COMFORT ON THE GO: HOW TO ENJOY THE JOURNEY AS MUCH AS THE
As we age, the desire to explore the world doesn’t fade—but our needs while traveling often change. For many seniors, comfort becomes just as important as adventure. From navigating airports with ease to choosing the right accommodations and avoiding travel fatigue, thoughtful planning can make the difference between a stressful trip and a joyful journey.
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OCTOBER 2022 - 2
Amy Phariss, Editor-in-Chief, OutreachNC | editor@outreachnc.com
As we move into the heart of summer, July invites us to slow down, soak up the sunshine, and reconnect with what matters most. In this month’s issue, we explore ways to support healthy aging while celebrating the richness of life at every stage. Whether you’re planning celebrating independence with sparklers or a weekend filled with family, we hope this month’s issue brings insight, information and a touch of sweetness.
In our feature, we sit down with travel agent Elizabeth Armstrong of Rosewater Travel to explore travel and comfort. As we all know, travel can be both exhilarating and exhausting. From long drives to cancelled flights to dirty hotel rooms, we sometimes return home needing a vacation from our vacation. Armstrong offers tips and tricks for traveling well, in comfort and style.
In this month’s Ask the Expert, Amy Natt answers a reader’s question and addresses his concerns about helping his father avoid living crisis to crisis. She offers practical steps readers can take to help plan for the future so there are fewer crises and more opportunity to live the life you (or your loved one) have planned for.
Amy Phariss, Editor-in-Chief
Amy Phariss, LCMHC helps readers understand an oftenmissed mental health issue: adjustment disorder. What is adjustment disorder? How is it diagnosed, and what can we do if we find ourselves stuck during a transition
Well, it’s official: fall is here. I had my first pumpkin-spiced latte just ture dipped low enough to merit a fleece.
Don’t worry. It was decaf.
(move, retirement, divorce, illness, death, etc.), unable to fully adapt and adjust? Phariss explores these questions and more.
October is a gentle month. There are constant reminders of change. we are lucky, toward each other. We have lingering conversations over the flames flicker. Smoke dances around us in a circle. We zip our jackets
Finally, adding a touch of sweetness to the July heat, we’re including simple, quick ice cream recipes for a cool summer treat. The coffee-lovers among us will want to try at least one of these recipes.
In this month’s feature, we’re starting an important conversation: care community for ourselves or a loved one? Fox Hollow Senior Robin Hutchings offers inside perspective for making this decision.
In Ask the Expert, Amy Natt answers a reader’s question regarding away without any estate planning. Without a will or access to important
We hope everyone is enjoying the summer storms, spending time with people we love and having a healthy, happy summer. Fall will be here before we know it, and we’ll be missing these languid days when the world slows down.
Physical therapist Dr. Sara Morrison of Total Body Therapy and Wellness potential diagnostic tools used in physical therapy to help diagnose these tools differ from what other doctor’s offices may offer.
And Happy 4th of July to everyone! In the words of John Adams,
I’m going to agree with Nathaniel Hawthorne this month, who wrote:
I cannot endure to waste anything so precious as autumnal sunshine spent almost all the daylight hours in the open air.
Here’s to enjoying the October sunshine, falling leaves and daylight
“It will be celebrated with pomp and parade, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other.”
We hope your pomp and parade were lovely!
facebook.com/agingoutreach/ instagram.com/agingoutreachservices/
Amy Natt, MS, CMC, CSA - Aging Outreach Services | amyn@agingoutreachservices.com
Q: My dad has been to the emergency department multiple times in the past year. It’s typically something minor, and they send him home. We have tried to get him to come up with a plan for his increasing needs, but he says he is managing, and we don’t hear from him until the next crisis. How can we help him plan ahead for a better outcome?
A: This is a valid concern and one many people face as they get older and needs increase. First, it is important to understand why people tend to wait for a crisis before taking action. The answer is often human nature. People are hesitant to ask for help, especially when it might signal a possible loss to their independence. Acknowledging some of the changes that come with aging can feel like giving up control. We tend to be creatures of habit and resist change; sometimes it’s easier to pretend something isn’t happening.
