COA May 2008 Evergreen Newsletter
NEW C.O.A. DIRECTOR
They say that to everything there is a time and to everything there is a season. This is the perfect time for me to come back home to Westport and again serve as Director of the Council on Aging. To all of my old and dear friends, please stop by the Senior Center for a visit. If we have never met, this is the perfect season to get to know each other. The future looks exciting and keep watching the “Evergreen” for details about new programs and activities. I hope to see your all soon. Mary Ellen Gomes
MAY IS OLDER AMERICANS MONTH
Your local Council on Aging is here to help you with information and referral to our programs and to other organizations. Isolation is probably the greatest problem facing the elder citizens of our nation. Let our staff help you overcome any anxieties you may have in solving your problems.
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
Begins on Tuesday, May 6, 2008, 7:00 p.m.,
Westport High School Auditorium
Take this opportunity to attend each night of Town meeting to vote on the budgets and other warrant articles.
MOTHER’S DAY, Sunday, May 11, 2008
ECONOMIC STIMULUS PAYMENT WORKSHOPS
AARP tax-aide, Jean Clapin, will conduct two (2) workshops at the Westport Senior Center to assist people in filling out the IRS Form 1040A.
If you only want to file for the economic stimulus payment, call the WCOA, 508-636-1026, for a seat at one of the workshops:
Monday,
May 12, 2008,
9:30 a.m.,
or
Thursday,
May 29, 2008,
12:30 p.m.
You should file as soon as possible, but no later than October 15, 2008 to take advantage of the stimulus payment for 2008.
AEROBIC EXERCISE -- Space is available in the Monday-Wednesday-Friday morning classes which start at 8:45 a.m.
Stop in and sign up!
BINGO--1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Tuesdays, May 6 and 20, 2008, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
POOL TABLES are available in the lower-level of the Senior Center from 9:00 a.m. -- 3:30 p.m. Gather a few players and enjoy a friendly game!
T’AI CHI – BASICS -- Space is available in the Friday afternoon Basics class which starts at 1:30 p.m. Call the Center, or stop in to observe a class!
CENTER CLOSING POLICY—When Westport Community Schools close because of unsafe weather conditions or emergencies, it is the policy of the COA to cancel all scheduled classes, programs, meals, and transportation. The COA office usually remains open. Listen to your local radio or TV station for school closing information—such as, Channel 10 TV.
INFORMATION AND REFERRAL to the network of services available to Westport residents, 60 years of age and over. WCOA is open Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
The SHINE Program (SERVING THE HEALTH INFORMATION NEEDS OF ELDERS)--information about Medicare, supplements, MassHealth. Phone consultations and office appointments.
TRANSPORTATION for Westport’s elders, and handicapped persons of all ages, Monday - Friday, to area appointments scheduled between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. When you make your doctor’s appointment, call us for a ride. Please have the exact doctor’s name, street address, and telephone number when you call.
MIND Knitting Quilting
AND Poetry Writing Watercolor
BODY
FITNESS Aerobics, Osteoporosis Prevention, T’ai Chi
PROGRAMS Call for space availability and fees-508-636-1026.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP w/ Phyllis
--1st Thursday--There will be no group meetings in May, 2008.
VISUAL IMPAIRMENT SUPPORT GROUP w/ Andrea
--3rd Tuesday-- BOOKS ON TAPE--VIDEO MAGNIFIER
Tuesday, May 20, 2008, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Transportation is available to Westport residents.
CHAIR MASSAGE BY KAREN--1st Tuesday
Tuesday, May 6, 2008, 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m.
This is a complimentary service—no charge.
BLOOD PRESSURE CLINICS
Tuesday, May 20, 2008, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Westport Town Nurse blood pressure clinic.
SENIOR AIDES PROGRAM
Coastline Elderly Services is eager to assist the 55+ residents in our communities to overcome barriers and secure employment in the Senior Aides Program. This is an income-based employment program. Contact Rita Boudreau at Coastline, 508-999-6400, Ext. 138.
“A study by DYG, Inc., a major national research firm, found that employers have positive attitudes toward older workers and an appreciation of their ‘work ethic’ which includes a commitment to quality, loyalty, a dedication to the company, as well as punctuality.” --Working Age
PODIATRY CLINIC--The next routine, toe nail-cutting clinic is scheduled for Thursday, May 8, at the office of Dr. Spiri in Somerset. If you need routine, nail cutting, call the COA for an appointment and a ride, by May 2nd, 508-636-1026.
