connections - Summer 2015

connections SUMMER 2015

Volume 39, Issue 3

Everybody Should Do Art A publication of the

a look at the art of Marion Coleman Also Inside: March for Meals Recap and Photos from the Race Center for Active Living Summer Classes and Trips ACCA Expands Geriatric Case Management Program

OFFICIAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDER

Athens Regional Health System looks forward to every exciting event and to providing unmatched care for the fans.

We’re the #1 fan of those we serve.

AthensHealth.org 2 connections

SUMMER on the cover

2015

table of contents

The art on the cover is by Marion Coleman. Marion has been involved with ACCA for over 25 years.

She is also a local folk artist whose work has recently been on display in several exhibits in the Athens area including the Lyndon House Arts Center and an exhibition by the Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation.

See and read more about Marion on page 10 of this issue.

features 7

19

22

delivering more than just a meal

ACCA is part of a nationwide study for its Meals on Wheels program and the results are in. partnerships are a plus

With the closing of Aging Resources, Inc. ACCA’s Geriatric Care Management program expands its services and staff.

at the station 6

around the bend

16

in development

44

on the scene

in every issue 4 5 10 27

letter from the ceo making it work an inside view cal program catalog

what you hear vs. the facts

20 common nursing home problems and how you can work to resolve them. summer spring 2015 3

LETTER AGING FAIRS WELL from the CEO

During the 2015 Legislative Session

ACCA’s local advocates along with members of the Georgia Council on Aging and the Georgia Gerontology Society worked hard this year in educating our legislators on the issues surrounding aging in Georgia. Phone calls, letters, emails and in-person visits at our state capitol were very effective. Most of the priorities that were presented in this year’s legislative session were passed. The benefits of their passage will be felt statewide.

The state budget additions that were passed for FY 2016 are: • $693,333 for 11 new Adult Protective Service Workers • $126,904 for Ombudsman Volunteer Training and technology upgrades • $1,727,800 for Home and Community Based Services • $107.594 for a new staff position at the Division of Aging for the Alzheimer’s State Plan • $1,634,762 for 8 new GBI agents to investigate elder abuse The legislative victories include: • Strengthening the law against elder abuse • Licensing for Home Care providers and employees • Clarity for POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) Forms • Urging higher education institutions to incorporate gerontology into their curriculums • Continuing Care Retirement Communities can provide care at home • House study committees on Adult Day Health and grandparents raising grandchildren In July, CO-AGE will host a priority setting session in preparation for the 2016 legislative session on July 9, 2015 at the Methodist Children’s Home in Macon from 10 – 2. Everyone interested in participating is invited. ACCA will provide transportation to and from the meeting. If you’d like to attend, please contact KaDee Holt.

I want to thank the legislative team from our area for their time, support and commitment to the older adults in our community. Their timeless effort on these issues have helped us build a safer and healthier Georgia for our older citizens. They are: Representatives, Chuck Williams, Spencer Frye, Regina Quick, Terry England, Tommy Benton, Mickey Channell and Senators Frank Ginn and Bill Cowsert. Hats off to you!

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Making it Work

CEO/President Jennie Deese Connections Editor KaDee Holt Board of Directors Mariah Pierce, Chair Shannon Wilder, Vice-Chair Joseph Frierson,III, Treasurer Julie Gaines, Secretary Charles Auslander, III Annette Barfield William Baxter (Honorary) Henry Brown Randy Christian Dr. Katheryn Davis Dawn Donovan Laurie Douglas Mary Erlanger (Honorary) Gary Franklin Robert Hardell Mary Ann Johnson Joyce Kitchens Tommie Mullis Paige Otwell Dr. Ram Reddy, MD Kathleen Smith Ross White Evelyn Wright (Honorary)

135 Hoyt Street Athens, GA 30601 706-549-4850

www.accaging.org © 2015 ACCA Connections is a quarterly publication distributed by ACCA throughout Northeast Georgia. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. Reproduction, in whole or in part, without the expressed written permission from the publisher, is prohibited. Advertising in this publication does not imply a relationship with ACCA. ACCA is a contract agency of the Northeast Georgia Area Agency on Aging.

An issue all about ART

By KaDee Holt | ACCA Chief Marketing Officer

ACCA’s Bentley Adult Day Health is one of the best kept secrets in Athens. As part of the National Volunteer Week, which was held during the month of April, ACCA recognized Geri Williams, ATR. Geri recently retired and relocated to Athens. She is a registered art therapist and has been volunteering with the Bentley Adult Day Health participants for almost a year.

The third week of April, Geri organized and displayed the participants work in their first art show here at ACCA. You can see many of their works of art in a gallery on page 45 of this issue of Connections.

Geri is just one of many volunteers that make the world of ACCA go around. Geri recently said, “They got me started volunteering over here after a career of art therapy with children. Now.. they can’t get me away from the place. It is so rewarding, the clients are teaching me more than I could ever dream of teaching them.”

Bentley’s Adult Day Care is designed for individuals who do not require 24-hour institutional care, but are not capable of full-time independent living due to a physical or mental disability. Adult Day Care’s respite program helps alleviate both the physical and emotional stress felt by many family members who care for a loved one on a day-to-day basis. The program allows the caregiver opportunities to run errands, visit with family and friends or just rest at home.

If you or a group you are involved with are interested in volunteering at Bentley Adult Day Health or with ACCA, please just give us a call at 706-549-4850. summer 2015 5

Photo courtesy Meals on Wheels America

Around the Bend

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delivering more than a

MEAL

By KaDee Holt | ACCA Chief Marketing Officer

A

thens Community Council on Aging’s Meals on Wheels program recently annouced the findings from a research study that Meals on Wheels America commissioned Brown University’s Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research to conduct with funding from AARP Foundation.

“This research validates what ACCA and volunteers have assumed for years. We were honored last year when Meals on Wheels America chose Athens as one of the 8 research locations. This study shows how critical this program is to our older adult community,” stated Eve Anthony, Chief Operating Officer at ACCA. Meals on Wheels America contracted Dr. Kali Thomas, PhD from Brown University’s Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research to design and execute the 15-week pilot study involving more than 600 senior participants to compare the experience and health outcomes realized by older adults who receive three different levels of service: Daily traditional meal delivery, once-weekly frozen meal delivery and individuals on a waiting list for meals.

“As a former Meals on Wheels volunteer and the granddaughter of a recipient, I have witnessed firsthand the valuable benefits this service provides to those fortunate enough to receive it,” said Kali Thomas, PhD, Principal Investigator, Brown University. “We structured this study as a randomized control, blinded study and what we found in the data is significant evidence that seniors derive several benefits beyond nutrition alone from this service.” Key findings include: • Those receiving and/or requesting Meals on Wheels services are significantly more vulnerable compared to a nationally representative sample of aging Americans.

• Those who received daily-delivered meals experienced the greatest improvements in health and quality of life indicators over the study period compared to the other two groups (individuals who received frozen, weekly-delivered meals and the control group).

• Those receiving daily-delivered meals reported greater benefits from their home-delivered meal experience compared to the group receiving frozen meals.

• Those who lived alone and received daily-delivered meals were more likely to report decreases in worry about being able to remain in home and improvements in feelings of isolation and loneliness over the study period, compared to the other two groups.

“The Meals on Wheels network faces tough choices forced by limited funding, rising costs, unprecedented demand and need, and increasing for-profit competition,” said Ellie Hollander, President and CEO of Meals on Wheels America. “Thanks to Brown University and AARP Foundation, we have the research-backed evidence that confirms what we’ve all known for decades anecdotally through personal experience: That Meals on Wheels does in fact deliver so much more than just a meal.” For more information, visit www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/MTAM.

Complete findings on next page.

summer 2015 7

A Little

A NEW RESEARCH STUDY FROM MEALS ON WHEELS AMERICA

Reminder from your

MOR E T H A N A MEAL

local

THE IMPACT OF MEAL SERVICE DELIVERY ON THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF ADULTS 60 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER

A SENIOR WHO RECEIVES OR REQUESTS MEALS ON WHEELS SERVICES IS SIGNIFICANTLY MORE VULNERABLE THAN THE AVERAGE AMERICAN SENIOR.

OFFICE

By Jessica Bankston GeorgiaCares Program Director

G 71%

OF SENIORS NEEDING MEALS ON WHEELS SELF-REPORT FAIR OR POOR HEALTH COMPARED TO 26% OF AVERAGE SENIORS.

NEARLY TWICE AS MANY SENIORS ON MEALS ON WHEELS WAITING LISTS REPORT DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY COMPARED TO AVERAGE SENIORS.

79%

87%

OF SENIORS NEEDING MEALS ON WHEELS INDICATE THAT THEIR FEAR OF FALLING LIMITED THEIR ACTIVITIES COMPARED TO 43% OF AVERAGE SENIORS.

OF SENIORS NEEDING MEALS ON WHEELS ARE PHYSICALLY UNABLE TO SHOP FOR GROCERIES COMPARED TO 23% OF AVERAGE SENIORS.

