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.
Make New Connections in the New Year!
Have a New Year’s resolution to make a few new social connections in 2025.
According to the Mayo Clinic, social connections can improve your physical health and your brain health. They also cite that loneliness has many health risks including depression, dementia, heart disease, and stoke.
As a person grows older friend groups become smaller as friends move away, have health issues, and unfortunately pass away. And our own hearing and eyesight can sometimes make it hard to be in groups.
With a little planning these road blocks can be overcome, Here are a few tips to get you making those new social connections..
• Join a group with similar interests. The LE Phillips Senior Center and the Augusta Senior Center have many groups, clubs and opportunities to meet with others. Drop on in and ask for a tour at either center to become more acquainted with their offerings.
• Get a pet. A dog or a cat can be great conversation starters, provide companionship, and a dog can also provide physical exercise benefts.
• Take a class. Learning is a great way to keep our brain active and offers a chance for conversation with others. The ADRC offers classes and support groups throughout the year, go to www.adrcevents.org to keep up to date on all the offerings.
• If you have hearing loss, get and wear hearing aids. According to the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Amit Shah, a geriatrician, there is evidence that not addressing hearing issues can lead to higher rates of cognitive decline. To fnd out more about hearing loss resources in the area go the ADRC website resource page or call the ADRC and ask to have one sent to you.
• Make a phone friend Coffee Talk and Phone Companions are free programs, to have either a drop in call for one to one conversation, or be paired with a phone friend for a more lasting friendship. For details go to the ADRC website resource page for Social Connections.
• Transportation can also be a barrier, check out page 12 in this newsletter for information on the Paratransit program.
Hopefully these tips will help inspire you to make a New Year’s Resolution of making new social connections. Source mcpress/mayoclinic.org
The Eau Claire ADRC Team
ACCOUNTANT
Kelli Weiss
ADRC VAN DRIVER
Dave Okas
COOKS
Aaron Pritzl
Bill Angell
Karen Mittag
Linda Vogler
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 Riphenburg
Norm Brunkow
Sue Klauck
SENIOR DINING SITE
Glenda Nelson
OPTIONS COUNSELORS
Barb McRae
Brianna Werner
Jenna Belter
Jennifer Solfest
Liz Nett
Maddie Kettner
Molly Yang
Sue O’Branovich
HEALTH PROMOTION COORDINATOR
Deb Bruning
RESOURCE GENERALISTS
Carmelita Hogan
Heather Craker
RESOURCE SPECIALISTS
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 Meals on Wheels/Senior Dining 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
Tami Schraufnagel, County Board
(Chair)
Jean Doty, Citizen Member
Stella Pagonis, County Board
John Folstad, County Board
Deirdre Jenkins, County Board
Bill Libberton, Citizen Member
Sandra Romey, Citizen Member
Terri Stanley, Citizen Member
Thomas Vue, County Board
Jonathan Wessel, 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.
Homestead Tax Credit Program
The homestead credit program is designed to soften the impact of property taxes and rent on persons with lower incomes. The beneft available may take the form of an income tax credit or a direct refund. The credit is based on the relationship of your household income to the amount of your allowable property taxes and/or rent for the calendar year.
To qualify for the Homestead Tax Credit in 2024 you must be:
1. A legal resident of Wisconsin for all of 2024, from January 1 through December 31.
2. 18 years of age or older on December 31, 2024.
3. Less than $24,680 in household income for 2024.
And Meet One of the Following Conditions:
• You, or your spouse, if married, and reside in the same household, have positive earned income during the year.
• You, or your spouse, if married, and reside in the same household, are disabled.
• You, or your spouse, if married, are 62 years of age or older at the end of 2024.
• You own or rent your Wisconsin homestead that is subject to Wisconsin property taxes during 2024.
• You are not claimed as a dependent on someone else's 2024 federal income tax return. Note: This limitation does not apply if you were 62 years of age or over on December 31, 2024.
• You did not live for the entire 2024 year in housing that is exempt from property taxes. Note: Property owned by a municipal housing authority is not considered tax-exempt for homestead credit purposes if that authority makes payments in place of property taxes to the city or town in which it is located. If you live in public housing, you should check with your rental manager.
