March is Na onal Nutri on Month!
MARCH 2021 AGING & DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER [ADRC] 721 Oxford Avenue Room 1130 Eau Claire WI 54703 Monday Ͳ Friday 8:00 am Ͳ 4:30 pm 715.839.4735 1.888.338.4636 !y: use Relay (711)
Website and Social Media www.eauclaireadrc.org www.facebook.com/ ECC.ADRC
1
March is celebrated as na onal nutri on month, every year since 1973. The purpose of the campaign is to help the public become aware of the importance of good nutri on and physical ac vity. This year’s theme is “Personalize Your Plate”. Nutri on is not a one size fits all. We are each unique with different bodies, goals, backgrounds, and tastes! Ea ng a healthy diet may look different from one plate to another depending on your preferences, culture, and cooking abili es. Each week in March highlights a different skill to work on to help you personalize your nutri on. Consider focusing on the following goals each week:
Include healthful foods from all food groups
Include protein, dairy, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Ea ng balanced meals will keep you full longer, give you more energy throughout the day, and help you get all the nutrients your body needs to stay healthy and strong. Get crea ve and make your plate colorful with nutrient dense foods.
Hydrate healthfully
Aim to drink a minimum of 8 cups of water each day! Keep a water bo6le nearby, replace sugar sweetened beverages with water, milk, black coffee and tea, try sparking water or add natural flavoring such as lemon or fruit to water.
Plan your meals each week
Use a grocery list to shop for healthful foods, plan a weekly menu and try a new meal, be menuͲsavvy when dining out and plan meals before you get to the restaurant, and pack a healthy lunch for a busy day.
Be physically ac ve your way
Pick ac vi es that you like and start by doing what you can. Every bit adds up and health benefits increase as you spend more me being ac ve. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise five mes per week. Even ten minutes three mes per day adds up! The benefits of personalizing your plate for good nutri on are invaluable, but it doesn’t have to be an all or nothing approach. Focus on one nutri on goal per week. Have your friends and family join in on the fun and help you reach your goals. Crea ng small and consistent changes is the key to crea ng healthy habits. How will you personalize your plate today? For more informa on on Na onal Nutri on month visit: h6ps://www.eatright.org.
2
$JLQJ 'LVDELOLW\ 5HVRXUFH &HQWHU 6WDII
ADRC Director Linda S.
ADRC Manager Lisa R.
ADRC Manager Betsy H.
Kitchen Manager Sheryl S.
Preven on Coordinator Deb B.
Demen a Care Specialist Lisa W.
Elder Benefit Specialist Leda J.
Elder Benefit Specialist Jessica S.
Accountant Kelli W.
Administra ve Associate Heather C.
Resource Specialist Molly Y.
Resource Specialist Brianna W.
Disability Benefit Disability Benefit Specialist Specialist Jim C. Melissa W.
Administra ve Associate Vacant
Resource Specialist Lindi E.
Op ons Counselor Op ons Counselor Dana G. Sue O.
Op ons Counselor Op ons Counselor Op ons Counselor Op ons Counselor Op ons Counselor Jen S. Dawnelle E. Andrea R. Liz N. Jenna B.
Meal Site Worker Carmelita H.
Cook Gilda H.
Cook Aaron P.
Cook Karin K.
Meal Delivery Driver Gordy G.
ADRC Van Driver Dave O.
Meal Delivery Driver Kris B.
ADRC LOBBY UPDATE
Meal Delivery Driver Doug S.
Meal Delivery Driver Norm B.
ADRC Board Spotlight: Chris HambuchͲBoyle
I am Eau Claire County Supervisor for District 16. I was asked to apply for the district I have lived in for over 40 years when the person elected ul mately did not want to move to the district. The county board has given me the opportunity to complete her 2 year term. I am a wife, mother, Nana to my husband, Steve...daughters Caitlin and Molly...grands Harper and Lola (and another on the way.) They are my priority. Presently, I also am a partͲ me organizer for the nonpar san WI Public Educa on Network for Northwestern Wisconsin which keeps me connected to my childhood roots on the shores of Lake Superior and my 40 years as an early childhood special educa on teacher, speech/language pathologist and school board member. I am thankful to have been assigned to the board of the ADRC. Many of my li6les are now in their 30’s and 40’s. My ADRC commi6ee work is like reconnec ng with all of them.
ADRC Advisory Board Vacancy The ADRC Advisory Board has vacancies. Please consider applying if you are a family member, guardian, or other advocate and have interest in services for individuals or persons with disabili es. For more informa on please contact Samantha Cole at 715Ͳ839Ͳ5106 or visit the website for applica on and details. h ps://www.co.eauͲclaire.wi.us/government/boardsͲ commissionsͲandͲcouncils/agingͲdisabilityͲresourceͲboard
3
The ADRC lobby is temporarily closed to the public. We are s ll working hard to serve you over the phone and email. To reach us: 715Ͳ839Ͳ4735 or adrc@co.eauͲclaire.wi.us ▪Meals on Wheels is s ll delivering: 715Ͳ839Ͳ4886 ▪Ensure can be delivered by a volunteer. ▪Adap ve Equipment can be loaned out or taken back with an appointment only.
