ADRC April 2024 Newsletter

April 2024

Aging & Disability

Resource Center (ADRC)

721 Oxford Avenue

Suite 1130

Eau Claire WI 54703

Monday - Friday

8:00 am - 4:30 pm

715-839-4735

1-888-338-4636

tty: use Relay (711)

Website and Email

www.eauclaireadrc.org

adrc@eauclairecounty.gov

Social Media

www.facebook.com/ ECC.ADRC

www.instagram.com/ adrceauclaire/

ADRC Mission Statement

To advocate for individuals age 60+ and adults living with disabilites, and assist them in securing needed services or benefts, live with dignity and security, and achieve maximum independence and quality of life.

Celebrate National Volunteer Month

Each year in April, we celebrate National Volunteer Month in honor of the important impact volunteers have in our communities and for our organization. Without the support of over 200 active volunteers, the Aging and Disability Resource Center would not be able to provide the wonderful services such as Health Promotion & Prevention Programs, Dementia Cafes, and Meals on Wheels. In 2023 alone we had almost 13,000 hours volunteered to our programs. Nearly 12,000 of those were strictly for our Meals on Wheels program. These programs would not function well without the support of our local community and the hearts of our volunteers that work diligently every day.

Currently about 63 million Americans volunteer their time, talent, and effort to improve their communities with 15% of Americans volunteering towards hunger and homelessness causes. In 2023 the Independent Sector announced that the latest value of a volunteer hour is $31.80. There is not a THANK YOU big enough for every person who has dedicated time to the Aging & Disability Resource Center Programs including the Meals on Wheels Program. We are grateful to each one of you and are thankful for all that you do. You are what makes our programs possible. We look forward to celebrating with our volunteers on April 18th at the Eau Claire County Meals on Wheels Kitchen. If you are a volunteer, please be on the lookout for the invite.

The Eau Claire ADRC Team

ACCOUNTANT

Kelli Weiss

ADRC VAN DRIVER

Dave Okas

COOKS

Aaron Pritzl

Bill Angell

Rodney McRae

Karen Mittag

Penny Parkinson

DEMENTIA CARE SPECIALIST

Lisa Wells

DISABILITY BENEFIT SPECIALISTS

Jim Coldwell

Melissa Wendtland

ELDER BENEFIT SPECIALISTS

Jessica Smith

Leda Welke

KITCHEN COORDINATOR

Gilda Halbleib

MANAGEMENT

Linda Struck, Director

Betsy Henck, ADRC Manager

Lisa Riley, ADRC Manager

MEAL DELIVERY DRIVERS

Doug Salter

Gordy Geurink

Kris Bertrand

Norm Brunkow

Sue Klauck

MEAL SITE WORKER

Jon Samolinski

OPTIONS COUNSELORS

Barb McRae

Brianna Werner

Jenna Belter

Jennifer Solfest

Liz Nett

Maddie Kettner

Molly Yang

Sue O’Branovich

PREVENTION COORDINATOR

Deb Bruning

RESOURCE SPECIALISTS

Carmelita Hogan

Heather Craker

RESOURCE SPECIALISTS II

Karen Hauck

Katie Telschow

Lindi Engedal

ADRCs: Help for Older Adults and Adults Living with Disabilities

The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Eau Claire County provides information about resources and support on all aspects of life related to aging or living with a disability. ADRC staff are unbiased and knowledgeable professionals who listen to your concerns, help clarify your options and direct you to appropriate resources. The ADRC administers the Senior Nutrition Programs for Eau Claire County and is also the access point for information about long-term care options and public benefts. Services provided by the ADRC are free and available to all Eau Claire County residents regardless of income or assets.

Aging and Disability Resource Center Board

Stella Pagonis, County Board (Chair)

Sue Miller, Citizen Member (Vice Chair)

Heather Deluka, County Board

Tami Schraufnagel, County Board

Amanda Babb, County Board

Allen Myren, County Board

Jean Doty, Citizen Member

Ron Hon, Citizen Member

Answers to Puzzle on Page 23

Down: 1-Minerals, 4-Animals, 7-Soil, 9-Water

Across: 2-Natural_Gas, 3. Plants, 5. Air, 6. Oil, 8. Sunlight, 10. Trees

Sandra Romey, Citizen Member

Terri Stanley, Citizen Member

Bill Libberton, Citizen Member

The advertisements in this newsletter are obtained from the printing company LPI, not the ADRC. The ADRC provides unbiased information and assistance to those we serve.

