ADRC December 2022

DECEMBER 2022

AGING & DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER

[ADRC]

721 Oxford Avenue, Room 1130 Eau Claire WI 54703

MONDAY - FRIDAY

8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (715) 839 4735 1 888 338 4636 ty: use Relay (711) WEBSITE AND EMAIL www.eauclaireadrc.org adrc@eauclairecounty.gov

SOCIAL MEDIA www.facebook.com/ECC.ADRC www.instagram.com/ adrceauclaire/

Transportation Basics

We recognize how big of a hurdle securing transportaton can be and hope this informaton about available optons will increase your ability to make a plan to get you where you want to go.

In previous artcles we outlined the city’s reduced fare transportaton program, as well as medical transportaton providers. Another common line of inquiry we heard during our public input hearings was: “What optons exist that provide scheduled service for daily needs?”

For riders looking for an accessible vehicle, van transportaton is ofered through several independent van companies operatng in the Chippewa Valley. Assistance is provided with loading wheelchairs and the cost varies. Our ofce maintains a listng and can direct you to that as needed.

For riders who can independently get in/out of a vehicle, a taxi could be appropriate. Taxis provided a pay as you go service and can ofen accommodate same day requests. Search online or in the phone book for a company of your choice to arrange a ride.

For riders comfortable using their smartphone, ride share can match drivers to your transportaton need. Using your smartphone to download the app, your account can be charged for rides using drivers available on demand. Uber and Lyf are two broadly recognized ride share companies.

ADRC Mission Statement

To help people age 60+ and adults living with disabilities secure needed services or benefts, live with dignity and security, and achieve maximum independence and quality of life.

For riders looking for the familiarity of someone they know, asking neighbors, friends and family is always an opton. Sharing a ride is a great way to get around and is great on the environment. Asking these important people can be a way to ofset the burden of privately paying for all your transportaton needs.

The ADRC is here to help you fnd the right ft if you would like more personalized assistance.

ACCOUNTANT

Kelli Weiss

ADRC VAN DRIVER

Dave Okas

COOKS

Aaron Pritzl

Gilda Halbleib

Karen Mitag

Sara Sedahl

DEMENTIA CARE SPECIALIST

Lisa Wells

ELDER BENEFIT SPECIALISTS

Jessica Smith

Leda Welke

DISABILITY BENEFIT SPECIALISTS

Jim Coldwell

Melissa Wendtland

MANAGEMENT

Linda Struck, Director

Betsy Henck, ADRC Manager

Lisa Riley, ADRC Manager

Sheryl Sadzewicz, Kitchen Manager

MEAL DELIVERY DRIVER

Doug Salter

Gordy Geurink

Kris Bertrand

Norm Brunkow

Sue Klauck

MEAL SITE WORKER

Jon Samolinski

OPTIONS COUNSELORS

Andrea Reischel

Brianna Werner

Dawnelle Ender

Jenna Belter

Jennifer Solfest

Liz Net Molly Yang

Sue O’Branovich

PREVENTION COORDINATOR

Deb Bruning

RESOURCE SPECIALISTS

Carmelita Hogan

Heather Craker

RESOURCE SPECIALISTS II

Barb McRae

Lindi Engedal

Maddie Ketner

ADRCs: Help for Older Adults and Adults Living with Disabilites

If you have questons about services as you age or live with a disability, your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) can help. The ADRC provides informaton on a variety of programs & services, and can connect you with resources in your area, including:

Adaptve equipment

Housekeeping and chore services

Safety updates to the home

Dementa care services

Housing optons

Long term care programs

Transportaton optons

Caregiver support

Wellness programs

In home care

Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security

Health, nutriton, and home delivery meal programs

Aging and Disability Resource Center Board

Stella Pagonis, County Board (Chair)

Sue Miller, Citzen Member (Vice Chair)

Heather Deluka, County Board

Tami Schraufnagel, County Board

Amanda Babb, County Board

Jean Doty, Citzen Member

Audrey Nelson, Citzen Member

Allen Myren, County Board

Sandra Romey, Citzen Member

Bruce Schafer, Citzen Member

Dan Sipl, Citzen Member

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 disabilities.