THE RISK TO THIS APPROACH IS THAT MAKING DECISIONS DURING A CRISIS CAN LIMIT YOUR OPTIONS AND LEAD TO POOR CHOICES. PEOPLE THEN GET STUCK IN A PATTERN OF GOING FROM CRISIS TO CRISIS.
When under stress, people tend to react emotionally verses logically. Focus is on the immediate and not the long term. Decisions are made quickly, and it’s easy to overlook related risks and consequences.
While a crisis cannot always be avoided, there are things you can encourage your dad to do what will help him avoid managing life crisis to crisis. Increased communication and information sharing with key stakeholders, such as his adult children and a medical team will ensure his preferences are known if/when a crisis occurs.
Assessing any changes currently happening in his life and putting support in place to meet immediate needs will help stabilize things, allowing you to focus on long-term needs and solutions. This may look like getting someone to help with yard work, cooking or transportation. Assessing changes in each area of his daily life will help you both determine what added support is needed to reduce the frequency of ED visits. If he is resistant to sharing this information with you, consider a professional care manager to work with him and create a plan with multiple solutions he can consider. AgingLifeCare.org is a great place to locate someone in your area. Once you open the door to accepting change and finding solutions, continue to talk through different scenarios and how you all can meet his changing needs.
Some people are resistant to taking this step; in certain cases, all you can do is be prepared for the next crisis and use it as a springboard for action. There can be benefits to experiencing a crisis, especially one that highlights medical or mental health needs. These scenarios can be the wake-up call someone needs, a call to action or reality check.
GOING THROUGH A CRISIS CAN HELP BUILD RESILIENCY AND PROVIDE STRENGTH TO TACKLE THE CHANGES THAT ARE INEVITABLE.
A great example of this is someone who winds up in the hospital and is resistant to having care in the home or moving to a care facility. The hospital can make the discharge contingent on a “safe environment.”
The person is now faced with a decision to lead to the outcome they want, going home. This may prompt agreement to put care in place or to consider an alternate living environment. You can be ready to present those options.
What are the steps some can take to plan ahead?
• Do estate planning documents, even if you think you don’t have a lot of “stuff”. What would you want to happen to those things if you died?
• Complete your living documents to make your wishes known. These would include things like Power of Attorney (health care and durable) and a Living Will (what you would or would not want in a terminal situation).
• Create a care team. Who is your support network? This can be a mix of professionals, family and friends.
• Host family meetings to communicate preferences and share information.
• Consider a care management or social service assessment to fully determine needs, resources and solutions.
• Complete a planning guide, with questions that will specifically prompt you to document important information.
• Take time to research care options in your area. Visit options and make pros and cons lists and explore all options before you need them.
• Have a plan B – plan A doesn’t always work out. Be flexible and prepared to embrace change and explore multiple options.
• Consider an on-call service or emergency pendant that can provide an immediate response if you find yourself in crisis.
While there are certainly speed bumps to getting a plan in place or getting your dad to acknowledge that his needs are changing, the continued effort to do so will help to stabilize the situation and avoid repeat crises. Have patience and continue to encourage him to follow through with the planning process.
HOW TO ENJOY THE JOURNEY AS MUCH AS THE DESTINATION
by Amy Phariss
To help shed light on how to make travel more enjoyable and accessible for older adults, we sat down with Elizabeth Armstrong, founder of Rosewater Travel. With years of experience planning personalized trips for clients of all ages, Elizabeth specializes in creating smooth, enjoyable, and enriching travel experiences for seniors.
In this interview, Elizabeth shares her best advice on how to travel more comfortably—whether you’re heading overseas, planning a cross-country train ride, or finally booking that bucket list cruise. She offers practical tips on choosing senior-friendly destinations, comfortable plane travel, and making the most of each trip without feeling overwhelmed. She also addresses common mistakes travelers make and how to fix them.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting to plan your next adventure, Elizabeth’s insight will inspire you to travel smarter, with comfort and ease of mind. Her approach is all about reducing stress and maximizing joy, ensuring every trip becomes a memorable experience—for all the right reasons.
Let’s dive in.
ONC: What are your top tips for making long flights or drives more comfortable for your clients?
