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.
Accessible Entryways into Homes
Getting into a home can sometimes be the biggest barrier to visit friends and family, and these solutions can help everyone as we age. Whether you are seeking to have a temporary accessible entry or looking for a more permanent solution, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Accessible Entry Way Basics
• Hand Rails that are secure and on both sides of steps.
• A landing area that allows a door swing without having to step back and down the step to open the door.
• Remove landscaping that is growing on or over the sidewalk and steps.
• Ramps should have the recommended slope of 12 inches per 1 inch of height, for example a 4 inch step would need 4 foot long ramp.
• High contrast edges, such as a strip of brightly colored paint on the edge of the step can help those with limited vision to see steps easier.
• A handhold at the thresholds that can ease the transition between different surfaces or small height adjustments.
A portable ramp such as the one pictured below can be easily used to make a temporary ramp for anyone. These ramps are designed to raise someone up a step and possibly two, with assistance of someone guiding the wheelchair.
The ADRC has a 4 foot ramp that is available for short term loan, call the ADRC at 715-839-4735 to fnd out the availability of this and other accessibility items.
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 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
Tami Schraufnagel, County Board (Chair)
Sue Miller, Citizen Member (Vice Chair)
Jean Doty, Citizen Member
John Folstad, County Board
Deirdre Jenkins, County Board
Bill Libberton, Citizen Member
Stella Pagonis, County Board
Sandra Romey, Citizen Member
Terri Stanley, Citizen Member
Thomas Vue, County Board
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. Take
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.
Beware of Storm Chasers
Throughout Wisconsin’s summer months, severe seasonal storms can cause extensive damage to homes and leave homeowners in a hurry to make repairs. Unfortunately, unscrupulous, transient contractors, otherwise known as STORM CHASERS often seize these opportunities to defraud homeowners or perform haphazard repairs, leaving the area before anyone catches on, and leaves the homeowner with few options. In some cases they will ask for payment in full upfront and then take off doing no work at all.
After a storm consider the tips shared below. Always remember you can call time-out. You should never be pressured or “bullied” into immediately accepting a quote. Take the time to gather several quotes and consult with friends and family about what work is necessary. After a severe weather event it is most likely others will be in exactly the same situation you are in, so share information and experiences for your safety as well as your community.
After the Storm:
• Make a list and take photographs of damage like missing shingles, cracks in walls, etc.
• Obtain a quote from several contractors.
• Call municipal offcials to fnd out if a contractor holds the proper permits in their area, including door-to-door sales.
• Contact a local building inspector to check if the repair work requires a permit, and verify work was completed correctly before you provide fnal payment.
• Obtain written contracts that specify exactly what work will be done, what materials will be used, a start and completion date, and warranty details.
• Ask the contractor if they are subcontracting your job.
• Have someone watch the work being done.
• Request a copy of the contractor’s certifcate of liability insurance and obtain lien waivers from any contractor hired for home repairs.
• Keep copies of all receipts, contracts, correspondence, warranties, and written materials.
To fle a complaint: visit https://datcp.wi.gov or call WI Dept. of Ag. Trade and Consumer Protection 1-800-422-7128.
Sundowning—What Is It and Why Does It Happen
If you have ever cared for someone with dementia, you might have noticed a change in their behavior that is extremely out of character for them as the sun starts to set. That change is referred to commonly as sundowning. Sundowning is a cluster of symptoms that usually includes agitation, restlessness, irritability, and confusion that occurs in individuals with Alzheimer's/Dementia and typically occurs as day turns to night.
Signs of Sundowning: Just as unique as every person, signs and symptoms can very:
• Agitation
• Extreme anxiety
• Discomfort
• Suspicion
• Hallucinations
• Confusion
• Bad mood, anger, temper
• Ignoring
• Can’t follow directions
• Demanding
Factors that can agitate Sundowning:
• Lack of sleep, fatigue, or mental exhaustion
• Caffeine and alcohol use close to bedtime
• Faded light, low light, and increased shadows that cause confusion and fear
• Upset in their circadian rhythms, confusing day and night
• Underlying health issues, such as an infection, discomfort, or pain
• Dehydration or hunger
• Stress, depression, or boredom
How to cope with Sundowning: “A variety of factors can worsen an individual’s symptoms, however there are proven methods for minimizing Sundowning behavior. Paying attention to what is aggravating the individual’s symptoms can help you decide which of the following caregiver tips is most appropriate.”
