I have an announcement to make. I've been retired for five years now and have hobbies and a busy social life for the first time in 50 years, but something has been lacking--the ability to help others that steered me into the direction of my career. My job was difficult, stressful, and time-consuming....and not always fulfilling. In the substance abuse field we see a lot of failures, but it's the successes that make it all worthwhile.
I thought of renewing my license and finding something part time, but at my age, I might as well forget about that. State budget cuts have caused many programs to close. Forget volunteering. Because the state board is strict on the licensing aspect and the Hippa law, programs just don't take on volunteers...unless they were a client returning to offer services.
So I got to thinking. I'm a senior citizen now, 71 years old, and sadly, the fact is many elders are abused in their homes or in the facilities responsible for their care. My heart breaks for them. Everyone deserves to live in safety, with dignity and respect. I've not been abused as an elder, but I have had people try to take advantage due to my age. Our elders need our help. So, I have enrolled in a certification course on elder abuse. Will be keeping you informed of what I learn.
:) Love, cat.
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