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I. How We Work in Washington. Based on your preferences, we provide you with information about one or more of our contracted senior living providers ("Participating Communities") and provide your Senior Living Care Information to Participating Communities. The Participating Communities may contact you directly regarding their services. APFM does not endorse or recommend any provider. It is your sole responsibility to select the appropriate care for yourself or your loved one. We work with both you and the Participating Communities in your search. We do not permit our Advisors to have an ownership interest in Participating Communities.
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III. When We Tour. APFM tours certain Participating Communities in Washington (typically more in metropolitan areas than in rural areas.) During the 12 month period prior to December 31, 2017, we toured 86.2% of Participating Communities with capacity for 20 or more residents.
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V. Complaints. Please contact our Family Feedback Line at (866) 584-7340 or ConsumerFeedback@aplaceformom.com to report any complaint. Consumers have many avenues to address a dispute with any referral service company, including the right to file a complaint with the Attorney General's office at: Consumer Protection Division, 800 5th Avenue, Ste. 2000, Seattle, 98104 or 800-551-4636.
VI. No Waiver of Your Rights. APFM does not (and may not) require or even ask consumers seeking senior housing or care services in Washington State to sign waivers of liability for losses of personal property or injury or to sign waivers of any rights established under law.I agree that: A.I authorize A Place For Mom ("APFM") to collect certain personal and contact detail information, as well as relevant health care information about me or from me about the senior family member or relative I am assisting ("Senior Living Care Information"). B.APFM may provide information to me electronically. My electronic signature on agreements and documents has the same effect as if I signed them in ink. C.APFM may send all communications to me electronically via e-mail or by access to an APFM web site. D.If I want a paper copy, I can print a copy of the Disclosures or download the Disclosures for my records. E.This E-Sign Acknowledgement and Authorization applies to these Disclosures and all future Disclosures related to APFM's services, unless I revoke my authorization. You may revoke this authorization in writing at any time (except where we have already disclosed information before receiving your revocation.) This authorization will expire after one year. F.You consent to APFM's reaching out to you using a phone system than can auto-dial numbers (we miss rotary phones, too!), but this consent is not required to use our service.
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I can't find nothing interesting. I would like to travel with seniors and cannot find any travelinng groups in my area. Im not ready for nursing home or Assisted living. I still drive.
I go to assisted living facilities and entertain them by singing Karaoke with them. Have your assisted living facility call a local Karaoke group to come and entertain you and make a sing along hour. If you are not in a facility, start going to a Karaoke place and start practicing. OR buy a system for yourself and START singing. It is very entertaining and a lot of fun. You can be nostaligic and pretend you are anyone on the planet. I pretend that I am Marilyn Monroe, Patti Page, Bette Midleer, Martina McBride, Striesand, etc. We've even done recitals for malls at Christmas. This is a wonderful thing to make your spirit alive and well.
Why do potential activities necessarily have to be "senior activities"? Would you mind traveling with younger people, too? What are you interested in? Are there things you have always been interested in that you would like to continue doing? Do you have any disabilities or problems that make you even THINK of nursing homes or assisted living? (That is, do you think of yourself as "old"? Do you have a label on you that says "senior"? Do you feel restrained by some kind of requirement to "act your age" or fit a mold?) From your postings I see you have family responsibilities, but as was already mentioned, you may still have several decades ahead of you. You can do things for others for their rewards (which I'm not knocking), but you can also go ahead and do what you really want to do without justifying it to anyone--you have already been giving so much to your family that you've "earned" some time for yourself. (Example--If you're finding that church is boring, why bother going there?) Give yourself permission to have fun. In any case, I hope this is of some help, and best wishes.
Both sides of my family are very long lived (100 or older) and at 53, I expect to be active for maybe 50 more years. I am a vegan , exercise, and take good care of my health so I will be able to.
My grandfather did a lot of travel in his 80's and 90's, some with seniors and some not. I can recommend you check out ElderTreks at who both offer trips pretty much everywhere on the planet. I also suggest Rick Steves tours. Visitfor details. He has loads of seniors on his trips. Another good source of travel info for all ages is Budget Travel Magazine. Visit their site at or buy a copy of their magazine at the bookstore.