A SENIOR WHO RECEIVES DAILY-DELIVERED MEALS EXPERIENCES THE GREATEST IMPROVEMENTS IN HEALTH AND QUALITY OF LIFE COMPARED TO A SENIOR WHO RECEIVES FROZEN, WEEKLY-DELIVERED MEALS OR NO MEALS AT ALL.

IMPROVEMENT IN MENTAL HEALTH (I.E., ANXIETY)

IMPROVEMENT IN SELF-RATED HEALTH

REDUCTIONS IN THE RATE OF FALLS

IMPROVEMENT IN FEELINGS OF ISOLATION AND LONELINESS

REDUCTIONS IN WORRYING ABOUT BEING ABLE TO REMAIN AT HOME

WHEN COMPARED WITH A SENIOR WHO RECEIVES JUST FROZEN MEALS ONLY ONCE A WEEK, A SENIOR WHO RECEIVES DAILY-DELIVERED MEALS IS MORE LIKELY TO: ATTRIBUTE THE MEALS TO MAKING THEM

FEEL SAFER

REPORT THAT THE MEALS HELPED THEM TO

EAT HEALTHIER

NOTE THAT THE MEALS RESULTED IN

LESS LONELINESS

A SENIOR WHO LIVES ALONE AND RECEIVES DAILY-DELIVERED MEALS IS LESS LIKELY TO WORRY ABOUT BEING ABLE TO REMAIN AT HOME AND TO HAVE FEELINGS OF ISOLATION AND LONELINESS. Meals on Wheels America’s 15-week study involving more than 600 seniors participants was conducted

by Brown University’s Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research and funded by AARP Foundation.

For more information, visit www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/MTAM. More than a Meal® is a registered trademark of Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland, Inc. and is being used under a license agreement from such entity. © 2015 MEALS ON WHEELS AMERICA

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eorgiaCares would like to remind all Medicare beneficiaries to be aware of Medicare scams and fraud this summer! Did you know that Medicare scams, fraud, and abuse cost taxpayers billions of dollars every year? Scams targeting seniors are common and occur every single day.

By staying aware of common scams and protecting your personal identity, you can help us preserve Medicare and Medicaid for future generations! If you suspect Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse you can contact GeorgiaCares to report it. Contact us at 1-866-552-4464 at Option 4.

Continued on next page.

Be suspicious of doctors, health care providers, and medical suppliers who: • Ask for your Medicare number in exchange for free equipment/services or for “record keeping purposes.”

• Use telephone or door-to-door selling techniques.

• Use pressure or scare tactics to sell you expensive medical services or diagnostic tests.

• Bill Medicare for a service you never received or a diagnosis you don’t have.

• Bill Medicare for medical equipment for people in nursing homes.

Luckily, there are ways to protect yourself against scams and fraud by following a few simple tips: • Protect your personal information. Never give out your Medicare, Medicaid, or Social Security number to a stranger. GeorgiaCares and Medicare will never call you asking for your Medicare or Social Security number.

• Review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) and your Part D Explanation of Benefits (EOB) for errors.

Look for charges for services/equipment you did not receive, billings for the same service/equipment twice, or charges for services that were not provided by your doctor.

• Keep an accurate record of all health care appointments, tests, and x-rays you receive. Then check your Medicare statements to make sure the details of each service are correct.

• Be cautious of people offering free products/services and never accept medical supplies from a door-to-door salesman. Remember that Medicare does not send representatives to your home to sell products or services.

• Shred documents and all mail with personal information before throwing them away.

Protect: Detect: Learn to detect and know how to act on it.

If you suspect that you have been a target type of abuse, report immediately to the rePort: ofSMPanySenior Medicare Patrol.

Protect yourself from Medicare errors, fraud, and abuse.

coNtAct:

FUNDED IN PART BY THE U.S. ADMINISTRATION ON AGING

summer 2015 9

Photo by Jeremy Ayers

An Inside View

Everybody Should Do Art I

By KaDee Holt | ACCA Chief Marketing Officer

f you spend any amount of time around Marion Coleman, you will soon learn her passion for producing and studying art and then you will soon hear her say, “Everybody should do art.” Marion grew up in Athens, in fact, she was born at Athens General Hospital and can tell you story after story about how the city has changed and evolved over time but the one thing that remains true is that it has always been a town that embraced the arts and she has evolved with it. Marion describes Athens as “alive.” “It’s a living and breathing and thriving little community and town with lots of things always going on all the time,” stated Marion.

Marion began coming to the Athens Community Council on Aging (ACCA) as a volunteer and to accompany her aging mother. “Oh that was probably sometime in the late 80’s,” Marion said of when she started coming to 10 connections

the Center for Active Living (formerly art by definition. Merriam-Webster the Clarke County Senior Center). defines folk art “as the traditional, She went on to say, “I played in a typically anonymous art of usually kitchen band and we would come untrained people.” Marion hasn’t here to play for the older adults and had any formal training. Like most they really, really enjoyed it.” Marion folk artists, Marion does it because would play piano as a volunteer at she finds fulfillment in the creative ACCA while her mother socialized process and the final productions. and received some of the benefits She says, “I just enjoy doing it. of attending the center. At that time It’s kind of like a force that just in Marion’s life, piano and music directs what I do when I’m painting were her artistic or creating outlets and “I was able to really something.

I where she found don’t think I can find therapy in art her creativity practice and flourishing. Her and I believe some get better at mother passed of my talents that it or anything away and Marion like that… it’s I had kept away found herself a very natural really starting for so long, really way to express to find therapy myself.” Marion started to come in painting and often goes back out… it was quite doodling on and looks at her basically anything an interesting thing artwork and can’t that was standing believe she was to have happen to still. Marion has the one who did me personally...” painted on lots it. “I sometimes of things. She surprise even has even used paper plates for her myself,” she says. canvases. “After mother died, I was A recent article from arttherapyblog. able to really find therapy in art and com says, “If you go into art I believe some of my talents that I as therapy and learn about the had kept away for so long, really basic concepts and ideas that it started to come out… it was quite represents, then you can learn a an interesting thing to have happen lot about yourself through your to me personally,” Marion said. own isolated creative expression.

Marion doesn’t necessarily It’s something you can do on your consider herself all that talented but own to just relieve stress, discover anyone who sees her art and hears yourself in new ways, etc. It’s also her passion would have a very something you can do with other different opinion. She describes her people. It’s truly a beautiful thing style as “folk artish but really fun with when you’re sharing art in an open, lots of pretty colors and shapes.” friendly, loving environment with And her art would be considered folk other people that are on the same Continued on next page.

summer 2015 11

wave.” ACCA’s Center for Active Living has art classes each Thursday and they are led by a local volunteer, Emily Hogan. Emily, like many art teachers thinks there is therapeutic elements of art and the creation process (see another story about the art therapy at ACCA’s Adult Day Health on page 5). Emily creates a friendly and inspiring environment and has been one of Marion’s biggest supporters and mentors.

“Emily keeps me going. She pushes me to continue bring creative.

Most of the time she doesn’t think she is doing much for us but she is just so encouraging to all of us. Everyone is creative in a different way and Emily is so good encouraging everyone to do their best and really pointing out how beautiful their unique art is each day,” said Marion. This really ties in with Marion’s perspective about the different personalities that art takes on depending on the artist and the viewer. “Every single piece has a different history, a different personality and it can change with the person that is viewing it. Art really is amazing and is in the eye of the beholder,” says Marion.

Marion has really created some beautiful pieces of art. Her art has been selected and displayed in Juried shows at the Lyndon House Art Center here in Athens on two separate occasions. Her folk art was also selected and part of the recent exhibit “The Great Folk Parade: From Finster Forward” with the Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation in Watkinsville.

Marion has three pieces displayed in a Vermont Bed and Breakfast and internationally with a couple of pieces making their way to Belgium.

Marion’s happy and colorful personality really comes alive through her art. Next time you are at an art show, make sure to look for Marion’s work.

She is still creating her pieces and sharing them with our community. Marion has been known to donate select pieces of her work for charitable causes.

She has donated several pieces back to ACCA and also to Advantage Behavioral Health. Marion is an inspiration to us all on how we should live and express our creative side. And just as she says, “It can bring joy, so just do it! Everybody should do art!”

L to R: Gwen O’Looney, Peter Loose, and Marion Coleman at the recent Folk Parade show.

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THANK YOU

For the second year in a row, Athens Community Council on Aging would like to extend our warmest thanks to Zaxby’s (at 820 Hull Rd) for honoring our Meals on Wheels volunteers through the gift of food!

On March 25th , Zaxby’s donated lunch ‘to-go’! The volunteers were delighted by the generous spread and truly felt appreciated for their commitment to ending senior hunger.

Thank you again for showing your support of the Meals on Wheels program, Zaxby’s!

grandparents

RAISING

grandchildren

Summer Food Program Through a partnership with the Northeast Georgia Food Bank, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (GRG) will provide much needed assistance with meals during the summer months when the grandchildren are not receiving free/reduced lunches and breakfasts through their local schools.

