Starfish Resources - making a difference for seniors

 

News & More

News!
Walking-Assist Device from Honda
Honda Motor Co. has developed a wearable device that could make walking and climbing stairs easier for older people. The mechanical Walking Assist Device, which is still in the experimental stage, attaches to the waist, hip, and thighs to lengthen the user's strides. Though the person must be able to stand and walk at least a little, the device helps support body weight, reduces stress on the knees and improves the rhythm of walking. This information was provided to you by Age at Home Elder Care Management, (858) 752-0845. www.ageathome.net.
 
Starfish Resources Expanding to Las Vegas
Our business is growing! In fall of 2009, Starfish resources is opening an additional office to help families down the path to senior care in Las Vegas too! Stay tuned for more details or inquire here.

Books

A Pathway to Senior Care in San Diego
By Nancy C. Beland

Choosing appropriate and quality care for you or a loved one can be an emotional and daunting responsibility. With the horrifying stories of senior neglect and abuse in newspaper headlines over the years, when it becomes your turn to seek out care, how do you determine between the good, the bad, and the downright ugly?

Nancy Coulter Beland tells you how in “A Pathway to Senior Care in San Diego.” Drawing upon 10+ years of experience specifically in San Diego and North County senior care, she gives the ins and outs of the industry—no holds barred. And each chapter is sprinkled with anecdotes from her days in the dugout. Learn More >>


Articles

  1. Adaptive Clothing for Seniors in San Diego
    Adaptive Clothing is specially designed to make dressing easier for those with limited mobility. Whether one is a self-dresser or is dressed by a caregiver or attendant, modified apparel is very convenient and functional. Where to Find >>

  2. Loss of Smell May Indicate Diminished Cognition
    Study reveals a connection between sense of smell and cognitive function. Journal of the American Geriatric Society. Learn more >>

  3. Assisted Living: It's Better Than You Think
    A close-up look at one community in San Diego. Read more >>

Survey

San Diego's Association of Governments (SANDAG) conducted a Survey of Older Adults in the fall of 2008. 4,000 surveys were sent out. Here are the results from the 1,726 households with a resident over the age of 60 that returned their survey.

Health and Health Care Costs:

  • 79% said their health is good, very good, or excellent compared to others their age
  • 33% felt the cost of medication is a problem for them personally
  • 27% were concerned about long term care insurance

Physical Fitness:

  • 25% participate in athletic activities at least once a week

Community Involvement:

  • 28% of seniors attend religious group activities one or more times a week
  • 16% participate in volunteer organizations at least once a week
  • 13% engage in social club activities one or more times a week

Job Training:

  • 9% are interested in employment, job training, or job placement

Finances:

  • 47% were concerned about the cost of energy/utilities
  • 36% felt having enough money to live on is a problem for them personally

Mobility:

  • 25% have minor difficulty walking
  • 22% have serious difficulty or are unable to do heavy housework
  • 9% have serious difficulty or are unable to walk