Want to do good while you travel? There are hundreds of organizations that welcome elders to work in places in the USA and the world. One of my longtime favorites is Earthwatch. Check them out at Many of Global Volunteers' travelers are over 60. Check them at
Study is also great to keep your mind free from dementia. I have a friend who is in a PhD program-something he dreamed of for years but only began pursuing when he enrolled to get his bachelor's degree at age 65. He is your age and in a PhD program having finished his bachelor's and master's. You can get a degree or take a few courses and most states let students take individual courses for free.
If you like cruising, sign up with a cruise line to teach a course while on board in something you are interested in (birdwatching, watching the stars, speaking, cooking) and get your trip either free or at a huge discount.
You can also do volunteer work where you live. Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Girl Scouts, tutoring kids or teaching adults to read, helping out at animal shelters, being a museum docent, volunteering at the library, and more is waiting for you.
Look into your local senior citizen center, the one in my area go on trips twice a year and do other things that may interest you. They also volunteer at different organizations. Do anything you enjoy it will keep you feeling young.
Since you said you are interested in traveling, maybe you can do that with some tour groups that specialize in seniors and women who need travel companions. First take a look at to see if you find anything interesting there. If not, try or other groups that cater to women who want to travel with friends. For non-travel activities, That is a place to meeting people in your area who have similar interests. They have gatherings such as dinners, dancing, etc. There may not be any for your area if it is small, but you can even start your own group if you want.
((((((eva)))))) sounds like you are burnt out. I think we would have answered differently if you had mentioned all the caregiving you are doing. I know I would. Absolutely there should be some time for you. 12 years of caregiving your husband, a lifetime (?) of caregiving a disabled daughter or is that more recent, now your mum too - sounds -- like too much for me. Are there any agencies who could give you some help/respite from caring for your daughter and your mum? I gather that neither of them live with you as you say you live alone. Can you give us more details about your caregiving duties? Maybe we can make more helpful suggestions. Good luck. I think you need a big break and then some regular ones. It is easy to get burnt out caregiving, and it sounds like you have way too much to cope with. ((((((hugs))))) Joan
I'm 73 and have been active. I go ballroom dancing and really enjoy it. I'm divorced. I met a very active woman at a singles social event. She mentioned ballroom dancing and after a few months called her. When I went for the first time, I almost ran out. All these well dressed people, many around my age were gliding around the dance floor doing a waltz. I never did ballroom dancing and thought I could never do it. I was asked to dance and was honest saying, " I don't know how." They were so nice to me and offered to show me. I hung in there and began to learn. It opened up a wonderful new life for me, and I've met many nice, caring people. The woman, a widow, who introduced me to it, met a sweet, wonderful man, a widower, and they married three years ago. I've learned you have to try new things, as one door will open another. I also kayak and have to say I love it probably even more then the dancing. However, kayaking for me, can be lonely. None of my friends do it, so I would take my little Boston Terrier with me. She loved it and was my little buddy. She since has passed away. All of this being done while be the only caregiver for my 97yr old father. I have to say he still is quite active for his age which offers me the opportunity to do my stuff. Lately I've noticed he's starting to show signs of slowing down. For his birthday I bought him a Urgent Response device that he can wear. My son is the one who suggested it, so when I go out I can have peace of mind that he can get help if he needs it. Everyone's situation is different, and what works for some may not work for others. Our intentions are good but we often don't feel appreciated.
This may sound very up but I have had situations with my father that have been upsetting. I know for my sanity I needed to have pleasant activities to cope with the unpleasant events.
Have you thought about moving? Some of the medium sized cities have day programs for elderly seniors and the disabled you could use to get yourself some free time during the day. That would also give you somewhere that has more opportunity to do new things. I have many friends who are your age who still do all the things they used to do, just in different ways as they age and are still trying new things.