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

Holiday Closure Notifcation

dates:

Friday, December 23rd, Monday, December 26th Friday, December 30th and Monday, January 2nd

Are you looking for a way to give back or connect with others?

Volunteer with Meals on Wheels!

Winter is always a difficult time for the Meals on Wheels program but is still crucial to our homebound individuals on the program.

We are recruiting for volunteers who are willing to deliver weekly, bi weekly, monthly, or as a substitute. Schedules are very flexible and there are no minimum requirements for volunteering.

Delivery for meals takes around an hour, so we can be flexible with YOUR availability. Convenient pick up places all around Eau Claire with varied pick-up times at 10:50, 11:10 or 11:30am. A fun and easy activity to do alone, or with co workers/friends this holiday season!

If you’re interested in learning more, contact Betsy Henck, ADRC Manager at betsy.henck@eauclairecounty.gov or call 715 839 6259.

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.

Confict 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 infuence customers for fnancial gain or other self interests.

• Cannot attempt to infuence 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.

Eau Claire County Government Center will be closed on the following

30th Annual International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2022

December 3rd is a day dedicated to transformative solutions for inclusive development and innovation for fueling an accessible and equitable world.

 1 in 4 American adults has a disability.

 977,277 adults in Wisconsin have a disability.

 The most common type of disability reported is ambulatory—difculty walking and moving about.

Ways You Can Make Our World More Accessible and Equitable for People Living with Disabilities



If someone uses a mobility device, like a wheelchair or walker, never touch it without their permission.

 When posting on social media, you can make pictures more accessible for visually impaired people by adding photo descriptions in the alt text feld.

 Make sure not to block ADA accessible parking spots or the loading zones next to them.

 Advocate within your workplaces, businesses, communities, churches, schools and any other public places for accessible spaces, media and communication.

The annual observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3rd was proclaimed in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly resolution 47/3. The observance of the Day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well being of persons with disabilities.

The holiday season can be a joyful time, but it can also be hard for many of us. The good news is there are things we can do to help us enjoy this time of year and create happy memories!

You can try to prevent stress and depression by following a few lifestyle tips. Plan and budget your time and money. Try to stick to healthy eating and sleeping habits. Be sure to make time for self care and remember that sometimes we just need some extra help. It is OK to NOT be OK and it is OK to ask for help.

There may be reasons why you feel sad, maybe you cannot be with the people you love or someone close to you has recently died. These are not things in your control, and it is normal to feel sad. Acknowledge this feeling, but if you start to feel lonely, reach out and try to get out of the house. You could try attending a community or religious event, calling a friend, or call 2 1 1. We are available to listen and provide support. We can help you fnd out about events, resources, and support in your community!

And be real… the holidays might not be perfect, and you might not do the things you have always done. Even though things might be diferent, they can still be good. Try to hold onto a few traditions but also open to making new ones!

Remember that those you care about might be feeling down and stressed too, so they might do things that make you feel let down. Give them some grace and understanding. If you have frequent or overwhelming feelings of sadness or anxiety that do not seem to get better, it is likely time to reach out for help. Watch for changes in your sleep, feelings of irritability or hopelessness, or not wanting to do things you usually enjoy. If these feelings last for a while, contact your healthcare provider or a mental health professional. And remember, contacting 2 1 1 is a great way to fnd resources, support and a listening ear.

December 2022 Meals on Wheels & Senior Dining Menu

Meals on Wheels Phone Line: 715-839-4886

Suggested donation $4/meal St. John’s Apts | 815 Chapin Street, Eau Claire| Mon Fri Serve Time: 11:15 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

Allmealsareservedwith1%milkandsubjecttochangewithoutnoticeduetodifcultywithsupplychain.

Home Delivered Participants: Make any cancellations or changes by 1pm, one business day before. Congregate Dining Site Participants: Make your meal reservations by 1pm, one business day before.

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Note: The signs indicate the number of carbs in a meal.