Call to get scheduled! GOVERNMENT CENTER UPDATE
Skip the Trip! While the ADRC Lobby is closed at this me the public is strongly encouraged to call ahead to any other department as well Ͳ most services can be handled in other ways. There is a black, secure dropbox to the le) of the front doors (on Oxford Ave). Items are retrieved from the drop box twice a day and delivered by hand to the correct person/ department. 3mM pTUm Klai Hax pa m@RM]y KM]UvMl yaql Ral^m al IallMmia_KM_IM pa pTM aq_py
4
5
1 in 3 Wisconsin Adults has Prediabetes. Do You? March 23rd is American Diabetes Alert Day
In Wisconsin, 1 in 3 adults have prediabetes, yet 90% don’t know they have it. Prediabetes is a serious health condi on where your blood glucose (also known as blood sugar) levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be called type 2 diabetes. If leL untreated, prediabetes can quickly turn into type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes can be reversed if caught early! Small changes can make a big difference. Take control of your health today with these steps. Tuesday, March 23rd is American Diabetes Alert Day. Take 1Ͳminute to take the Prediabetes Risk Test www.diabetes.org/widhsrisktest to find out if you are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. i Manage Stress. i Eat Healthier. i Stop Smoking. i Get Ac ve. i Take Medica on as Prescribed. i Manage Weight. Share the Prediabetes Risk Test with your family, friends, and your neighbors. People with chronic condi ons such as heart disease, asthma, prediabetes, and diabetes are at great risk for developing more serious flu and COVIDͲ19 complica ons. Help protect yourself and your community by staying home if you are sick, wearing a mask, keeping distance from others, washing your hands oLen.
“Inclusa’s purpose is to make individuals feel that they’re not alone, that they have some choice in their care.” Local long-term care supports and services delivered with a focus on your life, your choice.
Contact Alex Nicholas to place an ad today! anicholas@lpiseniors.com or (800) 950-9952 x2538
For ad info. call 1-800-950-9952 • www.lpiseniors.com
inclusa.org | 877-376-6113
Aging & Disability Resource Center, Eau Claire, WI
A 4C 02-1023
6
ADRC Van Schedule March 2021
Would you like to go on one of our scheduled trips at no cost? ADRC Van has room for one wheelchair and 3 addi"onal individuals. It is available for seniors over 60 and adults with disabili"es living in Eau Claire County. Contact Dave, Transporta"on Coordinator to schedule: 715Ͳ225Ͳ0975 Monday 1 No van service today.
Tuesday 2 No van service today.
Wednesday 3 Open date, call to schedule trip.
Thursday 4 No van service today.
Friday 5 St Johns Apartment Walmart trip. Pickup at 10a.
8 No van service today.
9 No van service today.
10 Open date, call to schedule trip.
11 No van service today.
12 Open date, call to schedule trip.
15 No van service today.
16 No van service today.
17 Open date, call to schedule trip.
18 No van service today.
19 Open date, call to schedule trip.
22 No van service today.
23 No van service today.
24 Open date, call to schedule trip.
25 No van service today.
26 St. Johns Apartment Woodmans Trip. Pickup at 10a
29 No van service today.
30 No van service today.
31 Open date, call to schedule trip.
Prevent Iden ty The" During Tax Season
Iden ty theL is a topic that con nues to garner media a6en on, largely because it is a form of crime that is difficult to detect and prevent. New scams pop up before old ones are conquered. Tax season is a me when iden ty theL typically peaks, and older adults are at higher risk than younger ones. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) says that 13% of seniors were vic ms of iden ty theL in 2016. For 29% of them, their personal iden ty was used to commit tax fraud. While iden ty theL varies widely, many types of scams share similari es. Learning more about these may help you or a senior loved one avoid becoming a vic m.
Protec ng Seniors from Iden ty The- During Tax Season
1. Sign up with a credit monitoring service: People who have their iden es stolen oLen don’t realize they’ve become a vic m. Some discover it only when applying for a credit card or receiving a bill for an account they have never applied for. Enrolling in a credit monitoring service that provides an alert about new credit ac vity (i.e. applying for a car loan or credit card) is essen al. Most of these have monthly or yearly fees. Consumers Advocate suggests exploring services such as LifeLock, ProtectMyID.com and MetLife Defender. 2. Keep personal informa"on locked up: Many of us carry important documents around every day. Whether it’s a Social Security card or a health insurance card, we do so out of convenience. But this is a behavior that puts our personal informa on at risk. A safer op on is to purchase an inͲhome safe to store documents when we aren’t using them. Be sure to take them out only on the days they are required for use. 3. Protect against computer viruses: While an increasing number of seniors are filing their income taxes online, not everyone is aware of how essen al virus protec on soLware is. Once installed,
7 it’s vital that an virus programs be updated frequently. Along those same lines, be sure email, apps, and other online plaPorms have a secure password that includes le6ers, numbers, and characters. 4. Sign up to block mail solicita"ons: Unsolicited direct mail from credit card companies can put personal informa on at risk. Seniors can make it harder for iden ty thieves to steal those solicita ons from their mailbox by signing up to block direct mail campaigns. Visit the Direct Marke ng Associa on website and update all direct mail preferences. Another op on is to call 1Ͳ888Ͳ5ͲOPTOUT. Monitor financial accounts online: It is also helpful for seniors to take me to monitor financial statements on a regular basis. Doing so helps to spot small issues before they become big ones. Be sure to check your credit report, too. The Federal Trade Commission requires each of the big three credit agencies to provide a free copy once every 12 months.