The Summer Food Program will fill the gap left behind when schools close for the summer and breakfast and lunch are not provided. By filling this gap, we decrease the risk of the grandchildren within our programs going without nutritious meals during the summer months.

With help from our local partners, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren will provide twelve meals and four snacks, once bi-weekly during the months of May, June, and July, to approximately 70 school-aged children.

How can you help? We’d love to have you help pack! This summer, from May 26th to August 4th, the GRG staff will be packing food bags at the Northeast Georgia Food Bank.

Days that we will pack at the Northeast Georgia Food Bank: May 26th | June 9 | June 23 July 7 | July 21 | August 4 We will begin packing at 9AM and should be done no later than 11AM. Please wear closed toe shoes and comfortable clothing as we will be packing in a warehouse at the Food Bank.

If you’re interested in joining us, please call or email Paige Powell at (706) 549-4850 or ppowell@accaging.org.

summer 2015 13

Helping Mom with Her Retirement Income Strategy Submitted By Matt McKinney | Financial Advisor for Edward Jones in Watkinsville, GA

Mother’s Day is almost here. This occasion may have special significance for you if you’ve been fortunate enough to have your mother around for your adult life. So naturally, you’ll want to bring Mom some flowers or another gift.

But if she’s planning to retire soon, you may want to think about a longer-term way to improve her life — namely, by initiating a conversation about her retirement income strategy.

Of course, she may already have matters well in hand. But a great many people on the verge of retirement have not planned for those years, so you may be able to provide some valuable suggestions. Here are a few ideas: • Boost contributions to retirement plans. If Mom is still working, urge her to contribute as much as she can afford to her IRA and her employer-sponsored retirement plan, such as a 401(k). The chances are pretty good that she will be spending many years in retirement — in fact, the average life expectancy for a 65-year-old woman is 20.5 more years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. So she’ll want to accumulate as much as possible before she bids “adieu” to the working world.

• Discuss appropriate withdrawal rates. Encourage your mother to meet with a financial professional to determine an appropriate rate of withdrawal from her investments. To help ensure that she doesn’t outlive her resources, she needs to avoid taking out too much during her early years of retirement.

• Take care of legal arrangements. If you haven’t already done so, ask your mother if she has drawn up the important legal documents related to her estate plans. Does she have a will? Has she created a durable power of attorney, which allows her to name someone to make financial and health care decisions on her behalf if she becomes incapacitated? As you know, this is a sensitive topic, so you’ll want to approach it with care.

• Evaluate Social Security options. Your mother is probably well aware that she can start taking Social Security as early as age 62, but will get much bigger monthly payments if she waits until her full retirement age, which will likely be 66 or 67. But she may not know that she might be able to benefit from a Social Security “spousal strategy” that could result in her receiving more income than she could get by just taking her own benefits.

For example, if her spouse is the higher wage earner and can afford to delay taking benefits, your mother could eventually receive higher survivor benefits. Or, your mother and her spouse could employ a “file and suspend” strategy. Under this strategy, her spouse, upon reaching full retirement age, files for retirement benefits and then immediately requests to have those benefits suspended. As a result, your mother can file for spousal benefits, which would be larger than what she would receive at her full retirement age. To make sure they are making any Social Security-related moves correctly, though, your mother and her spouse will want to consult with a tax advisor who is thoroughly familiar with Social Security rules. You want your mother to enjoy a long, happy and active retirement. So, talk to her about the moves she can make to help turn that aspiration into reality.

This article is written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Copyright © 2014 Edward Jones, All rights reserved. Member SIPC. This site is designed for U.S. residents only. The services offered within this site are available exclusively through our U.S. financial advisors. Edward Jones’ U.S. financial advisors may only conduct business with residents of the states for which they are properly registered. Please note that not all of the investments and services mentioned are available in every state.

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KNOW WHO TO CALL WHEN YOUR BONDS ARE CALLED,

AND YOUR CD’S MATURE. Reinvesting after your bonds are called and your CD’s mature can seem overwhelming if you’re not prepared. That’s why it makes sense to call Edward Jones. That way you can find an investment that fits your specific needs. All you have to do to get started is pick up the phone.

Call or visit today.

Matt McKinney, AAMS® Financial Advisor 1020 Barber Creek Drive Suite 211 Watkinsville, GA 30677 706-227-2943 matt.mckinney@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

summer 2015 15

In Development

By Heather Sweaney | Center for Active Living DIrector

March for Meals

2015 A Huge Success

By Heather Sweaney | Director of the Center for Active Living

F

or the sixth straight year, ACCA was successful in generating awareness, recruiting and engaging new volunteers and securing new partnerships through our involvement in Meals on Wheels America’s March for Meals campaign.

During our 2015 March for Meals campaign, we participated in the 2015 Community Champions Week by inviting our local elected officials and community leaders to join us as we came together in a collaborative effort to show support of older adults and ending senior hunger by 2020. Community Champions Week gives community leaders an opportunity to better understand Meals on Wheels and its importance. By trading places with volunteers they got to experience the front lines and addressed the growing issues of senior hunger and food insecurity by delivering a meal and seeing the faces of those it affects.

ACCA woul like to thank the following community leaders of Athens-Clarke and Barrow Counties who took part in ACCA’s Community Champions Week: • Nancy Denson, Athens-Clarke County Mayor • Jared Bailey, ACC Commissioner 16 connections

• Sharyn Dickerson, ACC Commissioner • Daniella Belton and Tate O’Rourke, US Senator Johnny Isakson Office • Doc Eldridge, Chamber of Commerce President • Sheriff Ira Edwards, Chief Jimps Cole, Captain Hayden Hodges, Sergeant Dallas Pope, Corporal Erika Smith and Chaplain Toy Wilkins, Clarke County Sheriff’s Office, • Mimi Maumus, Chef/Owner home.made Catering • Classic City Roller Girls of Athens • David Maynard, City of Winder Mayor • Steve Martin, City Administrator of Statham • Sheriff Jud Smith, Barrow County Sheriff’s Office As part of March for Meals, we held our 5th Annual March for Meals Race. ACCA’s 5K/12K race symbolizes what we do best—serving our community 5 days a week for 12 months a year. The race course was paved with volunteers cheering and holding enlarged pictures of the faces they were running for. Our corporate sponsors and local businesses attended and generously provided refreshments and giveaways for runners and spectators.

This year we added a virtual race component to recruit Continued on next page.

supporters from all over the U.S. to run in support of our local MOW program and MOW programs all over the country. We had 38% state participation and are looking forward to seeing this number grow over the coming years. With awareness being a critical element in our success, we were thrilled to see the excitement and support of runners as they posted their involvement over social media outlets including using #MFMmoment.

Thank You To Our March for Meals SPONSORS THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS -COLOR: RED Pantone1945 C CMYK TRANSLATION: C-0, M-100, Y-56, K-18 RGB TRANSLATION: R-200, G-12, B-71

-COLOR: BLACK CMYK TRANSLATION: C-100, M-100, Y-100, K100 RGB TRANSLATION: R-0, G-0, B-0 -AMICI FONT: BERLIN SANS FB DEMI BOLD -POSITION SATEMENT FONT: ARIEL BLACK

AMICI P I Z Z A

.

W I N G S

.

F R I E N D S

TM

B&D FABRICATORS

SWEANEY and SWEANEY The Doroshenko Family

opa robby’s

MARKET See more pictures on page 44.

summer 2015 17

ATTENTION!

h

STOP

Do you have Medicare?

Do you pay more than $6.60 for prescriptions?

You may be eligible for the Medicare Savings Program. The Medicare Savings Programs help people with limited income and resources pay out of pocket Medicare expenses such as: premiums, deductibles, and co-payments. You may be eligible for up to $4000 each year in savings. Let us help you FREE of charge.

Please Join Us for a FREE Education Programs in Your County Soon

6/9/2015 6/10/2015 6/12/2015 6/16/2015 6/18/2015 6/25/2015 6/29/2015 7/6/2015 7/9/2015 7/13/2015 8/10/2015

10:30am 9:00am 10:00am 11:00am 10:00am 10:30am 11:15am 10:00am 10:00am 10:00am 10:00am

Barrow County Senior Center Oconee County Senior Center Elbert County Senior Center Newton County Senior Center Greene County Senior Center Jasper County Senior Center Walton County Senior Center Center for Active Livign at ACCA Madison County Senior Center Jackson County Senior Center Morgan County Senior Center

80 Lee St. in Winder 3500 Hog Mountain Rd. in Watkinsville 1041 Mobley Hill Rd. Elberton GA 30635 6183 Turner Lake Complex in Covington 1031 Silver Dr. in Greensboro 26 Mack Tillman Rd. in Monticello 1400 S. Madison Ave. in Monroe 135 Hoyt St. in Athens GA 1265 Hwy 98 West in Danielsville 151 General Jackson Dr. in Jefferson 991 South Main St. in Madison

GeorgiaCares is a FREE program at the Athens Community Council on Aging. It helps people understand their choices and enroll in a Medicare plan that meets their needs so they can get the most out of their health care benefits. GeorgiaCares provides individual one-on-one counseling, community education, and outreach throughout the Northeast Georgia area.