^ = ½ carb * = 1 carb *^ = 1 ½ carb W/G = wholegrain

5 Southern Style

Smothered Chicken Over Herbed Rice* California Blend^ Warm Biscuit* Fresh Fruit*

12

Baked Cod With Lemon Capers Baked Yukon Potato* Sour Cream Bean Medley* W/G Dinner Roll* Fresh Fruit^

19

Sausage, Potatoes and Kraut* Baked Beans* Breadsticks* Fresh Fruit*

*Wednesday Saladsavailable onlyatthe congregatemeal siteslistedabove

Wednesday Salads* 12/7 Chef Salad 12/14 Pear Salad with balsamic & walnuts 12/21 Kale Salad with Lemon Dressing 12/28 Tuna w/ Greens

1 Slow Roasted Pork Homestyle Gravy* Buttered Noodles* Green/Wax Beans W/G Dinner Roll* Cinnamon Roll Cake*

2 Egg, Ham, Broccoli And Cheddar Bake American Fries* Berry Cobbler* Pasta Veggie Salad*

6 Cheeseburger

W/G Bun* Pickles Roasted Yukon Potato* Baked Beans* Seven Layer Bars*

7 Baked Ham Brushed Mustard Apple Glaze Green Beans Scallop Potatoes* W/G Dinner Roll* Pineapple Chunks^

8 Chicken and Swiss Sauteed Mushrooms Wild Rice Pilaf* Asparagus^ Butter and Egg Roll* Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie*

9 Italian Wedding Soup with Orzo* & Steamed Spinach Radicchio Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Crusty Bread*

13

Ginger and Honey Glazed Pork Steamed Rice* Oriental Veggies^ Snow Peas, Red Pepper, Carrot, Celery, Mushrooms Fresh Bread* Fortune Cookie*

20

Tuna Casserole with Cheese Sauce Potato Chips* Steamed Corn* Butter & Egg Roll*

14

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon Sauce* Cheesy Mashed Potato* Steamed Broccoli Dinner Roll* Lemon Meringue Bars*

21

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry over Steamed Brown Rice* Steamed Carrots* Fortune Cookies* Frosted Brownies*

15

Glazed Ham w/ Apple Sweet Potato Casserole* Brussel Sprouts^ W/G Bread* Blueberry Strudel* Fresh Fruit^

16

Chicken Caesar Salad with Romaine, Egg, Parmesan Chips Croutons* Mandarin Oranges

22

Swedish Meatballs Yukon Mashed Potato*, Broccoli / Caulifower Fresh Bread* Cranberry Nut Bars*

23

CLOSED HOLIDAY OBSERVANCE 26

27

CLOSED HOLIDAY OBSERVANCE

Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole with Shell Pasta* Mixed Vegetables* Applesauce^

28

Hot Ham & Cheese Kaiser Roll* Roasted Potatoes* Baked Beans* Coleslaw Fresh Fruit*

29

Grilled Salmon with Couscous and Lemon Butter Sauce

Tomato, Cucumber & Onion Salad Apple Crisp*

30

CLOSED HAPPY NEW YEAR!

SENIOR CONGREGATE DINING: December

Lunch Meal Site Locations

Augusta Senior Center

Monday Friday at 12:00pm. Call 715 286 2953 to make your reservation by noon the day before.

St. John’s Apartments

Monday Friday at 11:15am. Call 715 839 4886 to make your reservation by 1:00 the day before.

Fairchild Community Center

Every Wednesday at 12:15pm. Call 715 839 4886 to make your reservation by the Tuesday before at 1:00 PM.

Evening Meal Site Location

LE Phillips Senior Center

Meals are available on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 5:00 pm.

Tuesday December 13th, 2022 Glazed Ham Balls, Pecan Mashed Sweet Potato Casserole, Roasted Asparagus, Dinner Roll and Cranberries

Tuesday December 27th, 2022 NO EVENING MEAL

Online Foodshare Retailers

Provided by the GWAAR Legal Services Team

Some online retailers accept FoodShare benefts in Wisconsin. Online stores that accept the QUEST card:

· ALDI

· Target

· Woodman’s Markets

· Walmart

· Amazon

The suggested donation for Home Delivered Meals and meals at the Congregate (group) Sites is $4/meal.