Scams Targe ng Seniors
The Na onal Council on Aging has more informa on you can read to protect yourself or an older family member. “Top 10 Financial Scams Targe ng Seniors” covers topics ranging from counterfeit prescrip on drugs to common internet scams. www.ncoa.org
8
Luther Lakeside Apartments 1412 Whipple Street
• 1 bedroom HUD sudsidized units for persons 62+ • Rent is 30% gross income w/utility allowance • Elevator & coin laundry on-site • Emergency pull stations in each apartment • Across from Mayo Hospital • Near Senior Center
www.landmark-company.com (715) 834-3411
In-Homecare By Angels®
LenmarkGomsrud-Linn
We Care Every Day, In Every Way • • • • •
FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES
www.lenmarkfh.com 814 First Ave. 1405 N. Clairemont Ave. Eau Claire, WI 54703 Eau Claire, WI 54703
715-832-8301
Bathing/Grooming Assistance • Assistance with Walking • Errands & Shopping • Meal Preparation • Flexible Hourly Care •
Dressing Assistance Medication Reminders Light Housekeeping Friendly Companionship Respite Care for Families
715-598-1750 • VisitingAngels.com/Eauclaire
715-834-4456
Proudly Serving Families at 2 locations
Each Visiting Angels agency is independently owned and operated.
3504 Hoover Ave, Altoona
715.830.5252
Are you concerned about the risks of residential care
Quality, independent living apartment for adults 55 and older
Need To Get To The Senior Center?
Quick & Easy Connections Try the bus! Give this ad to your bus driver to receive a free day pass. Call Our Office At 715-839-5111 Exp 03/31/21
For ad info. call 1-800-950-9952 • www.lpiseniors.com
Appeal to Heaven Independent Nurses’ Network Connects you with a private nurse who arranges and manages just the care you need to remain safe at home, independent, and in control.
Call 715-379-7889. We will come to you. Aging & Disability Resource Center, Eau Claire, WI
B 4C 02-1023
10
March 2021 Meals on Wheels & Senior Dining Menu
i St. John’s Apts | 815 Chapin Street, Eau Claire | Monʹ Fri Serve Time: 11:15 am | 715Ͳ839Ͳ4886 i Augusta Senior Center | 616 W Washington St, Augusta| Monʹ Fri Serve Time: 11:30 am | 715Ͳ286Ͳ2953 i L.E. Phillips Senior Center | 1616 Bellinger St, Eau Claire| 2nd & 4th Tues Serve Time: 5:00 pm | 715Ͳ839Ͳ4886 i Fairchild Community Center | 121 Farmer St, Fairchild | Every Wednesday Serve Time: 12:00 pm | 715Ͳ839Ͳ4886 Salad’s only available at our “Grab and Go’ Sites Please make your meal reservations by 1:00 pm one business day in advance. All meals are served with 1% milk. Meals subject to change without notice. Monday
1 Bean and Ham Soup* With Hearty Veggies^ Fresh Bread* Fresh Fruit*
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
2 Pepper Steak White Rice* Steamed Broccoli Apple Slices^ Whole Grain Dinner Roll* Snickerdoodle Bar* 9 Baked Cod With Lemon Bu6er Baked Yukon* Sour Cream California Blend^ Whole Grain Bread* Apple Crisp*
3 Baked Chicken Mashed Yukon Potatoes* Hibbard Squash* Wax Beans, Whole Grain Bread* Cherry topped Cheesecake*
4 Mushroom Swiss Burger w/Pickles Whole Grain Bun* Roasted Red Potatoes* Baked Beans* Apple Cake*
5 Turkey Cordon Bleu Casserole* Baby Potatoes* Mixed Vegetables^ Whole Grain Bread* Fresh Fruit^
Western 10 Meatloaf Mashed Potatoes* Peas and Carrots* Whole Grain Dinner Roll* Strawberries with Angel Food Cake*
11 Pulled Pork Sandwich* Kaiser Roll* Baked Beans* Cheesy Cauliflower Cole Slaw Frosted Brownie*
12 Cheese Ravioli* Meat Sauce Marinara Sauce Breads ck* Caesar Salad with Tomato/Cuke Fresh Fruit^
15 Creamed Ham and Vegetables & Potato* Green Beans, Baking Powder Biscuit* Fresh Fruit^
16 Glazed Chicken Breast, Rice Pilaf with Veggies* Broccoli/ Cauliflower Peach Cobbler*
17 French Toast* Syrup* Sausage Links Au Gra n Vegetables^ Applesauce^ Seven Layer Bar*
18 Baked Ham Mashed Potatoes* Baked Beans* Whole Grain Bread* Cherry Crisp*
Beef Stroganoff 19 With Mushrooms Egg Noodles* Steakhouse Spinach Steamed Carrots* Fresh Fruit^
22 Tater Tot Casserole with Mixed Vegetables* Steamed Corn* Breads ck* Fresh Fruit^
23 Pork Loin with Homestyle Gravy* Steamed White Rice* Steamed Broccoli, Whole Grain Bread* Banana Cream Pie* 30 Sausage, Potatoes And Sour Kraut* California Blend^ WholeGrain Bread* Blonde Brownie*
24 Country Fried Steak* Country Gravy* Mashed Yukon* Bu6ernut Squash, Fresh Fruit^ Cranberry Nut Bar*
25 Beef Taco Salad Romaine/Tomatoes Shredded Cheese Sour Cream/Salsa Black Beans/Fritos Applesauce
26 Rueben Casserole Kraut, Potato & Swiss* Steamed Carrots* Whole Grain Dinner Roll* Fresh Fruit^
31 Roasted Turkey with Homestyle Gravy* Wild Rice Stuffing with Apples* Brussel Sprouts^ Oreo Fluff*
