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Americans expect to live longer, healthier lives than previous generations. Some adults are already staying active in the workplace and beyond, but, like most things, growing old gracefully is easier said than done. Staying healthy requires more than just quality medical care and social support; it also requires good financial health.For the Project Milwaukee: Wise Today, Well Tomorrow? series, WUWM News and Lake Effect produced radio reports that examined: proactive steps people can take at any age to prepare their bodies, minds, and bank accounts for aging; the latest research on treating age-related conditions; efforts in the medical community to better coordinate patient care; and more.

Milwaukee Programs Can Make Move Into Senior Housing Less Overwhelming

Bob Bach

Perhaps the most reassuring thing for some older adults and caregivers to hear is, "You are not alone."

Patricia Bruce, of  Interfaith Older Adult Programs, says many of the calls her agency receives are not pre-planned, but rather are associated with a family crisis.

"Mom and dad are in the hospital or they are ill and they need to move," Bruce says. "That's when we start working with family members about mom and dad staying at home safely, or moving, and the process that that involves regarding living options."

The Family Caregiver Support Network has counselors on duty to provide callers with a host of information. The resource center phone number for the Metro Milwaukee program is 414-220-8600.

Adele Lund of the Laureate Group conducts information seminars throughout the metro area on a regular basis. Lund says the sessions guide caregivers on  how to access services.

"Sometimes it's helping the children understand what they're seeing and putting a different perspective on it," Lund says.

She says sometimes a change can make older adults more independent and healthier.

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