Caregiver College Held in Pensacola

Emerald Coast Hospice, in partnership with Northwest Florida Area Agency on Aging, Inc., held a Caregiver College event on January 16 at the Area Agency on Aging’s Pensacola office.

Tommy Smith, Esq., with Smith Law of Northwest Florida shared information on the importance of having a durable power of attorney for finances and one for health care. Life happens and sometimes someone must have authority to act for us in a crisis. If the durable powers of attorney documents are not in place, Florida rules will dictate who makes decisions for you. Whether to have a will or trust is determined by what you are trying to accomplish. Naming beneficiaries on bank accounts and life insurance policies may accomplish the same goal without a legal document in place. It is critical to understand the income and asset limits for Medicaid when naming beneficiaries and setting up bank accounts.

Following the legal presentation, information was shared about the supports available for aging in place. The Department of Elder Affairs administers programs and services for elders and individuals with disabilities through the Area Agencies on Aging that operate the Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs). A statewide database of local community resources can be found at http://elderaffairs.state.fl.us/doea/arc.php or by calling the Elder Helpline at 1-800-963-5337.

Finally, Sharyon Miller with Home Care Solutions led the attendees in some of the Ageless Grace Brain Health exercises designed to continue developing the brain, no matter your age. Each of the 21 tools or exercises is designed to activate all five primary functions of the brain. In addition to the brain stimulation, these tools also help to maintain physical skills that are necessary for quality of life, including balance, flexibility, joint mobility, strength, and agility. More information on this program and instructors can be found at https://agelessgrace.com/why-playful-exercise-can-change-your-brain-for-the-better/. The exercises were easy and fun, provided great laughs, and could be done sitting in a chair. Upcoming Caregiver College dates for Pensacola are April 16, July 16, and October 15, 2020.


Sharyon Miller with Home Care Solutions led the attendees in some of the Ageless Grace Brain Health exercises designed to continue developing the brain, no matter your age.