Note: The signs indicate the number of carbs in a meal. ^ = ½ carb * = 1 carb *^ = 1 ½ carb
8 Chicken Nuggets* MacaroniͲnͲ Cheese* Steamed Spinach, Pineapple Chunks^ Fresh Fruit^
29 Grilled Salmon Capers & Bu6er Sauce, Baked Yukon* Steamed Baby Carrots* Whole Grain Dinner Roll* Fruit Juice^
Salads:
3/3Ͳ Waldorf Salad 3/10ͶBLT Salad 3/16Ͳ Chef Salad 3/23 Ͳ Tuna w/ Greens 3/31Ͳ Fresh Fruit & Co6age Cheese
Grab and Go Meals
Will be offered at L.E. Phillip’s Senior Center in lieu of the evening meal. Please call the office by the Friday before at 3:00 PM to make your reserva on. Meals can be picked up outside of the senior center (weather pending) at 5:00 PM on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. March 9th: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, Green Peas, Fresh Bread, Side Salad, Dessert March 23rd: Baked Ham, Scalloped Potatoes, Steamed Carrots, Fresh Bread, Dessert Grab and Go meals are being offered at Augusta Senior Center, call 715Ͳ286Ͳ2953 to make your reserva on. Meals can be picked up at 11:30 AM. Grab and Go meals are offered at St. John’s Apartments, call 715Ͳ839Ͳ4886 to make your reserva on. Meals can be picked up at 11:15 AM. Fairchild Community Center will con nue to serve Grab and Go meals every Wednesday at 12:00 PM. Call 715Ͳ839Ͳ4886 to make your reserva on by Tuesday at 1:00 PM. Salads are now available, follow menu in the newsle6er.
Feels like
home...
• First Month rent FREE • • • • • • •
Flexible rent options Located behind Sacred Heart Hospital Optional noon meal on site Heat, water, sewer & garbage included Discount meals at Scared Heart Hospital Storage in apartment & basement Beauty salon, library and recreation room
11
Have you heard of the Commodity Supplemental Food Program for Seniors?
If you answer yes to all of the ques ons below, you qualify for a free box of commodity foods each month! (if two people in your household qualify, you will get two boxes) 1. Are you 60 or older? 2. Is your gross monthly household income at or below $1383 for 1 person or $1868 for 2 persons? 3. Are you a resident of Chippewa or Eau Claire County?
Each CSFP box will contain: a 2lb block of cheese, peanut bu2er, juice, pasta, protein, canned vegetables, canned fruit, shelf stable milk, dry milk and cereal.
To register contact: Kimberly Wahler, The Salva on Army Chippewa Valley Bread of Life Center 2211 S. Has ngs Way Eau Claire, WI 54701 715. 834.1224 ext 6
We Offer: • Income Based Rent • No Asset Limit • One-Bedroom Apts. • Pets Allowed With Restrictions • Secured Building/Security Entrance • Emergency Call System • Coin-Operated Laundry Facilities • Tenant Driven Activities • Community Room • Cable Ready Outlets • Air Conditioners Provided • Garbage & Water Included • Elevator Service • On-Site Maintenance • Off Street Private Parking
HUD Subsidized Rent for Persons with Low Income 55 or Over OR Persons with Disabilities
300 William St. Eau Claire, WI 54703 For Applications, Contact the Housing Authority of the City of Eau Claire (715) 839-4943
Tours Available Call for an Appointment (715) 839-8154 Handicapped Accessible Apartments Available
For ad info. call 1-800-950-9952 • www.lpiseniors.com
Subsidized HousingWe - One Bedroom Apartments Offer: • Income Based Rents • No Asset Limits • Rents Based on 30% of Income • Heat, Garbage, Water and Sewer included • Tenant Driven Activities • Emergency Pull Stations in Every Apartment with Direct Link to City Fire and Ambulance • On-Site Manager and Maintenance • Coin Operated Laundry Facilities • Bus Stop Nearby • Card Access Security Entrances • Off Street Private Parking • Vending Machines • Pets Allowed With Restrictions • On-Site Beauty Salon • Community Room • Air Conditioners Provided Handicapped Accessible Apartments Available
HUD Subsidized Rent for Persons with Low Income 55 or Over OR Persons with Disabilities
901 S. Farwell St. • Eau Claire, WI 54701 For Applications, Contact the Housing Authority of the City of Eau Claire (715) 839-4943
Tours Available Call for an Appointment
(715) 839-8602
Aging & Disability Resource Center, Eau Claire, WI
C 4C 02-1023
12
Weather Cancella on Policy
We would 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 s ll 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 find them scrolling on the bo6om of the TV along with the school closings on your local channels WEAUͲTV 13 and WQOWͲTV 18. You can also find 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 ques ons or concerns, please call our nutri on office at (715) 839Ͳ4886. We are available Monday through Friday 8:00am to 4:30pm.
