Senior Services/Holocaust Survivor Program/Volunteer Mitzvah Corps

The Senior Services department at Jewish Family Services (JFS) offers in office and community-based counseling for seniors 60 years and older with the goal to enhance the chances for the senior to remain in the most independent or least restrictive environment possible. This is achieved through active case management and counseling resources that allow the person to remain active, involved, engaged and receive assistance in activities of daily living. JFS professionals assist the senior and family members with transition issues, providing "peace of mind" for all.

Holocaust Survivors receive assistance with reparations and compensations to which they are entitled.  Emergency financial assistance, issued through the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany (Claims Conference), is given to Holocaust Survivors who fulfill the required guidelines. Quarterly, a social program is held that includes films, guest speakers and live entertainment.

Links to Community Resources:
Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging
Franklin County Office On Aging
Ohio Department of Aging
OSU Extension - Aging in Ohio
Claims Conference

Questions to ask when looking for a nursing home
Here are some sample questions. Not all of these questions will be applicable to you. Do not limit yourself to just these questions.

• When was the facility last inspected?
• What deficiencies were cited, if any? Ask to see the last inspection report.
• How many residents does a nurse care for during a day, evening, or night shift?
• How many residents does a nurse's aide care for during a day, evening, or night shift?
• What arrangement does the facility have for medical services such as doctor visits and specialized equipment and therapies?
• What transportation arrangements does the facility have for the residents?
• What special training does the staff have?
• What are the policies for deposits, refunds, and bed holds?
• How does the nursing home safeguard against loss of residents' personal belongings?
• How much advance notice does the facility provide before increasing charges for regular or additional services?
• What types of activities are included in the facility's social program? Ask to see the activity calendar.
• Does the nursing home have a program to limit the use of physical restraints?
• What are the designated visiting hours? Can exceptions be made for special needs?

Twenty Ways To Care for Caregivers
Twenty tips and ideas collected from Caregivers and care managers.

• Laugh about something everyday.
• Take care of yourself physically.
• Eat a well-balanced diet.
• Talk with someone every day.
• Let family and friends help. Give them printed material on memory disorders so they can better understand your relative. Give them a chance.
• Give yourself permission to have a good cry. Tears aren't a weakness, they reduce tension.
• Exercise. A brisk walk counts.
• Get adequate rest.
• Try a bowl of Cheerios and milk before bed to promote sleep.
• Avoid noisy and/or tension-filled movies at night. The late news itself can add to stress. Skip it.
• Reduce daily caffeine intake.
• Get professional help if you feel your support system isn't adequate or if you feel overwhelmed.
• Take a break very day, even if it's only 10 minutes alone in the backyard.
• Explore community resources and connect yourself with them.
• Listen to music.
• Learn relaxation techniques.
• Regularly attend one or more support groups and education workshops.
• Give yourself a treat at least once a month: an ice cream cone....a new shirt or dress....a night out with friends....a flowering plant.
• Read your Caregiver's Bill of Rights (and Today's Caregiver magazine).
• Know your limitations.