Light Therapy: A dawn simulator is a user-friendly and affordable way to help reset a person’s circadian rhythms by signaling the start and end of their day with increasing and decreasing light intensity.
Regular Schedule During the Day and Evening: Establish a regular and habitual routine every day. People with memory loss fnd comfort in a daily routine, which can help start the day and more importantly, signal when it’s nighttime.
Go Outside: Whether it is sunny or overcast, exposure to natural light will help set their internal clock.
A Good Night’s Sleep: Focus on getting your loved one the best night’s sleep possible by reducing stimulants in the evening, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and establishing a calming bedtime ritual.
Talk to Their Doctor: Consult with your loved one’s doctor about their evening Sundowning issues, especially if these have come on quickly. You want to rule out if there is an underlying issue causing these symptoms.
The Veterans Administration may provide adaptations to a Veteran’s/Servicemember’s residence by the Veterans Benefts Administration (VBA) under the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH), Special Housing Adaptation (SHA), Temporary Resident Adaptation (TRA); or Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E) Independent Living (IL) program.
A Veteran or Servicemember with a permanent and total service-connected disability may be entitled to a Specially Adapted (SAH) grant, Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) grant, or Temporary Residence Adaptation (TRA) grant:
If eligible for the SAH grant, this can be used to construct, build, remodel or acquire an adapted home. The property has to be owned by the Veteran/Servicemember.
If eligible for a SHA and the TRA grants the home has to be owned by an eligible individual or family member in which the Veteran/Servicemember intends to temporarily reside.
VR&E IL is a comprehensive vocational rehabilitation program. The program provides services leading to employment or assists with independent living needs (includes housing adaptations/modifcations).
To fnd out more about the eligibility requirements for these and other possible benefts go to www.ebenefts.va.gov or call the Eau Claire County Veterans Service Offce at 715-839-4744 for more information on how to apply.
August 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
*Wednesday Salads Available at Senior Dining Sites Only St. Johns, Fairchild, Augusta
29 Spaghetti Carbonara, Italian Blend Vegetables, Garlic Bread, Monster Cookie
30
Beef Stroganoff Over Egg Noodles, Peas & Carrots, W/G Roll, Fruit
August 9, 2024
Community Room
Dove Healthcare - West Eau Claire 1405 Truax Blvd, Eau Claire 10:00 - 11:30 AM
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 in to how expressive engagement supports the brain and mind, as well as social relations in aging and decline. Research and theory into the role of visual arts and story telling as a healing resource, for both present and future generations, will be outlined.
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 in into practice! In this webinar you will also have an opportunity to help “brainstorm” and plan for our 2025 Brain Health Series.
ADRC RURAL VAN SCHEDULE—August 2024
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.
Augusta Senior Center Featured Activities
Location: Augusta Senior Center 616 W. Washington St., Augusta, WI 54722
When: Wednesday, August 14th, 2024
Time: 11:00 am
EZ Door Pull
This month, Center for Independent Living of Western Wisconsin (CILWW) is highlighting the EZ Door Pull - Acrylic Door Closer. This device allows for easy attachment without the need for tools. For individuals using wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers, closing doors behind themselves can be a challenge. The EZ Door Pull simplifes this task, offering a convenient solution. It is durable, flexible, and comes with an acrylic hook featuring adhesive backing for discreet storage when not in use. Please note that this product is not suitable for commercial door use.
The EZ Door Pull is available for purchase at Sportaid, an online retailer, for approximately $18. Similar products can also be found on online platforms such as Amazon and Walmart.
CILWW offers the opportunity for individuals to borrow or try out items mentioned before making a purchase. To learn more about this assistive device or other devices that can improve your independence, please contact CILWW at 715-233-1070 or 800-228-3287.
Beaver Creek Reserve Butterfly House Open
Take a stroll through the seasonal Beaver Creek Reserve Butterfly House and enjoy the beauty of some of Wisconsin Butterflies in their natural environment. Admission to the Butterfly House is included in the cost of the daily admission, $8 for adults.
The Butterfly House is open through the Sunday before Labor Day.
Mon. Sat.: 11 a.m. 3 p.m. Sunday: 12—3p.m.
The house will be closed on rainy days.