Conflict of Interest Statement

The primary purpose of the ADRC is to provide the customer with unbiased information about services that will meet their needs. This includes sharing information with customers about agencies that provide needed services. The ADRC may operate programs that provide direct services to customers. The ADRC Specialist:

• Cannot attempt to influence customers for fnancial gain or other self-interests.

• Cannot attempt to influence customers in the interest of any service or program provider, including the ADRC itself. The ADRC is prohibited from using revenue generated from direct service programs to support the ADRC Specialist program.

ADRC Equity Statement:

The Aging & Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire County is welcoming and safe for all. We are committed to serving with equity in mind. No judgement, assumptions or shame.

There are no income requirements to utilize the services of the ADRC.

ADRC's assist anyone age 60 and over, as well as adults age18-59 living with a disability.

ADRC services are also available to family members, friends, caregivers and professionals working with these populations.

Ask Me About Project Lifesaver

What is Project LifeSaver of Eau Claire County?

It is a rescue program for Eau Claire County’s most vulnerable individuals; both children and adults with a cognitive impairment or medical condition that puts them “at risk” to wander and become lost. i.e. Alzheimer’s/ dementia, Autism, Down Syndrome.

How does this program work?

Participants enrolled in the program will wear a wristwatch-sized radio transmitter on their wrist or ankle. The transmitter constantly emits a VHF radio frequency signal, which can be tracked regardless of where the person has wandered. The VHF radio frequency signal enables their location to be tracked with specialized search equipment.

How will this program save lives?

Project Lifesaver of Eau Claire County is affliated with Project International (PLI), a community-based, public safety, non-proft organization that provides law enforcement, fre/rescue, and caregivers with a program designed to protect, and when necessary, quickly locate individuals with cognitive disorders who are prone to the life-threatening behavior of wandering. The primary mission of Project Lifesaver is to provide a timely response to save lives and reduce potential injury.

Over 3000 lives have been saved since Project Lifesaver began with an average recovery time of 30 minutes.

How much does the program cost?

There is an initial startup fee set by Project Lifesaver International of $300. This is the cost of the transmitter, band, battery, and battery tester. The Eau Claire County Sheriff’s Offce charges a $10 a month enrollment fee. This fee goes back into the program ONLY to fund additional equipment including wristbands, batteries, battery testers, etc.

How does one enroll in the program?

First, you must be a resident of Eau Claire County to enroll. The enrollment process starts with a referral to the Eau Claire County Sheriff’s Offce. Referrals can be made by Family Members, Caregivers, School Counselors, Medical Physicians, County/School Social Workers, ADRC, and First Responder Personnel (Law Enforcement/Fire/EMS) etc. Applications can be accessed at the Eau Claire County Website www.eauclairecounty.gov

If you have further questions about the Project Lifesaver Program, please get in touch with Deputy Melissa Solem at Melissa.solem@eauclairecounty.gov or call (715) 839-4701.

Caregiving is rewarding. But it can be challenging too. Whether you provide care for a spouse, partner, parent, friend; at home or in a care facility, whether down the block or miles away, yours is an important role.

But taking care of yourself is important also. Powerful Tools for Caregivers is an educational workshop designed to help caregivers take care of themselves while caring for someone else. By taking care of your own health and well-being, you become a better caregiver.

The classes give caregivers tools to help:

• Reduce stress

• Improve self-confdence

• Manage time, set goals, and solve problems

• Better communicate feelings

• Increase ability to make tough decisions

• Locate helpful resources

WHEN: Thursdays

April 18th - May 23rd, 2024

WHERE: Lake Street United Methodist Church 337 Lake Street Room 202 Eau Claire WI 54703

TIME: 2:30 - 4:00 pm

COST: FREE

Registration required:

Class size is limited to 12 participants and registration is required. Register by contacting the Aging & Disability Resource Center at 715-839-4735 or online at www.adrcevents.org.

If your loved one needs care in order for you to attend, contact the ADRC, respite funds may be available.

Spring is on the way, and it’s time to start planning your garden. When you’re trying to decide what to plant this year, consider planting native plants. Whether you’re looking for flowers, shrubs, grasses, or vines, there’s sure to be a native plant that will look great in your garden. Native plants can even grow well in containers on your patio or balcony.

