Born to Age Solano 2023

A Directory for Older Adults

Information to help improve your quality of life and plan for the future!

Solano County 2023

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the 2023 edition for Solano County. We are proud to present this annual directory for the elder care industry and hope that you find it valuable and enjoyable.

We would like to take this time to acknowledge all those who work in the elder care industry. This last year has been extremely difficult, and we appreciate all of the heroes who have done a great job helping our seniors and their families with health, financial, and life challenges. We look forward to a promising 2023 ahead.

We owe a great deal of gratitude to those in our community who have supported this publication with writing, artwork, and advertising. This edition would not be possible without you, and I am proud to be your new publisher.

This directory is filled with resources of all kinds, from health to financial to home improvement. There is something for every reader and every community member. This directory celebrates the aging process for our community through engaging editorial content and effective marketing.

We hope you enjoy the articles and benefit from the resources within. As we continue to publish this directory on an annual basis, we hope that you will join us with your writing, resources, and events.

We also welcome you to subscribe to our publication and to share your feedback on articles herein. Please contact the editor/publisher, Annamarie Buonocore, at Annamarie@borntoage.com . Here is to a great New Year!

Sincerely,

Annamarie Buonocore Publisher/Editor

P.O. Box 5402, San Mateo, CA 94402 (650) 504-8549, Fax (650) 358-9254

Publisher Annamarie Buonocore

Managing Editor Vickie Buonocore

Graphic Design André Garabedian

Contributing Writers Laura Biché Sally Gersbach

Janice Lombardo Angelique MacArthur

Advertising Sales Annamarie Buonocore

Business matters, advertising and editorial concerns should be addressed to Born to Age, P.O. Box 5402, San Mateo, Calif. 94402 or by calling (650) 504-8549, fax (650) 358-9254.

Born to Age Peninsula is not responsible for any action taken by any person as a result of reading any part of any issue. The pieces are written for information, entertainment and suggestion – not recommendation.

The pursuit of making healthcare decisions or any action reflected by this magazine is the responsibility of the individual and not of this magazine, its staff or contributors. Opinions expressed are those of the individual author and not necessarily those of Born to Age.

The publisher reserves the right to edit and rewrite, as necessary, all copy submitted for publication.

All editorial and advertising matter in this edition is copyrighted. Reproduction in any way is strictly prohibited without written permission of the publisher.

©2023 InFlight Publishing

PLANNING INDEX

ACTIVITIES

Ballroom

Dancing

337 Nebraska St. Vallejo, CA 94590

707-642-4444

mooselodge468@yahoo.com

Mondays 6:00pm-10:00pm. $12

Dinner at 6:00pm, $12 Dance at 7:00pm, or $20 for both.

Barbershop Choral

425 Hemlock St. Vacaville, CA 94510

707-724-8575

rollie52@aol.com

Meets Monday, 7:00pm for rehearsals; Community Presbyterian Church.

Benicia

Public Library

150 East L St. Benicia, CA 94510

707-746-4343

Movie Mornings for Seniors-

1st Thursday of each month 10:30am-Noon. Senior Speaker Series-Every 3rd Thursday 10:30am.

Benicia

Senior Center

187 East L St. Benicia, CA 94510

beniciarec.org

707-745-1202

Membership is $10 a year. Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9:00am-3:00pm. All Senior Fitness classes are held at the Benicia Community Center, 370 East L St. 707-746-4285. Senior Trips and Tours, upcoming tour information: 707-745-1202.

Brain Fitness Class

333 Amador St. Vallejo, CA 94590

florencedouglasseniorcenter.org

707-643-1044

peter.wilson@fdcvallejo.org

2nd Tuesday 1:00pm-2:30pm Florence Douglas Senior Center.

Carquinez Village

P.O. Box 207 Benicia, CA 94510

carquinezvillage.com

707-297-2472

A membership organization for active seniors Social networking. Education, Aging at Home, Concierge Services, Transportation.

Coin Club

333 Amador St. Vallejo, CA 94590

florencedouglasseniorcenter.org

707-643-1044

1st Wednesday 6:30pm-8:30pm

Florence Douglas Senior Center.

Dixon

Senior Center

201 South Fifth St. Dixon, CA 95620 ci.dixon.ca.us

707-678-7022

Monday-Friday, 9:00am-2:30pm.

Fairfield

Senior Center

1200 Civic Center Dr. (street) Fairfield, CA 94533

1000 Webster St. (mailing), Fairfield, CA 94533 fairfield.ca.gov

707-428-7421 (front desk) classes@fairfield.ca.gov

Monday-Friday, 9:00am to 3:00pm 707-429-5687 (fax). For active, older adults age 50+.

Florence Douglas Senior Center 333 Amador St. Vallejo, CA 94590

florencedouglasseniorcenter.org

707-643-1044.

Mare Island Museum

1100 Railroad Ave. Mare Island, CA 94592 mareislandmuseum.org

707-280-5742

jig313@aol.com

Monday-Friday, 10:00am -2:00pm, Saturday, 10:00am-4:00pm, Closed Sunday.

McBride Senior Center

91 Town Square Pl. Vacaville, CA 95688 cityofvacaville.com

707-469-6660.

National Association of Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE)

P.O. Box 4629

Vallejo, CA 94590

florencedouglasseniorcenter.org

Meets 2nd Tuesday of each month at 1:30pm at the Florence Douglas Senior Center in Vallejo.

North Bay Rose Society

333 Amador St. Vallejo, CA 94590 florencedouglasseniorcenter.org

Charles: 510-965-8514 malarkeyus@yahoo.com

2nd Monday, 7:30pm-9:30pm, Florence Douglas Senior Center.

Senior Coalition of Solano County seniorcoalitionsolanocounty.com

707-784-8259

SeniorCoalitionSolano@gmail.com

The mission of the Senior Coalition is to advocate for and support efforts that improve and enrich the lives of seniors living and working in Solano County. The Senior Coalition meets the 1st Friday of every month from 12:00pm to 2:00pm. The meetings are generally held at 675 Texas Street, Fairfield in the multi-purpose room.

Senior Roundtable Vacaville

91 Town Square Pl. Vacaville, CA 95688 cityofvacaville.com

707-469-6660

Meets third Thursday of each month at 12:30pm Assembly Rooms 1 and 2 McBride Senior Center.

Sons in Retirement (SIRS)

Branch #99

155 Browns Valley Pkwy. Vacaville, CA 95688

Meets 2nd Thursday of each month at the Stars Recreation Center. 11:00am and lunch is at Noon. No membership fees.

