What is Elder Power really trying to do?

We are committed to fundamentally changing the way elders interact with and are cared for in our society.

Why?

Because we often forget to include our elders in so many parts of our everyday lives, the lives of our families and communities. We are missing out on a wealth of wisdom and experience. With so many people living longer, how can our society possibly handle the coming age wave. The demographics are astounding. There will be over 80 million people in the US over the age of 65 within the next 20 years. Twenty percent of the US population, and twenty five percent of Maine’s population will be over the age of 65 by 2020. People over the age of 85 are the fastest growing segment of our population. There will be more people over the age of 65 than children under the age of 5.

How will Elder Power change things?

To begin with, we must re-engage many elders in “LIVING” not just existing. Our elders are a patient and accepting lot, but they too just like everyone else, need a reason to get up in the morning. We hope to rekindle some sparks, whether it be in conversation, storytelling, new friendships, books, writing, music, art, film, sports, food and exercise or volunteering to help someone less fortunate. We believe everyone has something to give until the day they die.

Again, how does Elder Power propose to change things?

• By using video technology to reconnect people that live a great distance apart. Just as the telephone changed our world dramatically, video calling and video messaging over the internet has even more powerful potential.
• By being totally committed to keeping elders involved in community events.
• By treating elders with well deserved respect.

I’m in my 80’s and Elder Power sounds too complicated, beyond me and too expensive!!

Actually, even remote areas now have the appropriate technology. Elder Power has clever people to make it possible on almost any budget. Your kids and grandkids want more contact with you. Think about it. Give it a try. We have book corners, story corners, poetry corners, even a joke corner. Have a wish? Tell us about it

First of all, I need to be practical. I need help with some things like shopping, cooking, meal preparation and transportation. Can you help me there?

Yes we can. You are not alone. We will help you find the right person or service. We will keep an eye out for you if you want us to for as long as you want us to.

I do not need much help but my daughter really worries about me. How do I give her (and me) peace of mind?

We have people called “Guardian Angels” and technology to help you stay in your own home safely. After all, staying in your own familiar surroundings should be a major focus, if you want to. We'll make sure you're not alone and will adapt with you as your needs change.

But I can’t afford too much hourly care at $20.00-$25.00 per hour.

How does $5.00 per day sound? Better than the several thousands a month for assisted living or retirement communities!

Isn’t some of this technology or phone checks pretty intrusive?

As far as the technology being intrusive, what is more intrusive than getting moved to a facility where you have to share one small room with another person? Having only one closet, one bureau and half of a room for your house full of belongings. The sensors do not make a sound, they do not see anything, they only track your movement, so we can make sure you are safe.

So what is Elder Power? A care giving group or a social club?

Well, we hope it can be both and in a low keyed way. See all of the buttons/tabs of our website or contact us to get the whole picture.

How do you blend with our current community services and caregivers?

We want to enhance the ability of current caregivers to do what they do best. We want to provide some pieces they can integrate into their current care to make it more comprehensive and also be able to enhance their current service.