For long drives I like to work out before I go, so that sitting in the car feels like a nice break. I select really good podcasts and music to listen to. When I stop to get gas I try to do a quick little jog around the parking lot (even if I look crazy) or run in place and stretch to get my circulation going again. For flights, I try to stay away from alcohol and drink lots of water. I know that means going to the bathroom more often on the flight, but that’s also a good opportunity to stand, stretch and walk in place. I also always bring noise canceling headphones and download shows and movies on Netflix. Compression socks and an eye mask are also great to have.
ONC: Are there certain destinations or travel styles you recommend for travelers who want a low-stress, relaxing experience?
Almost any trip can be turned into a relaxing experience. It’s all about what type of accommodations you chose and being careful not to overbook your time - give yourself permission to slow down, and don’t worry about trying to see everything in one trip!
Take this quick quiz to see how travel-ready you are—and where you might want to plan ahead!
(Circle Yes or No for each question.)
1. Do you have a current list of your medications and medical conditions in your wallet or phone?
Yes or No
2. Have you checked if your destination and accommodations are mobility-friendly?
Yes or No
3. Do you know how to request assistance at the airport (e.g., wheelchair, early boarding)?
Yes or No
4. Have you packed any comfort items like compression socks, a travel pillow, or snacks?
Yes or No
5. Do you have travel insurance or know what your Medicare/plan covers while away?
Yes or No
6. Is your phone charged and set up for maps, translation, or emergency contacts?
Yes or No
7. Have you scheduled breaks or downtime in your itinerary for rest and recovery?
Yes or No
8. Have you told a family member or friend where you’ll be staying and how to reach you?
Yes or No
9. Do you have easy-to-carry luggage that won’t strain your back or shoulders?
Yes or No
10. Are you traveling with a flexible attitude and a sense of adventure?
Yes or No
8–10 Yes answers: You’re practically a pro! Just double-check the details and enjoy your trip.
5–7 Yes answers: You’re well on your way. Review the “no” responses and prep a little more.
0–4 Yes answers: No worries—some planning can turn things around. Use this quiz as your checklist!
ONC: What are some common mistakes travelers make that end up making their trips more stressful or uncomfortable?
They try to do too much. Everything just becomes a chore, and the artwork in the museums is all a blur. Give yourself permission to skip the Mona Lisa, and instead have a picnic at a park, take in the natural environment of the destination or chose to visit one or two museums instead of five.
Another mistake is not managing your expectations; I call it the Bride Syndrome. Just like a bride wants her big day to be perfect, many travelers who’ve waited a lifetime to visit a destination have a huge number of expectations of what the experience will be like. Traveling is life; it’s full of unexpected twists and turns, and sometimes the reality of a destination doesn’t meet the expectations. I suggest focusing on the experience, and just letting go of expectations.
ONC: What kinds of travel accommodations or upgrades do you recommend for travelers who prioritize comfort over cost savings?
Many people want the most basic and inexpensive hotel because they “just plan to sleep there and that’s all” but it’s worth it to splurge a little on your accommodations. A hotel with a higher rating is going to have better food, customer service, bedding and noise control.
WHEN YOU COME BACK FROM A LONG DAY OF SIGHTSEEING YOU MIGHT WANT A LITTLE BIT OF LUXURY.
When I went to India, I stayed in 4,5 and 7-star hotels and it made a difference. The higher rated hotels were divine and made my experience even more amazing!
ONC: How do you help clients with specific comfort needs—such as mobility issues, dietary restrictions, or sensory sensitivities—plan their trips?
This is where working with a travel advisor such as me is really helpful. A travel advisor is your advocate when creating a trip, and we make it our business to make sure these needs are taken care of. If someone wants to plan their own trip, they should be very specific about their needs, make sure they have a contact to refer to at the destination and plan ahead as much as
possible. It’s harder to address these needs and make accommodations on last-minute trips due to limited space and resources.
ONC: What travel products or accessories do you personally recommend to enhance comfort on the go?
Proper electrical sockets for the country you are traveling to, comfortable shoes are more important than pretty shoes, basic colors and clothing so you can re-wear items and avoid overpacking.
BRING CLOTHING THAT DOESN’T GO AGAINST THE LOCAL CULTURE.
Pack snacks and a refillable water bottle.
ONC: Finally, can you share an example of a trip you planned where comfort was a top priority—and how you made it happen?