Sons in Retirement (SIRS)

Tri-City Branch #106 sir106.org

Gary Fox 685-5394

A non-profit organization for retired men. Lunch meetings 3rd Wednesday of each month at Suisun Yacht Club. 703 Civic Center Blvd., Suisun City, CA 94585. Fellowship at 11:00am, lunch at Noon.

Suisun

Senior Center

318 Merganser Dr. Suisun, CA 94585 suisun.com

707-421-7203

kmickens@suisun.com

Take Off Pounds

Sensibly (TOPS)

436 Del Sur St. Vallejo, CA 94591 tops.org

800-932-8677

TOPS offers support, friendship, incentive/recognition programs, and a low membership fee. Coordinator: Eileen “Mickey” Drake at 707-253-8363 Chapter meetings: Rio Vista, Delta Clubhouse River Room, 990 Summerset Dr. Wednesday, 8:00am; Suisun City Senior Center, 318 Merganser Dr., Tuesday, 5:30pm.; Epiphany Episcopal Church, 300 West St., Vacaville, Tuesday 6:30pm; Vacaville, McBride Senior Center, 91 Town Square, Thursday, 6:00pm; Vallejo, First Christian Church, 1035 Indiana St., Friday, 9:00am; Vallejo Regional Education Center; Offers fitness classes. Register by calling: 648-4600.

ADVANCE HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVE

Empowered Aging

2255 Contra Costa Blvd. Ste. 204

Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

ccombudsman.org

925-685-2070

PLANNING INDEX

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Ascension Arms Apartments

301 Butte St. Vallejo, CA 94590

707-644-2666

judyhuffman@att.net

Bay View Vista Senior Apartments

445 Redwood St. Vallejo, CA 94590 winnresidential.com

707-649-2656 bayviewvista@winnco.com

Casa De Suisun Senior Apartments

322 Merganser Dr. Suisun City, CA 94585 tccproperties.net/property/casa-desuisun-senior-apartments

707-426-0481 cdsuisun@comcast.net

Dover Woods Senior Apartments

2801 Dover Ave. Fairfield, CA 94533 doverwoodsapts.com

707-429-8966 dwdmgr@amcllc.net

Fairfield Senior Manor 1101 Union Ave. Fairfield, CA 94533 707-422-2944 smanor@jsco.net

Hillside

131 Gable Ave. Vacaville, CA 95688 707-455-8500

Low Cost Housing

Benicia 707-745-2071; Fairfield 707-428-7392; Suisun 707-421-7330; Vacaville 707-449-5675; Vallejo 707-648-4508

Marina Towers

601 Sacramento St. Vallejo, CA 94590

707-552-4422 marinatowe@jsco.net

Olympic Cottages

1797 Olympic Dr. Davis, CA 95616 916-756-5980

Parkside Plaza 1650 Park La. Fairfield, CA 94533 707-429-4470

Parkway Plaza 188 East Alaska Ave. Fairfield, CA 94533 707-429-3511

Redwood Shores 400 Redwood St. Vallejo, CA 94590 707-645-1800

Rockwell Manor 693 E. Tabor Ave. Fairfield, CA 94533 707-426-4034

Saratoga Senior Apartments 1101 Burton Dr. Vacaville, CA 95687 707-451-7400

Senior Manor 1101 Union Ave. Fairfield, CA 94533 707-422-2944

The Oaks 2001 Eastwood Dr. Vacaville, CA 95687 707-451-4567

Vacaville Autumn Leaves 2470 Nut Tree Rd. Vacaville, CA 95687

rhf.org/location/vacaville-autumnleaves/ 707-446-5548

Vacaville Senior Manor 190 Lawrence Dr. Vacaville, CA 95687 vacavilleseniormanor.com 707-446-1694

Woodcreek Senior Commons 1625 Woodcreek Dr. Fairfield, CA 94534 woodcreekfairfield.com

707-425-1962

woodcreekapts@sbcglobal.net No Section 8 or HUD

ATTORNEY

Law Office of Yvonne F. Thrasher 78 Cernon St., Ste. A Vacaville, CA 95688 Thrasherlawoffice.com

707-447-1200

yvonne@thrasherlawoffice.com

AUDIOLOGY, HEARING CARE & HEARING AIDS

Deaf & Disabled Service Center 800-806-1191

Ear of the Lion 800-327-8077

CARE PLANNING

Multipurpose Senior Services Program (MSSP)Choice In Aging

1234 Empire St., Ste. 1420 Fairfield, CA 94533 choiceinaging.org

707-708-0571

Redwood Caregiver

Resource Center

Senior Helpers

North Bay

1100 Trancas St., Ste. 105 Napa, CA 94558

seniorhelpers.com/napa 707-251-1540

bnations@seniorhelpers.com

Napa, Sonoma, American Canyon, St. Helena, Fairfield

Senior Helpers

North Bay

231 D St., Ste. B Davis, CA 95616

seniorhelpers.com/ca/solano-yolo 707-251-1540

bnations@seniorhelpers.com

Areas we serve: Sacramento, Solano County, American Canyon, St. Helena, Sonoma, Rohnert Park, Cotati, Penngrove, Fairfield, Vacaville, Rio Vista, West Sacramento, Woodland, Dixon, Davis, Winters.

CONSERVATORSHIPS, ESTATE ADMINISTRATION, FIDUCIARY & TRUST SERVICES

Law Office of Yvonne F. Thrasher

78 Cernon St., Ste. A Vacaville, CA 95688

thrasherlawoffice.com

707-447-1200

yvonne@thrasherlawoffice.com

Public Guardian / Conservator

707-784-8920

Solano County; Adult Protective Services does the initial investigation for conservatorship referrals. Initial request, call: 707-7848259; Conservatorships can be done without an attorney. Check website, nolo.com for information on resources. For the most current list of private professional conservators, call the Superior Court Investigator, 707-207-7481.

78 Cernon Street, Suite A Vacaville CA 95688

Ph. (707) 447-1200

Fax. (707) 447-1326

Estate Planning Probate Trust Administration

1140 Sonoma Ave., Ste. 1B Santa Rosa, CA 95405 redwoodcrc.org

707-542-0282, Ext. 100 rcrc@redwoodcrc.org

CONSUMER ADVOCACY

Better Business Bureau

510-238-1000

24-hour hotline

California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform

800-474-1116

Consumer information and quality of care info on nursing homes.