FOOD PANTRY
Donations of canned food items are needed to replenish the food pantry at the Senior Center. Many requests have come in of late, and our shelves are almost empty. If you can contribute a can of stew, soup, meats, etc., please drop off your items during regular office hours--8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION
The Council on Aging will host its Annual Volunteer Banquet. “This affair is our way of thanking all those people who have given so generously of their time and effort.”
Invitations are being sent to all registered volunteers. If you did not receive your invite, please call us--508-636-1026!
Monday, June 9th, 5:00 p.m.
SHAKESPEARE
The historical character of William Shakespeare will be brought to life in a performance by Richard Clark at 12:30 p.m.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Westport Senior Center.
For a number of years, Mr. Clark has focused on presenting a series of one-person shows for community audiences throughout New England.
“Come and share some of the most memorable moments in dramatic literature. Laugh with the fools, cry with the afflicted, dream with the poets. Don’t miss the essence of the world’s greatest wordsmith.”
Call the COA in advance for seating reservations--508-636-1026.
CARL BISSONNETTE
Country, Bluegrass, Pop
Appearing at the
Westport Senior Center
Wednesday, May 28, 12:00 noon
Sing-a-long with Natalia
12:00 to 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 21
“Taking Control of Your Future: A Legal Check-Up”
Tuesday
May 27, 12:30 p.m.
Westport Senior Center
An elder law attorney will speak on a wide range of legal issues affecting the lives of seniors.
ECONOMIC STIMULUS PAYMENT WORKSHOPS
AARP tax-aide, Jean Clapin, will conduct two (2) workshops at the Westport Senior Center to assist people in filling out the IRS Form 1040A.
If you only want to file for the economic stimulus payment, call the WCOA, 508-636-1026, for a seat at one of the workshops:
Monday,
May 12, 2008,
9:30 a.m.,
or
Thursday,
May 29, 2008,
12:30 p.m.
You should file as soon as possible, but no later than October 15, 2008 to take advantage of the stimulus payment for 2008.
FRIENDS OF THE WESTPORT COUNCIL ON AGING, INC.
Supporting the Senior Center
P. O. Box N-192
Westport, MA 02790
The FWCOA will have its Annual Meeting on Monday, June 9th at 5:00 p.m. The brief meeting will be followed by the COAs Annual Volunteer Banquet at 5:30 p.m. The meal is being catered by Brantal’s located in Tiverton, Rhode Island.
Please contact the COA, 508-636-1026, if you are a registered volunteer and would like to attend the Banquet following the meeting.
Mark your calendar for another event:
WESTPORT POINT
HOUSE TOUR
Wednesday
June 25, 2008.
TOWARDS PREVENTION for Families
· Maintain close ties with aging relatives and friends. Keep abreast of changes in their health and ability to live independently.
· Discuss an older relative’s wishes regarding health care, terminal medical care alternatives, home care in the case of incapacitation, and disposition of his/her personal assets.
· Find sources of help and use them. Chore services, housekeeping, home-delivered meals, senior recreation, day programs, respite care, and transportation assistance are available in your community.
· With the older person’s consent, become familiar with his/her financial records, bank accounts, wills, safe deposit boxes, insurance debts, and sources of income before he/she becomes incapacitated. Talk and plan together now about how these affairs should be handled.
· Anticipate potential incapacitation by planning as a family who will take responsibility, such as power of attorney, or in-home care giving, if an aging relative becomes incapacitated.
· Closely examine your family’s ability to provide long-term, in-home care for a frail and increasingly dependent relative. Consider the family’s physical limits.
· Plan how your own needs will be met when your responsibility for the dependent older relative increases.
· Explore alternative sources of care, including nursing home, or other relatives’ homes, in case your situation changes.
· Discuss your plans with friends, neighbors, and other sources of support before your responsibilities become a burden. Ask for their understand-ing and emotional support--you may need them.
· Familiarize family members with emergency response agencies and services available in case of sudden need.
“Old age is not a disease--it is strength and survivorship.” --Maggie Kuhn
MAY IS OLDER AMERICANS MONTH
Your local Council on Aging is here to help you with information and referral to our programs and to other organizations. Isolation is probably the greatest problem facing the elder citizens of our nation. Let our staff help you overcome any anxieties you may have in solving your problems.