Plants that are native to your region tend to be hardy and easy to grow. They are usually drought-resistant and require little to no fertilizer. They can help prevent erosion and reduce stormwater runoff. They also help filter pollutants out of the soil. In addition, native plants support local wildlife by providing food and shelter for birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. When choosing native plants for your garden, think about the following:

· How much sunlight does your garden get?

· What is the soil like? Is it sandy, silty, loamy, or clay?

· Are there any low-lying spots where there are puddles after a rainstorm?

Are there any nearby sources of pollution, like winter salt, fertilizer, or pesticide runoff?

· Are you trying to attract specific wildlife species?

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has more information on growing native plants here: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/endangeredresources/nativeplants You can also learn more at Homegrown National Park: https://homegrownnationalpark.org/ by the GWAAR Legal Services Team

1

April 2024 Meals on Wheels & Senior Lunch Menu

Meals on Wheels Phone Line: 715-839-4886

Suggested contribution $5/meal

St. John’s Apts | 815 Chapin Street, Eau Claire| Mon– Fri Serve Time: 11 am | 715-839-4886

Augusta Senior Center | 616 W Washington St, Augusta | Mon– Fri Serve Time: 12 pm | 715-286-2953

Fairchild Comm Center | 121 Farmer St, Fairchild | Every Wednesday Serve Time: 12:15 pm | 715-839-4886

L.E. Phillips Sr Center | 1616 Bellinger St., Eau Claire| 1st & 3rd Friday Serve Time: 11:45 am | 715-839-4886

All meals are served with 1% milk and subject to change without notice due to diffculty with supply chain.

Home Delivered & Lunch Sites-Reservations & Cancellations must be submitted by 1 p.m. the day before.

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Citrus Tarragon Chicken,

*Golden Rice w/ Vegetables,

*Italian Blend Vegetables,

*W/G Roll, ^Fruit

8

Oven Fried Chicken, *Roasted Red Potatoes,

*Broccoli, *W/G Rolls, ^Fruit

15

Bone- in Chicken w/ Chicken Gravy, *Red Mashed Potatoes, *5-way Blend, *W/G Roll, ^Fruit

22

Baked Teriyaki Chicken, *Rice Pilaf w/Vegetables, *Broccoli & Cauliflower, *W/G Rolls, * Fruit

29

Chicken Pot Pie, *5 Way Mixed Vegetable, *Southern Biscuit, ^Fruit

2

Pork Loin w/Apple, *Red Mashed Potatoes, *Peas w/Pearl Onion, *^Frosted Marble Cake, *W/G Rolls

9 Pork w/Dijon Sauce, *Caribbean Rice & Beans,

*Corn w/ Edamame

*Egg & Butter Rolls, ^Jello Cake

16 *Salmon Burger on W/G Bun & Tartar Sauce/Romain/ Sliced Tomatoes, *Seasoned Potato Wedges, *Vegetable Blend, *Oatmeal Raisin Cookie

23

Cheeseburger Chowder, *Peas Salad, *Vegetable Blend

*Roasted Sweet Potato Root, *Corn Bread

30 Tender Roast Beef w/Homestyle Gravy, *Red Mashed Potatoes, *Zucchini w/Tomatoes, * W/G Roll, * Pumkin Bar

3 Beef Stir Fry, *Asian Vegetable Blend,

*Brown Rice, *W/G Roll, *^Cherry Bar

10 Beef Tips W/Mushroom & Onion, *Yukon Mashed Potatoes, *California Blend, *W/G Roll, *Lemon Bars

17

*BBQ Beef on W/G Bun, *Cowboy Beans, *Roasted Red Potatoes, *Frosted Carrot Bars

24 Roasted Pork w/Gravy, *Yukon Mashed Potatoes, *Vegetable Blend Mediterranean, *Double Chocolate Chip Cookies, *W/G Roll