Note:TheWednesdaysalads listedonthemenuareonly availableattheabove CongregateDiningSites.

Weather Cancellation Policy

Suggested Donation for the Evening Meal is $5

Please call the ADRC Meals on Wheels line: 715 839 4886 by the Friday before at 3:00 PM to make your reservation.

To fnd out if you are eligible to receive FoodShare benefts (and are an Eau Claire County resident) call Great Rivers Call Center at 888-283 0012.

With winter just around the corner, we’d like to remind everyone of our policy regarding closures of the Meal on Wheels and Senior Dining Program. Meals on Wheels and Senior Dining Sites may be closed if we have heavy snowfall, extreme temperatures, icy roads, storms/tornado/heavy winds, etc. If Eau Claire schools are closed due to weather, Meals on Wheels and Senior Dining Sites will also be closed. If Eau Claire schools have a late start, Meals on Wheels will still deliver. For delivery, we ask that you please have snow and ice removed from entrance and sidewalks so that our volunteers can safely deliver your meal to you. If your sidewalks are not cleared you run the risk of no delivery.

To check for our closings, you will be able to fnd them scrolling on the bottom of the TV along with the school closings on your local channels WEAU TV 13 and WQOW TV 18. You can also fnd our closings directly on their websites: www.weau.com and www.wqow.com. We also announce our closings on WAXX radio. If you have any questions or concerns, please call our nutrition ofce at (715) 839-4886. We are open Monday through Friday 8:00am to 4:30pm.

ADRC VAN SCHEDULE: December

2022

The ADRC van has room for one wheelchair and 3 additonal 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, Transportaton Coordinator to schedule at 715 225 0975. Priority given to individuals who live rurally.

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Open date call 1 to schedule trip. St. Johns 2 Apartment Walmart trip. Pickup at 10a

Open date call 5 to schedule trip.

Open date call 12 to schedule trip.

Open date call 6 to schedule trip.

Open date call 13 to schedule trip.

Open date call 7 to schedule trip.

Open date call 14 to schedule trip.

Open date call 8 to schedule trip. Open date call 9 to schedule trip.

Open date call 15 to schedule trip. Open date call 16 to schedule trip.

Open date call 19 to schedule trip.

Unavailable 26 for trips today.

Open date call 20 to schedule trip.

Open date call 27 to schedule trip.

Open date call 21 to schedule trip.

Open date call 28 to schedule trip.

Open date call 22 to schedule trip. Unavailable 23 for trips today.

Open date call 29 to schedule trip. Unavailable 30 for trips today.

Aging & Disability Resource Center Elder Beneft Specialists present free seminars open to anyone new to Medicare OR currently on Medicare. Caregivers and family members welcome.

December Presentation: Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at 10:00 am (Government Center Room 1277) Register at www.adrcevents.org or call The Aging & Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire County 715 839 4735

1 888 338 4636 tty: use Relay (711) adrc@co.eau claire.wi.us

Resources for Learning How to Stay Safe Online

The National Cybersecurity Alliance provides excellent consumer Resources and Guides on a variety of topics relevant for everyone. The Alliance wants to make it easy for everyone to learn more about cybersecurity and staying safe online. Visit www.staysafeonline.org/resources to browse a variety of videos, infographics, tip sheets and more.

Topics of interest:

How to tell if your computer has a virus and what to do about it.

Phishing; what it is and what to do.

ADRC Prevention and Health Promotion Workshops

StrongBodies Information Session

for new participants (virtual and 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 both strength and balance with a fun group of peers. Learn more in this free orientation and sign up for classes starting in January.

