Standing Guard: Protecting Our Elders in an Uncertain World

Every year, on 15 June, we commemorate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). It’s another reminder of our older population’s unique vulnerabilities, especially this year, with its theme ‘Spotlight on Older Persons in Emergencies.’ Our parents and grandparents built the world we inhabit and should be revered and nurtured—but they are frequently exploited by scams, abused, and neglected. Why Be Vigilant? It can be a function of our physical or cognitive deterioration as we age, making us more vulnerable to exploitation, less able to detect it, and less likely to overcome it. Isolation, also a common condition of the elderly, can be a contributing factor. Here's what we can do: Stay in Touch: Conduct regular check-ins over the phone, in person, or via email. Listen to the person and pick up the phone if his or her mood or behavior has changed. Educate: Openly discuss scams and fraudulent behavior of all sorts. Ensure they are suspicious of strangers who make unsolicited phone calls, emails, or visits. Many helpful resources are available online and from local organizations, enabling them to stay independent for as long as possible through activities stimulating their minds and bodies. Know the Symptoms: Recognize the warning signs of abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation, such as money missing or unexplained, bruises on the skin, withdrawals from normal social activities, or incontinence. Resources and Support: Many organizations support seniors and their families. Here are some links to get you started: National Center on Elder Abuse https://ncea.acl.gov/home#gsc.tab=0 Eldercare Locator https://eldercare.acl.gov AARP Fraud Watch Network https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/about-fraud-watch-network Building a Safety Net Taking care of our parents—and, in many cases, other older relatives—should concern all of us. We need to be vigilant, keep on top of the issue, and seek out help whenever we feel it is necessary. This way, we can all help create a net that will make seniors as safe as they can possibly be. Remember, even small acts of vigilance can make a big difference. So, let us all stand guard over them, and let our elders live out their days in safety and dignity. #WEAAD #ProtectOurElders

What are the effects of migration on community infrastructure?

Riverside County's growing immigrant population means it faces both the demands and benefits of migration from social services. Increased Demand for Services: A quarter of Riverside County’s immigrant population likely qualifies for CalWORKs/TANF, overburdening the program’s budget alongside California’s high participation rates. Medi-Cal is one of the chief sources of health coverage for the region's poor, and undocumented immigrants tend to rely heavily on Medi-Cal. This can stretch the program's resources, leaving lines longer than they would be and possibly limiting the availability of some treatments. With the rising cost of living, more families in Riverside County, including those with immigrant family members, may need assistance covering their food expenses through CalFresh (food stamps). This program will be even more stretched, and over-demand likely would make it more difficult for eligible members to receive the full benefit. The increase in migration has led to a housing shortage in Riverside County, which implies more competition for affordable housing and, thus, a strain on current housing assistance programs. Language Barriers: Many of Riverside County's social service providers may be unable to deliver services in multiple languages. Sometimes, a lack of English proficiency may hinder accessing needed services. Documentation Challenges: The particular privilege emerges because social services are not equally accessible to all residents: while some, such as emergency medical care, are similarly available to documented and undocumented immigrants, others are not (either because the state bars eligibility to undocumented residents or because undocumented residents fear participation). As a result, some of the population needs services but does not receive them. Potential Solutions for Riverside County: Social service agencies at the county level can collaborate with community organizations to produce multilingual brochures, websites, and hotlines so that immigrants are informed about available services. Culturally Competent Services: This involves training social service staff in cultural competence, which entails navigating different cultural systems and diverse forms of communication. Riverside County can advocate for the federal state government to increase funding for social services, especially in growing communities and among immigrants. With more funding, the county can enhance the services so that more immigrants can access them. A partnership with a non-profit organization that works with immigrant communities can help tap into their networks and case-management experience. Offering targeted programs such as English language or job training can help immigrants become self-sufficient. The Bottom Line: Migration poses challenges and opportunities for social services in Riverside County, including increased demand for services, language barriers, documentation challenges, human assets, and material donations. By adequately meeting the increased demand for services for new arrivals and increasingly addressing language and documentation barriers, Riverside County will ensure all residents have the needed services. Likewise, by capitalizing on the existent skills and talents of its immigrants, Riverside will foster a more vibrant and welcoming community.

Helping California's Waters Thrive: Climate-Smart Solutions

Policymakers, environmentalists, and anybody else interested in preserving California's distinctive freshwater biodiversity will find great value in the PPIC report. We can contribute to ensuring that our rivers, lakes, and streams sustain a diversity of species for future generations by combining these climate-smart techniques. Read more Climate-Smart Tools to Protect California's Freshwater Biodiversity

Criminal justice backlash heads to the California ballot

Criminal justice backlash heads to the California ballot There's debate about the effectiveness of Prop 47. Supporters argue it reduced recidivism rates and helped people reintegrate into society. Opponents argue it led to an increase in property crime.

Pros: Lower recidivism: Whether because Prop 47 allowed people convicted of nonviolent property and drug crimes to avoid much of the stigmatization of a felony record – and the barriers to employment and housing that go along with it – or for other reasons, advocates contend that Prop 47 itself reduced recidivism. Potential for enhanced rehabilitation: A significant aspect of Prop 47 is its commitment to redirecting savings into rehabilitation programs. This strategic move could potentially address the root causes of crime, shifting the focus from punitive measures to proactive prevention, a perspective that could have far-reaching positive effects. Also, Prop 47 lowered prison crowding by freeing people who were in prison for non-violent offenses. Cons: Heightened property crime: A notable concern raised by critics is the perceived increase in property crime. Thieves, it is argued, may have been emboldened by the expectation of lenient prison sentences for stealing items valued under $950, a factor that needs to be considered in the overall evaluation of Prop 47. Victim dissatisfaction: Although property crimes are a part of Prop 47, some victims of property crimes may not think that they adequately punish criminals. Funding issues: Some critics wonder if the money promised to go to rehab programs ever appears after Prop 47, which they believe reduces incentives for treatment. This means that even when evaluating Prop 47 rigorously, it’s necessary to consider both sides of the once-and-for-all quenching of the size debate. Since the studies of Prop 47’s impact will likely go on for years, we probably should not expect to reach such a conclusion.

How nutrition, housing, social connection impacts the health of older adults

How nutrition, housing, social connection impacts the health of older adults Through my mornings among the elderly, I understood that nutrition, housing, and social networks matter as much or more than other commonly understood health factors when it comes to improving the quality of life for older adults. Solutions for meeting their needs are connected, and neglecting any of them can cause repercussions that encircle everything else. Here’s how: A well-balanced diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein helps maintain strength and decreases the risk for chronic ailments such as diabetes and heart disease. These factors also help maintain overall cognitive function. Seniors are among the most food insecure. The lack of resources to buy nutritious food can contribute to malnutrition and weaker immune systems, which puts older people at risk for infections. Safe housing not ice-covered or poorly lit and secure housing means are in place to prevent entry by intruders allow older adults to remain independent longer, reduce stress, and promote well-being and mobility ideally, one should have grab bars and other features to reduce the risk of falling. Slum or substandard housing is characterized by poor maintenance (e.g., traces of mold, poor or absence of adequate heating) that can cause or worsen (e.g., respiratory illness) or contribute to ongoing health problems. The social network consistently emerges as one of the strongest protecting factors against depression, cognitive decline, and even mortality. Strong and healthy social ties mean that you have many people who can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging and who will encourage you to stay well. Social isolation is also a devastating cause of – and causative element in – depression, which drastically diminishes our ability to activate the so-called ‘hedonic appetite,’ the hunger for whatever pleases us. In a vicious circle, depression reduces our sensual enjoyment of food, which further depresses our mood; isolation depresses our mood in the first place. These factors act in tandem: poor nutrition may result from food insecurity, further weakening the immune system of older adults and rendering them more prone to infections. Social isolation may lead to appetite suppression and diminished motivation for preparing nourishing meals. Unsafe housing may increase stress and contribute to social withdrawal. A concerted attempt to deal with them all could radically improve the quality of life of our older population. Here are a few. Nutrition Programs: Meals on Wheels and other programs deliver nutritious meals to homebound seniors. Subsidized housing with disability-friendly features can also be very helpful. Senior centers offer social activities, meals, and opportunities for connection. When we weigh these factors, we might develop environments that promote longevity and healthy aging for older adults.

Honoring the Spirit of Service: A Reflection on Community

Memorial Day is my favorite holiday of the year. Paying homage to those who bravely gave their lives to preserve our liberties makes me contemplate how I express my acts of service. This day reminds us that the dedication of our Armed Forces cultivates the idea that a strong nation isn’t made just by military servicemen and women; it’s made by every citizen who contributes to making it better, no matter the form of service. Service, in all forms, creates a society where all feel supported and validated. A closer look reveals that, among other things, this is my spirit of service. I volunteer with CASA, a network of advocates for children in foster care. They are too vulnerable to voice their wants and needs, and I can be their voice. Secondly, I work with the Red Cross year-round to lend a helping hand to families who serve our great nation. At a broader civic level, I remain committed to the San Jacinto city council and planning commission meetings, which keep me in touch with what’s happening in the city. By participating in the proceedings, I can help shape decisions that affect the town. I also serve on the advisory committee for Riverside County IHSS (in-home support services), a role through which I help shape policies that may impact many who engage in in-home care services. In addition, serving on my homeowner's association (HOA) board helps me work with neighbors to maintain and improve the community. My running for city council for San Jacinto this fall reflects that desire to have a lasting, positive, and civic effect on my city. Another way I stay committed to my community is by helping neighbors with small and large needs that pop up each day. I hope to one day repay all the sacrifices made for me to enjoy those freedoms by being one of those who actively take part in a diverse range of civic services here in San Jacinto and across this country. We can build one better San Jacinto and one greater United States through the collective efforts of all our constituents.

The Shadow Within: Understanding and Overcoming Internalized Homophobia

Living authentically as LGBTQIA+ can be a challenge. While societal acceptance grows, internalized homophobia – negative beliefs about your sexual orientation – can linger. This internal struggle, often subconscious, arises from various sources: • Family Upbringing: Growing up in an environment where LGBTQIA+ identities are seen as negative can leave lasting scars. • Societal and Cultural Influences: Living in a place with limited LGBTQIA+ acceptance can fuel self-doubt. • Religious Teachings: Certain religious doctrines may portray LGBTQIA+ identities as sinful, creating internal conflict. • Media Stereotypes: Constant exposure to harmful or stereotypical portrayals in media can lead to feelings of inadequacy. Signs of Internalized Homophobia: • Difficulty accepting your sexual orientation • Persistent self-hatred and negative self-perception • Fear of rejection and discrimination • Internal conflicts and emotional distress • Shame related to your LGBTQIA+ identity • Feeling like you're not "queer enough" These internalized beliefs can significantly impact your mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation. However, there is hope. Here's how to overcome these negative thoughts: Building Self-Acceptance: • Acknowledge and Address the Issue: Recognizing the presence of internalized homophobia is the first step towards healing. • Seek Professional Help: Therapists specializing in LGBTQIA+ issues can provide a safe space to explore these internal struggles. • Embrace Community: Finding a supportive network of LGBTQIA+ friends, online communities, or local support groups can foster a sense of belonging. • Learn About Your History: Immersing yourself in LGBTQIA+ history can create pride and connection. • Consume Positive Media: Seek out books, movies, and shows celebrating diverse LGBTQIA+ experiences. • Practice Self-Compassion: Challenge negative self-beliefs with affirmations and self-kindness. • Surround Yourself with Supportive People: Prioritize spending time with individuals who uphold your identity. Remember: This is a personal journey. Finding what works for you takes time and effort. There will be setbacks, but with consistent effort and self-compassion, you can move towards a place of self-acceptance and pride in your LGBTQIA+ identity.