4 Parmesan Crusted Baked Cod w/ Tartar Sauce, *Vegetable Rice Pilaf, *White Italian Beans, *Oatmeal Cookies

11 Lemon Butter Cod, *Wild Rice W/ Roasted Brussel Sprout, *Succotash Vegetable, *Cottage Cheese w/ Peaches

18

*Turkey Tetrazzini, *Vegetable Blend Italian, *Breadstick, ^Cherry Strudel Bar,

5 *Egg Bake w/Bacon/Cheese/ Red Pepper/ Mushroom/Onion, *Breakfast Potatoes

*Roasted Asparagus, ^Fresh Fruit

12 Breaded Pork Chop, *Au Gratin Potatoes, *3 Beans, *W/G Roll, *Mandarin Cake

19

*Cashew Chicken Stir Fry, *Asian Vegetables, *Brown Rice, ^ Fruit

25

Grilled Salmon w/Lemon Butter Sauce, *Wild Rice, *Red Lentil Stew, * *Egg & Butter Roll, ^Jello Cake

Wednesday Salads*

4/3 Mediterranean Salmon Bowl Salad

4/10 Chef Salad

4/17 Berry Salad w/ Grilled Shrimp & Raspberry Vinaigrette

4/24 Strawberry Salad w/Grilled Chicken

26

Meatballs Sub w/ Marinara Sauce, *½ Hoagie Bun, * Roasted Mix Vegetables, ^Fruit

Note: The signs indicate the number of carbs in a meal.

^ = ½ carb

* = 1 carb

*^ = 1 ½ carb

W/G = wholegrain

Senior Dining: April

Lunch Meal Site Locations

Call 715-839-4886 to make your reservation by 1:00 the day before.

St. John’s Apartments

Monday-Friday 11:00 a.m.

Fairchild Community Center

Every Wednesday at 12:00 p.m.

LE Phillips Senior Center

1st & 3rd Friday at 11:45 a.m.

Augusta Senior Center*

Monday-Friday 12:00 p.m.

*Call 715-286-2953 to make reservation by noon the day before.

Suggested contribution for Senior Dining Sites is $5 a meal for those who are 60+.

Under 60 meal is $8.80

The Wednesday salads listed are only available at Senior Dining Sites.

Evening Meal Site Location

LE Phillips Senior Center

Meals are available on the 2nd and 4th

Tuesday’s of the month at 5:00 p.m. REGISTER BY 4 p.m. the Friday before.

Tuesday, April 9th

Meatloaf, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Asparagus, Fresh Roll, Fresh Fruit and Dessert

Tuesday, April 23rd

Pork Chop, Baked Mac-Cheese, Baked Beans, Peas & Carrots, Fresh Fruit and Dessert

Suggested Contribution for the Evening Meal is $6 for those who are 60+ Under 60 meal is $8.80

Please call ADRC Meals on Wheels at 715 -839-4886 by 3pm the Friday before to make your reservation.

Contributions at Senior Dining Sites

Senior Dining is available to anyone who is 60 and over at any of our Senior Dining locations, Fairchild Community Center, Augusta Senior Center, St. Johns Apartments, and the LE Phillips Senior Center in Eau Claire.

Many wonder how they “pay” for their meals when they arrive, and there are a few options. There is a suggested contribution of $5 for the noon meals and $6 for evening meals for those who are 60 and over, though that contribution is not mandatory to partake in Senior Dining. Additionally, diners can contribute more at one time and then not the next time they participate. Or if they choose, they may contribute directly at the ADRC offce, on the ADRC website or call the ADRC to contribute over the phone, for one meal or a whole month of meals.

If the diner chooses to pay each time they eat at the dining site, change is not able to be given, so it is best to bring exactly what they wish to contribute that day.

If you have questions about Senior Dining, please contact the ADRC at 715-839-4735.

MOW Large Print Menus Available

Large Print Meals on Wheels Menu Available: Call or email 715-839-4735 or adrc@eauclairecounty.gov to sign up for the large print menus.

April is National Poetry Month! Celebrate it with Peggy Trojan, an award-winning poet and former Eau Claire resident of 20 years. Peggy published her frst poem in 2010 when she was 77 years old, and has been published in a wide variety of journals and anthologies. Peggy is the author of two full collections and six chapbooks. She will recite excerpts from her work that have been described as “poignant, powerful storytelling.

DATE: Thurs., April 18, 2024

TIME: 1:30 PM 3:00 PM

WHERE: LE Phillips Public Library, 400 Eau Claire St. Riverview Rm

No registration necessary Co-sponsoredCV Learning in Retirement

Need Home Repairs?

The Chippewa County Housing Authority covers 10 counties in Western Wisconsin including Eau Claire County, with the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Funds are available to assist homeowners with needed and necessary repairs to their homes with the CDBG program.