WHEN: Thursday, 10:00 11:15 a.m./ December 1, 2022

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

Virtual: Mondays & Wednesdays, January 9 March 15, 2023 at 8:30 am, 11:15 am, and Tuesdays & Thursdays, January 10 March 16, 2023 at 8:30 am

In person: Mondays & Wednesdays, 4:30 p.m. (Chapel Heights UMC), 5:00 p.m. (Dove Healthcare West)

Repeat participants must complete a Re enrollment Consent Form to sign up by December 19. $20 suggested donation for repeat participants. Download form at www.adrcevents.org, email adrc@eauclairecounty.gov or call the ADRC at 715 839 4735 to request a form by mail.

Healthy Living with Chronic Pain (virtual)

If living with ongoing pain is keeping you from doing the things you want to do, this 6 week workshop can help give you the tools and strategies to manage your pain. If you’re 18 or older and have or live with someone who has chronic pain, this program is for you!

Topics include: Short term goal setting, Relaxation, Getting quality sleep, Better emotional health, Medication usage and evaluating treatment options, Balancing activity and rest, Creating a pain profle, Fatigue management, Communication skills with friends, family, and medical team.

This program does not replace existing treatments, but serves to complement your current medical treatment plan, and is not meant for a person who has pain medication addiction issues.

WHEN: Tuesdays, 10:00 am 12:30 pm January 31 March 7, 2023

Mind Over Matter: Healthy Bowels, Healthy Bladder (virtual)

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, 2:00 4:00 pm February 28, March 14 & 28, 2023

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

Christmas Gift Suggestions

Ask any caretaker (who is caring for a person with dementia requiring constant attention) what they want for Christmas and the answer will likely be respite. Relief from the unrelenting burden. If you are wondering what to give that caretaker you know, here are a few suggestions:

• Volunteer to sit with their person for at least two hours.

• Gift certifcate for a home health care worker to come in and if possible, take their person out for the day, your home maybe.

• Gift certifcate for one day of respite care at adult day services.

• One half day cleaning, getting the kitchen and bathroom shaped up.

• Meal preparation and kitchen cleaning.

• Volunteer to do the laundry……wash, dry, fold, put away or a dry cleaning gift certifcate

• Volunteer to grocery shop.

• Ofer to drive, pick up prescriptions, pick up takeout food, etc.

• Help with correspondence, bill paying, and any paperwork the caretaker was not accustomed to before their person’s illness.

• Have meals delivered.

• Day at the spa…….ladies.

• Any activity away from home…...men

There is also a list of gifts not to give, namely anything that causes more work. Even a potted plant needs attention. Never bring a pet unannounced. Any living thing means more work. My wife always loved animals, so when her physician recommended a pet cat, I took her to the county shelter to see how she responded. I got her a cat under the pet foster program so I could return it if necessary. That worked well, but it was our decision. I would not have liked it given to us.

Easing Senior Loneliness

Social isolation is a little thought of, but growing, factor in the health and well-being of people 65 and older. And it may play a greater role than obesity as a public health hazard, according to research at Brigham Young University.

But what does “social isolation” really mean? It’s how often we interact with others, and how much we enjoy those connections. In fact, social interaction is so important that it’s actually a key factor in maintaining good health.

As we age, a support system is more important than ever because often, basic life circumstances may have changed. For example, seniors may be on a fxed income, with less money to spend on eating out. Or may not see well enough to drive. Bottom line, it can become difcult to fulfll the basic human need to connect with others.

“Relationships really do matter when it comes to healthy aging, because there’s a strong correlation between a satisfying social life and a senior’s overall well being,” says

Larry Weinstein M.D., Chief Medical Ofcer of Humana Behavioral Health. “If you’re feeling isolated, the frst step is to talk your doctor, and it’s important to reach out to family and friends for encouragement and support. There also are lifestyle changes we can make to better nurture

our emotional health, and by extension, our physical health.”

Humana’s Dr. Weinstein recommends fve ways in which to become more active and engaged.

1. Socialize on Schedule Nurture existing relationships by scheduling a weekly phone call, cofee date, or game night with friends or family.

2. Volunteer

If you love animals, consider volunteering at a local shelter. Or comforting babies at a hospital.

3. Stay Active

Local senior and community centers ofer health and wellness activities, exercise classes, walking clubs, and social programs, often at little to no cost.