Sometimes it's hard for someone who has worked hard at doing for others to make themselves and their happiness a priority. I agree with Carol's advice. Try volunteering. It will get you involved with a new group of people, doing something new and interesting. And, because you'll be doing for others, you'll be more likely to give yourself 'permission' to do it. It will be an 'official' obligation, so you'll probably be able to put boundaries up around it when family demands tug at your time. The opportunities are endless and varied, particularly if you're relatively fit physically.
not sure how to answer all your suggestions. Maybe this is the correct way. First I do have great grandaughters that I am very involved and a mother that requires my attentions and a disabled daughter. While all of your suggestions are good, I am tired of takeing care of others and their needs. I need some time away from being responsible. I cared for my husband for 12 years before he passed away 4 yrs ago. So you see I feel like there should be some time for just me. I live in a small community and there is nothing going on here. I guess I am feeling sorry for myself. Thanks for letting me vent. I live alone and there is no one toreally talk to. Even church is boring. Same old stuff. Where is the excitement in being ederly
There's no reason for anyone to decide that they're "old" arbitrarily and stop doing whatever they love to do if they can still do it! My neighbor died yesterday at the age of 104. She lived alone, successfully, vibrantly, actively, without help, until she was 102. For someone in their seventies, that would represent THIRTY more years -- as many more years as the time that has passed since you were in your early forties. It ain't over if you don't say it's over.
Hi eva - I am a young 74 year old, and am the same as jack, I keep on doing what I have been doing or even try new or old things. I went tenting a few years ago - something I haven't done in years. Loved it! I know someone with horses, and i want to ride again - more than 50 years since the last time. I want to go fishing again. I love being on the water. I want to take a boat ride up a local river, and that is on the books now. Get to know some more people, as Carol mentioned, it broadens your opportunities. I have a sig other after 15 years on my own and the things I mention are things I will do with him. I do things with my grandkids. If you don;t have grandkids, many schools have programs you could join to contribute - and make new friends You never know what will happen, New girlfriends will open up opportunities - not just face to face but online friends too. I have a few online friends I have been communicating with for years now and we do want to meet one day, Volunteering opens up new interests, and opportunities to make new friends. Take a course or join a group, I don't have enough energy to do it all, but I am never bored. Good luck
I just continue doing the activities that I always enjoyed in spite of the fact that I'm not as quick nor have the stamina that I once had. I am surprised how many seniors my own age are doing the same.
My mom is the same age, and has many physical issues that make it difficult to do much, but she does find some things she likes to do. One of them is teaching a seated exercise class in her building. She really makes it fun, and they all enjoy it -- especially when they lob a balloon back and forth and amongst themselves. Think about what you like and have to offer, and then maybe volunteering in that area, like Carol suggested, would be good. Wishing you the best.
Try volunteering through the Retired Senior Volunteer Program. You'll meet many other active seniors, help people who aren't so fortunate, and likely find people to enjoy social activities with. Senior Corps can be found on the Internet if you don't have an RSVP chapter in your city. Many other organizations are begging for volunteers, as well. There's no better way to meet active seniors. Take care and good luck, Carol
By proceeding, I agree that I understand the following disclosures:
I. How We Work in Washington.
Based on your preferences, we provide you with information about one or more of our contracted senior living providers ("Participating Communities") and provide your Senior Living Care Information to Participating Communities. The Participating Communities may contact you directly regarding their services.
APFM does not endorse or recommend any provider. It is your sole responsibility to select the appropriate care for yourself or your loved one. We work with both you and the Participating Communities in your search. We do not permit our Advisors to have an ownership interest in Participating Communities.
II. How We Are Paid.
We do not charge you any fee – we are paid by the Participating Communities. Some Participating Communities pay us a percentage of the first month's standard rate for the rent and care services you select. We invoice these fees after the senior moves in.
III. When We Tour.
APFM tours certain Participating Communities in Washington (typically more in metropolitan areas than in rural areas.) During the 12 month period prior to December 31, 2017, we toured 86.2% of Participating Communities with capacity for 20 or more residents.
IV. No Obligation or Commitment.
You have no obligation to use or to continue to use our services. Because you pay no fee to us, you will never need to ask for a refund.
V. Complaints.
Please contact our Family Feedback Line at (866) 584-7340 or ConsumerFeedback@aplaceformom.com to report any complaint. Consumers have many avenues to address a dispute with any referral service company, including the right to file a complaint with the Attorney General's office at: Consumer Protection Division, 800 5th Avenue, Ste. 2000, Seattle, 98104 or 800-551-4636.
