An Effective Response to the Impact of Health Stigma Is Within Our Reach

We’re experiencing a renaissance of civil rights in this country. A woman has run for President of the United States on a major party ticket. People can marry whomever they choose. The country is caught up in a retelling of the story of our founding fathers – in a hip-hop musical written by a Latino and featuring a colorblind cast.

Major shifts indeed. And we plan to ignite yet another – for people of every age, gender, and life situation. For people who have difficulty walking, seeing, hearing, or comprehending the world around them, and millions more who cope with health conditions, seen and unseen, that redefine their life options. Disability and other health challenges have many causes – from accident, to disease, to genetic chance. The result is often a daily test of individual resolve and strength. But along with these solitary struggles, there is one common to all: stigma.Continue reading

The Foundation Hosts Round Table on Long-term Care, Assisted Living, and Incontinence

Incontinence in long-term care and in assisted living was discussed at the Round Table.

Incontinence in long-term care and in assisted living was discussed at the Round Table.

Chicago, Ill. (June 1, 2005) – In April 2005 the Simon Foundation for Continence launched its program on Aging 2005 by hosting a two day round table discussion about the state of incontinence care in long-term care and assisted living. Experts brought together from throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe focused on the impact of incontinence on residents of these facilities. The meeting, held in Chicago, was chaired by Professor Christine Norton, PhD, RN, from St. Mark’s Hospital (U.K.) and Mary Radtke Klein, President, Assisted Living Associates (Oregon), both members of the Simon Foundation’s Advisory Board.Continue reading