4. Learn Something New

Join a book club or take a class to learn a new skill. Local libraries are a wonderful community resource, often ofering seminars free of charge.

5. Get a Pet

Pets are wonderful companions. Choose a pet that suits your needs. For example, an older, trained dog is easier to care for than a puppy. Or a cat or fsh might be a good ft.

When it comes to maintaining good health, social interaction matters. If you or a loved one are struggling with social isolation, please contact your physician.

(Courtesy of NewsUSA)

©LPi

CAREGIVER CAFÉ: December 6th

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!

What Can You Expect?

• Social connection with others

• Peer Support

• An informal and relaxed environment

• Reduced Stress

• Refreshments

• Contact the ADRC if respite is needed.

1st Tuesday of each month 9 10:30 am

Location: The French Press 2823 London Rd, Eau Claire

MEMORY CAFE: December 13th

For more information, contact Lisa Wells, at the Aging & Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire County, 715 839 4750 or lisa.wells@eauclairecounty.gov

Ahhh….the sights and sounds of the holidays are here! Let’s enjoy some Christmas music, share our favorite Christmas memories and create an ornament to take home.

Refreshments sponsored by Visiting Angels

2nd Tuesday of every month

10:00 11:00 am

Location: Chippewa Valley Museum in Carson Park 1204 E Half Moon Dr, Eau Claire

DECEMBER DEMENTIA SUPPORT

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

Cofee

Group for Men

Connectons and cofee for men caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or other type of dementa. Wednesdays, 12/7 and 12/21, 11:00 am Noon at Peace Lutheran Church, 501 E. Fillmore, Eau Claire. Contact Bob at 414 378 2114 or beevee6610@gmail.com

Memory Loss and Caregiver Support Group

This support group is for people with memory loss and caregivers. Wednesday, 12/28, 1:30 3:00 pm Lake St. Methodist Church, 337 Lake Street, Eau Claire. For more informaton, contact Lisa at 715 839 4750 or lisa.wells@eauclairecounty.gov

Lewy Body Dementa Support Group

This support group is for people caring for a person living with Lewy Body Dementa. Wednesday, 12/14, 6:00 8:00 pm at Porter Place, 914 Porter Avenue, Eau Claire. For more informaton contact Janell at romatowskij@comcast.net or Amy at amy@mudmodular.com

Memory Café

Ahhh….the sights and sounds of the holidays are here! Let’s enjoy some Christmas music, share our favorite Christmas memories and create an ornament to take home!

Chippewa Valley Museum, 1204 Half Moon, Carson Park on Tuesday, 12/13 at 10:00 am. For more informaton, contact Lisa at 715 839 4750 or lisa.wells@eauclairecounty.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! Thursdays, January 5 April 20, 2023 at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd 1120 Cedar Street, Eau Claire. For more informaton, call 715 210 4165 or standinthelightmemorychoir@gmail.com

Virtual Support Group for Working Caregivers

Monday, 12/5, 7:00 8:00 pm Contact Scot at 715 261 6066, scot.seeger@adrc cw.org

Photos from Reminiscing on the Ranch Program

Questions about brain health, dementia, and/ or caring for a person with dementia? Contact Lisa Wells, Dementia Care Specialist, at the Aging & Disability Resource Center at 715 839 4750 or lisa.wells@eauclairecounty.gov

The Future of Wisconsin

s Health Begins With You

The National Institutes of Health’s All of Us Research Program is seeking to partner with at least one million people across the United States to help improve health care and research.

People ages 18 and older, regardless of health status, can enroll. Participants are asked to share diferent types of health and lifestyle information by completing online surveys, sharing electronic health records (EHRs), and providing physical measurements and blood and urine samples. The research program aims to include communities that have been historically underrepresented in biomedical research in an efort to build one of the largest, most diverse resources of its kind.

When you enroll in the All of Us Research Program, you join an unprecedented efort to meet one goal: speed up health research. Studying DNA is a key part of this efort. One of the benefts of participating is that you can get your DNA results over time.

