“Life is a journey, not a destination…”– Chuck Oakes
This week, we are highlighting a caregiver that deeply cares about elders and their ability to age in place. Chuck Oakes is a Connecticut resident that has spent over a decade consulting, presenting, and writing about the importance of this topic. From his numerous accolades it is easy to see that he is clearly on a journey to better the lives of elders. Chuck became interested and versed in caregiving issues after his grandmother moved from Long Island, New York to Connecticut in her old age and was placed in a nursing home. Then, when his parents became older he asked them if they wanted to age in place and both did. So, Chuck made sure his parent’s home was adequately accessible for them by doing low-cost renovations such as installing handrails and railings, and purchasing storage bins.
Now, Chuck uses his knowledge and skills as a Certified Aging in Place Specialist to educate others on the best caregiving methods. He’s written two books and his most recent “Making Your Home Senior Friendly” provides multiple examples of how to make sure your loved ones age in place safely and comfortably. One creative aspect of his techniques is to focus on sensory support for elders, such as soothing music and aroma-filled food.
Besides writing, Chuck is currently working with the United Nations on addressing home care issues internationally such as training women in Germany to be home care specialists. He also advised the President’s Council on Hiring the Disabled after successfully recruiting solely older and disabled workers to work at a newly built Home Depot, by simply focusing on their abilities.
Chuck is a supporter of the Elder Economic Security Initiative and sees the healthcare world as the next hottest industry for both reform and employment.
To learn more about Chuck and his work, visit his website at http://www.chuckoakes.net/.
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