ADRC May 2024 Newsletter

May 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.

Every May, the Administration for Community Living leads the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month (OAM). OAM is a time to recognize older Americans' contributions, highlight aging trends, and reaffrm commitments to serving the older adults in our communities.

The 2024 theme is Powered by Connection, which recognizes the profound impact that meaningful relationships and social connections have on our health and well-being. We will explore the vital role that connectedness plays in supporting independence and aging in place by combatting isolation, loneliness, and other issues.

Join us in promoting the benefts of connecting with others.

Here are some ways you can participate.

• Invite more connection into your life by fnding a new passion, joining a social club, taking a class, or trying new activities in your community.

• Stay engaged in your community by giving back through volunteering, working, teaching, or mentoring.

• Invest time with people to build new relationships and discover deeper connections with your family, friends, colleagues, or neighbors.

• Share what connection means to you on social media using the hashtag #PoweredByConnection.

• Read on and visit the Calendar of Events page on our website, www.eauclaireadrc.org, for information on local events, classes and workshops.

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

Allen Myren, County Board

Jean Doty, Citizen Member

Sandra Romey, Citizen Member

Terri Stanley, Citizen Member

Bill Libberton, Citizen Member

LARGE PRINT Meals on Wheels Menu’s Available

Large Print Meals on Wheels Menus available: call or email 715-839-4735 or adrc@eauclairecounty.gov to sign up to receive large print menus.

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.

The Health Benefts of Fishing

Opening day for fishing in Wisconsin is traditionally the first Saturday in May – May 4th for 2024.

There are many physical and mental health benefits of fishing, not just for older adults, but for everyone. Below are just a few examples of the many benefits of fishing:

 Fishing helps reduce stress. Fishing can be very relaxing and help people connect with nature.

 Fishing helps increase socialization and reduce isolation and loneliness. There are social connections to be made by fishing, from meeting others at the nearby fishing hole, to connecting with folks at the local bait shop.

 Fishing helps improve balance, coordination, and lowers the risk of falling. Fishing, and the act of casting the pole, reeling in the fish, and other related activities are excellent ways to improve balance and coordination. Regular fishing has been shown to be an excellent way to help prevent falls in older adults. Fishing also helps maintain hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity through activities like tying the line to the hook, baiting the hook, and reeling in the fish.

 Fishing is great, low-impact exercise. Whether you walk to find your favorite fishing hole, row your boat in the lake, or just cast your pole, you’re getting a great, low-impact, full-body workout.

 Fishing is shown to help improve mental stimulation and cognition. Enjoying a hobby is a great way to keep your mind sharp and active. You don’t even need to have a boat to fish. There are also many accessible fishing spots for individuals with disabilities. These accessible fishing piers are designed to accommodate wheelchairs, are wider to offer enough room for turning around, and have lower railings and fishing rod holders. For more information about accessible fishing in Wisconsin, visit: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/ topic/OpenOutdoors/AccessFish. For a map of these sites, visit: https:// dnr.wisconsin.gov/sites/default/files/topic/Fishing/ AnglerEd_AccessibleShoreFishingSites.pdf.

Remember that a license is required to fish in Wisconsin except for children under 16 years of age and those born before 1927. Everyone else must purchase a fishing license. An annual fishing license is $20, but for adults over 65, there is a discounted license available for $7. You can purchase fishing licenses at certain retailers, DNR service stations, or at gowild.wi.gov. For more information about fishing licenses, visit: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/ topic/Fishing/outreach/FishingLicenses

May 17, 2024

What Do Medicines Do to/for Our Brain Health

As We Age

Joan Hamblin, MD

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

May

31, 2024

Keeping You Safe: Understanding Fraud and Scams for Better Brain Health

Taylor Tarrus, APRP, Fraud Manager, Royal Credit Union

Fraud and scams can lead to significant financial losses, impacting savings and financial security. Join Taylor to learn more about ways you can protect yourself and prevent fraud, as well as what steps you can take if you encounter a scam.