Changes to Adaptive Equipment Loan Program Due to COVID 19, the Adaptive Equipment Loan Program offers SCHEDULED curbside drop off and pick up only. One of the great and unique services the Eau Claire County Aging & Disability Resource Center provides is the Adap ve Equipment Loan Program. This program offers a way to borrow adap ve equipment such as a walker, cane, wheelchair, etc. for up to three months. If you are needing adap ve equipment for a temporary amount of me or thinking about purchasing an item but want to try it out first, check out the ADRC loan program. Please see the procedures to loan equipment below. To Check For Availability One-Time Contribution Fees Call the ADRC are being WAIVED until further notice (715) 839-4735 Large items: $10.00 fee /Small Items: $5.00 fee Pick-Up/Drop off Item Call the ADRC Mon–Fri: 8am–4:30 pm to schedule a pickup/drop off time
The words we use ma*er. When wri ng or speaking about people with disabili es it is important to
13
put the person first. CatchͲall phrases such as 'the blind', 'the deaf' or 'the disabled, do not reflect the individuality, equality or dignity of people with disabili es. Listed below are some recommenda ons for use when describing, speaking or wri ng about people with disabili es. Term no longer in use: the disabled Term Now Used: people with disabili es Term no longer in use: wheelchairͲbound Term Now Used: person who uses a wheelchair or wheelchair user Term no longer in use: cripple, invalid, spas c, ‘the handicapped’ Term Now Used: person with a disability Term no longer in use: mental handicap Term Now Used: person with an intellectual disability Term no longer in use: schizo, mad Term Now Used: person with a mental health disability Term no longer in use: au s c person Term Now Used: person with au sm Term no longer in use: stroke vic m Term Now Used: person who had a stroke Term no longer in use: the demen a pa ent Term Now Used: the person living with demen a
Care Wisconsin and My Choice Family Care are now My Choice Wisconsin.
NEW HOMES FROM 59K! Eau Claire & Altoona
Realtor®
Finance or Rent to Own
A local REALTOR®
715-834-6802
with heart and knowledge.
www.hillcrestestates.net
KAYCEE M. KRECKLOW
715.563.2254 KayceeKrecklow@gmail.com
For ad info. call 1-800-950-9952 • www.lpiseniors.com
Aging & Disability Resource Center, Eau Claire, WI
D 4C 02-1023
14
Don’t Overlook Depression
Jane Mahoney Caregiver Support Specialist Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources
Do you feel sad, empty, and hopeless much of the day? Are you having trouble sleeping, ea"ng, or func"oning? Have you lost interest in things that you used to enjoy? These are all signs of depression, a medical illness that affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. Depression oLen goes undiagnosed and untreated as people tend to downplay the symptoms or blame them on other things. While it’s normal to feel sad and have a lack of energy occasionally, these feelings shouldn’t persist for more than a few days. Right now, with the cold darkness of winter and the pandemic raging, depression symptoms are on the rise. Depression is treatable and should not be overlooked as a possible cause of feeling sad and hopeless. Symptoms of depression can vary from person to person, but anyone who has been experiencing five or more of the following symptoms for more than two weeks should contact their health care provider. ¡ Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood ¡ Sleeping too much or too li6le ¡ Change in appe te resul ng in weight gain or loss ¡ Loss of pleasure and interest in ac vi es once enjoyed ¡ Irritability, restlessness ¡ Crying too oLen or too much ¡ Aches and pains that don’t go away when treated ¡ Difficulty concentra ng, remembering, or making decisions ¡ Fa gue or loss of energy ¡ Feeling guilty, hopeless, or worthless ¡ Thoughts of death or suicide Caregivers in par cular need to be aware of the risk of depression. According to a survey by the Family Caregiver Alliance, caregivers experience depression at twice the rate of the general popula on. The added responsibility and stress of caring for a loved one, especially during a pandemic, can have a nega ve impact on a caregiver’s health if steps are not taken to
stay healthy. If depression goes untreated it can lead to increased emo onal and physical problems as well as affect your ability to care for your loved one. If diagnosed with depression, treatment usually includes medica on, counseling, or a combina on of the two. You can also prac ce these coping techniques to relieve symptoms of depression: x Communicate your feelings with friends, family, a support group, or mental health professional. x Set limits ʹ don’t try to do more than you can handle. Ask for help. x Take care of your body ʹ eat well, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly x Learn ways to manage stress and relax. Schedule "me each day to do something for yourself. x Maintain a good sense of humor. Find humor in daily events. Knowing the symptoms of depression and understanding ways to reduce your risk of depression can help you stay healthy. Don’t overlook the seriousness of depression. If you or someone you know shows the signs of depression, seek medical help. Life can be enjoyable! For more informa on on depression or other caregiving or aging related issues please contact the ADRC at 715.839.4739.