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
Begins on Tuesday, May 6, 2008, 7:00 p.m.,
Westport High School Auditorium
Take this opportunity to attend each night of Town meeting to vote on the budgets and other warrant articles.
MOTHER’S DAY, Sunday, May 11, 2008
ECONOMIC STIMULUS PAYMENT WORKSHOPS
AARP tax-aide, Jean Clapin, will conduct two (2) workshops at the Westport Senior Center to assist people in filling out the IRS Form 1040A.
If you only want to file for the economic stimulus payment, call the WCOA, 508-636-1026, for a seat at one of the workshops:
Monday,
May 12, 2008,
9:30 a.m.,
or
Thursday,
May 29, 2008,
12:30 p.m.
You should file as soon as possible, but no later than October 15, 2008 to take advantage of the stimulus payment for 2008.
AEROBIC EXERCISE -- Space is available in the Monday-Wednesday-Friday morning classes which start at 8:45 a.m.
Stop in and sign up!
BINGO--1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Tuesdays, May 6 and 20, 2008, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
POOL TABLES are available in the lower-level of the Senior Center from 9:00 a.m. -- 3:30 p.m. Gather a few players and enjoy a friendly game!
T’AI CHI – BASICS -- Space is available in the Friday afternoon Basics class which starts at 1:30 p.m. Call the Center, or stop in to observe a class!
CENTER CLOSING POLICY—When Westport Community Schools close because of unsafe weather conditions or emergencies, it is the policy of the COA to cancel all scheduled classes, programs, meals, and transportation. The COA office usually remains open. Listen to your local radio or TV station for school closing information—such as, Channel 10 TV.
INFORMATION AND REFERRAL to the network of services available to Westport residents, 60 years of age and over. WCOA is open Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
The SHINE Program (SERVING THE HEALTH INFORMATION NEEDS OF ELDERS)--information about Medicare, supplements, MassHealth. Phone consultations and office appointments.
TRANSPORTATION for Westport’s elders, and handicapped persons of all ages, Monday - Friday, to area appointments scheduled between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. When you make your doctor’s appointment, call us for a ride. Please have the exact doctor’s name, street address, and telephone number when you call.
MIND Knitting Quilting
AND Poetry Writing Watercolor
BODY
FITNESS Aerobics, Osteoporosis Prevention, T’ai Chi
PROGRAMS Call for space availability and fees-508-636-1026.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP w/ Phyllis
--1st Thursday--There will be no group meetings in May, 2008.
VISUAL IMPAIRMENT SUPPORT GROUP w/ Andrea
--3rd Tuesday-- BOOKS ON TAPE--VIDEO MAGNIFIER
Tuesday, May 20, 2008, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Transportation is available to Westport residents.
CHAIR MASSAGE BY KAREN--1st Tuesday
Tuesday, May 6, 2008, 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m.
This is a complimentary service—no charge.
BLOOD PRESSURE CLINICS
Tuesday, May 20, 2008, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Westport Town Nurse blood pressure clinic.
SENIOR AIDES PROGRAM
Coastline Elderly Services is eager to assist the 55+ residents in our communities to overcome barriers and secure employment in the Senior Aides Program. This is an income-based employment program. Contact Rita Boudreau at Coastline, 508-999-6400, Ext. 138.
“A study by DYG, Inc., a major national research firm, found that employers have positive attitudes toward older workers and an appreciation of their ‘work ethic’ which includes a commitment to quality, loyalty, a dedication to the company, as well as punctuality.” --Working Age
PODIATRY CLINIC--The next routine, toe nail-cutting clinic is scheduled for Thursday, May 8, at the office of Dr. Spiri in Somerset. If you need routine, nail cutting, call the COA for an appointment and a ride, by May 2nd, 508-636-1026.
FOOD PANTRY
Donations of canned food items are needed to replenish the food pantry at the Senior Center. Many requests have come in of late, and our shelves are almost empty. If you can contribute a can of stew, soup, meats, etc., please drop off your items during regular office hours--8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION
The Council on Aging will host its Annual Volunteer Banquet. “This affair is our way of thanking all those people who have given so generously of their time and effort.”
Invitations are being sent to all registered volunteers. If you did not receive your invite, please call us--508-636-1026!
