By Ryan Schofield, Legal Intern and Sandra Wisnewski, J.D., Director of Client Assistance at Elder Law of Michigan What do you imagine would be the reaction to someone discussing their mental health issues openly 50 years ago? Was it, “What are you, some kind of loon?” Or possibly, “You’re going to see a shrink?” While some people may have been receptive to discussing mental health, … Continue reading Mental Health Stigmas
By Pam Canty, Intake and Screening Coordinator at Elder Law of Michigan June is National Safety Month. This is an important month to review safety precautions, especially for seniors. I am speaking from experience because when you reach a certain age, your mind may tell you to: climb that ladder, shovel snow (non-stop), carry that two-cubit bag of mulch/topsoil, or drive nine straight hours with the last leg … Continue reading National Safety Month
By Grace DeRose-Wilson, Screening Integration Coordinator at Elder Law of Michigan Have you ever looked at the ingredient list on a product and wondered what the ingredients are? How can you tell if the ingredients listed are safe to consume or use on your body? Knowing how chemicals affect your body is important, especially for older adults. According to the National Institute of Health, changes … Continue reading Environmental Working Group: Protecting Your Health
By Sheila Robison, MiCAFE Network Economic Security Team Member at Elder Law of Michigan Modifications and home improvements are crucial for most homeowners, especially for the senior citizen community. In current economic times, the expense of fixing up a home can be more than what is expected. Our pocketbooks are often not equipped to cover the costs of maintenance a home may need, and thus worry … Continue reading Habitat for Humanity Home Repair Program
Via AI-CIO By Michael Katz The trustees of the Sheet Metal Workers Pension Fund of Troy, Michigan, have reapplied for approval from the US Department of Treasury of a proposed suspension of benefits. The fund’s actuaries have estimated that as of May 1, 2019, the pension is only 40.6% funded, and is projected to become insolvent in the plan year beginning May 1, 2033. According … Continue reading (Mid-America Pension Rights Project) Michigan Sheet Metal Workers Pension Applies for Benefits Cuts
By Vonda Vantil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Now that tax season is over, it’s probably a good time to evaluate some financial “best practices” for the rest of the year. A good spring-cleaning can clear out the clutter to let you see a clear path for your future. Social Security is always here to help. Even if you just started working, now is the … Continue reading Spruce up your Financial Plan with Social Security
By Vonda Vantil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Every year, on Memorial Day, the nation honors service members who have given their lives for our freedom. Social Security acknowledges the sacrifice of our military’s service members, and we honor these heroes and their families who may need help through the benefits we provide. Widows, widowers, and their dependent children may be eligible for Social Security … Continue reading Social Security Honors and Supports Military Members
Via LeaderPub.com By Sarah Culton CASSOPOLIS — The senior population is one of the most vulnerable in Cass County, which is why area professionals will be meeting later this month to learn ways to better protect them from abuse. The Cass County Probate Court will host an elder abuse training from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday, May 30 at the Cass County Council on … Continue reading Elder Law of Michigan in the news: Cass County Probate Court to host elder abuse training May 30
By Vonda Vantil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist In May, we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week and honor all of the educators who are preparing students for the future. Social Security knows that a well-informed instructor is usually the best one suited to educate others. That’s why we have online resources that are easy to access and share. Social Security’s Educator Toolkit is a rich resource … Continue reading Educating Students about Social Security
By Stephanie Woods, Empowerment Specialist at Elder Law of Michigan Did you know senior isolation can lead to an increased risk of depression, cognitive decline, and a higher rate of mortality? Social isolation also makes seniors more susceptible to elder abuse, as they typically have less access to help. Physical activity and technology have been shown to reduce isolation and loneliness, but one of the … Continue reading Retired Senior Volunteer Program
