Joyce DeMonnin

Usually when we look for a volunteer opportunity, we are motivated to help others in need. When I volunteered to be a long-term care ombudsman, it turned into a life changing experience. I have changed the lives of dozens of people, all for the better, improved my ability and confidence to stand up for others and, because of my expanded knowledge and experience, made life better for family and friends when they needed long-term care. The long-term care ombudsman program has been a jackpot bingo for me.

Lying in bed, in that hazy state of semi-waking and sleeping, I turn my head toward the digital clock on the nightstand, and inwardly struggle to decide what to do. It’s 6:10 in the morning. I force a decision: with aching body and an ugh! I kick the blanket off my legs, painfully slide to the edge of the bed, and with my only useful arm, and grasp the side rail.

Things have changed since I entered the ALF world, experienced its uniqueness and ambiguities, and began writing my blog, detailing the behind-the-scenes glimpses of ALF living.

At the AARP Oregon State Office we hear almost weekly from a member who can’t afford prescription drugs and has to make the hard choice to skip a medication dose or cut the pill in order to make ends meet. That’s why we were especially pleased to help pass legislation during Oregon’s short session that will make the cost of drugs more “transparent” in our state.

HB 4005 is a victory for Oregon patients struggling with high costs of medications. Heads to governor’s desk for signature.

The room rests. Waiting. Expectant. Readying itself to welcome a new resident, who will live out her days within its confines. I peer into the emptiness, for it remains a void across the hall. The new resident will be my neighbor, as was the deceased before her, and the deceased before her, ad continuem….

Two residents died last week.

Salem – AARP Oregon honored state legislators with “Down the Trail” awards for developing bi-partisan solutions to help older adults.

When I lived in my home, rather than a home, I often left home. You know. Shopping. Movies. Dining out. Things that got me out of the house for periods of time.

Whether you’re retired and living on a fixed income, or work in an office or at a construction site, you should be able to see a doctor or nurse when you’re sick and get medications when you need them. And it shouldn’t bankrupt you. Your income shouldn’t determine whether you can get the care you need.