Monday, June 9th, 5:00 p.m.
SHAKESPEARE
The historical character of William Shakespeare will be brought to life in a performance by Richard Clark at 12:30 p.m.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Westport Senior Center.
For a number of years, Mr. Clark has focused on presenting a series of one-person shows for community audiences throughout New England.
“Come and share some of the most memorable moments in dramatic literature. Laugh with the fools, cry with the afflicted, dream with the poets. Don’t miss the essence of the world’s greatest wordsmith.”
Call the COA in advance for seating reservations--508-636-1026.
CARL BISSONNETTE
Country, Bluegrass, Pop
Appearing at the
Westport Senior Center
Wednesday, May 28, 12:00 noon
Sing-a-long with Natalia
12:00 to 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 21
“Taking Control of Your Future: A Legal Check-Up”
Tuesday
May 27, 12:30 p.m.
Westport Senior Center
An elder law attorney will speak on a wide range of legal issues affecting the lives of seniors.
ECONOMIC STIMULUS PAYMENT WORKSHOPS
AARP tax-aide, Jean Clapin, will conduct two (2) workshops at the Westport Senior Center to assist people in filling out the IRS Form 1040A.
If you only want to file for the economic stimulus payment, call the WCOA, 508-636-1026, for a seat at one of the workshops:
Monday,
May 12, 2008,
9:30 a.m.,
or
Thursday,
May 29, 2008,
12:30 p.m.
You should file as soon as possible, but no later than October 15, 2008 to take advantage of the stimulus payment for 2008.
FRIENDS OF THE WESTPORT COUNCIL ON AGING, INC.
Supporting the Senior Center
P. O. Box N-192
Westport, MA 02790
The FWCOA will have its Annual Meeting on Monday, June 9th at 5:00 p.m. The brief meeting will be followed by the COAs Annual Volunteer Banquet at 5:30 p.m. The meal is being catered by Brantal’s located in Tiverton, Rhode Island.
Please contact the COA, 508-636-1026, if you are a registered volunteer and would like to attend the Banquet following the meeting.
Mark your calendar for another event:
WESTPORT POINT
HOUSE TOUR
Wednesday
June 25, 2008.
TOWARDS PREVENTION for Families
· Maintain close ties with aging relatives and friends. Keep abreast of changes in their health and ability to live independently.
· Discuss an older relative’s wishes regarding health care, terminal medical care alternatives, home care in the case of incapacitation, and disposition of his/her personal assets.
· Find sources of help and use them. Chore services, housekeeping, home-delivered meals, senior recreation, day programs, respite care, and transportation assistance are available in your community.
· With the older person’s consent, become familiar with his/her financial records, bank accounts, wills, safe deposit boxes, insurance debts, and sources of income before he/she becomes incapacitated. Talk and plan together now about how these affairs should be handled.
· Anticipate potential incapacitation by planning as a family who will take responsibility, such as power of attorney, or in-home care giving, if an aging relative becomes incapacitated.
· Closely examine your family’s ability to provide long-term, in-home care for a frail and increasingly dependent relative. Consider the family’s physical limits.
· Plan how your own needs will be met when your responsibility for the dependent older relative increases.
· Explore alternative sources of care, including nursing home, or other relatives’ homes, in case your situation changes.
· Discuss your plans with friends, neighbors, and other sources of support before your responsibilities become a burden. Ask for their understand-ing and emotional support--you may need them.
· Familiarize family members with emergency response agencies and services available in case of sudden need.
“Old age is not a disease--it is strength and survivorship.” --Maggie Kuhn
AARP tax-aide, Jean Clapin, will conduct two (2) workshops at the Westport Senior Center to assist people in filling out the IRS Form 1040A.
If you only want to file for the economic stimulus payment, call the WCOA, 508-636-1026, for a seat at one of the workshops:
Monday,
May 12, 2008,
9:30 a.m.,
or
Thursday,
May 29, 2008,
12:30 p.m.
You should file as soon as possible, but no later than October 15, 2008 to take advantage of the stimulus payment for 2008.
Stop in and sign up!
BINGO--1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Tuesdays, May 6 and 20, 2008, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
INFORMATION AND REFERRAL to the network of services available to Westport residents, 60 years of age and over. WCOA is open Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
The SHINE Program (SERVING THE HEALTH INFORMATION NEEDS OF ELDERS)--information about Medicare, supplements, MassHealth. Phone consultations and office appointments.