COUNSELING SERVICES

Faith In Action faithinactionsolano.org

707-469-6675

louissf@aol.com

Peer Counseling; Group counseling; In Home Counseling; Conference Call Groups

Grief Counseling for Seniors

333 Amador St. Vallejo, CA 94590 florencedouglasseniorcenter.org

707-643-1844

Thursdays, 1:30pm-3:00pm; Florence Douglas Senior Center

Redwood Caregiver Resource Center

1140 Sonoma Ave., Ste. 1B Santa Rosa, CA 95405 redwoodcrc.org

707-542-0282, Ext. 100 rcrc@redwoodcrc.org

DENTAL ASSISTANCE

Family Health Services

Dental Clinics

Provides provide comprehensive and preventative dental services to the low income and indigent residents of Solano County that are of high quality and appropriate.

FAIRFIELD: 2101 Courage Dr.707-784-2120

VACAVILLE: 1119 East Monte Vista Ave.707-469-4670

VALLEJO: 365 Tuolumne St.707-553-5509

MOBILE DENTAL VAN: 1119 East Monte Vista Ave.707-469-4670

DRIVING CONCERNS & REPORTING

Senior Driver Ombudsman

7677 Oakport St., Ste. 220 Oakland, CA 94621 510-563-8998

Rosemary Robles

DRIVING COURSES

55 / Alive Driving Course (AARP)

EDUCATION

AARP (State Office) 1415 L St., Ste. 960 Sacramento, CA 95814 aarp.org 866-448-3614 caaarp@aarp.org

NAMI - National Alliance on Mental Illness - Solano County P.O. Box 3334, Fairfield, CA 94533 namisolanocounty.org

707-422-7792

NAMI Solano County is a grassroots organization, incorporated in 1985, as a support group helping families and individuals affected by mental illness.

HEAP

Solano County Health & Social Services

solanocares.org

solanocares@solanocounty.com

EMERGENCY FOOD ASSISTANCE

Dixon Community Assistance Corp.

185 W. Cherry St. Dixon, CA 95620

Cornerstone Church; 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 10:00am-11:00am.

ESTATE & FINANCIAL PLANNING

D.A. Santos & Associates P.O. Box 6109 Napa, CA 94581 dasantosandassociates.com

877-254-7276 info@dasantosandassociates.com

Edward Jones - Shannon Schmidt, Financial Advisor

1261 Travis Blvd., Ste. 380 Fairfield, CA 94533 707-434-0160

shannon.schmidt@edwardjones.com

FALL PREVENTION

A Matter of Balance

707-372-7011

fptrainer@faithinactionsoloano.org

This program emphasizes practial strategies to manage falls. Call or email for days, times and locaiton.

Meals on Wheels of Solano County

95 Marina Center Suisun, CA 94585

mealsonwheelssolano.org

707-425-0638

info@mealsonwheelssolano.org

Provides in-home education, screening, and referrals for Meals on Wheels home-bound clients.

North Coast Energy Services, Inc. Home Energy Assistance Program

• Utility Bill Assistance—Electric, Gas, Propane/Kerosene, Water

• Free Weatherization, Emergency Heating and Cooling Repairs, Window Repairs, Refrigerator Replacement, Microwaves, Lights, and Insulation

• Utility Bill Assistance—Electric, Gas, and Propane

EmergencyServicesduetoweatherrelatedincidents(wildfires,PG&EPublicSafety PowerShutoff,etc)

Serving Lake, Mendocino, Napa, Solano, Sonoma, and Yolo Counties

• Free Weatherization, Emergency Heating and Cooling Repairs, Window Repairs, Refrigerator Replacement, Microwaves, Lights, and Insulation

Established1981

1000 Texas Street, Suite G • Fairfield, CA 94533

ServingLake,Mendocino,Napa,Solano,SonomaandYoloCounties

Established 1981

1000 Texas Street, Suite G • Fairfield, CA 94533 Phone: (800) 233-4480 or (707) 495-4417

Phone: (800) 233-4480 or (707) 495-4417

190S.OrchardAve,SuiteB-101Vacaville,CA95688 Phone:(800)233-4480or(707)422-3200

License#455152

www.northcoastenergyservices.com

Serving Lake, Mendocino, Napa, Solano, Sonoma, and Yolo Counties

License #455152

License#455152

www.northcoastenergyservices.com

www.nces.org

1000 Texas Street, Suite G • Fairfield, CA 94533 Phone: (800) 233-4480 or (707) 495-4417 License#455152

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

HealthWell Foundation

P.O. Box 220410

Chantilly, VA 20153-0410

healthwellfoundation.org

1-800-675-8416

The HealthWell Foundation is a leading non-profit dedicated to improving access to care for America’s underinsured. When health insurance is not enough, they fill the gap by assisting with copays, premiums, deductibles and out-ofpocket expenses.

North Coast Energy Services, Inc.

190 S. Orchard Ave., Ste. B-101 Vacaville, CA 95688 nces.org

800-233-4480 or 707-422-3200

Provides energy conservation, consumer education & advocacy, home improvement, utility assistance, job training, and other services to people in need. We serve Lake, Mendocino, Napa, Solano, Sonoma, and Yolo counties.

Patient Advocate Foundation

421 Butler Farm Rd. Hampton, VA 23666 copays.org

1-866-512-3861

PAF Co-Pay Relief (CPR) provides direct financial assistance to qualified patients, assisting them with prescription drug co-payments their insurance requires relative to their diagnosis.

PG&E

800-743-5000

Prescription Drug Discount Program for California

Medicare Recipients

(916) 552-9714

Social Security

700 Main St., Ste. 220 Suisun, CA 94585

1-800-772-1213

Fairfield / Suisun Office

Social Security

106 Plaza Dr. Vallejo, CA 94591

1-800-772-1213

Vallejo Office

Water Bills

707-428-7346

Fairfield 62+

Water Bills

707-449-5128

Vacaville 65+

Patient Access Network FoundationPAN Foundation panfoundation.org

1-866-316-7261

The PAN Foundation offers over 60 disease-specific assistance programs to help patients pay for their out-ofpocket costs, such as deductibles, co-pays and coinsurance, travel expenses and health insurance premiums.