The CDBG program offers 0% interest, deferred payment loans to income qualifed homeowners. Homeowners pay back the loan when they no longer own or occupy the home as their primary residence.

Qualifed home repairs include: insulation, roofng, heating, foundations, plumbing, siding, electrical, doors & windows, handicapped accessibility, wells/septic systems, city water/sewer connections.

To fnd out all the details and see if your home would qualify contact Glenda Enger at 715-739-6240.

Peggy Trojan

The ADRC van has room for one wheelchair and 3 additional individuals for no cost non-medical trips. The van is available for seniors 60+ and adults living with a disability in Eau Claire County. Contact Dave, Transportation Coordinator to schedule at 715-225-0975. Priority given to individuals who live rurally.

Sit & Knit Group

Join our peer-led group of knitters from beginner to advanced. Learn new techniques and have fun with friends knitting items for yourself, loved ones, and the community. We have limited supplies available and encourage you to bring your own supplies.

When: Monday, April 29

Time: 12:30 pm

Cofee Klatch

April Guest:

Amber Scharenbroch, Community Impact Director Digital Equity, United Way of the Greater Chippewa Valley

Amber will share about the United Way’ s Digital Equity & Inclusion Program and how to get connected with afordable internet, computers, digital literacy and technical support.

When: Wednesday, April 10

Time: 10:00 am

ADRC Prevention and Health Promotion Workshops

REGISTER at least one week prior each of these programs: Call the ADRC at 715-839-4735 or go to www.adrcevents.org

Stepping On fall prevention program (in person)

Are you feeling unsteady on your feet? Stepping On can help you avoid a dangerous and costly fall so you can keep doing the things you love to do. In just 7 weeks, you will learn: Strength and balance exercises you can adapt to your individual level. To identify and remove or avoid fall hazards both inside and outside your home. How vision, hearing, medication, and footwear affect your risk of falling. To get back on your feet the right way if you do fall.

Tuesdays, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm/ April 9 - May 21, 2024

Grace Lutheran Church, 202 W Grand Avenue, Eau Claire

Healthy Living with Diabetes (in person)

Designed for adults of all ages who have type 2 diabetes, pre-diabetes, or who live with someone who does. Learn how to manage the condition through 14 self-management tools. Topics include healthy eating and nutrition: food label reading, meal planning, relaxation techniques, ftness for exercise and fun, feedback and problem-solving, stress and depression management, short-term goal setting, communicating with friends, family, and your medical team. Meets weekly for 6 weeks, plus optional class with a Certifed Diabetes Specialist.

Thursdays, 10:00 am - 12:30 pm/ April 18 - May 23, 2024

Grace Lutheran Church, 202 W Grand Avenue, Eau Claire

Presentation: Tools for Healthy Living with Evidence-Based Programs (in person)

What can we do to retain or improve function, prevent disability, manage ongoing health conditions, and protect our Independence? In this overview of popular programs, you will learn about the evidence-based health promotion programs offered by the Aging & Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire County.

Thursday, 1:30 - 2:30 pm/ May 16, 2024

Lake Street Methodist, 337 Lake Street, Eau Claire

VEHICLE MODIFICATION GRANT AVAILABLE

Do you have a vehicle that needs modifications for accessibility?

The Vehicle Modification Grant has money available, up to $5,000, to make a vehicle accessible for caregivers, adults 60 and over, or adults living with a disability. This may also help with the purchase of a new/ used modified vehicle. Applications are reviewed and granted based on funding availability.

Must be a Eau Claire County Resident to qualify.

Examples of possible modifications: lifts, ramps, left foot accelerator, right hand turn signal, modified-effort steering, swivel seat…and so much more!

Contact the ADRC at 715-839-4735, we may be able to help pay for those modifications.

VEHICLE REPAIR GRANT AVAILABLE

Do you have a vehicle that needs to be repaired and you can’t afford to fix it?

The Vehicle Repair Grant has money available, up to $2,500 for caregivers, adults 60 and over, or adults living with a disability. Applications are reviewed and granted based on funding availability.

Must be an Eau Claire County Resident to qualify.

Examples of possible repairs: brakes, tires, non-cosmetic fixes etc.

This grant does not qualify for general maintenance such as oil changes.

Contact the ADRC at 715-839-4735, we may be able to help pay for those repairs.