June 14, 2024

Intro to the Enneagram

Geri Krause, MS, LPC-IT

The enneagram is an ancient personality typing system which explores nine types rooted not so much in temperament, but in our core motivations - WHY we do what we do. In this concise intro presentation, we’ll explore the basics of what it is, how we can use it as a tool for our own personal self-awareness/growth, as well as see how it can open insights with our friends and family.

June

28, 2024

Deep Dive Into the Foods We Eat

Danielle Krueger, RDN, MS, CD Mayo Clinic Health System

We’ll take a trip into some of the foods we eat and look further into how some things are made and what they are made of. Are there certain things we should be looking for when planning our meals to best meet our health needs? Come and find out!

No RSVP Needed. Park in the 2nd floor parking lot & enter Community Room doors. Contact the ADRC with questions: 715-839-4735 or adrc@eauclairecounty.gov

Community Room

Dove Healthcare - West Eau Claire

1405 Truax Blvd, Eau Claire 10:00 - 11:30 AM

July 12, 2024

Managing and Coping with Change

Jean M. Jirovac, MSMFT, Retired Marriage and Family Therapist

Learn ways to move beyond the fear that often accompanies change. We will explore the fear of uncertainty and unpredictability in our lives and the effects it can have on our mental health. We will learn ways to cultivate a flexible mindset that leads to personal growth and strategies to embrace change as an opportunity to experience and learn new things.

July 26, 2024

Aging and the Creative Mind: Cultivating Wisdom in Later Life

Trisha Lundin, LPC, LTR, Healing Art Eau

Claire

This interactive, hands-on presentation will explore benefits related to creative activity in later life. Participants will gain insight into how expressive engagement supports the brain and mind, as well as social relationships in face of aging and decline. Research and theory into the role of visual arts and storytelling as a healing resource, for both present and future generations, will be outlined.

August 9, 2024

What

Does Your Social Life Have to do with Brain Health?

Tom Kidd, Speaker, Trainer, Author

Socialization (social wellness) is one of the eight dimensions of our health. These eight dimensions are key to your overall wellness. Social interaction has been proven to be good for the brain, and we all have an endless source of that needed stimulation! Attend and “hang out” with other “seenagers”!

August 30, 2024

It’s a Wrap!

Lisa Wells, MA, Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC)

Another year of better brain health! Let’s pull it altogether and discuss key learning points from each webinar and put it into practice! In this webinar you will also have an opportunity to help “brainstorm” and plan for our 2025 brain health series.

May 2024 Meals on Wheels & Senior Lunch Menu

Meals on Wheels Phone Line: 715-839-4886

John’s Apts | 815 Chapin Street, Eau Claire| Mon– Fri Serve

Senior Center | 616 W Washington St, Augusta | Mon–

Fairchild Comm Center | 121 Farmer St, Fairchild | Every

L.E. Phillips Sr Center | 1616 Bellinger St., Eau Claire| 1st & 3rd Friday

contribution $5/meal

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

Wednesday Salads*

5/1 Honey Lime

Shrimp Salad

5/8 Caprese Salad

5/13 Chicken

Blueberry Feta Salad

5/27 Berry Spring

Salad W/Raspberry

Vinaigrette

5/29 Tuna Salad

6 Garlic Mushroom

Chicken Thighs, Scalloped Potatoes, Green Beans w/Stewed Tomatoes, Dinner Roll, Fruit

13

7

Swiss Mushroom Burger, Bean Medley, Tater Tots, Bun, Peanut Butter Cookies

Chicken Stuffng Casserole w/Broccoli, California Blend, Roll, Fruit 14

20 Country Ribs w/Kraut, Roasted Potatoes, Baked Beans, Rolls, Fruit

Tater Tot Casserole w/Mixed Vegetable, Glazed Carrots, Roll, Oreo Fluff

1

Roast Beef w/Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Spinach, W/G Rolls, Chocolate Pudding