FOOD ASSISTANCE

Fairfield-Suisun

1600 Union Ave. Fairfield, CA 94533

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church; 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 9:30am-10:30am

Fairfield-Suisun

4958 Peabody Rd. Fairfield, CA 94533

The Edge Community Church

2nd & 4th Wednesday, Noon-2:00pm

Food Bank of Solano County

2339 Courage Dr., Ste. F Fairfield, CA 94533

foodbankccs.org

1-800-870-FOOD, 707-421-9777

Provides free, supplemental food to eligible residents. Visit website or call for current program days/times. Also, accepts donations, MondayFriday 7:00am-3:30pm in Fairfield at 2339 Courage Dr. Saturdays by appointment.

Rio Vista

1105 A Airport Rd. Rio Vista, CA 94571

Rio Vista Food Pantry, Sundays, 1 2:30pm-2:00 pm.

Senior Food Program

1101 Horizon Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533

foodbanksccs.org

707-421-9777

mzentner@foodbankccs.org

Twice a month distribution of bags of groceries to people age 55+. Must meet monthly household income guidelines: Ex. $2,024 (max) for a one person household., $2,744 for two person household. Available in Fairfield, Dixon, Rio Vista, Vacaville and Vallejo. To apply for membership in the Senior Food Program, you must be over age 55, be low income and live in Solano County. To register, you must visit the Senior Food Assistance site with an identification with a birthdate, and verification of your home/street address. Only one member per household can register. For more information, please call Meg at 707-421-9777, ext. 205. Or email mzentner@foodbankcc.org.

Vacaville

300 West St. Vacaville, CA 95688

Epiphany Church 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 10:30am-11:30am.

Vallejo

225 Amador St. Vallejo, CA 94590

Community Center, 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 10:00am-11:00am.

Vallejo

545 Magazine St.

Vallejo, CA 94590

N. King Center, 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 10:00am-11:00am.

HEALTH ASSESSMENTS

Benicia Senior Center

187 East L St. Benicia, CA 94510

707-745-1202 or 707-745-1100

Pharmacist visit the first Tuesday of each month from 9:00am-11:00am, Blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol and discussion regarding medications.

Florence Douglas Senior Center

333 Amador St. Vallejo, CA 94590

707-643-1044

Diabetic Nurse 1st and 3rd Wednesday, 9:30am-11:00am, Podiatrist, 3rd Tuesdays, 12:30pm-1:00pm.

Senior Helpers

North Bay

1100 Trancas St., Ste. 105 Napa, CA 94558

seniorhelpers.com/ca/solano-yolo 707-251-1540

bnations@seniorhelpers.com

HEALTH INSURANCE

Stephanie Casper Insurance Services casperinsure.com

707-334-6768

stephanie@casperinsure.com

Medicare, Supplemental Insurance, Prescription Insurance, Life Insurance, Advantage Insurance, Long Term Care Insurance, Final Expense insurance and much, much more! Although I am located in Benicia, California, I have the ability to offer unparalleled service and competitive quotes to clients throughout the entire State of California!

HEALTH INSURANCE COUNSELING

Benicia Senior Center

187 East L St. Benicia, CA 94510

707-745-1202 or 707-745-1100

Free assistance with health insurance Medicare supplements, claims or billing problems. By appt. from 9:00am-noon. By appt. 1-800-434-0222

Fairfield Senior Center

1200 Civic Center Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533

1-800-434-0222

Free assistance with health insurance, Medicare supplements, claims, billing problems and long term care insurance. 2nd and 4th Monday, 1:00pm-3:00pm. By Appointment only.

Florence Douglas Senior Center

333 Amador St. Vallejo, CA 94590

1-800-434-0222

Free assistance with Medicare supplements, long term care insurance, etc.

McBride Senior Center

91 Town Square Pl. Vacaville, CA 95688

1-800-434-0222

Free assistance with Medicare/ Medi-Cal, health insurance, Medicare supplements, claims or billing problems.

HEALTH INSURANCE COUNSELING & ADVOCACY PROGRAM (HICAP)

Health Insurance

Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP)

1-800-434-0222

Information and assistance with Medicare billing, supplemental insurance, long term care insurance and HMOs

HOME REPAIR / REMODELING

Vallejo Only

333 Amador St. Vallejo, CA 94590

Basic home maintenance provided at no charge to seniors who are members of the Florence Douglas Senior Center. Sunset Rotary volunteers are dispatched in twomember teams to change lightbulbs, smoke alarm batteries, repair leaky faucets/toilets, blown fuses or reset GFI. Services are limited. Must complete a Release of Liabiity form at the Senior Center.

HOUSING COUNSELING

Fair Housing Napa Valley 1804 Soscol Ave., Ste. 203 Napa, CA 94559 napafairhousing.org

707-224-9720

info@napafairhousing.org

INDEPENDENT LIVING

COGIR of North Bay Senior Living 2261 Tuolumne St. Vallejo, CA 94589

happylivingbycogir.com

707-552-3336

NorthBay@cogir.net

COGIR of Vacaville Senior Living 799 Yellowstone Dr. Vacaville, CA 95687 happylivingbycogir.com

707-447-7496

Vacaville@cogir.net

COGIR of Vallejo Hills

Senior Living 350 Locust Dr. Vallejo, CA 94591 happylivingbycogir.com

707-553-2698

VallejoHills@cogir.net

Paradise Valley Estates

2600 Estates Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533 pvestates.com

800-326-0419

INFORMATION & ASSISTANCE

Benicia Family Resource Center 200 East L St. Benicia, CA 94510

707-746-4352

klara@ci.benicia.ca.us Senior Services Connection

Born To Age

P.O. Box 59 Cotati, CA 94931 borntoage.com

707-652-9966 info@borntoage.com

We help with information and finding community resources.

Faith In Action

91 Town Square Pl. Vacaville, CA 95688 faithinactionsolano.org

707-469-6667

North Coast Energy Services, Inc.

190 S. Orchard Ave., Ste. B-101 Vacaville, CA 95688 nces.org

800-233-4480 or 707-422-3200

Provides energy conservation, consumer education & advocacy, home improvement, utility assistance, job training, and other services to people in need. We serve Lake, Mendocino, Napa, Solano, Sonoma, and Yolo counties.

NAMI - National Alliance on Mental IllnessSolano County

P.O. Box 3334 Fairfield, CA 94533 namisolanocounty.org

707-422-7792

NAMI Solano County is a grassroots organization, incorporated in 1985, as a support group helping families and individuals affected by mental illness.

