Lend a helping hand to a neighbor in need

man helping another man with a walker exit a vehicle

By Alexandra Newman Knocking on the door of a stranger isn’t always the most comfortable thing.  Sometimes I find myself rehearsing what I’m going to say in my head the entire way there, “Hi, I’m Alexandra from Area Agency on Aging and I’m just dropping off this care package to spread some holiday cheer!”  My anxiety is eased every single time when I’m greeted by a smiling […]

“Invisible After 70”: The Quiet Crisis of Aging in Plain Sight – May 24, 2025

By Christine Vanlandingham “I feel invisible. People don’t see me now.” That quiet confession came from a woman I’ve long admired—an energetic, community-engaged retiree who once led local initiatives, mentored young professionals, and rarely missed a town hall meeting. She retired a few years ago, and though her calendar remains full, something has shifted. She’s […]

Help is available for in-home care – Lynn Kellogg – Dec. 21, 2024

woman lifting man out of chair

Visiting loved ones is a time of sharing, and often hearing how they are doing. With visiting in full swing this holiday season, a number of questions have come my way on resources, services and ideas on how to help someone coping with change. Check my column last month at r4aaa.revelmarketing.com/, under News/Articles for ideas and opportunities related […]

Offering care for kinship caregivers – Alexandra Newman – Jan. 13, 2024

When Carolyn Strzyzkowski began caring more and more for her great-granddaughter, she realized she wasn’t equipped.  “I’m 78-years-old. I love this 1-year-old little girl, but it was a lot,” she told me in a recent phone interview.  Carolyn is among many who find themselves caring for a child they didn’t expect to.   She shared that […]

Opening yourself up to help – Alexandra Newman – July 1, 2023

Smiling with Grandma and Grandpa at Alexandra's high school graduation in 2012.

It can be hard to accept help.  There are a variety of reasons why, but it’s a fact about humans.  For my family, the recent help we’ve had to accept is from hospice.  My grandpa is 94 years old and still lives at home in Ohio with my grandma, 82, as his primary caregiver. He […]