2

Chicken Parmesan w/Spaghetti & Marinara Sauce, Italian Blend Vegetables, Garlic Bread, Marble Cake 3

Chicken Fajita w/Tortilla, Spanish Rice, Black Beans, Churros, Fruit

w/Red Pepper/ Pineapple & Onion, Brown Rice, Vegetable Egg Roll, Cinnamon Cookie

8 Cod w/Lemon Butter Sauce, Wild Rice w/Brussel Sprouts, Mushrooms, Roasted Cauliflower, Roll, Pineapple Upside Down Cake

15

Tuna Sandwich w/ Sliced Tomato & Lettuce, Kaiser Bun, Broccoli Salad, Peanut Butter Bar

9

Crispy Chicken Sandwich w/Lettuce, Tomato & Mayo, Sweet Potato Fries, 3 Beans Salad, W/G Bun, Marble Bar

16

Pulled Pork W/G Bun, Bullet Potatoes, Bean Medley, Chocolate Chip Cookie

10 Homemade Sloppy Joe, Wax Beans, Hashbrown Casserole, Bun, Fruit

17 Roast Beef w/Gravy, Au Gratin Potatoes, 5 Way Mixed Vegetable, W/G Roll, Fruit

Baked Potatoes w/Sour Cream, Cowboy Beans, Corn Casserole, W/G Roll, Fruit

w/Cranberry & Gravy, Stuffng, Broccoli, Dinner Roll, Pumkin Bar

Beef Stroganoff w/Mushroom, Egg Noodles, 5 Way Mixed Vegetable, W/G Dinner Roll, Frosted Brownie

Sauce, Coleslaw, Sweet Potato Fries, Peas, W/G Bun, Red Velvet Cake 24 Ham Loaf w/Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed, Mashed Potatoes w/ Gravy, Vegetable Blend, W/G Roll, Fruit

Meatballs, Mashed Potatoes, Creamed Spinach Roll, Pistachio Pudding

31 Egg Bake w/Ham/Onion/ Mushroom/Bell Pepper & Cheese, Breakfast Potatoes, Zucchini W/Tomato & Basil, Muffns, Fresh Fruit

The Nutrition Program is looking for volunteers to help with the Meals on Wheels Garden this summer. If you have a green thumb and like to spend a little time maintaining gardens, please contact Betsy Henck at 715-839-6259 or betsy.henck@eauclairecounty.gov. Flexible schedule, come as much or as little as you’d like – any help maintaining our raised garden beds would be appreciated.

Thank You March for Meals Donors

Thank you to all of our generous March for Meals Campaign supporters – being able to continue to provide hot, ready to eat meals for our local seniors is vital to our community. Our program is able to thrive with the support of you all. This year we raised just over $10,000 to help support meal delivery to our participants in Eau Claire County.

125 Meal Sponsors:

Paul Bickel, Premium Whitetail Mgt. Association, Cleghorn’s Lions Club, Mary Rosolack, The Thurston’s (It’s the Little Things) Foundation.

25 Meal Sponsors:

Lynette Jaeger, Alice & Thomas Piercy, Charles Grohman, Frank & Lynette Neibauer, Jean Doty, Robin Leary, Steven & Suzanne Waldusky, Karen & Dan Mittag, Vernon Reilly, Elizabeth Jones, Ken King, Jane Phillips, Linda & Johnnie Volger, Jane Schultz, Robert & Alberta Metnik.

Other Supporters:

Pam Bechel, Fred Strasberg, Christine Poppe, Sue Klauck, Cleghorn Lion’s Club, Katherine Schneider, Geraldine & Richard Long, Anonymous

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.

Open date call to schedule trip. Open date call to schedule trip.

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Johns Walmart trip. Pick up 9 AM.

Johns

trip. Pickup 9 AM

to schedule trip.

Free Adult Health Screening Clinic

Have your blood pressure and blood sugar monitored each month.