There was a couple who wanted to visit a variety of spots in the Caribbean for a birthday celebration but didn’t want to go on a cruise. With my suggestions and research, they decided to choose one island and stay
at a resort that offered authentic local cuisine, special celebration options and local excursions. This allowed them to relax, enjoy the birthday and really get a true Caribbean experience.
Amy Phariss, LCMHCA, Clarity Counseling NC
Adjustment disorders are some of the most common but least understood mental health conditions. Often triggered by a significant life change—divorce, job loss, moving, illness, or caregiving—adjustment disorders can cause emotional and behavioral symptoms that interfere with daily life. Unlike chronic mental illnesses, adjustment disorders typically develop in response to a specific stressor and are meant to be temporary. However, when left unaddressed, they can escalate into more serious concerns such as anxiety, depression, or substance use.
This article explores the nature of adjustment disorders: what they are, how they show up, and why recognizing them matters. While many people expect to “bounce back” quickly after a life disruption, the reality is that transitions often take a deeper emotional toll than we expect. We beat ourselves up for not “getting over” things or for feeling deeply about what seems like a “common” event. Clients often say, “I don’t know why this still bothers me.” These thoughts and
beliefs actually feed into a cycle of negative thinking that creates more anxiety or depression, and healthy adjustment and adaptability become harder.
Understanding adjustment disorders can reduce stigma, encourage timely treatment, and promote resilience. With support—whether through counseling, social connection, or self-care—most people recover fully. Knowing when to seek help is important. In the following sections, we’ll look at risk factors, treatment options, and the importance of acknowledging life’s turning points as valid mental health challenges.
It’s a stress-related condition where an individual has an excessive reaction to a life change. The emotional response is more intense or prolonged than expected, given the stressor.
In older adults, this can be mistaken for aging, depression, or even dementia — but it’s distinct and treatable.
Adjustment disorders in later life are often triggered by transitions or losses, such as:
Retirement – Loss of identity, structure, or purpose
Loss of a spouse or close friend
Relocation – Moving to assisted living, downsizing, or moving in with family
Physical health changes – New diagnosis, decreased mobility, chronic pain
Loss of independence – No longer driving, needing help with basic tasks
Financial changes – Fixed income, outliving savings, or managing new expenses
Even positive changes (like becoming a grandparent or moving closer to family) can trigger stress responses if they disrupt routine or identity.
Symptoms usually begin within 3 months of the triggering event and may include:
Emotional Symptoms
Sadness or tearfulness
Irritability or anger
Anxiety or nervousness
Feelings of hopelessness or being overwhelmed
Behavioral Symptoms
Withdrawing from social activities
Poor self-care
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Sleep changes or appetite changes
These symptoms are not as severe as in major depression, but they do impair quality of life and functioning.
Misattributed to “normal aging” or grieving
Older adults may underreport symptoms or somaticize distress (e.g., stomach pain instead of sadness)
Health providers may focus on physical issues and overlook mental health
Adjustment disorder is very treatable, especially when caught early:
• Psychotherapy – Brief, supportive therapy (e.g., CBT or narrative therapy) can help reframe the transition and build coping skills.
• Support groups – Connecting with peers who are facing similar challenges can reduce isolation.
• Medication – Short-term use of antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication may be helpful in some cases.
• Lifestyle support – Encouraging routine, social engagement, movement, and spiritual or creative practices can help restore balance.
This recipe is simple, easy and versatile. You can use any flavors you wish. Some of our favorites are vanilla ice cream between Oreo cookies, strawberry ice cream between vanilla wafers, vanilla ice cream between soft-baked chocolate chip cookies and shortbread cookies (like Walker’s) with raspberry gelato.
Ingredients:
1 pint vanilla or chocolate ice cream
Mini cookies (chocolate chip, snickerdoodle, etc.)
Optional: sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts
Instructions:
1. Let ice cream soften slightly.
2. Scoop about 1 tbsp between two mini cookies.
3. Roll the sides in sprinkles or toppings.
4. Freeze for 20 minutes before serving.
Again, there are plenty of flavor combinations with this recipe. Our favorite is graham cracker crust, key lime ice cream and whipped cream. We also love Oreo crust and mint chocolate chip ice cream. If you’re feeling tropical, Haggen-Dazs’ Pineapple Coconut is perfect with a graham cracker crust, very Hawaiian and beachy.