As a participant, you can choose which DNA results you would like to receive, including:

· Your genetic ancestry (where your family comes from)

Your genetic traits, such as why you might love or hate cilantro

· Whether you may have an increased risk of developing a serious health condition (i.e. cancer or heart disease)

· How your body might react to certain medicines

Other health related information

As we learn more about DNA, we may be able to add more types of DNA results to this list.

To get your DNA results:

1. Create an All of Us participant account at www.JoinAllofUs.org and complete the “Consent to Join the All of Us Research Program.”

2. Agree to share your electronic health records (EHRs).

3. Go through the “Consent to Get DNA Results” and tell us you want your DNA results.

4. Complete “The Basics” survey.

5. When invited to do so, schedule an appointment to provide your blood or saliva sample. (Receive a $25 gift card at completion of this step.)

6. Keep your email and/or mobile phone number up to date in your All of Us account.

Once you provide your samples, you will get your DNA results on an individualized timeline. It may take a few months or even years for All of Us to check your DNA.

Participants can sign up by calling 888 633 9987 or email allofus@marshfeldresearch.org

Vehicle Modifcation Grant

This grant is available for vehicle modifcations for accessibility.

The Vehicle Modifcation Grant is for funds up to $5,000 per applicant. Types of modifcations could include hand signals, ramps, electric swivel seats just to name a few.

You must be an Eau Claire County resident & one of the following:

60 years old or older

A caregiver to someone 60 years old or older

An adult with a disability (18 59 years old)

A caregiver to an adult with a disability

You will be asked to submit proof of insurance as well as two quotes from area vendors. If getting two quotes creates a hardship, exceptions can be granted by the ADRC Manager upon request.

Applications are granted based on funding availability and are approved/denied by the ADRC Manager and Director.

If you are interested in applying for this grant or have questions, please Betsy Henck ADRC Manager at betsy.henck@eauclairecounty.gov or 715 839 6259.

The Adaptive Equipment Loan Program at the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire County ofers a way to try out equipment for a short time. Whether you are thinking about purchasing an item but want to try it out frst, or just needing something for a short time, the loan program can be a useful service that is quick and easy to use.

We have a variety of items that can make your life a little easier including walkers, canes, bath benches, bed rails, pocket talkers that amplify sound, magnifying aids for low vision issues, tools to make food preparation easier, tools to aid in dressing, and much more.

We recently added a new item: a Stair Cane! This can make going up and down stairs easier, safer and less painful. We only have one of them at this time but if you’d like try it out before purchasing give us a call to see if it’s in stock at 715 839 4735. This item would not be covered by insurance so can be purchased for about $125 (at the time of this newsletter) on Amazon.com or Rocksteadycane.com.

Webex

Meet & Greet

Want to learn how to get connected to Webex video conferencing to participate in interactive workshops, presentations, or meetings? In this one hour session, you’ll learn how to:

• Join meeting on your browser

• Mute/unmute your microphone

• Turn on/of your video

• Change view option

• Use the Chat feature

• Practice brainstorming

WHEN: Thursday, January 24, 2023 10 11am OR Wed, February 1, 2023 1 2 pm

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

ThiswillbeheldvirtuallyviaWebex;participantswill receivefurtherinformationbeforetheevent.

Med Wise Rx

Avoid unwanted efects from medications, or worse, falls, hospitalizations, and even death from medication errors. Learn better communication and medication coordination with your healthcare providers in this two session skills based education program. No fee. Who is eligible:

• Older adults (at least 65 years old)

• Taking 5 or more multiple medicines regularly (this includes nonprescription drugs)

• Able to navigate and join Webex meeting

• Can be an informal caregiver (any age and health status) but must be highly involved in organizing the administration and/or pick up of older adult’s medications

WHEN: Wednesdays, 1:00 2:30 pm on February 8 & 22, 2023

REGISTER: Call the ADRC at 715 839 4735 or go to www.adrcevents.org.

721 Oxford Avenue Room 1130

Eau Claire WI 54703 Address Service Requested