This is a “walk-in” style clinic. No appointment needed.

Nurse Beverly Walden will be at the Augusta Senior Center on

Tuesday, May 14th from 10:30 am– 11:30 am.

Are you a current AARP member or would Join the Augusta Senior Center’s local AARP chapter and spend time with other local AARP members. Contribute to our chapter's efforts as we serve our community, creating learning and social opportunities.

Location: Augusta Senior Center 616 W. Washington St, Augusta, WI

When: May 15th, 2024

Time: 1:00 pm

If you have any questions, please call 715-286-2953.

If you have any questions, please call 715-286-2953.

8th Annual Aging Advocacy Day

The Wisconsin Aging Advocacy Network (WAAN) will hold the 8th Annual Aging Advocacy Day (AAD) 2024 event on Tuesday, May 14, 2024.

Citizens from around the state will gather in Madison for training, to meet with other constituents from their Senate and Assembly district, and for offce visits with their legislators/legislative staff. There will be representation by Eau Claire Aging & Disability Resource Center staff & board. Following a training, attendees will join others from their state Senate and Assembly district to provide information and share personal stories with legislators and/or their staff to help them understand how specifc policy issues and proposals impact individuals, families, and older constituents.

You can ALWAYS reach out to your lawmakers any time of year and tell them what is important to you. We have a detailed handout “How to Contact Your Legislators” in the Advocacy tab of our Resource Library, located on our website www.eauclaireadrc.org. If you don’t access the internet, we’d be happy to mail you a copy, call us at 715-839-4735.

Input Needed: Ensuring Wheelchair Users Can Fly With Dignity

Comments due Monday, May 13, 2024. The US Department of Transportation (DOT) is seeking public comments on a new proposed rule designed to ensure airline passengers who use wheelchairs can travel safely and with dignity.

An estimated 5.5 million Americans use a wheelchair, and many encounter barriers when it comes air travel. In 2023, 11,527 wheelchairs and scooters were mishandled by carriers required to report data to DOT.

The proposed rule would set new standards for prompt, safe and dignifed assistance; and specify actions that airlines must take to protect passengers when a wheelchair is damaged during transport.

Notably, the proposed rule would require airlines to provide passengers with two options to repair or replace their wheelchairs if mishandled by the airline. The two options are:

• The carrier handles the repair or replacement of the wheelchair with one that has equivalent or greater function and safety within a responsible timeframe and pays the associated costs.

• The passenger arranges the repair or replacement of the wheelchair with one that has equivalent or greater function and safety through their preferred vendor and the airline pays the associated costs.

In addition, the proposed rule would make it easier for DOT to hold airlines accountable when they damage or delay the return of a wheelchair to its owner by making it an automatic violation of the Air Carrier Access Act to mishandle wheelchairs.

As part of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the DOT is also requesting input on two topics not currently included in the proposal: lavatory size on twin-aisle aircrafts and reimbursements of the fare difference between a flight someone could’ve taken if their wheelchair ft in the aircraft and the more expensive flight they had to take instead.

Comments can be submitted at this link https://www.regulations.gov/ document/DOT-OST-2022-01440225. Click blue comment box on the top righthand side.

Eau Claire County Aging Plan Survey

The Aging and Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire County is seeking your thoughts and ideas to help improve programs and services for residents of the County as they age. Your answers will help us develop a three year plan.

This survey is very quick and takes approximately two minutes to complete. Responses will be kept confdential and use solely for the purposes of this project.

There are a few convenient ways to participate via the QR code below, at the LINK below or by calling the ADRC of Eau Claire County at 715-839-4735 to give answers over the phone.

QR CODE

HOW TO USE A QR CODE

1. Open your camera app on smart phone or tablet.

2. Hold over the square code to the left.

3. Then touch the hyperlink that appears to be taken to the survey.

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

StrongBodies Information Session for new participants (in person, phone conference)

Strength training is especially important as we age. Being physically active and socially connected are both essential for health and well-being. The StrongBodies program provides a safe environment for older adults to improve strength and balance with a fun group of peers. Learn more in this free orientation and sign up for classes starting July.

