One thing I enjoy about my Extension career is that I have great resources at my fingertips, or these days, at the click of a mouse. We have energetic specialists in the area of adult development and aging who have provided great materials that I want you to learn more about.

I piloted the “Keys to Embracing Aging” materials several years ago, but each of the 12 fact sheets is relevant in today’s world. No matter your age, you can take steps now to age well into the future. Keys to Embracing Aging is an interactive program that highlights 12 healthy lifestyle behaviors aimed at helping you age healthfully, successfully and with increased longevity. 

The Alzheimer’s 101 fact sheet provides education and awareness about Alzheimer’s disease. That is crucial to bettering the lives of those who are currently facing the disease or will face it in the future. The fact sheet includes the warning signs, the benefits of early detection and diagnosis, and steps to bettering your overall brain health.

One of my favorite programs to share is “Gray for a Day.” Gray for a Day aims to educate participants on age-related sensory and functional challenges some adults might face through various simulations that reflect daily routines, simple tasks, and leisure or social activities. 

Elder abuse and neglect is another issue addressed in an Extension program. No one is immune to elder abuse – it can happen to anyone, at any time, and anywhere. Often a silent problem, elder abuse can rob older adults of their dignity and security and leave them feeling fearful and alone. This educational program discusses the warning signs and risk factors of abuse, how to prevent elder abuse, and the steps to report suspected abuse.

The Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansans, known as SHICK, is a free program offering Kansans the opportunity to talk with trained, community volunteers and get answers to questions about Medicare. During the next six weeks we are busy helping Medicare recipients review their Part D prescription drug plans.

A visit to the KSRE website will take you to all of the great resources I mentioned above. Feel free to give me a call or send an e-mail with any questions related to these topics.

Donna Krug is the Family & Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Contact her at 620-793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu.