This month, I had the opportunity to work with several low-income older adults regarding changes they wanted to make in their living situations. We read a lot in the newspapers about the need for "affordable" housing in Napa ... but, this is usually for working adults, or people with families. [...]
The unraveling of status quo started a few months ago. What was deemed "manageable" by many older people confined at home, has begun to fray. Social isolation is taking a toll. Without witnesses and social support, strokes are undetected, forgetfulness progresses into full blown dementia and fear has moved into [...]
I go on Medicare November 1. I am mostly worried that doctors will not provide me with the care that I will need over time. I know that old women do not get the attention or ear of their mostly male doctors. I know because for the past forty years, I've been taking [...]
Life gets harder. By the time a person reaches 80, they've had many losses and experiences that have shocked them into the reality of frailty and vulnerability. And, without tools or information on how to manage all this emotional pain, many older people become estranged, isolated and depressed. Share the Care visits were [...]
COVID-19 has shocked us into a new reality. For those over age 65, the last five months have proven particularly challenging. Not only are we asked to shelter in place, but if there’s a fall or other healthcare crisis, we worry about not only going to the hospital, but how [...]
People don't want to go into nursing homes, or any congregate living situation right now. And, who can blame them? As COVID sweeps through facilities, it is impossible to keep everyone safe. Staying home might be a better alternative. To stay home, people need to be outfitted with the right [...]
Yvonne Baginski, Director of Share the Care Napa Valley, wins Jefferson Award! Share the Care received the Jefferson Award in January 2020 for "Multiplying Good in the Power of Service to Others." Director, Yvonne Baginski accepted the award alongside the 59 recipients representing volunteer efforts in 9 Bay Area Counties. [...]
DONATE through December 31st! Share the Care is thrilled to be part of the Give!Guide this year. We are hoping to raise $20,000....will you help? The Give!Guide will be distributed in the Napa Valley Marketplace magazine, and there are piles available in stores and gathering places all over town. You [...]
A Special Presentation by Yvonne Baginski on May 20, 2019 My dad died on March 18. He died alone. An unknown caregiver at his side, in an assisted living apartment he had moved into just three weeks earlier. He died in pain. He suffered. I wish it was different. But [...]
Jan 16, 2019 : Original article in the Napa Register. Napans are great at reacting and helping during emergencies. A fire, an accident, a one-for-all effort brings in responses from just about every facet of society. There is a heart glow in helping and being of service in the company [...]