Walk With Ease Spotlight

The ADRC Winter Walk With Ease class meets a couple times of a week at Oakwood Mall learning the techniques that are part of the Arthritis Foundation’s Walk with Ease Program. Look for the future offerings of Walk With Ease and other great health promotion programs at adrcevents.org.

CAREGIVER CAFÉ: April 2nd, 2024

The caregiver café is an informal gathering place where caregivers can drop in, relax and connect with others while enjoying a cup of coffee/tea and delicious pastries. An ADRC staff person is available to provide information and assistance regarding resources available in our community.

Everything is provided, just show up!

Tuesday, April 2, 2024

9 – 10:30 a.m.

Location: The French Press

2823 London Rd, Eau Claire

What Can You Expect?

• Social connection with others

• Peer Support

• An informal and relaxed environment

• Reduced Stress

• Contact the ADRC if respite is needed

Horticulture-Inspired Program for People Living with Dementia & Their Care Partners

Hands-on, nature inspired experiences that provide opportunities to stimulate the senses, enjoy social interactions, and provide physical activity while imparting a sense of purpose. All supplies and materials provided. Come and Learn about Seed Balls

WHEN: Thursday, April 18th

TIME: 1:00 - 2:30 pm

WHERE: UW-Extension 227 1st St W, Altoona

Register online at www.adrcevents.org or call 715-839-4735

APRIL DEMENTIA SUPPORT

For more information and program flyers, check out the ADRC calendar events at www.adrcevents.org

Coffee Group for Men

Connections and coffee for men caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or other type of dementia.

Wednesday, 4/3 and 4/17, 11:00 am - Noon

Peace Lutheran Church, 501 E. Fillmore, Eau Claire. Contact Bob at 414-378-2114 or beevee6610@gmail.com

Lewy Body Dementia Virtual Support Group

This virtual support group is for people caring for a person living with Lewy Body Dementia.

Wednesday, 4/10 & 4/24, 1:30-3:30 pm

For more information and to receive the link for the meeting, contact Rob at 920-386-4308 or greisel@co.dodge.wi.us

Memory Loss and Caregiver Support Group

This support group is for people with memory loss and caregivers.

Wednesday, 4/24; 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Lake St. Methodist Church, 337 Lake Street, Eau Claire. For more information, contact Lisa at 715-839-4750 or lisa.wells@eauclairecounty.gov

Savvy Caregiver Support Group

This virtual support group meeting is for family caregivers caring for a person living with dementia. The group provides information, support, and resources.

Tuesday, 4/2 10—11 am

For more information contact Lisa Wells at 715-839-4750 or lisa.wells@eauclairecounty.gov

Virtual Support Group for Working Caregivers

Monday, 4/1 7:00 — 8:00 pm

Contact Scott at 715-261-6066

scott.seeger@adrc-cw.org

Memory Café

Can you smell it? Ahh...spring and dirt! Speaking of dirt, let’s get our hands dirty out at Green Oasis with a fun, sprint project.

We will meet at Green Oasis

1403 122nd St., Chippewa Falls at 10 a.m.

Tuesday, 4/9, 10:00 am

For more information, contact Lisa at 715-839-4750 or lisa.wells@eauclairecouty.gov

Stand in the Light Memory Choir

People in the early to mid-stages of memory loss, their care partners, and singing volunteers come together to share their love of music.

REHEARSALS: Thursdays, 9:45 - 11:00 am 1/11 - 4/18, 2024

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1120 Cedar St. Eau Claire. Questions call 715-210-4165 or standinthelightmemorychoir@gmail.com

How Ageism Impacts Overall Health

We’ve all seen the birthday cards depicting another year older with images of frail, helpless older adults challenged by mobility, sight, and/or hearing. We, as a society, poke fun by engaging in degrading, condescending practices around something as simple as a birthday card. And if you have children in school, you’ve likely had the opportunity to dress them up in white or grey wigs, large glasses, fabricated wrinkles, likely hunched over a cane or walker to celebrate the 100th day of school. Yes, this is all in good “fun”, but what message is this sending to those who are aging (which happens to be ALL of us)?

Ageism is a real thing, and it’s not one of the “isms” that we talk about very often. We comment that (especially women) may “look good for her age” and other such statements riddled with a patronizing tone. Our society does a good job at celebrating youth and taking great strides to “fght” or “combat” aging. And at what cost?