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Redwood Caregiver Resource Center

1140 Sonoma Ave., Ste. 1B, Santa Rosa, CA 95405 redwoodcrc.org

707-542-0282 Ext 100 rcrc@redwoodcrc.org

Solano County Health and Social Services solanocares.org solanocares@solanocounty.com

Solano Family Justice Center

604 Empire St. Fairfield, CA 94533 solanocounty.com/depts/fvp/fjc/ default.asp

707-784-7635

Advocacy & referral and information for elder abuse as well as financial, physical, mental, sexual abuse or neglect.

INSURANCE, MEDI-CARE

Casper Insurance

Stephanie Casper casperinsure.com

706-334-6768

stephanie@casperinsurance.com

LEGAL SERVICES

Benicia Public Library solanolibrary.com

1-866-572-7587

1st Thursday of each month. Call for more information.

California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform Lawyer Referral Service

800-474-1116

Fairfield Civic Center Library solanolibrary.com

1-866-572-7587

4th Tuesday of each month. Spanish language attorneys may be available. First come, first serve. Register in person or on the phone after 10:00am on the day of the program.

Florence Douglas Senior Center - Vallejo

333 Amador St. Vallejo, CA 94590

707-643-1044 Free Legal Services

John F. Kennedy Library

505 Santa Clara St. Vallejo, CA 94590 solanolibrary.com

1-866-572-7587

1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month. Registration begins at 10:00am on the program day. To sign up, please come to the

Legal Services of Northern California, Solano County Office

1810 Capitol St. Vallejo, CA 94590

707-643-0054

800-270-7252

800-270-7252

Redwood Caregiver Resource Center

1140 Sonoma Ave. Ste. 1B Santa Rosa, CA 95405 redwoodcrc.org

707-542-0282, Ext 100 rcrc@redwoodcrc.org

Vacaville Public LibraryCultural Center solanolibrary.com

1-866-572-7587

2nd Thursday of each month, 5:00pm-8:00pm. Free legal advice and referral up to 20 minutes. Call first to confirm lawyer will be present. Register in person or by phone after 10:00am on the day of the program. Space will be limited

Vacaville: Free Legal Services

McBride Senior Center.

MEDI-CAL PLANNING

D.A. Santos & Associates

P.O. Box 6109 Napa, CA 94581 dasantosandassociates.com

877-254-7276 info@dasantosandassociates.com

MENTAL HEALTH 55+

NAMI - National Alliance on Mental Illness - Solano County

P.O. Box 3334 Fairfield, CA 94533 namisolanocounty.org

707-422-7792

NAMI Solano County is a grassroots organization, incorporated in 1985, as a support group helping families and individuals affected by mental illness.

MENTAL HEALTH CASE MANAGEMENT

Prevention and Early Access for SeniorsPEAS Program/Choice in Aging

1234 Empire St., Ste. 1420 Fairfield, CA 94533

707-708-0582

NOTARY SERVICES

Florence Douglas Senior Center

333 Amador St. Vallejo, CA 94590

Free Notary Service, 1st Tuesday, 9:30am-11:30 am.

RENTAL ASSISTANCE

Catholic Charities - Vallejo Only ccsolano.org

707-644-8909

Season of Sharing Funds are periodically available. Eligibility is once in a lifetime. Catholic Social Services.

REVERSE MORTGAGE

Finance of America, Susan Richey

588 San Ramon Valley Blvd.,Ste. 100 Danville, CA 94526 foamortgage.com/danville

707-688-9537 srichey@financeofamerica.com

UTILITY & WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE

North Coast Energy Services, Inc. 190 S. Orchard Ave., Ste. B-101 Vacaville, CA 95688 nces.org

800-233-4480 or 707-422-3200 Provides energy conservation, consumer education & advocacy, home improvement, utility assistance, job training, and other services to people in need. We serve Lake, Mendocino, Napa, Solano, Sonoma, and Yolo counties.

BACKSEAT CAREGIVING

By Janice Lombardo

Being part of a family, either biological or with loved ones you choose, is a part of many people’s lives. When everyone is healthy and happy, life is good. As the years go by and people begin to age, priorities and roles in the family can shift. Hopefully your family is strong, open minded and communicative. Each of you lives life to the fullest and you share the joys and sorrows together.

In one scenario, the biological family has adult children. The aging parents have created and shared their directive plans and final wishes with these children. At the time this was done, everyone was in agreement as to what those plans and wishes were. Everyone had a role to play, powers of attorney, executor/executrix of the will, caregiver, long-term care insurance guide, agreement that family meetings would take place to decide what to do if a sudden medical emergency occurred, all the pieces were in place. Then 10 years goes by and the time comes to put these plans in place. Siblings who agreed to be responsible for their role have moved away and suddenly they decide their life is already full and they can’t keep their original promise. What then? If alternate plans were not put in place, chaos ensues. Responsibilities can fall on to one or two family members, quickly become overwhelming and lead to resentment among the other family members and ultimately impact the elder’s care.

I have seen too many families live this scenario. Adult children who committed to being there to ensure the care and safety of their loved one are not physically, emotionally or mentally there. They are not involved in their loved one’s daily care, they stop visiting, they may have an occasional phone conversation, but they really don’t understand the reality of what it takes to care for an aging loved one. They don’t witness the physical and mental decline that some aging elders face. However, they still feel that they have something to contribute from afar, their opinions about what those doing the primary caregiving work are not doing right. Their accusations, their suggestions and questions of “Why don’t you….”, their total lack of understanding about the reality of what’s happening to their aging loved one.

I call these individuals “Backseat Caregivers.” They feel that by having a conversation with their loved one, being included in family meetings via phone or Zoom or basing their opinions on initial decisions made long ago, entitles them to share or order the family members who are working directly with their loved ones to do what they say.

There is a serious disconnect when a loved one is being cared for by multiple family members whether it be local or long distance. If there are no local family members and your loved one is in a nursing or long-term care facility, you definitely need local help to keep you up to date on your loved one’s care. There are steps, (listed below) you can take and options available if you are a long-distance caregiver that will reduce the stress and miscommunication between everyone involved in providing care for an elder. This will provide a better understanding of the reality of your loved one’s health, quality of life and the care required to keep them happy, healthy and safe.

If you find yourself in a long-distance caregiver’s role, I highly recommend:

Making unscheduled visits to see your loved one several times throughout the year. Yes, you

may have to take a few days off work, but this is one way you will see firsthand what is really happening with your loved one’s care.

