When Dependency Increases

When Dependency Increases is a series of multi-media programs based on the premise that the family, with the right knowledge and skills, can be an important support system for elders faced with life changes.

High audience interest is generated because the programs provide:

• Real People Stories
• Visual Drama
• Audience Participation
• Guidelines for Action

Best Wishes Edith and Henry

Tough decisions are faced when Edith can no longer drive and Henry experiences a health crisis. Viewers look at the impact of decisions on all family members and explore different approaches to resolving concerns.

Due Upon Receipt

Addresses the financial concerns of the elderly by looking at three families. Through Isabel, viewers learn about problems low-income elderly face and the resources available to them. Carlos has duplicate health insurance coverage and is a prime target for sales agents. Eventually, Carlos' children must get a conservator ship and face nursing home costs. Fred and Maggie have a sizable estate. When Fred dies, Maggie knows nothing about their finances. Guidelines are presented for making financial decisions.

Winter Comforts

After her retirement, Phyllis' one glass of wine a day gradually extends to several glasses to "drive away the loneliness." Her behavior changes. She becomes forgetful, develops unexplained bruises, and calls her children at odd hours. Eventually her family recognizes that Phyllis has an alcohol problem and intervenes. Through Phyllis' story, viewers learn about alcohol abuse in later life, the signs of an alcohol problem, available helping resources, and how to intervene.

260 Primrose Lane

Through the lives of Ethyl, Claire, Sara, and Norman, viewers learn about the impact a change in living arrangements can have on an older person. Discussion focuses on living arrangement options and factors to consider in making housing choices.

The Dollmaker

The caregiver's health is at stake when Alyce provides 24-hour care for Ernie and refuses help and respite. Alyce becomes isolated and loses her health, relationships and interest in life. Guidelines are suggested for making care giving decisions and reducing stress for the caregiver.

The Second Story

Following the death of his wife, William Sanders, 70, tried to "be strong" and did not talk about his feelings. Six months later, when he experiences additional losses, his pent-up grief explodes. Through Bill's story, viewers learn about the grief process, the impact multiple losses can have on an older person, and ways to support the bereaved.

The Final Course

Mrs. Murphy, 72, took great pride in her roles as wife and mother and her ability to make elegant desserts. When a mild stroke limits the use of her left arm, she is devastated and becomes depressed. Viewers learn how to recognize and respond to the depressed person and how to prevent potential suicide.

Each complete workshop package includes:

• Program objectives
• Instructions for organizing the workshop
• Workshop activity guide
• Slide/tape script
• Overhead transparency masters
• Participant worksheets
• Participant handouts
• High quality color slides
• Audio tape with sound effects
• Color videotape