Raging in Place

Gen-x aging resources and community

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  • Speedcubing: My Brain Needs All the Help It Can Get

    Speedcubing: My Brain Needs All the Help It Can Get

    Alright, I’ll admit it – my attention span is shot. I start one thing, get distracted by something shiny, and the next thing I know, I’ve fallen down a YouTube rabbit hole for three hours. So, when I heard about speedcubing being good for the brain, I thought, “My brain needs all the help it can get!”

    Now, I’m not going to lie, I’ve never actually solved a Rubik’s Cube. I mean, I’ve tried, but I usually end up just making it more of a mess. But apparently, speedcubing isn’t just about being the fastest (which I’m definitely not). It’s about challenging your brain, improving memory and focus, and maybe even feeling that “flow” state we all miss from our younger days.

    Brain Boost for the Forgetful

    Remember when we could remember everything? Phone numbers, song lyrics, where we left our keys? Yeah, me neither. But speedcubing supposedly helps with memory, and I’m all for anything that might help me find my glasses more often. Plus, it’s supposed to be good for problem-solving and hand-eye coordination, which, let’s be honest, could also use a tune-up. As the BBC points out in their article “Speedcubing: The retro hobby that can help boost happiness levels,”  these cognitive benefits can have a real impact on our daily lives.

    The “Flow” State: Remember That?

    Remember that feeling of being totally absorbed in something, where time just flew by? That’s the “flow” state, and apparently, speedcubing can help you get there. I don’t know about you, but I could use a little more “flow” and a little less “where did I put my coffee?” in my life.

    Community and Competition (Optional)

    The cool thing is, there’s a whole community of speedcubers out there. You can find groups online, share tips, and even compete if you’re feeling brave (I’m not). But even if you’re just doing it by yourself, it’s still a fun way to challenge your brain and maybe even feel a sense of accomplishment for once. The “Senior Cubers Worldwide” online group mentioned in the article “Providing Opportunities for Seniors: The Caring Cubing Community Holds Second Class” sounds like a great place to connect with others who are embracing this hobby at any age.

    So, Should You Try It?

    Even if you’re as easily distracted as I am, and you’ve never solved a Rubik’s Cube in your life, why not give speedcubing a shot? There are tons of resources online, and who knows, you might even find it’s the perfect brain boost for us scatterbrained Gen Xers.

    Worst case scenario, you have a colorful cube to fidget with. Best case scenario, you improve your memory, focus, and maybe even find your keys for once. And hey, if you actually manage to solve the cube, you’ll officially be smarter than me!

  • Kami Vision Introduces AI-Powered Fall Detection for Homeowners and Caregivers with At-Home Camera

    Kami Vision Introduces AI-Powered Fall Detection for Homeowners and Caregivers with At-Home Camera

    I received this press release for an interesting smart device for preventing falls. Check it out.

    A New Era of Home Safety

    Kami Vision, a leading provider of smart home security solutions, has recently announced the launch of its groundbreaking AI-powered Fall Detection Camera. This innovative device is designed to provide peace of mind to homeowners and caregivers by automatically detecting falls and enabling swift responses to potential emergencies.

    How Does it Work?

    The Kami Fall Detect Camera utilizes advanced artificial intelligence algorithms to analyze real-time video footage and identify falls with remarkable accuracy. Once a fall is detected, the camera immediately sends alerts to designated emergency contacts, such as family members or caregivers, via the Kami Home app. This timely notification allows for prompt assistance and ensures that help is on its way as quickly as possible.

    Key Features and Benefits

    • 24/7 Professional Monitoring: In addition to notifying loved ones, the Kami Fall Detect Camera can also be integrated with a professional monitoring service. This means that trained professionals are available around the clock to assess the situation and dispatch emergency services if necessary.
    • Direct Link to Emergency Services: The camera also offers a direct link to emergency services, enabling users to quickly request assistance with a single touch.
    • Remote Access and Control: The Kami Home app allows users to access and control the camera remotely from anywhere in the world. This feature provides peace of mind to caregivers who can check in on their loved ones at any time.
    • Easy Installation: The Kami Fall Detect Camera is designed for easy installation and can be set up in minutes without requiring any special tools or expertise.

