a going concern. Such a business my also cater to dieters as well as those of us with restrictions.

Richard Senate

Are you an amateur cartoonist? Send your cartoon to [email protected].

 

Anywhere is walking distance if you’ve got the time.
~ Steven Wright

Support group where people can share their own personal experiences and feelings

This Parkinson’s support group brings together people going through—or who have gone through—similar experiences with Parkinson’s. We provide opportunities for people to share their own personal experiences and feelings, coping strategies, or firsthand information about the disease and/or treatments. Additionally, attendees are encouraged to offer each other support and encouragement—especially for those newly diagnosed who are experiencing this new “life transition” for the first time.

Once a month, we team up together to provide support and information—and even some entertainment as a supplemental “activity” to what participants may already be doing in their established health programs.

Providing attendees with self-help strategies and raising awareness with all facets surrounding Parkinson’s are what we strive to accomplish at each meeting. Brief informative presentations, followed by interactive participation, allow attendees to benefit from both a professional and personal perspective of the meeting’s topic.

Though we provide relevant information and relatable personal experiences, our main goal is to instill better understanding of Parkinson’s not only for its effect on a diagnosed person but also on caregivers. We want to empower all parties to engage in their own advocacy. Most importantly, at every meeting we listen to—and accept—experiences and viewpoints of others while providing caring understanding of everyone in the group/community.

For more information regarding this unique support group, please visit vcneurofitness.com. Or contact Dr. Vanessa White, owner/director: [email protected], cell 805.300.7749.

Ventura County Parkinson’s Support Group meets the third Tuesday of every month at Crosspointe Church, 5415 Ralston St., Ventura.

10:00-11:15am . Next meeting: Tuesday, Sept. 21

Luckily no real fire at Balboa Middle School

On Sept.3, at 9:35am, fire units from Ventura City, Oxnard, and Ventura County Fire departments responded to a reported structure fire at Balboa Middle School. Units arrived to find the school in session and being evacuated due to the smell of smoke in a classroom. Upon investigation it was determined that the motor of a roof mounted heating and air-conditioning unit had overheated sending light smoke and odor of electrical burning into a single classroom. The HVAC unit was isolated with the help of school district personnel on scene and no further damage was found. The classroom was cleared and deodorized by fire personnel. No injuries were reported. School district maintenance personnel were on scene to ensure proper repairs to the HVAC unit.

Buena High 50th coming up soon

Celebration includes a T-shirt.

It’s been 50 years since the class of ’71 roamed the concrete halls of Buena High. How many friends’ names can you remember? If you join us on October 15-17, 2021, for our 50th reunion, you can test your memory and maybe win a prize. A ticket will get you a T-shirt, food, reminiscing and lots of fun. A meet and greet, a BBQ, and a Continental Breakfast are part of the festivities.

Friday, October 15th, 6-9pm at Knights of Columbus Hall, 36 Figueroa St, Ventura, 93001. This will be a Meet & Greet with a variety of appetizers and snacks, and a full “No Host” bar, Cash Only.

Saturday, October 16th, 11-5pm at Camp Comfort Park, 11969 N. Creek Rd, Ojai, 93023. A catered BBQ at 1pm; snacks, desserts, music and games. BYOB, bottled water and ice provided.

Sunday, October 17th, 9-11am at Buena for a Continental Breakfast at the Orange Peel…that’s right, a walk back in time at our Alma Mater!

COST: $80 per person, includes a T-shirt with a panoramic picture of our class, or $70 without a T-shirt. PayPal accepted, [email protected] (incl. full names & maiden name if applicable) or checks made out to: Lynnea Mitchell-Buena 1971, and sent to: 1375 Tamarix St., Camarillo, CA, 93010. Send T-shirt sizes to Mark Fargo: [email protected]

There will be an Open Mic at each event, so come prepared with memories of your favorite High School moments.

A list of unfound classmates is posted on the Buena Facebook page. If you have contact info for anyone listed, please send it to: [email protected]

Remember that special friend in High School that you haven’t seen in 50 years? Come to our reunion and reconnect! We hope to see you there.

Lynnea Barnum Mitchell, Cindy Meek Henley, Ilene Kutzmann Watson, Mark Fargo and Linda Yen.

Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation celebrates anniversary

The Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) is the largest developer of affordable homes in Ventura County. With 24 properties, 1,159 homes and future projects in development, the organization is celebrating 40 years of home.

Founded in 1981, Cabrillo EDC’s early roots were in response to a farmworker community’s demand for secure housing. Rooted in community-building and ongoing support, their mission aims to provide comprehensive affordable housing services and community economic development activities to residents most lacking in opportunity.

Recognized as a leader in affordable housing statewide and nationally, Cabrillo EDC has worked to contribute to positive and sustainable change in the region and improve the quality of life for thousands of residents by providing affordable home communities, resources, social opportunities and educational programs. These programs include homework clubs, adult empowerment, nutrition and fitness, and youth leadership development.

