August 2015
Many Opportunities to Stay a Student BY ELLEN SCHMEDING DIRECTOR, AGING & INDEPENDENCE SERVICES
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Libraries and senior centers are go-to places for learnearning has always been a way of life for Judy Lewis. The former San Diego State University psychology ing, as well. The big benefit of these sites is that they are professor taught and conducted research for 36 years, in nearby, easily accessible in each neighborhood. Although the joy of learning is what brought Judy in addition to founding SDSU’s Weight Control Clinic and OASIS’s door, she sees other benefits too. mentoring first-generation college students. So, “Everybody 60-plus wonders, ‘Am I losing when she retired in 2008, she was delighted it?’ but my brain is being stimulated. I’m to learn about OASIS, the lifelong learning learning new things I didn’t have time for organization for adults 50-plus. Since discoverwhen working—and I am keeping up with ing OASIS, Judy seems to hardly ever leave. what is going on in the world.” She holds the record for the most classes ever Research supports that keeping mentally attended—600 and counting. She exclaims, “I active in retirement is one of the keys to feel like a kid in the candy shop when I look healthy aging. Scientists used to believe that at the course catalog; there’s so much to do!” the brain stopped growing and changing in As children say farewell to their summer adulthood. However, according to University break and prepare to head back to school, of Pittsburgh neuropsychologist (and recent older adults might consider how they too can Vital Aging speaker) Dr. Paul Nussbaum, the JUDY LEWIS get back into the classroom as Judy does and brain is a dynamic system. By introducing reap the benefits of being a student. Whether new stimuli and learning opportunities, people an in-depth, semester-long exploration of Greek mythol- can develop a “brain reserve” of additional brain cell ogy, or a one-day crash course on how to use an iPad, connections that may even be able to delay the onset of local lifelong learning opportunities abound. degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. OASIS is just one of many options for older adults seekSocial connection and physical activity are also esing lifelong learning opportunities. Most local universi- sential components of a brain-healthy lifestyle. OASIS ties and colleges have low-cost, quality programming offers opportunities for both. Judy explains, “There is a that focuses on the learning needs and interests of older real sense of community with lots of student-to-student adults. Each has its own unique format and offerings so interaction. People linger after class and chat. People seniors can decide on the style that best fits their sched- who may have never crossed paths in their previous lives ule. For instance, Judy enjoys traveling and spending have the opportunity to connect. And, for those who do time with her grandchilren, so she doesn’t commit to semester-long classes. (CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE)
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE) not have family, this is family for them.” Since retiring, Judy finds she is busier than ever, taking classes five days a week. And she is taking better care of her health, too. “I did not exercise before I retired. I always had an excuse. Now I do six classes a week… and I hate exercise! But what I’m doing is fun: Zumba, line dancing.” She adds that her fitness instructors, many of whom are in their 70s and 80s, are an inspiration: “They are not all 20 year olds who are a size 4 and you say, ‘There’s no way I can do that.’” Taking classes may be second nature for Judy, but even those who have not set foot in a classroom in 50 years will feel comfortable at OASIS and other learning sites. “There’s the opportunity to try something new without being judged. No one will argue with you or make you feel lesser. There is no stratification of any sort…no one has a title on the door; former physicians, waitresses… that doesn’t matter. It’s who we are now.” Looking back at how she thought her retirement might look, Judy says, laughing, “I thought I would initially spend a lot of time sorting through piles of paper. Well, I haven’t sorted through any papers!” Older adults are fortunate to have many wonderful lifelong learning options in San Diego. The following organizations offer high-quality, affordable educational opportunities without the pressure of grades or tests. So consider going back to school: San Diego OASIS Mission Valley: (619) 881-6262 Escondido: (760) 796-6020 http://www.oasisnet.org/San-Diego-CA OASIS offers adults 50+ the opportunity to experience a broad range of stimulating classes, from the arts and humanities to wellness, fitness, and more. Members can also participate in day trips, special events, and intergenerational volunteer work. San Diego Continuing Education (619) 388-1950 http://www.sdce.edu/classes/emeritus The Emeritus Program through San Diego Continuing Ed encourages adults 55+ to stay active intellectually, socially and physically. Topics such as Brain Fitness and Job Search Skills offer practical solutions to life’s challenges while other offerings target physical health or satisfy students’ intellectual curiosity. MiraCosta College (760) 795-8710 www.miracosta.edu/noncredit MiraCosta College offers older adult residents in North County free, non-credit courses in art, health, music, psychology and writing.