TRANSPORTATION for Westport’s elders, and handicapped persons of all ages, Monday - Friday, to area appointments scheduled between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. When you make your doctor’s appointment, call us for a ride. Please have the exact doctor’s name, street address, and telephone number when you call.
MIND Knitting Quilting
AND Poetry Writing Watercolor
BODY
FITNESS Aerobics, Osteoporosis Prevention, T’ai Chi
PROGRAMS Call for space availability and fees-508-636-1026.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP w/ Phyllis
--1st Thursday--There will be no group meetings in May, 2008.
VISUAL IMPAIRMENT SUPPORT GROUP w/ Andrea
--3rd Tuesday-- BOOKS ON TAPE--VIDEO MAGNIFIER
Tuesday, May 20, 2008, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Transportation is available to Westport residents.
CHAIR MASSAGE BY KAREN--1st Tuesday
Tuesday, May 6, 2008, 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m.
This is a complimentary service—no charge.
BLOOD PRESSURE CLINICS
Tuesday, May 20, 2008, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Westport Town Nurse blood pressure clinic.
SENIOR AIDES PROGRAM
Coastline Elderly Services is eager to assist the 55+ residents in our communities to overcome barriers and secure employment in the Senior Aides Program. This is an income-based employment program. Contact Rita Boudreau at Coastline, 508-999-6400, Ext. 138.
“A study by DYG, Inc., a major national research firm, found that employers have positive attitudes toward older workers and an appreciation of their ‘work ethic’ which includes a commitment to quality, loyalty, a dedication to the company, as well as punctuality.” --Working Age
PODIATRY CLINIC--The next routine, toe nail-cutting clinic is scheduled for Thursday, May 8, at the office of Dr. Spiri in Somerset. If you need routine, nail cutting, call the COA for an appointment and a ride, by May 2nd, 508-636-1026.
FOOD PANTRY
Donations of canned food items are needed to replenish the food pantry at the Senior Center. Many requests have come in of late, and our shelves are almost empty. If you can contribute a can of stew, soup, meats, etc., please drop off your items during regular office hours--8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION
The Council on Aging will host its Annual Volunteer Banquet. “This affair is our way of thanking all those people who have given so generously of their time and effort.”
Invitations are being sent to all registered volunteers. If you did not receive your invite, please call us--508-636-1026!
Monday, June 9th, 5:00 p.m.
SHAKESPEARE
The historical character of William Shakespeare will be brought to life in a performance by Richard Clark at 12:30 p.m.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Westport Senior Center.
For a number of years, Mr. Clark has focused on presenting a series of one-person shows for community audiences throughout New England.
“Come and share some of the most memorable moments in dramatic literature. Laugh with the fools, cry with the afflicted, dream with the poets. Don’t miss the essence of the world’s greatest wordsmith.”
Call the COA in advance for seating reservations--508-636-1026.
CARL BISSONNETTE
Country, Bluegrass, Pop
Appearing at the
Westport Senior Center
Wednesday, May 28, 12:00 noon
Sing-a-long with Natalia
12:00 to 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 21
“Taking Control of Your Future: A Legal Check-Up”
Tuesday
May 27, 12:30 p.m.
Westport Senior Center
An elder law attorney will speak on a wide range of legal issues affecting the lives of seniors.
ECONOMIC STIMULUS PAYMENT WORKSHOPS
AARP tax-aide, Jean Clapin, will conduct two (2) workshops at the Westport Senior Center to assist people in filling out the IRS Form 1040A.
If you only want to file for the economic stimulus payment, call the WCOA, 508-636-1026, for a seat at one of the workshops:
Monday,
May 12, 2008,
9:30 a.m.,
or
Thursday,
May 29, 2008,
12:30 p.m.
You should file as soon as possible, but no later than October 15, 2008 to take advantage of the stimulus payment for 2008.
FRIENDS OF THE WESTPORT COUNCIL ON AGING, INC.
Supporting the Senior Center
P. O. Box N-192
Westport, MA 02790
The FWCOA will have its Annual Meeting on Monday, June 9th at 5:00 p.m. The brief meeting will be followed by the COAs Annual Volunteer Banquet at 5:30 p.m. The meal is being catered by Brantal’s located in Tiverton, Rhode Island.