“These programs are a vital part of what we do,” said Luz Soto, Director of Property Management and Resident & Community Services. “We are not just in the business of building housing. Building communities is an important part of our mission and it enables us to create opportunities for residents to focus on the other aspects of life – from saving money, supporting their children’s education, finding better employment, and much more.”

Liza F, a mother of three, found herself homeless and separated from her children, who were sleeping in their cars or with friends in her congregation She moved into Snapdragon II apartments in Ventura and is thrilled to have a safe, stable home. “It was hard to be apart from my boys. I had to sleep in the street and the beach.” Liza says being homeless took a toll on all of them emotionally and mentally and that having a home helps her feel like a mom again. “it’s a great feeling to feel that way again. They [Cabrillo EDC] opened the door for me. It is a beautiful place and I am very grateful and thankful for the opportunity to be a mom and a place to call my home.”

“Cabrillo EDC has been making dreams come true, one home at a time, and we are thrilled to celebrate our Ruby Anniversary this year,” said Chief Executive Officer Margarita H. de. Escontrias. “We believe home is more than a place to live, and our success is the result of decades of passion, dedication and vision.”

The Cabrillo EDC impact reaches far and wide across the community. To date, the corporation has built 48 multifamily and single-family developments throughout Ventura County. In addition to the educational programs and community services, Cabrillo EDC has awarded $3,250 in community-building mini grants and $77,400 in student scholarships. They look forward to future projects, which include the completion of 42 units for farmworkers in South Oxnard, and 75 units for seniors in Buellton, CA.

To learn more, please visit https://www.cabrilloedc.org/

CAPS Media 2020 – 2021

The 2020 CAPS Media Annual Report is available on the CAPS Media website for those who want to take a quick trip down memory lane. Go to capsmedia.org and click on the documents link.

The COVID-19 pandemic presented considerable challenges for the CAPS Media team throughout the year and a half, however despite the obstacles CAPS Media crews covered more than 200 live meetings, totaling more than 430 hours. City related meetings include City Council, Design Review Committee, Economic Development Strategy Committee, Historic Preservation, Measure O Oversight, Mobile Home Rent Review Board, Safe and Clean and Homeless Committee. CAPS Media broadcasts and streams many of these meetings live on CAPS Media Channel 15 and on the CAPS Media website – capsmedia.org. Rebroadcast meetings exceed 580 meetings and 1600 hours.

During the past 18 months CAPS Media video crews have been producing more than 220 individual informational videos, including monthly Mayor updates, videos from other City Council Members, Ventura Police and Ventura Fire and educational tours of Olivas Adobe. For the 2020 elections CAPS Media produced its’ Video Voter program featuring city council and school board candidates as well as informative videos on ballot initiatives.

Throughout the COVID crisis CAPS worked with County staff on live weekly COVID updates, as well as informative, educational, and instructional videos for the Ventura County Medical Center.

CAPS Media’s KPPQ Radio crew continued providing the community with 24×7 creative, original, locally produced, non-commercial programming. The resourceful KPPQ DJs continued producing high-quality, innovative programming in their home studios week in and week out. The local crew’s original programs combined with specially selected licensed programs fueled distribution 24×7 on KPPQ 104.1fm and stream worldwide on capsmedia.org and myTuner Radio.

KPPQ has trained more than 100 member/producers; produced more than 600 hours of original music shows and more than 300 hours of Ventura Community talk show programs.

CAPS Media staff educator Phil Taggart continued to mentor El Camino High School students in the award-winning ECTV media education program. A student internship and career pathways program, the students write, direct, host and edit magazine-style programs on a variety of topics Student addressed the issues drug abuse and discrimination to racial prejudice and more in their self-titled ECTV series.

The CAPS Media Annual includes introductions to the CAPS Media Staff: Evan Carpenter, Jamie Cawelti, Patrick Davidson, Jorge Godinez, Donald McConnell, Manny Reynoso, Elizabeth Rodeno, Gary Roll, Phil Taggart and Alex Uvari. And introduce the dedicated CAPS Media Board of Directors: Cliff Rodrigues, Chairperson, Darryl Dunn, Vice Chairperson/Treasurer, Kathleen Good, Secretary, Pam Baumgardner, Michael Velthoen, Cathy Peterson, Bill Schneider, Ashley Bautista for the County, Heather Sumagaysay and Barry Fisher, for the City of Ventura, Marieanne Quiroz, VUSD, and Tim Harrison and Lisa Putnam, Ventura College.

The California Recall Election is in full swing and every registered voter is encouraged to cast their ballot. For information on voter registration go to countyofventura.org/elections/voter-information or call 805-654-2664. Mailed in ballots must be postmarked, placed in a dropbox or delivered to a polling place by 8 pm on September 14.

All of us at CAPS Media encourage everyone to get vaccinated. The sooner we are all vaccinated the sooner we can fully enjoy our beautiful community, and the sooner we can reopen the CAPS Media Center to our Members and the public. Our thanks to everyone for continuing to Stay Safe and Stay Strong.