First of all, it warrants acknowledging that life is not always easy, and some activities may, indeed, become more diffcult as we age (and that’s okay!). Each day may not always be sunshine and roses, but perhaps we could practice re-imagining aging. Our society generally does not celebrate the positive aspects of aging - including rich experience and wisdom. And who said that aging has to be coupled with frailty? We do a disservice to ourselves, our loved ones, and our society by engaging in these practices. And research is illustrating the impact that ageist practices have on older adults. Poor health outcomes and possibly even increased risk of falling are correlated with ageist practices at both the interpersonal and systemic levels. This may include increased depression, loneliness, or isolation and a decrease in physical activity. It may even lead to an increased fear of falling which in itself is a predictor factor for a future fall. The good news is that there are ways to safely engage in all kinds of physical activity at ANY age of life. Safe Communities have classes listed on their website that promote balance ranging from German Wheel and ballroom dancing to Tai Chi and yoga. The possibilities are endless! Check them out here: safercommunity.net/falls-prevention/#classes

Thankfully, more attention is being paid to ageism through media campaigns (thank you, National Coalition on Aging and AARP, to name a few). We should be proud to age – to have gained experience and knowledge and to have earned every one of those beautiful wrinkles. We might discover a newfound gratefulness for our bodies and what they’ve helped us do over the course of life that has brought us to “old age”. Instead of focusing on the negative, perhaps we focus on the positive and fnd productive ways to embrace aging and to celebrate who we are at EVERY stage of life. Not only will this model for younger generations that the privilege to age can be a thing of beauty AND can help us lead rich, quality lives.

By Ashley Hillman, Falls Prevention Program Manager at Safe Communities

Generations on Line

Do you know the basics of using a smartphone or tablet to access the Internet, but would like to use the device more? We suggest going to www.golhelp.org to see interactive tutorials, all available at no cost.

The frst three teach the basics. Simply tap on the one that best matches your device (Choosing wrongly will not hurt your device-the images will just not match your device). We suggest you start here if you only know a little. You may want to ask a friend or relative to assist.

If you want to learn how to use your tablet or smartphone to partake in a telehealth appointment, read a newspaper online, or seek and apply for employment online, Generations on Line offers a tutorial for each! All at no cost – not now or ever! Visit the site: www.golhelp.org

Last Thursday of the Month

May September 2024

Peace Lutheran Church

501. E Fillmore Ave., Eau Claire 1– 2:30 p.m.

May 30th—Caring for Dementia: Understanding Behavior as Communication

Reserve your spot at www.adrcevents.org or call 715-839-4735

May 17, 2024

Dove Healthcare– West Community Rm. 1405 Truax Blvd., Eau Claire 10 11:30 a.m.

What Do Medicines Do to / for Our Brain Health As We Age

The aging brain may process your medicines differently & may accelerate or protect your brain’s aging. What happens when you mix medicines? Can you discontinue medicines & how?

NO RSVP Needed. Park in the 2nd floor parking lot & enter Community Room Doors. Contact the ADRC at 715-839-4735 with questions.

Feeling Sick? Report it Quick?

In time for the annual peak in norovirus cases and outbreaks, the WI Department of Health Services (DHS) has launched a new online tool at this link: sr.wi.gov/#/form/p/foodborne to encourage Wisconsinites to report food or water sickness when symptoms occur. The online questionnaire, which takes less than five minutes to complete, helps local health departments identify sources of contamination to prevent others from getting sick. This tool is especially important as cases of norovirus, the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea, tends to spike in the winter.

"By using this tool, Wisconsinites can help other people in their community from getting sick and prevent outbreaks," said DHS State Health Officer Paula Tran. "Ingesting contaminated food and water may cause just a little stomach upset for some, for others it can lead to hospitalization and be life threatening. We're asking people - when you're feeling sick, report it quick."

In Wisconsin and the United States, it is believed these illnesses are under-reported, since many people who are infected get better without seeing a doctor. This new online tool is just one way for public health professionals to learn about food and water related illnesses and outbreaks to help prevent others from getting sick too. This tool is not a substitute for health care, and people who are feeling sick should contact their health care provider.

The new tool is a simple questionnaire that asks for current symptoms, places recently visited, and food items recently eaten. The information is sent to local health departments that identify potential sources of illness. If additional information is needed, public health specialists may contact Wisconsinites who report their illness. All follow-up will remain confidential. Provided