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For questions or to make an appointment with a counselor in person, call 1-866-552-4464 and choose option 4 or visit us online at www.accaging.org or www.mygeorgiacares.org

PARTNERSHIPS ARE A PLUS Life Care Planning Team for Northeast Georgia from L to R: Julie Hanna, MSW, ACCA Geriatric Care Coordiantor; Kelly Holloway, Elder Law Attorney at Fortson, Bentley, and Griffin; Mattee Barkdoll, ACCA Geriatric Case Manager; and Jessica Bankston, GeorgiaCares Coordinator and Benefits Counselor.

A

ging Resources, Inc., a Geriatric Care Management company in Athens closed its doors as of April 1, 2015. As announced in the last issue of Connections, ACCA had recently introduced its own Geriatric Care Management Program and was thrilled we were in a position to help in this transition. The on-going Care Coordination clients transferred their business to ACCA and ACCA brought Julie Hanna, MSW on board as staff. Julie has been serving older adults with Geriatric Care Coordination for the last fifteen years at Aging Resources, Inc. Now, Julie continues to provide excellent service to these clients each month, but now under the ACCA umbrella. She brings a wealth of experience in assessment, planning and coordination, and is an outstanding asset to our new Geriatric Care Management program and to ACCA. With that in mind, ACCA and Fortson, Bentley and Griffin are collaborating as the Life Care Planning Team at ACCA. This Life Care Planning Team has the expertise to provide the answers at a time of

By Mattee Barkdoll | ACCA Geriatric Case Manager

uncertainty. The Team members provide elder planning, work together to help you build strong foundations, put together care plans, find additional income, preserve assets and more. They ensure that responsible family members and their elderly loved ones receive competent guidance. Let us be the experts and sort out the details for you in a convenient one-stop program!

The new Life Care Planning Team consists of professionals who evaluate the quality of life and quality of care above all other goals. Through individualized care coordination, the team’s focus is on longterm services, financial care and complete benefits counseling. This comprehensive partnership provides families with the appropriate resources and support which ensure quality care for your loved ones while providing caregivers peace of mind. The team is made up of professionals who can assist with elder law, care coordination, and benefits counseling.

Continued on page 24

summer 2015 19

GIFTS from a

Serving

Heart

T

By David Lorren | Senior Services Corps Coordinator

he day you help or give someone anything without any selfish expectations or ulterior motives is the day your real life begins. Ms. Pearlie Sims tells of the day her real life began, the day she walked into the Athens Community Council on Aging and volunteered to serve the Senior Service Corps program as a Foster Grandparent.

Perlie Sims pictured here in the classroom at J.J. Harris Elementary Charter School.

Sims has been a Foster Grandparent for a little over 3 years.

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You see, Ms. Pearlie’s life was always filled with love and companionship through relationships and community involvement. As is the case with many adults we all know, her time became increasingly consumed with caring for her aging mother. As the years passed Ms. Pearlie’s life became more and more involved with elder care that she withdrew from the interactions of those in her community with little regard to her own emotional satisfaction. But why worry with the problems of today when tomorrow brings a

t

new set of challenges? After all, she wasn’t giving anything up, her life was still filled with love and companionship and the bond of a daughter to her mother. But as with all things, that time caring for her mother would soon come to an end.

And so we begin another day. And although the sun illuminates our awakening it shines no clarity on the challenges we face. Pearlie soon began to feel isolated and lonely. Understanding what Pearlie was going through, Ms. Marion Deadwyler, a friend and Foster Grandparent herself encouraged Pearlie to visit ACCA and find out how she too could get involved in the community. Ms. Pearlie left the facility that day reinvigorated by having found what she was looking for; a new life through service.

Ms. Sims gives her time to the students at J.J. Harris Elementary Charter School developing, maintaining, and furthering relationships with students with some of the “The support our highest needs.

Through her work and selfless foster grandparents sacrifice to the community she is offer to children not only addressing the health of our community shows growth and but providing nourishment to strength in the self- her own physical and emotional needs. Of her esteem, confidence service she says “every day I have the opportunity to and kindness felt by make a difference in the life of a child all students.” and it brings so much joy to my heart.

Before becoming a Foster Grandparent I felt very alone, but now I have a renewed sense of purpose for my years by having the ability to share my love and understanding with these kids.”

On the impact of their service Mr. Scott Emard, Professional School Counselor at J.J. Harris Elementary Charter School states “the support our foster grandparents offer to children shows growth and strength in the self-esteem, confidence and kindness felt by all students. We strive to create a learning environment where each family, every individual, and all staff are embraced as part of our collective community family. Thanks to the love, warmth and compassion brought by Ms. Sims and Grandma-D (Ms. Marion Deadwyler) we continue to thrive in a safe, care-filled learning environment ensuring the success of all of our students.”

Through the Athens Community Council on Aging and the Senior Service Corps, citizens have an outlet to embark on life changing adventures in and around the community with partner organizations. Volunteers like Ms. Pearlie and Grandma-D have touched and re-imagined countless lives through the care they provide to the youth in our community.

If you or someone you know is interested in serving, we strongly encourage active adults age 55 and older to stop by and see us at Athens Community Council on Aging to explore the many benefits of service. We are conveniently located in the heart of downtown Athens on Hoyt Street. Here you will find a friendly face to answer all of your questions and assist you in writing a new chapter in your life.

For more information contact David Lorren, Senior Service Corps Coordinator by phone at (706) 549-4850 or email at dlorren@ accaging.org

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WHAT YOU HEAR versus THE FACTS 20 Common Nursing Home Problems and How to Resolve Them

Submitted by Keith Adams | Long Term Care Ombudsman Originally published by the National Senior Citizens Law Center and written by Eric Carlson in partnership and with support from the Commonwealth Fund

#1 No Discrimination Against MedicaidEligible Residents What You Hear: “Medicaid does not pay for the service that you want.”

The Facts: A Medicaid-eligible resident is entitled to the same level of service provided to any other nursing home resident.

#5 Limiting Use of Physical Restraints What You Hear: “If we don’t tie your father into his chair he may fall or wander away from the nursing home.

There’s just no way we can always be watching him.”

The Facts: Physical restraints cannot be used for the nursing home’s convenience or as a form of discipline.

#6 Prohibiting Inappropriate Use of #2 Care Planning Behavior-Modifying Medication What You Hear: “The nursing staff will determine the What You Hear: “Your mother needs medication in care that you receive.” order to make her more manageable.”

The Facts: The resident and resident’s family have the The Facts: Medication can be used to modify behavior right to participate in developing the resident’s care only when the behavior is caused by a diagnosed illness, plan. such as depression, for which a specific medication is needed for the resident’s treatment. #3 Honoring Resident Preferences What You Hear: “Because of our scheduling, your bath #7 Limiting Use of Feeding Tubes will always be at 2:00 p.m.”

What You Hear: “We must insert a feeding tube into The Facts: A nursing home must make reasonable your father because he is taking too long to eat.” adjustments to honor resident needs and preferences. The Facts: The use of a feeding tube should be a last resort. #4 Providing Necessary Services What You Hear: “We don’t have enough staff. You #8 Visitors should hire your own private-duty aide.”

What You Hear: “Your children can visit you only during The Facts: A nursing home must provide all necessary visiting hours.” care.

The Facts: A resident’s family member can visit at any time of the day or night.

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#9 ‘Responsible Party’ Provisions in Admission Agreements What You Hear: “We can’t admit your mother unless you sign the admission agreement as a ‘Responsible Party.’”

The Facts: A nursing home cannot require anyone but the resident to be financially responsible for nursing home expenses.

The Facts: Therapy should be provided whenever medically appropriate, regardless of the resident’s source of payment.

#14 Continued Stay in Medicare-Certified Bed Even After End of Medicare Payment What You Hear: “Because you are no longer eligible for Medicare payment, you must leave this Medicarecertified bed.”

The Facts: A Medicare-certified bed can be occupied by #10 Arbitration Agreements What You Hear: “Please sign this arbitration agreement. a resident whose care is not being reimbursed through It’s no big deal. Arbitration allows disputes to be the Medicare program. resolved quickly.”

The Facts: There is no good reason for a resident #15 Medicaid Certification for Only Certain (or resident’s representative) to sign an arbitration Beds Within Nursing Home What You Hear: “Even though you’re now financially agreement at the time of admission. eligible for Medicaid payment, we don’t have an #11 Determining Eligibility for Medicare available Medicaid bed for you.”

The Facts: A nursing home can certify additional beds Payment What You Hear: “We have determined that you aren’t for Medicaid payment. entitled to Medicare payment for your nursing home #16 Readmission from Hospital care, because of your limited health care needs.”