Thursday, 10:00 - 11:15 a.m./ May 28, 2024

Eau Claire County Courthouse, Room 1301/1301, 721 Oxford Avenue, Eau Claire

StrongBodies Strength and Balance Training

10-week workshops, classes meet twice weekly for one hour each.

Mondays & Wednesdays, July 8 - September 16, 2024 at 8:30 am, 11:15 am (virtual) or 5:00 pm (in person—Dove Healthcare West)

Tuesdays & Thursdays, July 9 - September 12, 2024 at 8:30 am (virtual)

Repeat participants must complete a Re-enrollment Consent Form to sign up by June 24. Suggested contribution $20 for repeat participants. Download form at www.adrcevents.org, email adrc@eauclairecounty.gov or call the Aging & Disability Resource Center at 715-839-4735 to request a form by mail.

Walk With Ease (in person and self-directed)

This six-week walking program is developed by the Arthritis Foundation. While walking is the central activity, it also includes education to ease arthritis symptoms, stretching and strengthening exercises, and motivational strategies.

Choose in person classes meeting outdoors three time weekly for one hour or complete the self-directed program on your own. Proven benefts include:

- Reduce pain and discomfort of arthritis

- Increase your balance, strength and walking pace

- Build confdence in your ability to be physically active

- Improve your overall health

$10 suggested contribution, includes the Arthritis Foundation Walk With Ease guidebook.

WHEN: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 9:30 - 10:30 am/ July 15 - August 22, 2024

WHERE: Carson Park, Eau Claire

Mind Over Matter: Healthy Bowels, Healthy Bladder (in person)

Three-session workshop designed to give women the tools they need to take control of symptoms. It provides information and group activities along with simple exercises and dietary changes to practice at home. Even if you do not have leakage symptoms now, it is never too early or too late to think about bladder and bowel health.

WHEN: Tuesdays, 9:30 - 11:30 am/ July 16, August 30 & 13, 2024

WHERE: Agriculture & Resource Center, 227 1st Street West, Altoona

2024 Senior Farmers Market Vouchers

The Aging & Disability Resource Center will begin distributing a limited supply of Senior Farmers Market Vouchers at local Farmers Markets in June 2024. Eligible seniors can receive $45 in vouchers to be used at any approved Farmers Market vendor in the state of Wisconsin. The vouchers can be used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables grown in Wisconsin. One $45 voucher packet per person. To be eligible to receive the vouchers in Eau Claire County you must be:

 A resident of Eau Claire County

 60 years of age or older or 55 years of age or older if Native American

 Meet income eligibility guidelines.

- 1 Person $27,861 annual income

- 2 People $37,814 annual income

- 3 People $47,767 annual income

- 4 People $57,720 annual income

Information on distribution dates, times, and locations for the Senior Farmers Market Vouchers will be available in the June ADRC Newsletter.

CAREGIVER CAFÉ: May 7th, 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, May 7, 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

Let’s get planting! We will meet in the Meals on Wheels kitchen location and plant vegetables for meals that will be harvested in late summer, early fall. The space includes 8 large raised garden beds ready for planting. All supplies and materials provided.

WHEN: Thursday, May 16th

TIME: 1:00 - 2:30 pm

WHERE: MOW Kitchen, 5061 US Hwy 53, Eau Claire, WI 54701

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

MAY 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, 5/1 and 5/15, 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, 5/8 & 5/22, 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, 5/29; 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.

CANCELLED FOR MAY

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

Virtual Support Group for Working Caregivers

Monday, 5/1 7:00 — 8:00 pm Contact Scott at 715-261-6066 scott.seeger@adrc-cw.org

Memory Café

It’s spring and it’s time to get in shape for all the fun summer activities. Join us for Zumba Gold with Gloria, a low-intensity movement that is gentle on the joints and fun to do!

