by Dana Rubin‑Winkelman, MSW, CAPSW, Social Worker
October is a month of changing leaves, cooler days, important reminders, and opportunities to care for ourselves and one another. As autumn unfolds, our calendars begin to fill with appointments, community events, and preparations for the months ahead.
This month, I thought we could try something a little different and bring back an October Countdown! Think of it as a friendly nudge to take care of a few important things: make a plan to vote, check in on your health, prepare for the time change, give your brain a little workout, enjoy music that warms your heart, and stay connected to our Jewish community. You don’t have to do everything at once. Sometimes, one small step is all it takes to make a meaningful difference. So, grab your calendar, settle into your favorite chair, and let’s count down six simple ways to care for ourselves, our loved ones, and bring a little more light into our month.
“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” — L. M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables
1. Spark Your Civic Spirit: Make a Plan to Vote: The power is in our hands! Our next election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Use the power of your vote to make your voice heard! Looking for reliable information to help you prepare? Visit www.vote.org/state/wisconsin/ for information about voter registration, deadlines, voting requirements, polling locations, absentee ballots, and more.
A Few Important Reminders:
- Make sure you have the identification required to vote in Wisconsin.
- Double-check your polling location before Election Day.
- Mark your calendar and make a plan to cast your ballot.
“The vote is precious. It is the most powerful non-violent tool we have in a democratic society, and we must use it.” — John Lewis
2. Spark Your Well-being: Your October Health Check-In: As we count down the days of October, let’s take a moment to focus on our health! Check your calendar for overdue appointments and recommended screenings, and talk with your healthcare provider about vaccines that may be appropriate for you, including flu, COVID-19, RSV, and shingles. A quick conversation can help you stay informed about what’s right for your individual needs.
It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month! This is a great time to check whether you are due for a mammogram appointment. I am sure many of you know someone who has been through breast cancer or is currently undergoing treatment. My family has also been touched by cancer, so this request is personal. Today, I ask you to please make your mammogram appointment if you are due, and remind the people you love—your mother, partner, sister, and dear friends—to do the same.
Your October reminder: Take a moment today to make that appointment. A little care for yourself goes a long way!
3. Spark a Smoother Transition – Prepare for the Time Change: I often think about my friends who are caring for a loved one with memory loss. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 1, and turning our clocks back can affect sleep patterns and daily routines. For individuals living with dementia, changes in daylight may also contribute to increased confusion or agitation, sometimes called “sundowning.”
A little preparation can make this transition easier for both you and your loved one. Here are a few gentle strategies to try:
- Keep a consistent routine. Maintain familiar mealtimes, activities, and bedtime rituals.
- Let the light in. Encourage natural daylight during the day and keep indoor spaces comfortably lit as evening approaches.
- Keep evenings calm. Plan a simple, enjoyable activity and play your loved one’s favorite soothing music.
- Offer comfort and reassurance. Sit together, speak gently, and provide a calm, familiar presence if your loved one becomes unsettled.
- Check their comfort. Make sure the room is a comfortable temperature and consider a small night-light if shadows or darkness cause fear or confusion.
Remember, even small changes can make a difference. Planning ahead can help you feel more prepared and allow you to offer the patience, reassurance, and comfort your loved one needs during this transition.
4. Spark Your Brain: An October Memory Challenge: Just like our bodies, our brains benefit from regular exercise! Keeping your mind active with simple, enjoyable activities can support memory, attention, and overall cognitive health.
- Fall Word Association: Set a timer for one minute and write down as many words as you can think of related to autumn. Then, choose three words and use them to create a short story or memory.
- A Walk Down Memory Lane: Think back to an October from your past. What traditions, family gatherings, holidays, or seasonal activities do you remember? Write down three details or share your memory with a friend or family member.
5. Spark Your Soul with Music: Autumn Melodies: There is something magical about music that brings back memories, stirs emotions, and warms the heart. Take a few moments to relax, enjoy these autumn classics, and let the beautiful melodies transport you to another time and place. What song brings back a special memory for you? I’d love to hear which melodies have stayed with you through the years.
- “Autumn Leaves” by Nat King Cole — What a gorgeous, radiant voice! Enlarge the video and take in the beautiful fall scenery as you enjoy this timeless classic. Click here to listen.
- “Autumn in New York” by Billie Holiday — Let Billie’s distinctive voice and the lovely photos set the mood. All that’s missing is a cozy blanket and a crackling fire! Click here to listen.
6. Strength Through Community: Remembering October 7th and Supporting Israel: As we remember the lives lost on October 7th, we hold the victims, the hostages, their families, and all those whose lives have been forever changed in our hearts. We continue to stand with Israel, speak out against antisemitism, and support one another through the strength of our Jewish community. May prayer bring comfort, acts of kindness bring hope, and our shared traditions remind us that even in difficult times, we are never alone.
“We live by each other and for each other. Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” — Helen Keller
As we finish our October countdown, I hope you’ve found an idea or two to carry with you into November. Whether it’s taking care of your health, sharing a memory, enjoying a favorite song, or reaching out to someone you care about, remember that small things can make a big difference. May we continue to find ways to care for ourselves and bring a little more light into each day.
As we enter this season of reflection and renewal, I hope you find sweetness in unexpected places—a familiar song, a favorite recipe, a cherished memory, a beautiful day, or time spent with someone who makes your heart happy. May you and your family be blessed with good health, peace, meaningful connections, and many moments of joy in the year ahead.
If you have questions about healthy aging, memory changes, caregiving, or community resources, please feel free to reach out. I would be happy to connect. You can find me at DRubin-Winkelman@ovation.org.
Until next month, keep taking those little steps, sharing your light, and finding sparks of joy in each new day.
Warmly,
Dana
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