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes Osher programs provide university-quality courses with outstanding faculty in state-of-the-art classrooms. Many class formats are offered including one-day mini-courses, workshops, book clubs, special events and more: Cal State University San Marcos Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (760) 750-4020 http://www.csusm.edu/el/olli/ SDSU Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (619) 594-2863 www.neverstoplearning.net/osher UCSD Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (858) 534-3409 http://olli.ucsd.edu/ University of San Diego University of the Third Age (619) 260-4585 http://pce.sandiego.edu Join fellow learners 55+ at USD every January and July for a 3-week “intellectual feast.” Learn from the region’s top leaders in a variety of industries such as medicine, technology, business, religion, military, and literature. Courses take place Monday through Thursday mornings. Libraries Many stimulating classes and workshops are available right in your neighborhood at your local library. San Diego County Library (858) 694-3900 www.sdcl.org San Diego Public Library (619) 236-5800 http://www.sandiego.gov/public-library/ Escondido Public Library (760) 839-4684 https://library.escondido.org City of Carlsbad Libraries Dove: (760) 602-2011; Cole: (760) 434-2870 www.carlsbadca.gov/services/depts/library City of Oceanside Library (760) 435-5600 www.library.ci.oceanside.ca.us City of Chula Vista Libraries (619) 691-5168 www.chulavistalibrary.com Coronado Public Library (619) 522-7390 www.coronado.ca.us Online Classes If getting out of the house is a challenge, free online courses are an alternative. Consider these: https://www.coursera.org/ https://www.khanacademy.org/
Honoring RSVP: LEAD WITH EXPERIENCE RSVP VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH The RSVP volunteer of the month is Bob Weishan, Administrator for California Highway Patrol Senior Volunteer Program in El Cajon. Bob organized the first California Highway Patrol Senior Volunteer Program in the state in 1996 and has led the El Cajon organization since its inception. His dedication, knowledge and BOB WEISHAN experience have made him a valuable resource for all CHP Senior Volunteer Programs throughout the state. He has been instrumental in developing programs and activities that are used statewide for volunteers to support both administrative staff and CHP officers on the road. Bob coordinates schedules and reviews requests and reports submitted by the community and Senior Volunteer Patrol road personnel, plus coordinates follow-up on those issues. He also organizes monthly meetings and runs training classes. He coordinates with local organizations and businesses to promote the Senior Volunteer Program and solicits donations to expand and fund operational needs. Bob has always been active in the community. He is now president of the San Diego Chapter of The Chosen Few and has also volunteered at the annual PGA Golf Tournament in La Jolla. He retired this year as Director of Marshalls after 45 years of service with that organization. Other endeavors include 23 years volunteering with the Chargers and 30 years coaching high school and college baseball and football. A. Robert Donohue had this to say about Bob: “I believe Bob’s caring for the community and assisting in community organizations and projects marks him as a superior candidate for this public acknowledgement of his service.” Congratulations, Bob, and thank you for the tremendous impact you are making in your community!
VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION REMINDER In case you missed last month’s announcement, the Vol-
unteer Recognition Celebrations will be held regionally in September and October. The emphasis this year will be on more fun and recognition. Invitations will go out this month to all those who volunteered 100+ hours in 2014. Your invitation will indicate your celebration location, date and time. Come and enjoy your fellow volunteers from a variety of volunteer sites. We are looking forward to honoring and celebrating with you!
GOT TIME? If you have the time, we have a volunteer opportunity for you! Across San Diego County, there are 94 organizations that need your help with 287 different volunteer job opportunities. The Senior Volunteer Office can help you find the right volunteer job for you. Call (858) 5056399 for more information.