• At the time of fling a claim, you are not living in a nursing home and receiving Title XIX medical assistance.
• You are not claiming Wisconsin farmland preservation credit for 2024.
• You are not claiming the veterans and surviving spouses property tax credit on 2024 real estate taxes.
• Only one claim may be fled per household. A married couple residing together is one household.
• You are not fling a claim on behalf of a person after their death.
• You have not received Wisconsin Works (W2) payments of any amount or county relief payments of $400 or more for each month of 2024.
How do I claim homestead credit?
If you meet all of the qualifcations, you must complete a WI Homestead Credit Claim, Schedule H or Schedule H-EZ, to determine the amount of any beneft available. Note that you may meet all qualifcations but still not receive a credit because the credit is based on the relationship of your household income to the amount of your allowable property taxes and/or rent. If you do qualify for a credit, you must submit a copy of your 2024 property tax bill, if you owned and occupied your home, or an original rent certifcate signed by your landlord, if you rented, along with Schedule H or H-EZ. The fling deadline for a 2024 claim is April 16, 2029, for most claimants. For more information on 2024 Homestead Credit, please consult with your tax advisor. Source: DOR Claiming Homestead Credit www.revenue.wi.gov
Simple Steps for Navigating Dementia Care Within the VA Healthcare System
When a loved one begins showing signs of dementia, such as memory loss or diffculty performing daily tasks, knowing where to turn for help can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, the VA offers a variety of programs and services designed specifcally to meet the needs of Veterans living with dementia. Following these simple steps will help ensure you and your family receive the appropriate support.
Navigating VA Health Care
The frst step to accessing dementia care through the VA is ensuring the Veteran is enrolled in the VA health care system. The Eau Claire County Veteran Service offce can help you determine eligibility and fle the necessary paperwork. Call their offce at 715-839-4744 as your frst step. Once enrolled, schedule an appointment with a primary care provider at your assigned VA clinic. During the visit, discuss any concerns related to dementia, such as forgetfulness, confusion, or behavioral changes. Getting an accurate diagnosis is key to receiving the right care. The VA offers diagnostic services, including cognitive assessments, lab tests, and imaging studies, to identify dementia or rule out other potential causes of symptoms. Once a diagnosis is established, the VA connects Veterans to specialists such as neurologists, geriatricians, and psychologists who focus on dementia care.
Utilize Caregiver Support Programs
Dementia can be challenging for families, and the VA’s Caregiver Support Program is here to help. This extensive program offers training, counseling, fnancial assistance, and respite services to lighten the load for family caregivers.
For more information, contact the National Caregiver Support Line Call 1-855-260-3274.
Connect with VA Social Workers and Advocates
VA social workers and patient advocates are invaluable resources. They can guide you through the healthcare system, connect you with dementia-specifc programs, and help coordinate care for the Veteran and family. There is access to patient advocates and social workers at all VA facilities nationwide. It is important to have these experts on your side as they can also help you access community resources outside of the VA that are a good ft for your family. By taking these steps, you can navigate the VA healthcare system with greater confdence and ensure your loved one receives the comprehensive care they deserve.
For more information on VA dementia care services, visit the VA’s dedicated page at www.va.gov/geriatrics. Also, always remember the Eau Claire County Veteran Service Offce as your frst source for access to all federal and state benefts you are entitled to. Call us at 715-839-4744 for more information.
January 2025 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. Wednesday Salads-Senior Dining Sites only
Monday
*Wednesday Salads Available
Senior Dining Sites Only St. Johns, Fairchild, Augusta
1/8 Chef Salad
1/15 Fruit Salad w/Cottage Cheese & French Dressing
1/22 Tuna Salad
1/29 Winter Fruit Salad w/Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing
6 Melt in Your Mouth Chicken, Mashed Potatoes w/ Gravy, Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots, WW Roll, Fruit
Ham and Potato Au Gratin, Calico Beans, WW Bread, Sugar Cookie
31
Split Pea Ham Soup Tortellini Salad, Corn Bread, Peanut Butter Cookie
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.