Living Well with Dementia
15
By Russell Martoccio
A Personal Journey: The Narrow Path
By sunrise tomorrow my memory of today will have become part of my past. Things of this world are now becoming strangely dim to me and I find myself increasingly isolated and withdrawn. I work so hard to engage in conversa7on that I become weary and 7red, always feeling that I am trapped inside and looking out thinking that no one can hear me. I suffer from memory gaps and when I bump into those gaps I fill them with stories to make them connect. I believe that these disappointments are inevitable; but disappointment is a choice. I believe these feelings are very common among those of us who suffer from demen7a. By accep7ng that these disappointments are a natural progression of the disease and that I will have good days and bad days, leads me to having to make a choice. I can choose to dwell and worry about what God has taken from me or I can be thankful for what He has le; me with. I need to look straight ahead, count my blessings and fix my eyes on what lies before me. I need to walk this narrow path, which is not always smooth and problem free, for it keeps me focused and safe and not to veer to that wide path that leads me to confusion and anxiety which is the current state of the world in which we now live. By faith alone I believe God is doing for me what I can’t do for myself, always praying that these trials of insecurity will lead me to a far be2er life and trus7ng that this will be so.
16
MARCH DEMENTIA VIRTUAL and/or PHONE CALL SUPPORT
The Eau Claire Memory Café and Support Groups will be online and/or conference call. To par"cipate, you will need an email and either a computer/tablet/iPad, smartphone or phone. Register online at www.adrcevents.org Chippewa Valley Memory Cafe The café offers a comfortable way for people with memory problems and their care partners to have fun and socialize with others. 10:00 ʹ 11:30 am Tuesday, March 9, 2021 For more informa on, contact Lisa at 715Ͳ 839Ͳ4750 or lisa.wells@co.eauͲclaire.wi.us Coffee Group for Men (inͲperson at this "me) Connec ons and coffee for men caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or other type of demen a. 11:00 am Wednesdays, March 3 and 17, 2021 Peace Lutheran Church, 501 E. Fillmore Avenue For more informa on, contact Bob at 414Ͳ 378Ͳ2114 or beevee6610@gmail.com Early Stage Memory Loss Support Group This support group is for people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease or other demen as and their caregivers. 1:30 ʹ 3:00 pm Wednesday, March 24, 2021 For more informa on, contact Lisa at 715Ͳ 839Ͳ4750 or lisa.wells@co.eauͲclaire.wi.us MiddleͲLate Stage Alzheimer’s/Demen"a Caregiver Support Group This support group is for people caring for a person in the middleͲlate stages of Alzheimer’s disease or other demen as. 1:30 ʹ 2:45 pm Tuesday, March 9, 2021 For more informa on or to register, contact Paula at paulajwainsco6@gmail.com
Lewy Body Demen"a Support Group This support group is for people caring for a person living with Lewy Body Demen a. 6:00Ͳ8:00 pm Wednesday, March 10 and 24, 2021 For more informa on contact Janell at romatowskij@comcast.net or Amy at 715Ͳ379Ͳ3148 or amy@modularmarke ngsystems.com
SoulͲCare for Caregivers A monthly support group for individuals who are caring/suppor ng a loved one who has Alzheimer’s disease or other demen a, or a chronic/terminal health condi on or disability. 10:30 am ʹ noon Tuesday, March 23, 2021 For more informa on, contact Paula at paulajwainsco6@gmail.com Stand in the Light Memory Choir Spring Semester People in the early to midͲstages of memory loss, their care partners, and singing volunteers come together to share their love of music. No musical experience is necessary to par cipate. 9:45 ʹ 11:00 am Thursdays, January 7 ʹ April 29, 2021 For more informa on call 715Ͳ210Ͳ4165 or standinthelightchoir@gmail.com
17
Caretaker Corner By Jim Alf
Caretaking in Fishing Boat I had my first caretaking experience forty years ago when Karen and I lived across the road from a small fishing lake. A lady whom we knew asked if I would take her husband, who was in midͲ stage demen a, fishing in my rowboat. He had impaired cogni on, but he could communicate slowly, and I trusted his mobility to use a boat, so we went fishing. I rowed out, rigged our poles and we began fishing.
I soon had a fish, and then another. ALer I caught five or six and he had none he said the reason was our bobbers. Everything else was the same, bait, rods, depth and same side of the boat. My bobber was a s ck float that stood upright and I had rigged his with an ordinary red and white round bobber, a difference he observed. He insisted that was the reason I was catching fish and he was not. He was so adamant that aLer a while I decided to appease him and switched bobbers. “You just watch,” I told him. “It won’t make any difference.” We got our lines back in the water. Almost immediately his float disappeared, and he had his first fish. Then others in quick succession. I sat there fishless while he reeled them in. The pleasure I got from that aLernoon ou ng wasn’t from the fish I brought home but from seeing how pleased he was that he could successfully solve a problem. Why switching bobbers made a difference is s ll a mystery to me, but it sure wasn’t to him. The lesson to learn from that fishing trip is that disagreeing with the person with demen a that we are caring for is usually counterproduc ve. Instead, agree and divert the discussion.
“TREAT EACH CLIENT LIKE YOU WOULD TREAT YOUR OWN MOTHER.” - FOUNDER ED BENDER
Health | Life Medicare | ACA INSURANCE
WE ARE OPEN BY APPOINTMENT Please Call or Email Us to Schedule:
Phone: (715) 832-1772
Now with offices in Rice Lake and Eau Claire!
