About

Jeannette Franks, PhD, is a passionate gerontologist and for over 25 years taught ethics, grief and loss, and courses on geriatrics and gerontology for the University of Washington.  She received her PhD, MA, and BA from the UW.

Dr. Franks says, “After many years in the field of aging and long-term care, I’ve seen many mistakes and many wise choices. In my books I give tools and frameworks for better decision making.”  She is recently completely a new book: working title, Intentional Aging: 7 Practical Actions to Live Well and Minimize the Risk of Dementia.

This book is based on a series of interactive talks to hundreds of people called, “7 Actions You Can Take to Avoid a Nursing Home.” One of the most important actions you can take is to read her books!

Dr. Franks studied, worked, and taught at the University of Washington for over 30 years. She is a former board member of the Bainbridge Island Senior and Community Center for seven years and a hospice volunteer for over 10 years.  She served on the King County and Kitsap County Advisory Councils on Aging for a total of over 15 years.

Jeannette is also often recognized for her native plant and forest restoration.

6 thoughts on “About

  1. Hello,
    I saw you on a rerun of New Day NW several weeks ago and got your book soon thereafter. I am finding it very helpful and informative as I enter my 60’s. This article I saw in the Times today made me think of you and the book. http://www.seattletimes.com/pacific-nw-magazine/too-much-stuff-we-collect-it-all-our-lives-and-then-what/

    I hope you are well and thank you for the many resources and encouraging words you write of in your book.
    Sincerely,
    Peggy

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  2. Our 92 year old mother has been blessed with excellent health all of her life. With no underlying illnesses, eg., cancer, diabetes, etc…, she (and we) now face a very difficult situation. Although Mom is cognizant of most things, she steadfastly refuses to take meds which can help manage high anxiety. We had thought it might be “sundowning” but it now occurs all day long, starting in the morning. We have the help of the compassionate people at Hospice (Visiting Nurse Association) in Newport, Rhode Island. But, Mom’s own physician doesn’t seem to understand elder care issues. I’ve tried, in vain, to find an elder care physician or professional who can help with understanding symptoms, management of them and choosing appropriate meds to assist. I’ve wanted to keep Mom at home, as long as I can, but it’s becoming more difficult to be convinced we have a sufficient skill set to do so. Any suggestions, from you, will be appreciated. Thank you, in advance.

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  3. Hello, Jeannette, I enjoyed one of your workshops about a year ago and have just ordered your book. I’m wondering if you would provide a couple hours consulting to me on a creative project around housing for older adults. All best,
    Chris Kurjan
    ck.quiver@gmail.com

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  4. Hello, Jeanette,
    Mark Becker (our next door neighbor) conveyed to us your warm good wishes, for which we thank you! Have you had chance this year to visit our community garden, Rock Farm? We invite you to come and spend some time with us and perhaps we can talk a bit about habitat restoration and sustainability, and long term care issues (I currently serve on the board of the non-profit Martha and Mary).
    Best regards,
    Phil Rockefeller

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