If there are no local family members, consider hiring a Local Care Manager. They can be your eyes and ears and advocate for your loved one. They can also ensure your loved one is eating, they are mentally and physically stimulated, they are in a safe environment, are bathed, wearing clean clothes, hair and teeth are brushed regularly, have a medical advocate and can report back to you if a situation arises. They can also make unannounced visits to the nursing facility and report any inconsistencies with medication dispensing, hygiene, laundry, room organization and physical and mental well-being of your loved one.

Be open, honest and really listen to what’s being discussed between family members who are local and caring for your loved one. If you’ve made the decision not to be involved as much, then stand by your decision. There is no room for feeling guilty here. Be there as best you can and things will run as they need to. Remember you’re all on the same caregiving team when it comes to the care and safety of your aging loved one. Their quality of life and well-being is the ultimate goal.

ADULT DAY CENTER

Fairfield Senior Day Program

1200 Civic Center Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533

fairfield.ca.gov/gov/depts/ cr/seniors/day.asp

707-428-7654 or 707-428-7742 keinberger81@gmail.com

Mondays, Tuesdays, & Thursdays 9:00am-3:00pm.

NorthBay Adult Day Center

3777 Vacavalley Pkwy. Vacaville, CA 95687

NorthBay.org/AdultDay

707-624-7970

Monday-Friday 7:00am-7:00pm.

ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES

Solano County Health and Human Services

275 Beck Ave. Fairfield, CA 94533

1-800-850-0012

Older Disabled Adult Services. This is where to call when you’re worried about an aging person who is being abused or is suffering from neglect. No charge for assessment. County service.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE

Dixon Wellness Collective

1150 N. 1st St., Ste. B Dixon, CA 95620 dixonwellnesscollective.com

707-640-1147

dixonwellnesscollective@gmail.com

ALZHEIMER ID PROGRAM

Elder ID Program, Vacaville

707-469-6673

This helps identify adults at risk due to dementia, Alzheimer’s or other mental conditions who may wander, become confused and get lost. Photos and important information are taken and kept on file with the police dept. and the McBride Senior Center.

Safe Return

800-625-3780

Helps ID and return potential wanderers.

ALZHEIMER’S ADULT DAY CARE

NorthBay Adult Day Center 3777 Vacavalley Pkwy. Vacaville, CA 95687

NorthBay.org/AdultDay

707-624-7970

Monday-Friday 7:00am-7:00pm.

ALZHEIMER’S INFORMATION, REFERRAL & EDUCATION

Alzheimer’s Association

3675 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Ste. 250 Lafayette, CA 94549 alz.org

925-284-7942

East Bay Office: Greater San Francisco Bay Area Chapter

Alzheimer’s Association of Northern California Helpline

1-800-272-3900

Information, Referral and Support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Alzheimer’s Disease Education And Referral Center

P.O. Box 8250

Silver Spring, MD 20907

800-438-4380

Alzheimer’s Resource Center 1000 Nut Tree Rd.

Vacaville, CA 95687

NorthBay.org/Alzheimers

707-624-7971

In the VacaValley Hospital Lobby

Elder ID Program, Vacaville

707-469-6673

This helps identify adults at risk due to dementia, Alzheimer’s or other mental conditions who may wander, become confused and get lost. Photos and important information are taken and kept on file with the police dept. and the McBride Senior Center.

Redwood Caregiver Resource Center

1140 Sonoma Ave., Ste. 1B Santa Rosa, CA 95405 redwoodcrc.org

707-542-0282 Ext 100 rcrc@redwoodcrc.org

UC Davis Alzheimer’s Research Center Northern California Diagnostic Center & Clinic

925-357-6904

Northern California Diagnostic Center and Clinic

UC Davis Alzheimer’s Disease Center East Bay 100 N. Wiget La., Ste. 150 Walnut Creek, CA 94598 855-420-2612

Comprehensive assessment and evaluation for Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias. Clinical trials and services are available to the public.

ALZHEIMER’S / DEMENTIA / MEMORY CARE ASSISTED LIVING

COGIR of North Bay Senior Living

2261 Tuolumne St. Vallejo, CA 94589

happylivingbycogir.com

707-552-3336

NorthBay@cogir.net

COGIR of Vacaville Senior Living

799 Yellowstone Dr. Vacaville, CA 95687

happylivingbycogir.com

707-447-7496

Vacaville@cogir.net

COGIR of Vallejo Hills

Senior Living

350 Locust Dr. Vallejo, CA 94591

happylivingbycogir.com

707-553-2698

VallejoHills@cogir.net

Solano Life House

575 South Jefferson St. Dixon, CA 95620 solanolifehouse.com

707-640-9700

info@solanolifehouse.com

The Greenhills Care Home

115 Thayer Way American Canyon, CA 94503

707-558-8487

kgantan@att.net

ASSISTED

ASSISTED LIVING COMPLAINTS

Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing Division 101 Golf Course Dr. Ste A-230 Rohnert Park, CA 95401 ccld.ca.gov

707-588-5026

Empowered Aging

2255 Contra Costa Blvd. Ste 204

Cancer Support Services

707-425-6164

Program is designed to provide support, guidance and referrals to community resources to anyone living with cancer in Solano County. The goal of this program is to overcome any barriers that would interfere with or prevent a person from receiving needed cancer treatment.

NorthBay Cancer Center

1020 Nut Tree Rd. Vacaville, CA 95687 NorthBay.org/Hope

CAREGIVER RESOURCES & SUPPORT

Redwood Caregiver Resource Center

1140 Sonoma Ave., Ste. 1B Santa Rosa, CA 95405 redwoodcrc.org

707-542-0282 Ext 100 rcrc@redwoodcrc.org

CAREGIVERS FOR HIRE

Always Best Care Senior Services 479 Mason St. #109 Vacaville, CA 95688

QUALITY OF LIFE INDEX

In-Home Supportive ServicesSolano County Health and Social Services

707-784-8259

Recipient must be on SSI, receive Medi-Cal or be Medi-Cal eligible. Must need assistance with personal tasks and be at risk for out-of-home placement.