What You Hear: “We don’t have to readmit you from the The Facts: A resident can insist that the nursing home Continued on page 24 bill Medicare – the nursing home does not have the last word on whether the resident’s condition qualifies for Medicare payment. Once the nursing home is required to submit the bill, the nursing home has an incentive to consider with favor the resident’s need for therapy or any other qualifying skilled service. #12 Continuation of Therapy When Resident is Not Making Measurable Progress What You Hear: “We must discontinue therapy services because you aren’t making progress.”

The Facts: Therapy may be appropriate even if the resident is not making progress. Accordingly, the Medicare program can pay for therapy services even if progress for the time being is not being made. #13 Continuation of Therapy After Medicare Payment Has Ended What You Hear: “We can’t give you therapy services because your Medicare payment has expired, and Medicaid doesn’t pay for therapy.”

summer 2015 23

Life Care Planning, continued from page 19

The Elder Law Attorney will plan for the long-term services and supports with a focus on financing care. The Elder Law Attorney will: • Assess what care (legal, financial, personal) is needed immediately • Analyze how those needs for care might change in the future • Investigate what other resources are available in addition to money or public benefits • Determine the needs of the elder’s caregivers • Analyze whether this source of support for the elder can be relied upon to continue • Assess whether there is a current or looming caregiver crisis • Evaluate what health, social, and environmental problems contribute to the caregiver crisis • Consider the elders preferences and how these affect the planning

Hear vs. Facts, continued from page 23

hospital because your bed-hold period has expired.”

The Facts: A Medicaid-eligible resident has the right to be readmitted to the next available Medicaid-certified bed, regardless of the length of the hospital stay.

#17 Payment What You Hear: “You must pay any amount set by the nursing home for extra charges.”

The Facts: A nursing home can assess extra charges only if those The Care Coordinator will assess, educate and guide the client and charges were authorized in the family in determining a plan of care to best meet their goals. The Care admission agreement.

Coordinator will: • Assess and assist with creating a Road Map of Care #18 Resident and Family • Educate and Guide Councils • Refer to in-home care and home modifications What You Hear: “We have no • Refer to assisted living and/or memory care as needed available space in which residents • Be involved through the establishment of the plan or family members could meet.”

• Support and educate during crisis The Facts: A nursing home must • Guide and refer when a new level of care is needed provide a private meeting space for GeorgiaCares is a program providing free, unbiased, and factual information a resident council or family council. about Medicare and Medicaid. GeorgiaCares is a State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) that provides personalized counseling, education, and outreach to assist Medicare beneficiaries with their Medicare questions.

GeorgiaCares is also a Senior Medical Patrol (SMP) program, which empowers seniors to prevent healthcare fraud and abuse.

The GeorgiaCares Benefits Counselor will: • Enroll beneficiaries in a Medicare plan that meets their needs • Assist beneficiaries in determining eligibility and filling out applications • Apply for low cost prescription assistant programs • Help beneficiaries understand their right as a Medicare beneficiary • Analyze Medicare Summary Notices (MSN) • Sort through medical bills • File medical claims and appeals • Educates beneficiaries in order to protect their personal identity, detect potential errors, fraud, and abuse, and how to report fraud and abuse If you are interested in this new program, please give us a call at 706-549-4850.

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#19 Eviction Threatened for Being ‘Difficult’ What You Hear: “You must leave the nursing home because you are a difficult resident.”

The Facts: Eviction is allowed only for six limited reasons. #20 Eviction Threatened for Refusing Medical Treatment What You Hear: “You must leave the nursing home because you are refusing medical treatment.”

The Facts: Refusal of treatment, by itself, is not an allowable reason for eviction.

CONGRATULATIONS TO MEMBERS OF ACCA’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Annette Barfield was awarded the J.W. Fanning Humanitarian of the Year Award from the Athens Regional Foundation. It recognizes individuals who have “high personal values in their own life, while making significant contributions to Athens Regional through their time, interest and commitment to the medical center and the community it serves.”

Julie K. Gaines was awarded the Outstanding Faculty award for the Georgia Regents University Libraries at the Spring All Faculty Assembly. It is given each year to a librarian nominated by fellow librarians. Criteria for the award is based on quality of research, impact of research, grants publications, teaching, and community service.

Mary Ann Johnson was recently named the Vice President and future President of the American Society of Nutrition (ASN). ASN is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing together the world’s top researchers, clinical nutritionists and industry to advance our knowledge and application of nutrition for the sake of humans and animals.

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Formerly the Athens-Clarke County Senior Center, the Center for Active Living (CAL) is a multi-purpose center dedicated to offering a variety of opportunities for older adults to stay active while they age in Athens and surrounding areas. CAL provides learning opportunities to engage older adults (50+) by offering unique social, cultural, educational, and wellness-related classes and activities. Membership for Clarke County residents is $45 per year. These programs are designed for you and we want to see you here.

28 CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING | trips and off site adventures 32 CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING | ongoing fitness and wellness classes 36 CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING | ongoing social programs 39 CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING | columbia brookside programs 42 CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING | support groups and meetings 43 CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING |

educational classes and events

summer 2015 27

CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING |

educational classes and events

Class times subject to change or cancel, please check www.accaging.org or call 706-549-4850 for updates.

Live Well- A Chronic Disease Self-Management Program If you are living with a chronic disease or caring for someone who does, this 6 week seminar could be for you. Live Well-A Chronic Disease Self-Management Program is a behavioral and social program designed to help people gain self-confidence in their ability to control their symptoms and how their health problems affect their lives. These interactive workshops focus on building skills and sharing experiences for support.

The topics will include: Dealing with pain and fatigue, understanding better nutrition and exercise choices, understanding new treatments, and learning to talk to your doctor. Space is limited, call Heather at 706-5494850 to reserve your seat today!

Where: Hudson Conference Room When: Wednesdays, May 27th-July1st Time: 2:30pm-4:30pm Cost: Free

Getting Started with Genealogy Have you ever wondered where your family comes from? Are you interested in delving into your own personal history to learn about those who have come before you? Well this is an excellent opportunity for you to do so. Angela Stanley, a Heritage Librarian at the Clarke County Library will be heading to Columbia Brookside to help you learn the basics of genealogy.

She will talk about pedigrees, accurate record keeping, and much more. This 2 hour seminar has a cap of 10 participants, please contact the Center for Active Living at 706-549-4850 to reserve your spot!

Where: Columbia Brookside When: Monday, June 22nd Time: 10:00am-12:00pm Cost: Free

Center for Active Living Monthly Birthday Celebration Come and celebrate all of the June,July, and August Bone Density Screening birthdays! We will enjoy cupcakes and each other’s We are hosting our second Bone Density Screening, company. CAL will host a birthday celebration once which is sponsored by Athens Regional’s Community per month on the last Thursday of the month. We can’t Education department. Fall Prevention is a major wait to see you! initiative for the Center for Active Living and we are working to keep you fall free, through many different Where: The Round Room at ACCA program offerings such as this screening. Low bone When: Thursday, June 25th density is a problem plaguing older adults today. Time: 1:00pm-1:45pm Worldwide, osteoporosis causes more than 8.9 million Cost: Free fractures annually. Meaning, there is an estimated osteoporotic fracture every three seconds. This is an Where: The Round Room at ACCA excellent opportunity to get your bone density checked When: Thursday, July 30th before you experience a fracture. Call the Center Time: 1:00pm-1:45pm for Active Living at 706-548-4850 to schedule your Cost: Free appointment!

Where: The Round Room at ACCA Where: ACCA Hudson Conference Room When: Thursday, August 27th When: Tuesday, June 23rd Time: 1:00pm-1:45pm Time: 10:00am-11:00am Cost: Free Cost: Free 28 connections

CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING |

educational classes and events

We’re looking for instructors and suggestions. Call Amber (706-549-4850) to suggest a class or offer to teach.

AARP Smart Driver Learn how to operate your vehicle more safely in today’s increasingly challenging driving environment.

You’ll learn adjustments to accommodate common age-related changes in vision, hearing, and reaction time. You will also learn the following: How to minimize the effects of dangerous blind spots, the safest ways to change lanes, make turns at busy intersections, the proper use of safety belts, air bags, anti-lock brakes, new technologies used in cars, the effects of medications on driving, and the importance of eliminating distractions, such as eating, smoking, and cell-phone use. Space is limited, call the Center for Active Living at 706-5494850 to reserve your spot! Can’t make the July dates, look on page 32 for our August dates.

Where: ACCA Hudson Conference Room When: Thursday and Friday July 9th and 10th Time: 8:45am-12:00pm Thursday

9:00am-12:00pm Friday Cost: $15 AARP members, $20 non-AARP members Eating Well on a Budget We have all experienced the thought that the cost of groceries seem to always be on the upward climb. We may often times feel the foods that are the best for our health are the too expensive for our budget. BUT! It doesn’t have to be that way! We will be hosting, Julie Buffalo from Athens Regional, to talk about money saving tips, recipes for you to try, making better selections at the grocery store, and getting nutritious foods into a weekly meal plan, without overspending.

Please RSVP to the Center for Active Living at 706549-4850 by Monday, July 6th.