BOARD’S VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH At the June meeting of the Board of Supervisors, Rudy Shappee was honored as the Board’s Volunteer of the Month. Rudy volunteers at the USS Midway Museum, where he started in plane restoration for the museum before the ship had even arrived in San Diego. After the ship arrived, Rudy continued RUDY SHAPPEE to volunteer in development and docent services. Rudy has now been a leading force at the Midway Museum for more than 11 years. He established the docent program, which is a vital part of the experience, especially since many docents have previously served aboard the ship. Rudy played a major role developing the museum’s educational curriculum. His crowning achievement was serving as the primary consultant on a multimillion dollar, multimedia theater and exhibition to tell the story of the battle of the Midway.
REGISTER NOW FOR SENIOR GAMES
NATIONAL HONORS FOR AIS PROGRAMS
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he San Diego Senior Olympics will be held in September and October, but now is the time to register as registration for many of the events closes three weeks prior to competition. There is a wide variety of sports including golf, basketball, swimming, track and field, pickle ball and more. Participants must be at least age 50 on or before Dec. 31 of this year. Cost is $40 to register, plus an additional sport fee from $2 to $45 depending on the event (some events have other fees, such as golf). If you are interested in participating in a team sport, such as volleyball, you can contact the sports commissioner assigned to that sport (and listed on the website) or email info@sdseniorgames.org. Opening ceremonies will be held Sept. 11 at Casa De Manana, 849 Coast Blvd., La Jolla 92037. To see a listing of sports and the dates of competion, visit www. sdseniorgames.org, or call (858) 292-5812.
NEW COUNTY SENIOR HEALTH REPORT
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id you know that nearly 60 percent of San Diego seniors are overweight or obese? And that the leading cause of death among adults 65+ is heart disease, followed by cancer? These are just a couple of facts in the new San Diego County Senior Health Report. The report includes basic demographics, such as the number of veterans age 65+ (23.8 percent) and the median income of senior households ($44,975). There are statistics on a variety of chronic and communicable diseases, plus injuries and mental health issues. The report gives our County and other providers of services for seniors the ability to see what areas might need more effort in prevention and education. For instance, the rate of falls continues to increase, especially among residents who are 85 or older. You can find the Senior Health Report on the website for the Community Health Statistics Unit; visit http://www. sdhealthstatistics.com and look under “Reports.”
everal programs that AIS originated or that AIS coordinates have just received awards from two national organizations. The National Association for Area Agencies on Aging has presented Aging Achievement Awards to four of our programs: the County’s Alzheimer’s Project; the RCFE (Residential Care for the Elderly) Rating System (both of which originated through the advocacy of Supervisor Dianne Jacob); the Acutely Vulnerable Adult protocol through Adult Protective Services, which provides wraparound services for seniors who are at high at risk of becoming for elder abuse victims; and the PIC program (Promoting Independence & Choice), a case management service through our Public Conservator’s office. All the national winners can be seen on the n4a website: www. n4a.org/Files/2015Awards_Final.pdf. The National Association of County governments also awarded The Alzheimer’s Project and the Acutely Vulnerable Adult protocol. Also honored were our Legacy Corps program, which provides respite for veteran/military families that have caregiving needs; and our Communitybased Care Transitions Program that has been successful partnering with local hospitals and health plans to prevent unnecessary rehospitalizations.
NEW TAI CHI CLASS IN SOUTH BAY
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he South Chula Vista Library is the site for a new Tai Chi class that will meet from 11 a.m. to noon on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The library is located at 389 Orange Ave., Chula Vista 91911. The County also coordinates interactive, goal-oriented workshops throughout the county called “Healthier Living” for people with chronic health conditions. Visit www.HealthierLivingSD.org to see the current schedule. To register for any of these free classes, contact Katherine Casabar at katherine.casabar@sdcounty.ca.gov, or call (858) 495-5500, ext. 3.
HELP KIDS - AND YOURSELF - BE HEALTHIER BECOME A LEGACY CORPS VOLUNTEER
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he Five & Fit programs in East County and South Bay are looking for adults (age 55-plus) to guide preschoolers and their families toward improved nutrition and enhanced physical activity. Activities include gardening, tasting fruits and vegetables and other nutritional education. The program pays a stipend of $100 per month for a commitment of 16 hours per month. For details, contact Pam Plimpton at pam.plimpton@sdcounty.ca.gov or call (858) 495-5769.