Beaver Creek Reserve is located at S1, County Road K, Fall Creek, WI
715-877-2212
DMV Offers Option to Add Emergency Contact Information to License Data
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) now offers an option for motorists and individuals to add emergency contact information to their driver license or ID record. Adding the information is voluntary and will not appear on the card.
Governor Evers signed the “To Inform Families First” or “TIFF” law last year. It was put in place to provide law enforcement the ability to contact a family member or other loved one more quickly in the event of an emergency. Adding this information is not required. Only law enforcement, including police in other states, are able access the information.
To add emergency contact information to a DMV record, visit wisconsindmv.gov/ emergencycontact for the convenient online self-service application. A visit to a DMV customer service center is not necessary.
This service joins DMV’s extensive list of online services at wisconsindmv.gov.
Reprint from GWAAR Legal Services
Taking Care of Your Mind:
Tips on Creatng a Healthy Brain as You Age
Have you ever spent 10 minutes looking for your reading glasses, and they were on the top of your head? Or, have you walked into a room and forgotten why you went there? Most people, even younger ones, have had these experiences but when should such instances be something of concern? What are the normal signs of aging? Is there anything you can do to maintain your brain health as you age? How can I get my memory checked?
This seminar presents age-related changes in the brain, risks to brain health, rewiring your brain, and some brain wellness strategies and the evidence behind them.
WHEN: Wednesday, August 21, 2024
TIME: 12:20ish (right after lunch)
PLACE: Fairchild Community Center 121 Farmer Street, Fairchild
Presentation includes handouts, websites, and great resources!
For more information, contact the Aging & Disability Resource Center at 715.839.4735 or email lisa.wells@eauclairecounty.gov
A GUIDE TO ARRANGING YOUR PERSONAL AND LEGAL AFFAIRS
Dove Healthcare – West
8:00 8:25 Registration Light Breakfast
Program Benefts
8:25 8:30 Welcome Announcements
8:30—9:15 Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate
ADRC Options Counselor
9:15 9:45 Hospice & Palliative Care Registered Nurse
9:45 10:15 Power of Attorney for Healthcare Director of Social Services
10:15—10:30 Break
10:30 12:00 Legal Considerations
GWAAR Attorney
12:00—1:00 Lunch
1:00—1:45 Grief & Loss
ADRC Dementia Care Specialist
1:45 2:30 Funeral Planning Funeral Director
2:30 2:45 Break
2:45 3:30 Writing Your Own Obituary PhD, RN, Professor Emerita; Author of Fiction and Non-Fiction
3:30 4:00 Do Not Resuscitate Physician
4:00 4:30
• Wrap up/Evaluations
• ADRC staf available to help with POA’s and organ donation sign-up
• Obtain knowledge of end-of-life issues and ideas for planning ahead.
• Obtain valuable information and practical advice from local professionals.
• Clarify misconceptions surrounding end-of-life.
• Connect with community resources.
Space is limited. This no-cost event includes lunch, morning & afternoon refreshments, and a Final Afairs Guide.
Certifcate of attendance (not CEUs) upon request. Registration is REQUIRED by SEPTEMBER 5th.
Sign up at this link https://sugeni.us/V3xD OR Call the ADRC at 715-839-4735
Horticulture-Inspired Program for People Living with Dementia & Their Care Partners
Hands-on, nature inspired experience 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.
WHEN: Thursday, August 15, 2024—
Tomatoes! Learning, Growing, Eating Recipes!
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
Peace Lutheran Church 501. E Fillmore Ave., Eau Claire
Thursday, August 29th, 1-2:30 PM
Not All is Lost: Focusing on What’s Right Instead of What’s Wrong
Reserve your spot at www.adrcevents.org or call 715-839-4735 or 888-338-4636
Free public event: Each presentation includes handouts, refreshments, resources, door prized and caregiver goodie bags.
Garden Donations
Attention gardeners, do you wish there were a place you could donate your extra garden produce? The Senior Nutrition Program kitchen would love to have it. Please drop off your clean fruits, vegetables and herbs to the Meals on Wheels Kitchen located at: 5061 U.S. Hwy 53 Eau Claire (right next to the State Patrol offce) or ADRC Offce, 721 Oxford Ave Rm 1130, Eau Claire
Monday-Friday 8:00-3:00 PM.
The beautiful produce will be used in menus for Senior Dining and Meals on Wheels and would be a great addition to our own fresh produce. Thank you and happy gardening!