Where: ACCA Glass Dining Room When: Tuesday, July 7th Time: 10:00am-11:00am Cost: Free

Picture courtesy of https://registration.shoreviewmn.com

Member Meet and Greet Interested in meeting other CAL Members? We have the perfect opportunity for you to do so! Our Member Meet and Greet held here at ACCA will allow you to intermingle with CAL Staff and CAL Members. This quarter we will have various fruits and vegetables for you to munch on. We will also provide tea and coffee.

We look forward to seeing you!

Where: The Round Room at ACCA When: Thursday, July 9th Time: 1:00pm-2:00pm Cost: Free Fall Risk Screening Statistics show that 20-30% of people who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries ranging from lacerations to hip fractures or head traumas. Preventing falls is one of the best things a person can do for themselves.

Occupational therapists are coming to help lower your risk for falls by performing individual fall risk assessments. Call the Center for Active Living at 706549-4850 to reserve your spot by Wednesday, July 8th.

Where: ACCA Hudson Conference Room When: Wednesday, July 15th Time: 10:00am-11:00am Cost: Free summer 2015 29

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educational classes and events

Class times subject to change or cancel, please check www.accaging.org or call 706-549-4850 for updates.

Walk for Wellness Join your friends, or come and make new ones at the upcoming Walk for Wellness meeting. In the past, the meetings include: A health presentation, free blood pressure screenings, door prizes and breakfast provided by Chick-fil-A. Georgia Square Mall is a great place to exercise and you can even walk before the stores open! Get all of the benefits of walking in a flat, secure, climate-controlled environment. This program is sponsored by: The Center for Active Living, Arbor Terrace, The Athens Regional Health System, Georgia Square Mall, St. Mary’s Health Care System. For details, please call Mark at 706-389-3897.

Where: Georgia Square Mall Food Court When: July 21st

(3rd Tuesdays of odd-numbered months) Time: Breakfast begins at 8:00am

Presentation begins at 8:30am Cost: Free and open to the community

Outsmart your Smartphone Is your smartphone giving you trouble? Is it time to upgrade to a new phone but you are intimidated by what a smartphone is? Are you interested in learning how to use it and make it work best for you? If so, than this is the class for you! During our time, we will be answering your individual questions to the best of our ability and walking you through the solutions. Don’t miss this chance to make the most out of your smartphone. We look forward to seeing you!

Where: The Round Room at ACCA When: Tuesday, August 11th Time: 2:00pm-3:00pm

Cost: Free

Home Safety Seminar We are hosting the UGA Police Department for a Home Safety seminar. Sargent Stephens and Corporal Thompson will be highlighting ways to keep ourselves safe whether we live alone or with others. You will have AARP Smart Driver the full attention of two of UGA’s finest, so bring your Learn how to operate your vehicle more safely in questions. Space is limited, call the Center for Active today’s increasingly challenging driving environment. Living at 706-549-4850 to reserve your seat today!

You’ll learn adjustments to accommodate common age-related changes in vision, hearing, and reaction Where: ACCA Glass Dining Room time. You will also learn the following: How to minimize When: Wednesday, August 19th the effects of dangerous blind spots, the safest ways Time: 10:00am-11:00am to change lanes, make turns at busy intersections, the Cost: Free proper use of safety belts, air bags, anti-lock brakes, new technologies used in cars, the effects of medications on Vision Screening driving, and the importance of eliminating distractions, Come and have your vision checked in a comfortable, such as eating, smoking, and cell-phone use. Please laid back environment without having to schedule an contact the Center for Active Living at 706-549-4850 to appointment at the doctor’s office. A local Optometrist is reserve your spot! coming to perform one-on-one appointments. Call the Center for Active Living at 706-548-4850 by Monday, Where: ACCA Hudson Conf. Room August 24th to reserve your spot today!

When: Friday, August 28th Time: 8:45am-3:30pm Where: Columbia Brookside Cost: $15 AARP members, $20 non-AARP members When: Friday, August 28th Time: 10:00am-12:00pm Cost: Free for Members 30 connections

CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING |

educational classes and events

We’re looking for instructors and suggestions. Call Amber (706-549-4850) to suggest a class or offer to teach.

Lunch with a Therapist Diabetes can be a very scary disease to be diagnosed with and manage. However, knowledge gives us all the power to succeed. Our Lunch with a Therapist will focus on Diabetes and the importance of taking care of your feet. Diabetics often have difficulties with circulation and feeling loss in their extremities, especially their feet. Poor circulation can cause a number of problems, many of them life changing, for the diabetic so properly caring for one’s feet is very important. Lunch will be provided and included in the price of the seminar.

Please contact the Center for Active Living at 706-5494850 by Wednesday, July 22nd to reserve your seat!

Where: Columbia Brookside When: Wednesday, July 29th Time: 11:00am-12:00pm Cost: $10

Caring Man in a Van “Personal Care Transportation” Caring Man in a Van has revolutionized the medical transportation industry by setting new standards of service.

We are not just a transportation company but a Personal Care Transportation Company. We are known for not only being on time but we assist our patients in and out of medical facilities and are there when the patient has completed their visit. Waiting for hours to be returned home or to their nursing facility is not our policy. This keeps caregivers from having to take off work to assist their love ones.

Transportation for: • Ambulatory • Wheel Chair • Stretcher

706-769-0075 Local www.CaringManinaVan.com

We not only provide transportation to and from medical appointments but we extend our services to personal choices as well. We offer our same courteous service for events likes, Church, Weddings, Funerals, Thanksgiving, Christmas events, just to name a few.

855-342-1566 Toll Free

Call our office for price quotes and scheduling. summer 2015 31

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trips and off-site adventures

Class times subject to change or cancel, please check www.accaging.org or call 706-549-4850 for updates.

Attention Center for Active Living members: To ensure we are able to offer you the most enjoyable trip possible, payment for trips will be required prior to the deadline noted with each trip offering. When possible, we strive to purchase tickets in advance and avoid additional wait time for on-site ticket purchase. A full refund will be available until the deadline stated for each trip. If you have questions, please contact Heather with Center for Active Living at 706-549-4850.

State Botanical Garden of Georgia Join us for the beauty our own backyard has to offer.

The State Botanical Garden of Georgia is just down the street from us and we will be taking advantage of all it has to offer. We will stroll through the Tropical Conservatory, Shade and Native Flora Gardens, the International Garden, and the Heritage Garden. After our stroll through the garden, we will have lunch at locally owned NONA in downtown Athens. The cost of lunch is not included. Please RSVP to Heather at 706549-4850 by Wednesday, June 10th.

Where: Depart from ACCA When: Wednesday, June 17th Time: 10:00am-3:00pm Cost: $8.00 for CAL Members The Blue Willow Inn Come and enjoy a taste of the south. This southern style buffet opened in November of 1991 and has been a fan favorite ever since. You will be able to feast on anything southern you can possibly imagine. After we enjoy a magnificent lunch we will spend time shopping in Madison, GA. The cost of lunch is included in the trip cost. Please RSVP to Heather at 706-549-4850 by June 16th.

When: Tuesday, June 23rd Time: 10:00am-4:00pm Cost: $35 for CAL Members

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High Museum of Art We are heading back to the High Museum of Art, this time to enjoy the works of Alex Katz. His “This is Now” collection includes more than 40 remarkable works created between 1954 and 2013, which includes 15 monumental landscape paintings that are being brought together for the first time ever. Throughout the exhibit you will be able to follow the transition of Katz’s focus from people within a landscape to the landscape being the highlight of the piece. You will have the option of having lunch on your own at one of the cafes or restaurants located within the Museum. Please RSVP to Heather at 706-549-4850 by Thursday, July 9th.

Where: Depart from ACCA When: Thursday, July 16th Time: 9:00am-4:00pm Cost: $45 for CAL Members UGA Special Collections Library Tour Brought to you by popular demand! Come and enjoy the Special Collections Library at UGA. We will have our very own docent to tell us all the details about the collections and give us the grand tour. After we finish at the library we will have lunch at Last Resort Grill in downtown Athens. Lunch is not included in the price of the trip. Please RSVP to Heather at 706-549-4850 by Monday, July 20th.

When: Wednesday, July 22nd Time: 10:30am-2:00pm Cost: $5 for CAL Members

CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING |

trips and off-site adventures

We’re looking for instructors and suggestions. Call Amber (706-549-4850) to suggest a class or offer to teach.

Piedmont Park Art Festival We are attending the 6th annual Piedmont Park Arts Festival. This arts and crafts festival is an outdoor event that focuses on visual arts and family friendliness. The event will feature up to 250 painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metalworkers, glass blowers, jewelers and much more. Lunch will be on your own at the festival and is not included in the cost of the trip. Please RSVP to Heather by Monday, August 10th to reserve your spot.