Chippewa Valley Museum, 1204 E. Half Moon Dr. Tuesday, 5/14, 10:00 am

Refreshments sponsored by Aveanna Home Health

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: August November 2024

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1120 Cedar Street, Eau Claire

For more information call 715-210-4165 or standinthelightmemorychoir@gmail.com www.standinthelightmemorychoir.org

Questions about brain health, dementia, and/or caring for a person with dementia?

Contact Lisa Wells, Dementia Care Specialist, ADRC 715-839-4750 Lisa.Wells@eauclairecounty.gov

National 24/7 Helpline 1-800-272-3900

Since May 1949 this month has continued to promote education, and advocating for the mental health and well-being of everyone. Mental health conditions are common, manageable, and treatable.

In today’s fast-paced media climate, the 24-hour news cycle can seem impossible to avoid. We are bombarded with dramatic news coverage and endless clickbait, which has more of an impact on mental health than we may realize. According to a survey of 266 therapists by GrowTherapy, 99.6% said watching the news can have a negative impact on mental health.

How does negative news coverage impact mental health?

• Watching upsetting news starts the body’s “fght or flight” response. Adrenaline is then released, and so is the stress hormone, cortisol. When our bodies are in this state, we experience the same symptoms we may experience if under threat. These symptoms include rapid heart rate, shallow breathing, upset stomach, etc.

• The news increases depression and anxiety symptoms. One study* found that people showed and increase in symptoms after only 14 minutes of news consumption. These symptoms are made worse when people feel they have no ability to improve the situation they are learning about on the news. *British Journal of Psychology

• Relying on social media for your news can drive addictive behavior. This is important to note since more than 50% of Americans receive their news via social media. Clickbait headlines and social media algorithms are designed to keep you coming back for more, making it diffcult to stop returning to apps for your news.

How can we protect our mental health?

• Try reading the news instead of watching video.

• Limit your time with the news, particularly on social media.

• Plan an enjoyable activity after taking in news.

• Get involved with a group that is working on an issue that you are passionate about.

• Be mindful of your sources. Sometimes what feels like news can be more based on opinion than facts. Make sure the information you’re getting is accurate and provides a variety of perspectives.

• Enhance optimism in your life by doing more of what brings you joy and satisfaction. Examples are social activities, spiritual practices, physical movement, mindfulness, hobbies or something simple like spending time with a pet or talking with a friend.

*Sourced from Mental Health America

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 or 888-338-4636

• One bedroom HUD Section 8 rental assisted apartments for persons 62+ or persons with handicap or disability

• One bedroom apartments with range & refrigerator.

• Rent: 30% of monthly adjusted income including all utilities except telephone and cable T.V. Landmark Company 715-834-3411

Focus on B-12

Most people get enough vitamin B12 in the food they eat, but starting around age 50, our stomach produces less of the acid and enzymes that help us absorb the B12 in animal foods. The B12 added to fortified foods is easier to absorb. Extra B12 is not considered harmful, but talk to a healthcare provider if you have questions about how much you are getting.

B12 Facts

• B12 Helps keep our nerve cells happy

• B12 is found in animal foods, such as meats, eggs and dairy products

• The daily recommended intake of B12 is 2.4 micrograms (MCG)

• Symptoms of low B12 include weakness, tingling and numbness in the hands and feet, balance problems, memory loss and depression.

High Protein Banana Split

1 Serving 190 Calories, 1.8 MCG Vitamin B12

1/2 Banana

1/2 C Greek yogurt

1/2 C Whole grain cereal

1/2 tsp. Honey (optional)

1/8 C Sliced strawberries

1/8 C Pineapple pieces

Place banana in bowl, top with Greek yogurt, top with fruit and drizzle with honey if desired.

721 Oxford Avenue Room 1130

Eau Claire WI 54703

Address Service Requested