Email: contactus@insassoc.net
ASSOCIATES
insassoc.net
We are not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S Government or the Federal Medicare Program. This is an advertisement for insurance.
For ad info. call 1-800-950-9952 • www.lpiseniors.com
Aging & Disability Resource Center, Eau Claire, WI
E 4C 02-1023
18
Caregiving Basics
Jane Mahoney, Older Americans Act Consultant, Greater WI Agency on Aging Resources When you first learn that a loved one needs help it is hard to know where to begin. Some7mes there is a sudden change of health that prompts you to get involved. Other 7mes it is a gradual realiza7on that the person is no longer capable of mee7ng all their needs. In either situa7on, knowing what steps to take can be difficult. The following are some basic steps to get you started. Learn about the person’s illness, disease, or condi on. Understanding the nature of the disease, its symptoms and what to expect, is helpful in caring for the person. Talk to a health care provider, research the internet, or read books or pamphlets to help you understand what the person is dealing with and specific ways you can help.
Determine areas of need. Write down your specific needs such as housecleaning, grocery shopping, meal prepara7on, help with bathing, and transporta7on to medical appointments. Then discuss possible ways to meet these needs with friends, family members, local agencies, and the person’s health care provider. Research community resources. Contact the Aging & Disability Resource Center for local resources and services ʹ there are many! Explore op7ons like home delivered or grabͲandͲgo meals, inͲhome suppor7ve care services, Lifeline, transporta7on services and adult day care. Contact organiza7ons specific to the disease such as the Alzheimer’s Associa7on or the Stroke Founda7on. Not all agencies are fully open, but staff will be available to answer the phone and assist you in mee7ng your needs. Plan for immediate care. Find out what the persons wishes are for immediate and longͲterm care. Adapt the environment by doing a home safety check as well as purchasing items for any special needs such as a walker, commode, wheelchair, or other adap7ve equipment. Find a way to log the person’s health such as ea7ng pa2erns, symptoms, and medica7ons. This informa7on is helpful at medical appointments. Enlist the help of others. Determine what you can realis7cally do, then make a list of other people who can help. Don’t try to do it all on your own. Write down tasks that others can help with such as running errands or providing a meal. Many tasks can be completed while following social distancing guidelines. Organize important informa on. Write down per7nent medical informa7on including doctors’ names and phone numbers, insurance informa7on and medica7on/pharmacy informa7on. Collect and list financial and other important informa7on such as household bills, loans, bank accounts and insurance policies. Also include copies of social security, driver’s license and insurance cards of the person being cared for. Be sure to keep this informa7on in a safe loca7on that other family members know about. Plan for the future. Get informa7on about the longͲterm prognosis in order to make appropriate plans. Assess the financial situa7on and contact a financial advisor who is familiar with caregiving issues if necessary. Talk to a lawyer about a durable power of a2orney for health care and finances. Include the person as much as possible in the planning. Take care of yourself, too. Find support through a friend, counselor, or support group. Many are mee7ng virtually during the pandemic and can be found at www.adrcevents.org. Talk about your struggles and how it feels to be a caregiver. Take regular breaks from caregiving and keep doing some ac7vi7es or hobbies that bring you pleasure. Make sure you are ea7ng well, geCng enough sleep and exercise and are staying connected with family or friends, at least by phone calls, to keep yourself healthy. Ask for help. No one can do it all! Contact the ADRC for informa7on on upcoming virtual programs, caregiver support groups, local caregiving resources, or to talk to someone about specific caregiving issues.
Contact Alex Nicholas to place an ad today! anicholas@lpiseniors.com or (800) 950-9952 x2538
WHEN YOU’RE WITH US, YOU’RE FAMILY! Prairie Pointe Rehabilitation Suites • State-of-the-art therapy gym • On-site physical, occupational, and speech therapy • Relaxing fireside spa and concierge care
9
River Pines Long-Term Concierge Care • The area’s best skilled nursing center • A home-like environment with private suites and all private showers Visit Our Website | www.gracelutherancommunities.com
Contact Us For More Information | (715) 598-7800 | carecoordinator@graceluthfound.com
For ad info. call 1-800-950-9952 • www.lpiseniors.com
Aging & Disability Resource Center, Eau Claire, WI
F 4C 02-1023
20
ADRC of Eau Claire County Preven on Ͳ Health Promo on EvidenceͲbased workshops (Spring 2021)
Watch for Physical Activity for Lifelong Success (or PALS) workshop information when in-person classes start again.
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ǚPRGHUDWH LQWHQVLW\Ǜ DQG ǚYLJRURXV LQWHQVLW\Ǜ DUH 3K\VLFDO DFWLYLW\ VKRXOG EH GRQH RQ PRVW GD\V RI WKH ZHHN DQG FDQ EH EURNHQ LQWR VPDOOHU WLPH LQFUHPHQWV WKURXJKRXW WKH GD\ PLQXWH ZDON LQ WKH PRUQLQJ DW OXQFK DQG LQ WKH HYHQLQJ IRU PLQXWHV WKDW GD\
StrongBodies™ Informa on Session for new par7cipants. Strength training is especially important as we age. Being physically ac7ve and socially connected are both essen7al for health and wellͲbeing. 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 orienta7on and sign up for classes. WHEN: Thursday, March 4, 2021 10:00 Ͳ 11:15 am WHERE: Virtual Webex, “Join mee7ng” link and instruc7ons will be sent via email. REGISTER: Call the Aging & Disability Resource Center at 715Ͳ839Ͳ4735 or go
www.adrcevents.org at least one week prior.