Please contact the COA, 508-636-1026, if you are a registered volunteer and would like to attend the Banquet following the meeting.
Mark your calendar for another event:
WESTPORT POINT
HOUSE TOUR
Wednesday
June 25, 2008.
TOWARDS PREVENTION for Families
· Maintain close ties with aging relatives and friends. Keep abreast of changes in their health and ability to live independently.
· Discuss an older relative’s wishes regarding health care, terminal medical care alternatives, home care in the case of incapacitation, and disposition of his/her personal assets.
· Find sources of help and use them. Chore services, housekeeping, home-delivered meals, senior recreation, day programs, respite care, and transportation assistance are available in your community.
· With the older person’s consent, become familiar with his/her financial records, bank accounts, wills, safe deposit boxes, insurance debts, and sources of income before he/she becomes incapacitated. Talk and plan together now about how these affairs should be handled.
· Anticipate potential incapacitation by planning as a family who will take responsibility, such as power of attorney, or in-home care giving, if an aging relative becomes incapacitated.
· Closely examine your family’s ability to provide long-term, in-home care for a frail and increasingly dependent relative. Consider the family’s physical limits.
· Plan how your own needs will be met when your responsibility for the dependent older relative increases.
· Explore alternative sources of care, including nursing home, or other relatives’ homes, in case your situation changes.
· Discuss your plans with friends, neighbors, and other sources of support before your responsibilities become a burden. Ask for their understand-ing and emotional support--you may need them.
· Familiarize family members with emergency response agencies and services available in case of sudden need.
“Old age is not a disease--it is strength and survivorship.” --Maggie Kuhn
Sing-a-long with Natalia
12:00 to 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 21
Tuesday
May 27, 12:30 p.m.
Westport Senior Center
An elder law attorney will speak on a wide range of legal issues affecting the lives of seniors.
AARP tax-aide, Jean Clapin, will conduct two (2) workshops at the Westport Senior Center to assist people in filling out the IRS Form 1040A.
If you only want to file for the economic stimulus payment, call the WCOA, 508-636-1026, for a seat at one of the workshops:
Monday,
May 12, 2008,
9:30 a.m.,
May 29, 2008,
12:30 p.m.
You should file as soon as possible, but no later than October 15, 2008 to take advantage of the stimulus payment for 2008.
Supporting the Senior Center
P. O. Box N-192
Westport, MA 02790
The FWCOA will have its Annual Meeting on Monday, June 9th at 5:00 p.m. The brief meeting will be followed by the COAs Annual Volunteer Banquet at 5:30 p.m. The meal is being catered by Brantal’s located in Tiverton, Rhode Island.
Please contact the COA, 508-636-1026, if you are a registered volunteer and would like to attend the Banquet following the meeting.
Mark your calendar for another event:
WESTPORT POINT
HOUSE TOUR
Wednesday
June 25, 2008.
TOWARDS PREVENTION for Families
· Maintain close ties with aging relatives and friends. Keep abreast of changes in their health and ability to live independently.
· Discuss an older relative’s wishes regarding health care, terminal medical care alternatives, home care in the case of incapacitation, and disposition of his/her personal assets.
· Find sources of help and use them. Chore services, housekeeping, home-delivered meals, senior recreation, day programs, respite care, and transportation assistance are available in your community.
· With the older person’s consent, become familiar with his/her financial records, bank accounts, wills, safe deposit boxes, insurance debts, and sources of income before he/she becomes incapacitated. Talk and plan together now about how these affairs should be handled.
· Anticipate potential incapacitation by planning as a family who will take responsibility, such as power of attorney, or in-home care giving, if an aging relative becomes incapacitated.
· Closely examine your family’s ability to provide long-term, in-home care for a frail and increasingly dependent relative. Consider the family’s physical limits.
· Plan how your own needs will be met when your responsibility for the dependent older relative increases.
· Explore alternative sources of care, including nursing home, or other relatives’ homes, in case your situation changes.
· Discuss your plans with friends, neighbors, and other sources of support before your responsibilities become a burden. Ask for their understand-ing and emotional support--you may need them.
· Familiarize family members with emergency response agencies and services available in case of sudden need.
“Old age is not a disease--it is strength and survivorship.” --Maggie Kuhn
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