Ingredients:
1 graham cracker or Oreo crust (store-bought)
1.5 quarts of ice cream (your favorite flavor)
Whipped cream
Chocolate sauce or caramel drizzle
Instructions:
1. Let ice cream soften slightly and spread evenly into the crust.
2. Smooth the top and freeze for at least 4 hours.
3. Before serving, top with whipped cream and drizzle with sauce.
My daughter ordered this at a swank coffee shop in Waikiki recently, and I loved sharing it with her. It was the perfect afternoon treat, a little pick me up with a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
1 scoop vanilla or hazelnut ice cream
1 shot hot espresso or 1/4 cup strong coffee
Optional: shaved chocolate or biscotti on the side
Instructions:
1. Place a scoop of ice cream in a small glass or bowl.
2. Pour the hot espresso over it.
3. Serve immediately with a spoon.
1) Study all weekend
38) Set edge-to-edge
ACROSS
1) Study all weekend
5) Newton with a bump on the noggin
I 0) Pompous "bye"
14) Murder mystery suspect
15) Saki's real last name
16) 37-Across booking
17) Brings to a conclusion
18) Pumpkin eater of rhyme
19) "Render therefore _ Caesar...
20) Org. approving new medicines
21) Well-connected kids' game
23) Western film "necktie"
25) Band-Aid necessitator
26) In style
28) High-pressure pitch
33) Glorify
34) One of the Barbary States
35) Constrictor snake
36) Ad-_ (improvises)
37) Well-connected travel guide listing
38) Set edge-to-edge
39) "To Crosswords" could be one
40) Sapid
41) Garbage
42) Socializes in search of new business
44) Submerged nets
45) It may appear after a long time?
46) Far from trailing
47) Like well-connected natives
52) Cap from Morocco
55) "This won't hurt _"
56) Gradually surrender to wind and water
57) Model builder's need
58) Chanel's famous fragrance
59) Where you look better upon exiting
60) "Encore!"
61) Acute, as vision
62) Astral objects
63) They provide easy times
DOWN
l) Master of whipping, beating and stuffing
2) Violently split
3) What well-connected lookouts do?
4) Woman who made it official
5) Like a playfully naughty grin
6) Blue shoe material of song
7) Starting poker chip
8) Neighborhood
9) Farm storage site
10) Has faith in
11) Sensational rating
12) Carry-on bag
13) Run_ (go nuts)
21) One expecting an RSVP
22) They don't go "boom!"
5) Newton with a bump on the noggm
24) Lubricates
I 0) Pompous "bye"
26) Breakfast side, sometimes
14) Murder mystery suspect
27) Iron_ (rust)
15) Saki's real last name
28) Seeks prey
29) First name in Mayberry
16) 37-Across booking
30) What well-connected tides do
17) Brings to a conclusion
31) Nit
18) Pumpkin eater of rhyme
32) Plasterwork backers
19) "Render therefore _ Caesar II
34) To-do list item
37) Certain British noble
38) Solo at an opera
20) Org. approving new medicines
40) Garment of old Rome
21) Well-connected kids' game
41) Like a football at kickoff
23) Western film "necktie"
43) Like some destruction
25) Band-Aid necessitator
44) Surface lusters
26) In style
46) Intense feeling of love
28) High-pressure pitch
47) It makes a stool a chair
33) Glorify
48) Slender woodwind
34) One of the Barbary States
49) Jambalaya ingredient
50) Old-style "Shucks!"
35) Constrictor snake
36) Ad-_ (improvises)
51) Weapon with weights on each end
53) 100 cents
37) Well-connected travel guide listing
54) This puzzle has two?
57) Clock standard, briefly
39) "To Crosswords" could be one
40) Sapid
41) Garbage
42) Socializes in search of new business
44) Submerged nets
45) It may appear after a long time?
46) Far from trailing
47) Like well-connected natives
52) Cap from Morocco
55) "This won't hurt _"
56) Gradually surrender to wind and water
57) Model builder's need
58) Chanel's famous fragrance
59) Where you look better upon exiting
60) "Encore!"
61) Acute, as vision
62) Astral objects
63) They provide easy times