Where: Depart from ACCA When: Saturday, August 15th Time: 10:00am-6:00pm Cost: $25 for CAL Members Georgia Museum of Art At the Georgia Museum of Art we are going to explore two artists, Art Hazelwood and Ronnie Goodman, confronting the realities of homelessness, poverty, war, corruption, and violence in their art. These artists use a wide array of mediums such as: Linocuts, woodcuts, etchings and books. We will have lunch at Taziki’s Mediterranean Café after we leave the museum. The cost of lunch is not included in the trip price. Please RSVP to Heather by Friday, August 7th at 706-5494850 reserve your spot.

Where: Depart from ACCA When: Thursday, August 20th Time: 10:00am-3:00pm Cost: $5 for CAL Members

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CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING |

trips and off-site adventures

Class times subject to change or cancel, please check www.accaging.org or call 706-549-4850 for updates.

Yellow Daisy Festival This event has grown from a small arts and crafts show to a full four day event. Join us as we visit Stone Mountain to browse the booths of over 400 artists and crafters from all over the country. We will enjoy live music, demonstrations, and yummy treats. We will have the opportunity to have lunch on our own at one of the many food vendors. We will surely enjoy this stroll through the woods at Stone Mountain. RSVP to The Center for Active Living at 706-549-4850 by Wednesday, September 9th.

Where: Depart from ACCA When: Friday, September 11th Time: 10:00am-3:30pm Cost: $35 for CAL Members Picture courtesy of http://allthingslifestyle.net/yellow-daisyfestival-preview/

A resource of business professionals providing services in the Senior Community. Serving Athens-Clarke, Oconee, and surrounding counties.

Companies in our network represent the following categories: Assisted Living / Independent Living Financial Services • Home Accessibility Home Healthcare • Hospice • Hospitals Medical • Medical Equipment • Medication Services and Resources • Transportation and Much More...

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www.athenssrn.com

Assisted Living Like You’ve Never Seen Before!

SM

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Have you ever thought an assisted living community could be a place for seniors to grow? A place for them to enjoy pursuing passions and improving their wellness?

assisted living like you've never seen before. It’s a safe place of detailed care where seniors can be social, stay physically and mentally active, and aspire to new goals.

We do, and that's what makes Thrive at Athens

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Movie theater with surround sound

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Simple and secure keyless suite access

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Three fine dining experiences a day

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706-521-0550

2040 Resurgence Drive Watkinsville, Georgia 30677 ThriveAtAthens.com Hello@ThriveAtAthens.com summer 2015 35

CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING |

ongoing fitness and wellness classes

Class times subject to change or cancel, please check www.accaging.org or call 706-549-4850 for updates.

Yoga Come find your inner peace and tranquility. These gentle yoga classes will stretch and empower your mind as well as your muscles. The instructors will gladly give modifications you can do if the move is more advanced than you feel comfortable completing. Please bring your own mat and a blanket for the relaxation portion of the class.

Where: ACCA Harris Room When: Mondays w/Eleanor Time: 3:00pm-4:30pm Cost: Free Where: ACCA Harris Room When: Tuesdays w/Chad Time: 2:45pm-4:15pm Cost: Free

Free Style Dance Groove to the music! This class takes many different dance techniques and combines them into fun and easy-to-follow routines. The music ranges from Oldies but Goodies to today’s Latest Hits. Burn calories and reenergize your day in one fun filled class. This class is enjoyed standing or from a seated position to best fit each attendee. The instructor will move between standing and sitting to keep everyone engaged.

Beginners are welcome!

Where: ACCA Harris Room with Jean When: Tuesdays Time: 11:00am-11:45am Cost: $2/class

Where: ACCA Harris Room When: Wednesdays w/Edna Time: 3:00pm-4:30pm Cost: Free Where: ACCA Harris Room When: Fridays w/Anna Time: 10:00am-11:30am Cost: Free

Line Dancing This is one of our most well attended classes here at the Center for Active Living. The class uses an eclectic mix of music to keep the class moving from beginning to end. Kathy, the instructor will walk you step by step through the dances and there is a tenured volunteer that will help keep you on track. Grab your dancing shoes and drop in for this excellent opportunity to exercise and still have fun.

Where: ACCA Harris Room When: Tuesdays & Thursdays Time: 12:00pm-1:00pm Cost: Free

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CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING |

ongoing fitness and wellness classes

We’re looking for instructors and suggestions. Call Amber (706-549-4850) to suggest a class or offer to teach.

Smart Moves with Becky This all around fun class, mixes the use of elastic bands, free weights, medicine balls to work your entire body.

Similar to Silver Sneakers, it focuses on improved overall balance, flexibility, and strength while listening to music. Smart Moves is a low impact class that can be performed seated or standing and is appropriate for all fitness levels.

Where: ACCA Harris Room When: Mondays Time: 9:00am-10:00am Cost: Free Where: ACCA Harris Room When: Thursdays Time: 2:00pm-3:00pm Cost: Free

On the Move with Kevin This class is a chair oriented class that includes: Aerobic, strength, and flexibility exercises. It is especially beneficial for those living with chronic conditions who require a low impact exercise program.

Kevin has many years of experience working with chronic conditions and makes individual adjustments to the routine to better serve each participant. This class is suitable for all fitness levels.

Where: ACCA Harris Room When: Thursdays Time: 10:00am-11:00am Cost: $5/class

buy local. eat fresh.

Community

produce stand b new time for spring

b

Athens Community Council on aging 135 hoyt street, downtown athens Tuesdays 11am until 2pm | open to everyone EBT, Cash, Card & Check Accepted For volunteer opportunities, contact SHvista@accaging.org Supported by UGArden and ACCA summer 2015 37

CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING |

ongoing fitness and wellness classes

We’re looking for instructors and suggestions. Call Amber (706-549-4850) to suggest a class or offer to teach.

YWCO Arthritis Water Exercise An Arthritis Foundation Certified program for individuals with arthritis. Increases range of motion and develops strength in a warm relaxing environment. Doctor’s permission is required. Present your CAL membership key card at the front desk of the YWCO to get the discounted rate.

When: Monday, Wednesday, Friday Time: 9:00am and 11:00am Cost: $7 When: Monday and Wednesday Time: 7:00pm Cost: $7

Where: YWCO Pool When: Monday thru Friday Time: 2:00pm-3:00pm Cost: $7

SilverSplash® SilverSplash is a universal, trademarked total body aqua conditioning class in a pool. SilverSplash focuses on increasing agility, range of movement and cardiovascular conditioning. Participants use the YWCO Water Exercise develop strength, balance and coordination in a safe, Water exercise provides general conditioning, flexibility, fun, and effective way. No swimming ability is required. and cardiovascular workout done in the pool. Excellent for all ages. Present your CAL membership key card at Where: YWCO Pool the front desk of the YWCO to get the discounted rate. When: Fridays Time: 2:00pm-3:00pm Where: YWCO Pool Cost: $7

ATHENS YMCA

915 Hawthorne Avenue

A full facility YMCA with 3 basketball gyms, indoor and outdoor pools, cardio and weight rooms, outdoor track, trails, fitness classes including water arthritis & more!

Senior rates

www.athensymca.org 706-543-6596 The Y. So Much More™ 38 connections

CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING |

ongoing social programs

Class times subject to change or cancel, please check www.accaging.org or call 706-549-4850 for updates.

Mahjongg Join us to play Mahjongg, a Chinese Tile Game. Some knowledge of the game and reservations are required.

The game is played in tables of four, however, the group is always looking for substitutes. Please call Sharon at 706-543-8524 for more information today!

Where: ACCA Bentley Conference Room When: Mondays Time: 1:00pm-4:00pm Cost: Free

learn communication skills by working in the Competent Communication manual, which includes a series of 10 self-paced speaking assignments designed to instill a basic foundation in public speaking.

Where: ACCA Hudson Conference Room When: Tuesdays Time: 11:30am-1:30pm Cost: $60/6 months; $20 New Toastmaster Member Please inquire about the fee for CAL Members

Intermediate Bridge Crocheting in the Round Join us in an informal setting to play bridge and socialize.

This class is designed for beginners who will learn No reservation needed. the basics of how to crochet and at an intermediate level learn more difficult projects. Beginning materials Where: ACCA Glass Dining Room provided. Taught by Sandie Nicholson When: Tuesdays Time: 1:30pm Where: ACCA Round Room (next to the Harris Room) Cost: Free When: Mondays Time: 10:00am-10:55am Cost: Free The Scribblers Welcome to a writers group that gathers to share various kinds of writing. The writing can be fiction or non-fiction. We welcome memoirs, poetry, stories, or anything that the writer wishes to share. Feedback can be given, if the writer wishes. Led by Sandie Nicholson.

Where: ACCA Bentley Conference Room When: Tuesdays Time: 9:30am – 10:55am Cost: Free Toastmasters This weekly meeting is a learn-by-doing workshop in which participants hone their speaking and leadership skills in a no-pressure atmosphere. Meeting participants also give impromptu talks on assigned topics, conduct meetings and develop skills related to timekeeping, grammar and parliamentary procedure. Members

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CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING |

ongoing social programs

We’re looking for instructors and suggestions. Call Amber (706-549-4850) to suggest a class or offer to teach.