Love & Joy Senior Care Services

340 Northrup La. American Canyon, CA 94503 loveandjoyhomecare. wixsite.com/home

707-342-5613

lj.seniorcare@yahoo.com

Senior Helpers North Bay

1100 Trancas St., Ste. 105 Napa, CA 94558 seniorhelpers.com/ca/napa

707-251-1540

bnations@seniorhelpers.com

Senior Helpers North Bay

231 D St., Ste. B Davis, CA 95616 seniorhelpers.com/ca/solano-yolo

707-251-1540

bnations@seniorhelpers.com

Your Home… Nursing Services

3188 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94558 yourhomenursing.com

707-642-4711

yhns@earthlink.net

Vallejo/Benicia: 707-642-4711, Fairfield/Vacaville: 707-428-5733, Napa: 707-224-7780, UpValley Napa: 707-963-4913, Yolo County: 530-753-7478

DIABETES & ENDOCRINOLOGY

NorthBay Center for Diabetes & Endocrinology

1020 Nut Tree Rd., 2nd Fl. Vacaville, CA 95687

NorthBay.org/Diabetes

707-624-7999

ELDER ABUSE ADVOCACY & REPORTING

Adult Protective Services

707-784-8259

1-800-850-0012

California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform (CAHNR)

650 Harrison St. 2nd Fl. San Francisco, CA 94107 canhr.org

800-474-1116 canhrmail@canhr.org

Empowered Aging

2255 Contra Costa Blvd., Ste 204 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 ccsombudsman.org

925-685-2070

SafeQuest Solano

1261 Travis Blvd., Ste 260 Fairfield, CA 9453 www.safequest.org

707-422-7345

Solano Family Justice Center 604 Empire St. Fairfield, CA 94533 solanocounty.com/depts/ fvp/fjc/default.asp

707-784-7635

Advocacy & referral and information for elder abuse.

ELDER ABUSE PREVENTION PROGRAM

Meals on Wheels of Solano County 95 Marina Center Suisun, CA 94585

mealsonwheelssolano.org

707-425-0638

info@mealsonwheelssolano.org

Provides screening and resources for Meals on Wheels seniors at risk of abuse and those who are victims of abuse.

FAMILY CAREGIVER EDUCATION

Redwood Caregiver Resource Center

1140 Sonoma Ave., Ste. 1B Santa Rosa, CA 95405 redwoodcrc.org

707-542-0282 ,Ext 100 rcrc@redwoodcrc.org

FRIENDLY VISITORS

Faith in Action faithinactionsolano.org

707-469-6675

louissf@aol.com

Vacaville Police DepartmentVolunteer Visits to Seniors

660 Merchant St. Vacaville, CA 95688 cityofvacaille.com

707-469-4747

An in-home, free service to Seniors provided by volunteers from the Vacaville Police Department

GERIATRIC PHYSICIAN

Kathryn Amacher, DO, FACP, CMD dramacher.com

707-451-4111

dramacher@dramacher.com

Mobile office serving Vacaville, Fairfield and Dixon. Nursing homes, assisted living, board & care homes.

HOME DELIVERED MEALS

Benicia Community Action Council bencac.com

707-745-0900

vrobertson@bencac.com

Lunch Served, Monday-Friday, 11:30am-12:45pm, Freshly prepared meals, daily. $4:00/meal. Home delivery available 5 days a week.

Dr. Kathryn Amacher, DO

Dr. Kathryn Amacher Anita Semple, Nurse Practitioner Peggy Roane, Care Coordinator

QUALITY OF LIFE INDEX

Benicia Senior Center

1201 East 2nd St.

Benicia, CA 94510

ci.benicia.ca.us/seniorcenter

707-425-0638 or 707-751-1629 or 707-745-1202 Lunch Served, Monday-Friday, 11:30am. Suggested contribution is $3.00 per meal or $15.00 per week. Lunch reservations are required a day in advance by calling Meals on Wheels of Solano County 707-426-3079 between 9:00am-3:00pm.

Dixon Senior Center

201 S. 5th St. Dixon, CA 95620

707-425-0638 or 707-678-7022

Lunch Served, Monday-Friday, 11:30am Suggested contribution is $3.00 per meal or $15.00 per week.

Lunch reservations are required a day in advance by calling Meals on Wheels of Solano County 707-4263079 between 9:00am-3:00pm.

Fairfield Senior Center

1200 Civic Center Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533

707-425-0638 or 707-428-7421

Lunch Served, Monday-Friday, 11:30am. Suggested contribution is $3.00 per meal or $15.00 per week. Lunch reservations are required a day in advance by calling Meals on Wheels of Solano County 707-4263079 between 9:00am-3:00pm.

Florence Douglas Senior Center

333 Amador St. Vallejo, CA 94590

707-425-0638 or 707-643-1044

Lunch Served, Monday-Friday, Noon. Suggested contribution is $3.00 per meal or $15.00 per week. Lunch reservations are required a day in advance by calling Meals on Wheels of Solano County 707-426-3079 between 9:00am-3:00pm.

McBride Senior Center

91 Town Square Pl.

Vacaville, CA 95688

707-425-0638 or 707-469-6660

Lunch Served, Monday-Friday, 11:30am. Suggested contribution is $3.00 per meal or $15.00 per week. Lunch reservations are required a day in advance by calling Meals on Wheels of Solano County 707-4263079 between 9:00am-3:00pm.

Meals on Wheels of Solano County

95 Marina Center

Suisun, CA 94585

mealsonwheelssolano.org

707-425-0638 or 707-426-3079 or 800-788-5114 info@mealsonwheelssolano.org

Nutritious meals delivered to your home. Deliveries are made between 10:00am-1:00pm, Monday-Friday for home-bound seniors that are 60 or over. Clients MUST be home to receive the meals.

Rio Vista Senior Center

25 Main St.

Rio Vista, CA 94571

707-425-0638 or 707-374-3349

Lunch Served, Monday-Friday, Noon. Suggested contribution is $3.00 per meal or $15.00 per week. Lunch reservations are required a day in advance by calling Meals on Wheels of Solano County 707-426-3079 between 9:00am-3:00pm.

Suisun Senior Center 318 Merganser Dr. Suisun, CA 94585

707-425-0638 or 707-421-7203

Lunch Served, Monday-Friday, 11:30am. Suggested contribution is $3.00 per meal or $15.00 per week.

Lunch reservations are required a day in advance by calling Meals on Wheels of Solano County 707-4263079 between 9:00am-3:00pm.

HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES

Healthy Living at Home

1320 Willow Pass Rd., Ste. 555 Concord, CA 94520 healthylivingnet.com

707-815-8236

mkahler@healthyliving-eb.com

(See ad on back cover)

NorthBay Health at Home 4520 Business Center Dr. Fairfield, CA 94534 NorthBay.org

707-646-3575

JOINT REPLACEMENT

NorthBay Center for Orthopedics 1010 Nut Tree Rd. Vacaville, CA 95687

northbay.org/Orthopedics

707-624-7900

2 Locations! Fairfield location: 2500 Hilborn Rd. Fairfield, CA 94534

707-646-5599

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT / SUPPLIES

Dixon Senior Center 201 S. Fifth St. Dixon, CA 95620

707-678-7022

Free rentals of canes, wheelchairs, crutches and other equipment.