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he Legacy Corps is recruiting for its upcoming service year with applications being accepted at a volunteer orientation from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 6, at the AIS headquarters, 5560 Overland Ave., Third Floor, San Diego 92123. This unique opportunity accepts volunteers into a national service program to support veteran and military families through in-home companionship visits. Accepted members begin service on Nov. 1. Call (858) 505-6300 for details.
SEND IN YOUR ITEMS This monthly calendar welcomes your contributions. Just send items by the 10th of each month preceding the issue date to: Denise G. Nelesen, editor, Aging & Independence Services, PO Box 23217, San Diego, CA 921933217. Or you can e-mail to: denise. nelesen@sdcounty.ca.gov.
AUG. 3, MONDAY 9 A.M. TO 1 P.M. Veterans, Military and Families Benefits Expo will be held at the War Memorial Building, 3325 Zoo Dr., Balboa Park. RSVP: (858) 268-4432.
AUG. 3, MONDAY 1 TO 2 P.M. Transportation will be the topic of a workshop by Judi Bonilla at the McClellan Senior Center, 1400 Vale Terrace Dr., Vista 92084. Fee is $15; register at OASIS: (760) 796-6020.
interactions among drugs and vitamins. For details: (858) 637-3217.
AUG. 29, SATURDAY 12:30 TO 4:30 P.M.
AUG. 13, THURSDAY 2 TO 3 P.M.
“Decades of Dancing” will be presented by the Wheelchair Dancers Organization at the Balboa Park Club, 2150 Pan American Rd. in Balboa Park. Wheelchair dancers, their partners and local dance groups will display dance styles from the 20’s to the present. The event is free. For details, call (858) 573-1571 or email: bevweurding@san.rr.com.
“Maximizing Your Brain Health” will be presented Amy Abrams with the Alzheimer’s Association at the Grossmont Healthcare District Conference Center, 9001 Wakarusa St., La Mesa. RSVP: (800) 827-4277.
AUG. 20, THURSDAY 10 A.M. TO NOON “Good Start Workshop” for those newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and their families will be held at the Point Loma/Hervey Branch Library, 3701 Voltaire St., San Diego. RSVP: (800) 827-4277.
AUG. 27, THURSDAY 9:30 TO 11:30 A.M.
Learn if you want to become an entrepreneur at a training sponsored by AUG. 4, TUESDAY the Small Business Administration to be held at the Chamber - East County, 11 A.M. TO NOON “Aging & Driving” is a free program 3201 S. Magnolia Ave., El Cajon for caregivers at Temple Solel, 3575 92020. Learn about the mentoring Manchester Ave., Cardiff 92007. A provided to potential entrepreneurs similar talk will be presented from by the SBA. To register, contact Rosa 11 a.m. to noon on Monday, Aug. Rodarte at rosa.rodarte@sba.gov, or 10, at Temple Adat Shalom, 15905 call (619) 727-4877. Pomerado Rd., Poway 92064. To AUG. 29, SATURDAY RSVP: (858) 674-1123.
AUG. 13, THURSDAY 12:45 P.M. “Over-the-Counter Pharmaceuticals and Vitamins” will be presented by pharmacist Orly Shakked at the College Avenue Center, 4855 College Ave., San Diego 92115. Learn about
SEPT. 4, FRIDAY 8:45 A.M. TO NOON “The Golden Age of Intimacy,” a health fair sponsored by the San Diego County Council on Aging and focused on various aspects of intimacy, will be held at the War Memorial Building, 3325 Zoo Drive, San Diego 92101. Includes health screenings, speakers and resources. For details: (858) 674-6903.
SEPT. 22, TUESDAY 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. “Live Stronger Longer,” an event sponsored by the South County Action Network and dedicated to seniors and caregivers, will be held at the Community Congregational Church of Chula Vista, 276 F St., Chula Vista 91910. Free breakfast and lunch. RSVP: (800) 827-4277.
8:30 A.M. TO 1 P.M.
ADVISORY COUNCIL
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren event will be held at the San Marcos Community Center, 3 Civic Center Dr., San Marcos 92069. Speakers, resources, lunch and networking with other families in similar situations. RSVP for this free event: call 2-1-1.
There will be no AIS Advisory Council meeting in August. The next meeting will be at noon Monday, Sept. 14, at AIS, 5560 Overland Ave., Third Floor, San Diego 92123. These meetings are open to the public.
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