Grand Slammers Newcomers Card Group This advanced bridge group meets on the 2nd and 4th Join other members to play the Hand and Foot card Wednesdays. game on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday and play Mexican Train on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday!

Where: ACCA Glass Dining Room When: Wednesdays Where: ACCA Bentley Conference Room Time: 1:30pm When: Wednesdays Cost: Free Time: 12:30pm-3:30pm Cost: $20; Call Nicki at 706-850-6615 for information Advanced Bridge This advanced bridge group meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays. The group requires reservations; please call 706-549-3160 to reserve your spot today!

Where: ACCA Glass Dining Room When: Wednesdays Time: 1:30pm Cost: Free

Picture courtesy of http://imgpod.com/playing-card-games-fortwo-people.aspx

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CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING |

ongoing social programs

Class times subject to change or cancel, please check www.accaging.org or call 706-549-4850 for updates.

Belle Hill Singers Join fellow members to sing traditional church music in a group setting and inspire individuals through the power of song. Performances take place every Tuesday and Thursday at different community centers, nursing homes, assisted living, senior centers, and adult health centers. Transportation is provided but is optional. New members are welcome regardless of singing ability. Call the Center for Active Living for current performance schedule.

Where: Meet at ACCA When: Tuesdays & Thursdays Time: 10:00am-11:30am Cost: Free UGArden Produce Stand The UGArden Produce Stand at the Athens Community Council on Aging runs every Tuesday from 11 AM-2 PM, from April-November. Fresh, organically grown vegetables from UGArden (a four-acre, student-run garden) are sold at prices below retail and at half cost for older adults at or below the poverty line, as well as those using SNAP benefits.

Profits from the produce stand support efforts to eliminate senior hunger in Athens, GA.

Where: Pavilion at ACCA When: Tuesdays Time: 11:00am-2:00pm Cost: Varying Prices

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columbia brookside programs

Class times subject to change or cancel, please check www.accaging.org or call 706-549-4850 for updates.

Getting Started with Genealogy Have you ever wondered where your family comes from? Are you interested in delving into your own personal history to learn about those who have come before you? Well this is an excellent opportunity for you to do so. Angela Stanley, a Heritage Librarian at the Clarke County Library will be heading to Columbia Brookside to help you learn the basics of genealogy.

She will talk about pedigrees, accurate record keeping, and much more. This 2 hour seminar has a cap of 10 participants, please contact the Center for Active Living at 706-549-4850 to reserve your spot!

Where: Columbia Brookside When: Monday, June 22nd Time: 10:00am-12:00pm Cost: Free

Lunch with a Therapist Diabetes can be a very scary disease to be diagnosed with and manage. However, knowledge gives us all the power to succeed. Our Lunch with a Therapist will focus on Diabetes and the importance of taking care of your feet. Diabetics often have difficulties with circulation and feeling loss in their extremities, especially their feet. Poor circulation can cause a number of problems, many of them life changing, for the diabetic so properly caring for one’s feet is very important. Lunch will be provided and included in the price of the seminar.

Please contact the Center for Active Living at 706-5494850 by Wednesday, July 22nd to reserve your seat!

Where: Columbia Brookside When: Wednesday, July 29th Time: 11:00am-12:00pm Cost: $10

One Call For All Your Home Needs

Call Today!

Remodeling Kitchen Remodel Bathroom Remodel In-law Suite Decks / Porches Basements Additions

Accessibility Modifications Ramps Grab Bars / SuperPole Bathroom Modifications Safe Home Entrance Wheelchair Accessible Walk-In Tub / Tub Cut-Out

706-549-0298

Interior & Exterior Repairs Painting Rotten wood Tile Sheetrock repairs Windows / Doors

Vision Screening Come and have your vision checked in a comfortable, laid back environment without having to schedule an appointment at the doctor’s office. A local Optometrist is coming to perform one-on-one appointments. Call the Center for Active Living at 706-548-4850 by Monday, August 24th to reserve your spot today!

Where: Columbia Brookside When: Friday, August 28th Time: 10:00am-12:00pm Cost: Free for Members

Vest Properties, Inc. Your Remodel & Repair Company Accessibility Modifications Craig Smith

Over 35 Years of Experience

CAPS (Certified Aging in Place Specialist)

www.VestProperties.com

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Picture courtesy of http://imgpod.com/photo-vision-screening. aspx

CENTER FOR ACTIVE LIVING |

support groups and meetings

Class times subject to change or cancel, please check www.accaging.org or call 706-549-4850 for updates.

Caregiver Support Group - Athens Area For any caregiver or any caregivers caring for someone with Alzheimer’s Disease or related dementias to fellowship with other caregivers, participate in educational programs, and gain knowledge from health care professionals.

Where: ACCA Bentley ADH Center When: 3rd Tuesday each month Time: 12:00 pm-1:00 pm Cost: FREE Alzheimer’s Support Group - Winder Area For caregivers or anyone caring for someone with Alzheimer’s Disease or related dementias to fellowship with other caregivers, participate in educational programs, and gain knowledge from health care professionals.

Where: Winder Adult Day Care When: Last Friday of each month Time: 12:00 pm-1:00 pm Cost: FREE

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren A support group provided for grandparents raising the grandchildren. Group topics vary in discussion from month to month and occasionally include informational materials and guest speakers. For specific dates and times, please contact Paige Powell at 706-549-4850.

Where: ACCA’s Hudson Conference Room in Athens and Rivers of Mercy in Monroe.

When: TBD Time: 12:00 pm-1:30 pm Cost: FREE Parkinson’s Support Groups A group provided for persons with Parkinson’s Disease and their caregivers. Group topics vary in discussion from month to month and occasionally include informational materials, guest speakers, or trips.

Where: ACCA Glass Dining Room When: 4th Monday each month Time: 2:00 pm -3:00 pm Cost: FREE

Recuperate & Revitalize There’s so much to love about the most luxurious lifestyle community in Athens, Georgia.

• 43 -acre community just minutes from downtown Athens • State-of-the-art skilled nursing and rehabilitation center featuring a HydroWorx® aquatic therapy pool • Independent Living cottages currently available with future plans for condos and an assisted living facility with memory care • Age comfortably in this active lifestyle community with peaceful surroundings and a wide array of amenities and activities

490 Kathwood Drive Athens, Georgia 30607 (706) 355-7400 pruitthealth.com

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ON THE SCENE

at the station

On Saturday, March 28, almost 200 runners joined ACCA’s March for Meals campaign to run for a reason.

Throughout the week leading up to the race, many community champions volunteered to bring awareness to the local Meals on Wheels program. Read more on page 16.

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ON THE SCENE

at the station

These are all works of the very talented clients from our Bentley Adult Day Health. Please read more on page 5.

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ON THE SCENE

at the station

Several volunteers and Senior Corps staff came together with Mayor Nancy Denson as she read a proclamation declaring April 7 National Service Recognition Day. Athens-Clarke County Mayor Nancy Denson read a proclamation declaring April 7, 2015 as National Service Recognition Day. Senior Corps Volunteers from Athens Community Council on Aging provide over 85,000 hours of service in Athens and surrounding counties.

Last year, ACCA’s Bentley Adult Day Health started a care closet for area residents. This program will offer members of the community the opportunity to receive health care products and over the counter medications at a reduced cost, or if eligible, free of charge. This program is greatly needed because of the high cost of some over the counter medical supplies. Recently, University of Georgia chapter of the Sigma Kappa Sorority held a drive for these products at their annual gala.

ACCA was excited to receive enough products to fill their closet. Sigma Kappa’s philanthropic focus is gerontology and Alzheimer’s Research.

Thank you so much for this donation... many, many people will benefit from your good works.

On Thursday, March 26, ACCA’s Senior Corps Program wrapped up another successful year for the Senior Leadership Academy. ACCA would like to thank the Senior Leadership Academy Steering Committee for putting together another successful program. These dedicated volunteers make sure that SLA continues to be one of our most successful events. Thank you Merry Anderson, Nancy Canolty, Terry Caven, Janey Cooley, Lew Frazar, Marge Harris, Charles Kauderer, Jane Kelly, and Barbara Turner.

If you are interested in signing up for next year’s class, call David Lorren at 706-549-4850.

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spot a stroke

FAST Face drooping • Arm weakness • Speech difficulty • Time to call 911!

•

st. mary’s stroke care…

Certified Advanced Primary Stroke Care Center – since 2004 Neurohospitalists – always on-site or on-call St. Mary’s Neurological Specialists – comprehensive follow-up care Rehab Services – inpatient, outpatient and at home TOP 5% IN U.S. Neuro Specialists: Robert Steadham, M.D and Angela McSwain, M.D.; Neuro Hospitalists: Van Morris, M.D., McCord Smith, M.D. and Alan Morgan, M.D.

©2015 St. Mary’s

time brain

Fast care may prevent death and disability.

Every minute matters!

www.stmarysathens.org summer 2015

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Non-Profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PERMIT NO. 467 ATHENS, GEORGIA

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