VI. No Waiver of Your Rights.
APFM does not (and may not) require or even ask consumers seeking senior housing or care services in Washington State to sign waivers of liability for losses of personal property or injury or to sign waivers of any rights established under law.
I agree that:
A.
I authorize A Place For Mom ("APFM") to collect certain personal and contact detail information, as well as relevant health care information about me or from me about the senior family member or relative I am assisting ("Senior Living Care Information").
B.
APFM may provide information to me electronically. My electronic signature on agreements and documents has the same effect as if I signed them in ink.
C.
APFM may send all communications to me electronically via e-mail or by access to an APFM web site.
D.
If I want a paper copy, I can print a copy of the Disclosures or download the Disclosures for my records.
E.
This E-Sign Acknowledgement and Authorization applies to these Disclosures and all future Disclosures related to APFM's services, unless I revoke my authorization. You may revoke this authorization in writing at any time (except where we have already disclosed information before receiving your revocation.) This authorization will expire after one year.
F.
You consent to APFM's reaching out to you using a phone system than can auto-dial numbers (we miss rotary phones, too!), but this consent is not required to use our service.
Have your assisted living facility call a local Karaoke group to come and entertain you and make a sing along hour. If you are not in a facility, start going to a Karaoke place and start practicing. OR buy a system for yourself and START singing. It is very entertaining and a lot of fun. You can be nostaligic and pretend you are anyone on the planet. I pretend that I am Marilyn Monroe, Patti Page, Bette Midleer, Martina McBride, Striesand, etc. We've even done recitals for malls at Christmas. This is a wonderful thing to make your spirit alive and well.
My grandfather did a lot of travel in his 80's and 90's, some with seniors and some not. I can recommend you check out ElderTreks at who both offer trips pretty much everywhere on the planet. I also suggest Rick Steves tours. Visitfor details. He has loads of seniors on his trips. Another good source of travel info for all ages is Budget Travel Magazine. Visit their site at or buy a copy of their magazine at the bookstore.
Want to do good while you travel? There are hundreds of organizations that welcome elders to work in places in the USA and the world. One of my longtime favorites is Earthwatch. Check them out at Many of Global Volunteers' travelers are over 60. Check them at
Study is also great to keep your mind free from dementia. I have a friend who is in a PhD program-something he dreamed of for years but only began pursuing when he enrolled to get his bachelor's degree at age 65. He is your age and in a PhD program having finished his bachelor's and master's. You can get a degree or take a few courses and most states let students take individual courses for free.
If you like cruising, sign up with a cruise line to teach a course while on board in something you are interested in (birdwatching, watching the stars, speaking, cooking) and get your trip either free or at a huge discount.
You can also do volunteer work where you live. Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Girl Scouts, tutoring kids or teaching adults to read, helping out at animal shelters, being a museum docent, volunteering at the library, and more is waiting for you.
((((((hugs))))) Joan
sweet, wonderful man, a widower, and they married three years ago. I've learned you have to try new things, as one door will open another.
I also kayak and have to say I love it probably even more then the dancing. However, kayaking for me, can be lonely. None of my friends do it, so I would take my little Boston Terrier with me. She loved it and was my little buddy. She since has passed away.
All of this being done while be the only caregiver for my 97yr old father. I have to say he still is quite active for his age which offers me the opportunity to do my
stuff. Lately I've noticed he's starting to show signs of slowing down. For his birthday I bought him a Urgent Response device that he can wear. My son is the one who suggested it, so when I go out I can have peace of mind that he can get help if he needs it.
Everyone's situation is different, and what works for some may not work for others. Our intentions are good but we often don't feel appreciated.
This may sound very up but I have had situations with my father that have been upsetting. I know for my sanity I needed to have pleasant activities to cope with the unpleasant events.
I have many friends who are your age who still do all the things they used to do, just in different ways as they age and are still trying new things.
The opportunities are endless and varied, particularly if you're relatively fit physically.
Good luck
Many other organizations are begging for volunteers, as well. There's no better way to meet active seniors.
Take care and good luck,
Carol