Author: Jody Beckley

Volunteer Opportunities at Optalis

senior man and daughter looking at camera

Are you looking for ways to give back? Optalis has plenty of local volunteer work for you to put your talents to good use! Local Volunteer Work with Seniors While there are many centers that make up Optalis Healthcare in Ohio, if you were to visit any of them, you would notice something: no community… Read more »

Assisted Living Costs in Central Ohio

staff going over paperwork with a family member of a resident

If you’re looking for information about the cost of assisted living in Columbus, Ohio, you might have a difficult time getting an answer. That’s because assisted living costs can vary depending on the individual’s needs. However, you can get an idea of the assisted living price ranges from the Genworth Financial Cost of Care Survey… Read more »

Life in an Assisted Living Community

seniors clapping

We are getting ready to move my mother into an assisted living community, and she’s very apprehensive. She doesn’t like change anyway, and even though we toured the community, she’s not sure what life will be like once she moves in. Can you give us an idea? Sincerely, Freda What to Expect in Assisted Living… Read more »

How to Pay with the Ohio Medicaid Assisted Living Waiver

stethoscope and paperwork

My dad is living at an assisted living community and someone recently told us that the Ohio Medicaid assisted living waiver can help cover the cost. I’ve never heard of this before—could you tell me more about it? I’m wondering if Dad is eligible and if so, how we can apply. Sincerely, Nancy D. _________________________… Read more »

Admitting from Home to Skilled Nursing & Rehab

doctor writing on a document on a clipboard

I work at a local hospital and am interested in learning more about your admission process. Our department often receives questions about how to admit a senior directly from home to a skilled nursing and rehab center, and we are a little confused about how it works. Would you be able to outline those requirements… Read more »

Inpatient vs. Outpatient Rehab

senior using medical equipment for rehab

I have a question about inpatient rehab versus outpatient rehab. My husband recently came down with a bad case of pneumonia. He had to be hospitalized and while he’s making progress, he’s not yet back to his old strength. When he stands, I’m worried he’ll fall because he’s still a little shaky. His doctor wants… Read more »

Making Friends Later in Life

senior smiling at other resident

My father passed away 7 months ago, and my mother is on her own for the first time in 51 years. She is moving to Columbus this summer to be closer to my family. I’m trying to find a few places she can go or organizations she can become involved with to help her make… Read more »

Which Is Better—Assisted or Home Living?

nurse taking blood pressure of senior

Your senior parents need help. You know it. They probably know it, although they may not want to admit it. They may be having problems with: Chronic illness or disease, such as high blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol or diabetes Declining physical ability, such as vision, hearing, balance or walking Home safety Home maintenance and… Read more »

Rightsizing for Assisted Living

bedroom set

The current generation of seniors is known for staying in their homes for many decades. When it is time to move on to a new chapter in life, helping them downsize can be a real challenge for their adult children. In fact, seniors and their families often cite this as a reason for putting off… Read more »