    Empowering Independent Living

    The Kami Fall Detect Camera is an invaluable tool for elderly individuals who wish to maintain their independence while ensuring their safety. It provides a safety net that allows seniors to live confidently in their own homes, knowing that help is readily available in case of an emergency.

    Peace of Mind for Caregivers

    For caregivers, the Kami Fall Detect Camera offers much-needed peace of mind. It allows them to remotely monitor their loved ones and receive instant notifications if a fall occurs. This technology enables caregivers to respond quickly and efficiently to potential emergencies, even when they are not physically present.

    Conclusion

    The Kami Fall Detect Camera is a revolutionary device that combines cutting-edge AI technology with user-friendly features to enhance home safety for both homeowners and caregivers. By providing timely alerts and enabling swift responses to falls, this camera empowers individuals to live independently and provides caregivers with the reassurance they need.

  • Soufflé Recipes: A Blast from the Past

    Soufflé Recipes: A Blast from the Past

    Remember those airy, delicate soufflés that were all the rage back in the day?
    I’m not sure when they fell out of fashion, but I recently stumbled upon a collection of soufflé recipes from the late 90s (yes, you read that right!), and it brought back a flood of memories.

    Remember when we were younger, and everything seemed possible? We thought we could conquer the world, and our soufflés would always rise to the occasion.  

    Well, maybe not always.

    But there was something magical about those puffed-up culinary creations. They were impressive, elegant, and a bit intimidating, just like us Gen Xers back in the day.  

    If you’re feeling nostalgic or just want to try something different, check out this blast from the past: http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~mjw/recipes/souffle/index.html  

    Find recipes like :
    Chestnut Souffle

    Grand Marnier Souffle

    Maple Syrup Souffle

    Orange Souffle

    Souffled Cherry Soup

    It’s a treasure trove of soufflé recipes, from classic cheese to more exotic flavors like chestnut and Grand Marnier. Who knows, maybe soufflés will make a comeback, and we’ll be the cool kids again.

  • Local Food Pantry Awarded $10,000 Grant from Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation

    Local Food Pantry Awarded $10,000 Grant from Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation

    Local Food Pantry Gets $10,000 Boost from Food Lion Feeds

    A Johnson City. TN food pantry has received great news. The Families Through Adoption, Adolescence, and Adulthood (FTAAAD) is getting a $10,000 grant. The Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation provided the funds. This money will help them buy food and supplies. It will make a big difference for families in need.

    The Johnson City Press shared this story. It highlights how important this is for our community. FTAAAD helps many people. They focus on families with adopted children. They also assist foster families and grandparents in these roles.

    Food Lion Feeds is committed to fighting hunger. This grant shows that commitment. It will help FTAAAD stock its shelves. Families will have access to good food. They can choose from a variety of healthy options.

    “We are so grateful,” said an FTAAAD representative. This quote was in the original article. It shows how vital community support is. It helps in the fight against food insecurity.

    The full story is in the Johnson City Press. Find it here: https://www.johnsoncitypress.com/news/food-lion-feeds-charitable-foundation-awards-10k-relief-grant-to-ftaaad/article_4d67a728-c925-11ef-b976-bfc5d35639c2.html

    Food Lion Feeds is making a real difference. This grant is a win for FTAAAD! They can continue their important work.

  • Generation X and the Appeal of Pocket Neighborhoods: Aging in Place with Community and Connection

    Generation X and the Appeal of Pocket Neighborhoods: Aging in Place with Community and Connection

    As Generation X approaches retirement, many are seeking housing options that offer both comfort and community. Pocket neighborhoods, with their focus on human-scale design and social interaction, are emerging as an appealing choice for this demographic. These thoughtfully designed communities, often featuring clusters of smaller homes around shared green spaces, provide an ideal environment for aging in place while fostering a sense of belonging and connection.

    Seattle, a city known for its vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty, is also home to a growing number of unique and charming “pocket neighborhoods.” These small-scale communities, often clustered around a shared courtyard or green space, offer a refreshing alternative to traditional housing developments. One of the leading architects behind this movement is Ross Chapin, whose firm has designed several notable pocket neighborhoods in the Seattle area.

    Chapin’s architectural philosophy centers around creating spaces that foster social interaction and a sense of belonging while respecting individual privacy. His designs often feature small, clustered homes arranged around a shared courtyard or common green space, encouraging residents to connect with their neighbors and build a strong sense of community .  