StrongBodies™ Virtual Strength and Balance Training 10Ͳweek workshops, classes meet twice weekly for
one hour each. Mondays & Wednesdays, April 5 Ͳ June 14, 2021 at 8:30 am or 11:15 am Tuesdays & Thursdays, April 6 Ͳ June 10, 2021 at 8:30 am. Repeat par7cipants must complete a ReͲenrollment Consent Form to sign up by March 15. There is a fee for repeat par7cipants. Scholarships available. Download form at www.adrcevents.org, email adrc@co.eauͲ claire.wi.us or call the Aging & Disability Resource Center at 715Ͳ839Ͳ4735 to request a form by mail. Stepping On Virtual can help you avoid a dangerous and costly fall so you can keep doing the things you love to do. In just seven weeks, you will learn: Strength and balance exercises you can adapt to your individual level. To iden7fy and remove or avoid fall hazards both inside and outside your home. How vision, hearing, medica7on, and footwear affect your risk of falling. To get back on your feet the right way if you do fall. WHEN: Mondays, 1:00 Ͳ 3:15 pm April 12 Ͳ May 24, 2021 WHERE: Virtually via Webex. Program coordinator will assist with set up. COST: No fee REGISTER: Call the Aging & Disability Resource Center at 715Ͳ839Ͳ4735 or go to www.adrcevents.org at least one week prior.
Mind Over Ma4er: Healthy Bowels, Healthy Bladder
ThreeͲsession workshop designed to give women the tools they need to take control of symptoms. It provides informa7on and group ac7vi7es along with simple exercises and dietary changes to prac7ce 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 Ͳ 4:00 p.m. April 27, May 11 & 25, 2021 WHERE: Virtual via Webex. Program coordinator will assist with set up. COST: No fee REGISTER: Call the Aging & Disability Resource Center at 715Ͳ839Ͳ4735 or go to www.adrcevents.org at least one week prior.
21
2021 Medicare and You
Presenta ons are virtual un l further no ce, and use the WebEx plaPorm. Par cipants can a6end by video or phone. Register at www.adrcevents.org or Aging & Disability Resource Center 715Ͳ839Ͳ4735 • 1Ͳ888Ͳ338Ͳ4636 6y: use Relay (711) adrc@co.eauͲclaire.wi.us
1:00 pm Friday, March 5, 2021 10:00 am Wednesday, March 17, 2021
Aging & Disability Resource Center Elder Benefit Specialists present free seminars open to anyone new to Medicare, currently on Medicare, Caregivers and families.
You’ll receive informa on about: Medicare Supplemental Insurance Medicare Advantage Plans Medicare Part D Wisconsin SeniorCare
Colony Park West
2818 Augusta Street • 840 W. MacArthur St. 841 Richard Drive
Colony Park East Stein Boulevard & Steven Lane Augusta Street
• 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
Oakwood Hills The moment you enter Oakwood Hills, you’ll feel the relaxed grace and beauty our residents cherish daily.
Independent Living
All-Inclusive Amenities & Services • Chef-Prepared, nutritious meal • Many utilities included
• No buy-in fees or long-term commitments • And much more!
For advertising info call: 1-800-950-9952
Call us today at 715-552-1500 4316 Oakwood Hills Pkwy, Eau Claire
For ad info. call 1-800-950-9952 • www.lpiseniors.com
Aging & Disability Resource Center, Eau Claire, WI
G 4C 02-1023
22
Vehicle Modification Grant
Are you in need of modifying your vehicle for handicap accessibility and safety reasons? Are the costs just too high? The ADRC is happy to announce that there is a grant available for individuals in need of vehicle modification up to $5,000. A waiver may be requested for additional funding. Eligible applicants must be elderly (60+ years), or an adult with a permanent disability, and/or a caregiver to someone elderly and/or an adult with a permanent disability and an Eau Claire County resident. Applications will be reviewed and granted based on funding availability. *Individuals enrolled in long term care programs or receiving Medical Assistance (MA) ARE NOW ELIGIBLE. If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity call 715 839 6259 .
Contact Alex Nicholas to place an ad today! anicholas@lpiseniors.com or (800) 950-9952 x2538 Blia Yang
Thank you families for trusting us with yours.
Insurance Agent
715-379-3435
bliayang.ins@gmail.com
Medicare Supplement Insurance from Physicians Life Insurance Company. We are not connected with, nor endorsed by, the U.S. Government or the Federal Medicare Program. If you respond to this solicitation of insurance, an agent will contact you. L535, L536, L537, L538, L539, F005, F006, F007, F008, F009, F011, F012
PMA5418-1019
For ad info. call 1-800-950-9952 • www.lpiseniors.com
Oak Gardens Place Senior Living
342 Twin Oak Drive, Altoona, WI | 715-839-8000 | enlivant.com
Aging & Disability Resource Center, Eau Claire, WI
G 4C 02-1023
23
24
721 Oxford AvenueͶRoom 1130 Eau Claire WI 54703 Address Service Requested