Martha Shapiro, Ventura County Star

Martha Shapiro

Ventura County Star

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Recent:
  • Unknown
Past:
  • Ventura County Star

Past articles by Martha:

Senior Advocate: The benefits of exercise as we age

The benefits of exercising as we age are tremendous. It helps reduce fall risk, control joint swelling, improves mood and stamina and more. → Read More

Senior advocate: Meet Richard, a 96-year-old who tries not to dwell on life too much

Columnist Martha Shapiro writes we should focus more on valuing social connections, maintaining friendships, exercising and staying busy and involved. → Read More

Senior advocate: As rents soar in Ventura County, older adults pushed out of housing

One type of phone call has steadily increased to senior advocacy groups: Older adults are calling because they are in danger of losing their housing. → Read More

Senior advocate: Here's what to know about end-of-life planning

Good planning includes preparing for what happens if you become incapacitated as well as what will be done after you pass away. → Read More

Senior advocate: Here's what to know about free tax preparation

Free tax preparation services are available for seniors age 60 or older and to anyone with income of $57,000 or less, regardless of age. → Read More

Senior advocate: You may qualify for help to purchase food. Here's what to know

The CalFresh program is there to help ensure everyone can purchase the most basic of needs: food. → Read More

Senior advocate: Music has power; allow it to ease your effort

The power of music on our mood is very strong. Humming a tune in your head can create a soundtrack to your day. → Read More

Senior advocate: Here's what to know if you're asked to manage a parent's finances

Taking over the role of managing someone else’s finances is a big responsibility, and one you can feel honored to be trusted and careful with. → Read More

Senior advocate: In our last chapter, we have the ability to shape our story

Columnist Martha Shapiro says to think about how you want to shape your last chapter and what will provide you life satisfaction. → Read More

Senior advocate: You are not powerless over the quality of your day

The beautiful thing about setting an intention is that you are in control of what this means to you every day. → Read More

Senior advocate: Feeling comfortable in large groups may take time

Feeling comfortable at large gatherings is a transition that will take time for some. Everyone’s feelings should be respected and valued. → Read More

Senior advocate: Consider setting intentions for 2022 rather than resolutions

Think of intentions as planting seeds where you want your life to grow. They are not specific goals that you can measure, but ways that you wish to live. → Read More

Senior advocate: It's OK to rely on others

Being in a position to require help from our loved ones is never easy. However, it does not always have to be a negative change. → Read More

Senior advocate: Here's what to do if you see memory problems in a loved one

If you notice some of signs of memory loss in a loved one, then think through how to share your concerns in a gentle way. → Read More

Senior advocate: This Thanksgiving, consider reminiscence as a way to connect loved ones

This year, consider adding to this tradition by using the technique of reminiscing to create a conversation that will bond the generations at the table. → Read More

Senior advocate: November is National Family Caregivers Month

Family caregivers deserve to be celebrated and cared for every month, but November is the month they are nationally recognized. → Read More

Senior advocate: Alone for Thanksgiving? Here's how to make it special anyway

The holidays may not always look the same, but there are many ways you can make them feel as special as years passed. → Read More

Senior advocate: Here are some holiday shopping tips given this year's shipping woes

Starting your holiday shopping early is definitely a good idea. The shipping delays you are hearing about are caused by several issues. → Read More

Senior advocate: Worried about your memory? It may be stress

It has been 19 months since the pandemic upended our daily lives. The ups and downs we have experienced, have no doubt added to feelings of anxiety. → Read More

Senior advocate: Here are ways to address a very expensive medical bill

Take a proactive approach to understand your health care and insurance benefits, and do not let fear of bills prevent you from receiving proper care. → Read More