Nutrition for Longevity
Join registered dietitian Katelin Maidment for class #4 of the Nutrition For Longevity Series on physical activity for healthy aging. You'll learn about the important role that physical activity plays in longevity with research from the best selling book Younger Next Year. This class highlights proven techniques to “turn back your biological clock” through exercise, along with practical forms of movement to incorporate into your routine to improve balance, strength, and stability.
Location: Augusta Senior Center 616 W. Washington St., Augusta, WI 54722
When: Wed., January 8th 1:30 p.m.
Please register by Monday, January 6th by calling the Center at 715-286-2953.
Elvis Presley's Birthday Party
Enjoy music, trivia, and themed events to honor the King of Rock 'n' Roll.
When: Fri., January 10th
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location:
Augusta Senior Center 616 W. Washington St. Augusta, WI 54722
Please register by Thursday, January 9th by calling the Center at 715-286-2953.
Q: What is Paratransit and how does it work? A:
Paratransit services in Eau Claire County are designed to assist individuals who are unable to access or navigate regular public transportation. These services are available for individuals with temporary or permanent disabilities that prevent them from using the Eau Claire City Bus System, as well as for seniors (60 years and older) and adults with disabilities who reside in rural areas of Eau Claire County.
Once eligibility is determined through an application reviewed by Eau Claire City Transit, individuals gain access to transportation services provided by Abby Vans Inc. This includes rides within the county for various purposes, such as medical appointments, work, recreation, and other activities. Riders are required to pay a small co-pay for each trip.
Scheduling is done by the individual rider and hours are limited to 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM Monday - Saturday and 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Sundays.
If transportation is needed outside of County limits these trips can be authorized by contacting the ADRC and done on a case-by-case basis. One-time authorizations may be available for those who are not current paratransit riders, as well.
For more information or to address specifc questions, individuals can contact the ADRC at 715-839-4735.
Keep in mind that there are certain restrictions for using the service, and the ADRC can provide guidance on eligibility and other details.
Property Tax Payment Reminder
The first installment of property taxes is due Jan 31st to your municipal Treasurer. City of Eau Claire, City of Altoona and Town of Ludington residents pay 1st installment to Eau Claire County Treasurer by any of the following means:
• Mail to: 721 Oxford Ave Ste #1250, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Dropbox: located outside the main doors of the Government Building. If you want a receipt mailed back to you, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
• Pay Online: at www.eauclairecounty.org/taxes with a debit card, credit card or e-check.
• Pay in-person: available Monday thru Friday 8:00 A.M. until 4:00 P.M. at the Treasurer’s office.
For more information, contact Glenda Lyons, Eau Claire County Treasurer 715-839-4805.
If you have not received your tax bill, please contact the Eau Claire County Treasurer’s office at 715839-4805; the treasurer of the municipality in which your property is located; or visit the Eau Claire County Treasurer’s website at www.eauclairecounty.gov/taxes to obtain your tax information.
Remember, state law says you must pay your taxes and pay them on time even if you do not get a tax bill mailed to you. Now is also the time to be sure you are certified for the lottery and gaming credit. Please check your tax bill. If you have not received the lottery and gaming credit, contact your local municipality treasurer or the Eau Claire County Treasurer who will see that you receive a claim form. You must sign and return the form before you can be certified for and receive the credit.
Primary Eligibility Requirements:
• You must have owned the property on January 1, 2024
• The property was your primary residence on January 1, 2024
Cheesy Potato Soup
If you are striving to eat a more plant-based diet and purchase locally grown foods; Wisconsin ranks 3rd in the nation for shipping fresh potatoes. Potatoes are high in several vitamins and minerals. Different colors mean different nutrients, so a variety is always healthy.
INSTRUCTIONS
• Sauté onions & celery in vegetable oil until onions are translucent.
• Add potatoes, broth, pepper. Bring to a boil and stir, cover and simmer until potatoes are tender, 15-25 minutes.
• Stir cornstarch and 1/4 C milk until smooth, add remaining milk, stir and add to potato mixture,
• Stir until thick, do not boil.