    Here are a few examples of Chapin’s pocket neighborhoods in the Seattle area:

    Third Street Cottages – photo from Ross Chapin
    • Third Street Cottages, Langley, Washington: Located on Whidbey Island, just north of Seattle, this was Chapin’s first pocket neighborhood. It comprises eight cottage homes on four standard single-family lots with detached parking and a shared garden . This project helped demonstrate the viability of pocket neighborhoods and sparked interest in this type of housing.  
    • Danielson Grove, Kirkland, Washington: This community features small, well-designed homes with private gardens and a shared common green . It showcases Chapin’s ability to create intimate and livable spaces that promote both community and privacy.  
    • Greenwood Avenue Cottages, Shoreline, Washington: This project also features small homes with private gardens and a shared common green . It exemplifies Chapin’s focus on creating pedestrian-friendly environments that encourage interaction among residents.  
    • Umatilla Hill Neighborhood, Port Townsend, Washington: This neighborhood covers 2½ blocks and features a mix of garden-courtyard cottages, and small- and medium-sized houses . It demonstrates how pocket neighborhood principles can be applied to a larger scale while maintaining a sense of community.  

    These are just a few examples of Ross Chapin’s work in the Seattle area. His firm has been involved in numerous other projects, including custom residential designs and larger mixed-use developments. Chapin’s influence on Seattle’s urban landscape is undeniable, and his pocket neighborhoods offer a compelling vision for community living in the 21st century.

    If you’re interested in learning more about Ross Chapin’s work and pocket neighborhoods in Seattle, be sure to visit his firm’s website and explore the resources available on pocket-neighborhoods.net. You can also find articles and blog posts about his work online, including a piece on Paul Dorpat’s Seattle Now & Then blog 1 .  

    1. Seattle Now & Then: The Chapin Block

    pauldorpat.com/2011/11/26/seattle-now-then-the

  • Antibodies in 2024: A Year of Breakthroughs in Aging and Beyond

    Antibodies in 2024: A Year of Breakthroughs in Aging and Beyond

    2024 has been a landmark year for antibody research, with exciting advancements that could revolutionize the way we treat aging and age-related diseases.

    Rejuvenating the Aging Immune System

    One of the most significant breakthroughs this year has been in understanding and addressing the decline of the immune system with age.  

    Researchers at Stanford University and the NIH made a significant breakthrough by using antibodies to rejuvenate the aging immune system in mice. By targeting specific cells that increase with age, they were able to rebalance blood-cell production and reduce age-related immune decline. This led to improved immune responses and reduced inflammation in the mice.  

    Targeting Senescent Cells

    Another promising area of research involves targeting senescent cells, which are cells that have stopped dividing but remain metabolically active.  

    Velabs Therapeutics is pioneering the development of antibody drugs that can eliminate senescent cells. Their goal is to slow down the aging process itself and delay the onset of age-related diseases such as cardiovascular disease, dementia, and macular degeneration.  

    Promising Treatments for Age-Related Diseases

    Several clinical trials in 2024 explored the use of antibodies in treating age-related diseases, with Alzheimer’s disease being a notable area of focus.  

    Two promising antibody treatments for Alzheimer’s disease that emerged from clinical trials are donanemab and lecanemab. Donanemab targets the clearance of amyloid-beta plaques, while Lecanemab targets the clearance of soluble amyloid-beta aggregates. Both have shown positive results in clinical trials, reducing amyloid-beta plaques and slowing cognitive decline.  

    Beyond Alzheimer’s disease, researchers are exploring antibody treatments for other age-related conditions, such as age-related muscle atrophy.  

    Top 5 Uses of Antibodies as a Treatment

    Antibodies have emerged as a versatile tool in modern medicine, with the top 5 uses currently including:

    • Cancer
    • Autoimmune Diseases
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Organ Transplantation
    • Inflammatory and Allergic Conditions

    Conclusion

    2024 has witnessed significant advancements in the use of antibodies as a medical treatment, particularly in the field of aging and geriatrics.  

    While challenges remain in translating these findings into safe and effective therapies for humans, the advancements hold immense potential for improving the health and well-being of older adults.  

    Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional and this blog post is for informational purposes only. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

  • Key Considerations for Building Stairs for Aging in Place

    Key Considerations for Building Stairs for Aging in Place

    This guide, while generally focused on construction, offers valuable insights that can be tailored to the specific needs of aging in place. Let’s explore these connections, focusing on how to create a home environment that supports independence and safety for older adults.

    Accessibility for Everyone: The emphasis on clear pathways and obstacle-free movement is crucial for aging in place. Imagine wider doorways that easily accommodate wheelchairs or walkers. Picture level thresholds that eliminate tripping hazards, and strategically placed grab bars and handrails offering support throughout the home. These elements are not just convenient; they’re essential for maintaining mobility and independence.

    Safety as a Top Priority: General safety measures become even more critical when designing for aging in place. Adequate lighting is paramount, especially on staircases, in bathrooms, and outdoors, to prevent falls. Slip-resistant flooring, particularly in moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms, further minimizes risks.

    Adapting to Changing Needs: Flexibility is key to a successful aging in place design. Consider features that can be easily modified over time. Adjustable-height countertops and showerheads, along with lever-style door handles and faucets, cater to changing physical abilities, ensuring ease of use for years to come.

    Comfort and Well-being: A comfortable living environment is vital for older adults. This includes maintaining good indoor air quality through proper ventilation and having heating and cooling systems that are easily adjustable. These details contribute to overall health and well-being.

    Universal Design for All Ages: The principles of universal design create homes that are functional and beautiful for everyone, regardless of age or ability. These principles seamlessly integrate with the goals of aging in place, ensuring a home that is welcoming and accessible to all.

    Focus on Stair Construction for Aging in Place:
    The guide recommends a stair slope between 30 and 35 degrees. For those with mobility challenges, a shallower slope closer to 30 degrees is ideal. While the guide suggests a 7-inch riser and 11-inch run, consider even shallower risers (6-6.5 inches) and wider treads (12-14 inches) for enhanced ease of use.

    Railings are not just a safety feature; they are essential support systems. Install them on both sides of the staircase, extending the full length of the stairs. Adding a mid-rail provides extra support for those with balance concerns. Ensure the landing pad at the bottom of the stairs is level and extends at least 36 inches, offering ample maneuvering space for walkers or canes.

    Ample outdoor lighting is paramount, illuminating the stairs and landing area to ensure safe navigation at night. Non-slip materials or strips on treads significantly reduce the risk of falls. Regular maintenance, including inspections, repainting, and keeping the stairs clear of obstructions, is vital for long-term safety and accessibility.

    By implementing these detailed considerations, you can create a living environment that promotes safety, independence, and comfort, allowing individuals to age in place gracefully and enjoy their homes for years to come.

  • Aging in Place: Home Modification Resources in Washington State

    Aging in Place: Home Modification Resources in Washington State

    As a Washington resident, I know how important it is to feel safe and comfortable in my own home. Fortunately, if you want to stay in your home as you age or if you live with a disability, Washington State offers a variety of programs and resources to help make your living space safe and accessible. The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) administers programs like Medicaid Alternative Care (MAC) and the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) which may provide funding for necessary home modifications for eligible individuals. Visit https://www.dshs.wa.gov/ to learn more about DSHS programs. Another option is the Washington State Housing Finance Commission’s Home Rehabilitation Grant Program (HRGP), which offers grants to low-income homeowners for repairs and accessibility upgrades. You can find out more about HRGP at https://www.commerce.wa.gov/weatherization/hrgp/. Many city and county governments throughout Washington also provide their own home repair or modification assistance programs, so it’s worth contacting your local housing department or aging services agency.

    Organizations like Rebuilding Together Seattle provide free home repairs and modifications specifically for low-income homeowners in Seattle; learn more about them at https://www.rtseattle.org/. Habitat for Humanity offers similar home repair programs throughout the state and you can locate your local affiliate at https://www.habitat.org/. Finding the right resources can be challenging, but your local Area Agency on Aging can help connect you to programs in your community. The free 2-1-1 service is also a valuable resource for finding local assistance, including housing aid. Finally, consulting with a housing counselor can help you navigate the application process for various programs. Don’t wait to explore these options; making your home safe and accessible is crucial for independent living, so investigate these resources today and discover the possibilities available to you.