• Remove from heat and add cheese & garnish with bacon & chives
INGREDIENTS
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1/4 C celery, chopped
• 1 tsp vegetable oil
• 2 C potatoes, bite-sized diced
• 2 C low-sodium broth (any type)
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 3 Tbs cornstarch
• 1 1/2 C 1% milk, divided
• 3/4 C cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 Tbs bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Chives, chopped for garnishing
in this ad for 2 free meals in one of our two restaurants with your memory care tour!
Medicare Costs 2025
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released the 2025 premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance amounts for Medicare Part A and Part B as well as the 2025 incomerelated monthly adjustment amounts. If someone has a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) they must continue to pay the Medicare premiums. Out of pocket expenses such as copays and coinsurance are determined by each advantage plan.
PART A COSTS:
Inpatient hospital deductible: $1,676
· Daily hospital coinsurance for 61st-90th day: $419
· Daily hospital coinsurance for lifetime reserve days: $838
· Skilled nursing facility daily coinsurance for 21st-100th day: $209.50
PART B COSTS:
· Premium $185.00 per month
· Annual Deductible $257.00
Whether a beneficiary must pay an IRMAA (higher premium) depends on the beneficiary’s tax filing status and yearly income from two years ago. That means that in 2025, an IRMAA will be based on the beneficiary’s 2023 tax return, as shown in the table below.
If your yearly income in 2023 was: You pay each month (in 2025) for Part B You pay each month (in 2025) for Part B-ID You pay each month (in 2025) for Part D File individual tax return File joint tax return File married
Annual Meals on Wheels Survey Results
• 95.8% stated the taste of the food was good, very good or excellent.
• 94% stated the variety of food was good, very good or excellent.
• 91% stated the portion sizes were good, very good or excellent.
• 100% of respondents stated their experiences with staff & volunteers of Meals on Wheels are good (4%), very good (35%) or excellent (61%).
• 99.5 % stated their overall experience with Meals on Wheels is good, very good or excellent.
• 18% stated they receive 0 visits outside of the Meals on Wheels driver on a weekly basis.
• Meals on wheels provides (may provide more than one answer): Structure and routine in my day (60%), Someone to talk to (56%), A feeling that other people care about me (55%), Sense of safety and security (45%), A link to get more support if I need it (30%)
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently announced that it will be transitioning to appointment-based services for in-person visits to local feld offces. Beginning January 6, 2025, SSA will require customers to schedule an appointment for services, including requests for Social Security cards.
SSA emphasizes that it will not turn people away for walk-in services who are unable to make an appointment, such as “members of vulnerable populations, military personnel, people with terminal illnesses, and individuals with other situations requiring immediate or specialized attention.”
The SSA encourages people to take advantage of online services or the automated services available by telephone at 1-800-772-1213.
Park West Colony Park East
Protecting Your Wallet—Avoiding Financial Scams
Scams targeting people age 60 and older resulted in over $3.4 billion in losses in 2023 alone, according to the FBI. Here are some of the most common types of scams and fraud, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
• Charity: Scammer pretends to represent a real or made-up organization and asks for donations.
• Non-Delivery: A person buys something online but never receives the item.
• Grandparent: Scammer pretends to be a grandchild or a relative in trouble and asks for money or gift cards.
• Tech Support: Scammer pretends to be a computer expert offering technical support to trick people into giving access to their computers and personal information.
• Romance: Scammer pretends to be romantically interested in someone, develops trust and then asks for money or a loan.
• Blackmail: Scammer threatens to release personal information unless the victim sends money using wire transfer or gift cards.
• Investment: Scammer pretends to be a fnancial professional with urgent investment opportunities that are fake, including offers to teach you how to invest in cryptocurrency.
What You Can Do-Report fnancial scams, here are resources: National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833FRAUD-11, Wisconsin’s Consumer Protection Hotline: 1-800-422-7128, and local police department. The Better Business Bureau has a Scam Tracker that you can use to report a scam, or look up if you are questioning something is a scam or not at www.bbb.org/scamtracker.