I Feel Good Medical

1113 Texas St. Fairfield, CA 94533 ifeelgoodmedical.net

707-426-2211

We carry ALL medical supplies.

MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION

Murphy Medical Transportation 2349 N. Watney Way, Ste. C Fairfield, CA 94533 murphymedicaltransport.com

707-425-0100

Murphy Medical Transport provides Non-Emergency transportation for clients who require safe, professional, and friendly assistance with their travel needs. They provide a reliable and compassionate transport service for individuals requiring assistance with ambulatory, wheelchair and gurney travels.

NURSING HOME COMPLAINTS

California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform (CANHR) 650 Harrison St., 2nd Fl. San Francisco, CA 94107 cahnr.org

800-474-1116 canhrmail@canhr.org

Empowered Aging

2255 Contra Costa Blvd., Ste. 204 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 ccsombudsman.org

925-685-2070

NURSING HOMES / REHABILITATION CENTERS

Laurel Creek Health Center at Paradise Valley Estates 2800 Estates Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533 pvestates.com

707-432-1200

Paradise Valley Estates

QUALITY OF LIFE INDEX

PET ASSISTANCE

Meals on Wheels of Solano County - PAWS (Pets Assisting the Wellbeing of Seniors)

95 Marina Center Suisun, CA 94585 mealsonwheelssolano.org

707-425-0638

info@mealsonwheelssolano.org

Provides supplemental dog and cat food, cat litter, and flea medicine for Meals on Wheels clients.

PLACEMENT SERVICES

Always Best Care Senior Services

479 Mason St. #109 Vacaville, CA 95688 abcsolanocounty.com

707-317-1740

rsmith@abc-seniors.com

Love & Joy

Senior Care Services

340 Northrup La. American Canyon, CA 94503 loveandjoyhomecare. wixsite.com/home

707-342-5613

lj.seniorcare@yahoo.com

Your Home… Nursing Services

3188 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94558 yourhomenursing.com

707-224-7780

yhns@earthlink.net

REHABILITATION SERVICES

NorthBay Rehabilitation - Fairfield

2500 Hilborn Rd. Fairfield, CA 94534

NorthBay.org/Rehabilitation

707-646-5599

NorthBay Rehabilitation

Vacaville

1020 Nut Tree Rd., Ste. 260 Vacaville, CA 95687

NorthBay.org/Rehabilitation

707-624-8290

RESPITE CARE (OUT OF HOME)

COGIR of North Bay Senior Living

2261 Tuolumne St. Vallejo, CA 94589 happylivingbycogir.com

707-552-3336 NorthBay@cogir.net

COGIR of Vacaville Senior Living 799 Yellowstone Dr. Vacaville, CA 95687 happylivingbycogir.com

707-447-7496 Vacaville@cogir.net

COGIR of Vallejo Hills

Senior Living 350 Locust Dr. Vallejo, CA 94591 happylivingbycogir.com

707-553-2698 VallejoHills@cogir.net

Fairfield Senior Day Program

1200 Civic Center Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533 428-7742 or 428-7654

Redwood Caregiver

Resource Center

1140 Sonoma Ave., Ste. 1B Santa Rosa, CA 95405 redwoodcrc.org

707-542-0282 Ext 100

rcrc@redwoodcrc.org

SUPPORT GROUPS

Al-Anon - Benicia

Community Congregational Church UCC

1305 W. 2nd St. Benicia, CA 94510

Thursdays 8:00pm and First Baptist Church of Benicia 1055 Southampton Rd. Benicia, CA 94510 Mondays 5:45pm.

Al-Anon - Dixon

Dixon United Methodist Church

209 N Jefferson St. Dixon, CA 95620

Mondays 7:00pm

Al-Anon - Fairfield

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church

1600 Union Ave. Fairfield, CA 94533

Wednesdays 12:00pm.

Al-AnonGeneral Information

www.al-anon.org

888-425-2666

wso@al-anon.org

Call Toll-free Meeting Line for a complete listing of all available meetings: (888) 425-2666. Or you can search for meetings at this site: al-anon.org/al-anon-meetings/ find-an-al-anon-meeting/

Al-Anon - Rio Vista

First Congregational Church

230 Sacramento St. Rio Vista, CA 94571

Thursdays 7:00pm.

Al-Anon - Suisun City

Ray & Joan Kroc

Corps Community Center

586 E. Wigeon Way

Suisun City, CA 94585

Mondays 7:00pm.

Al-Anon - Vacaville

Community Presbyterian Church

425 Hemlock St. Vacaville, CA 95688

Thursdays 12:00pm.

Kaiser Permanente

Vacaville Medical Center

3700 Vaca Valley Pkwy. 3rd Fl., Room C

Vacaville, CA 95688

Fridays 7:00pm.

Brookdale Senior Living 799 Yellowstone Dr. Vacaville, CA 95687

Tuesdays 7:30pm.

Vacavalley Hospital

1000 Nut Tree Rd. Vacaville, CA 95687

Wednesdays 7:30pm.

Al-Anon - Vallejo

First Presbyterian Church

1350 Amador St.

Vallejo, CA 94590

Thursdays 6:00pm

Alzheimer’s Dementia Caregiver Support Group - NorthBay NorthBay.org/support

707-646-3132 resourcecenter@northbay.org

Meets via ZOOM, the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7:00pm. Call or email to join.

Alzheimer’s Support Group

25 Main St. Rio Vista, CA 94571

800-272-3900 or 707-374-3349 rvalzsg@yahoo.com

3rd Friday, 9:30am-11:00am Rio Vista Senior Center

Alzheimer’s Support Group 91 Town Square Pl. Vacaville, CA 95688 925-286-0133

4th Wednesday, 6:00pm-7:30pm. McBride Senior Center, Contact: Annette Vance 925-286-0133

Alzheimer’s Support Group

NorthBay / VacaValley Wellness Center

1020 Nut Tree Rd. Vacaville, CA 95687

707-624-7971 or 707-624-7970

Meets in the Conference Rooms 1-3. Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month, 7:00pm-9:00pm. Co-sponsored by NorthBay Alzheimer’s Services and the Greater Bay Area Alzheimer’s Association.

Brain Fitness Group

707-643-1044

2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 1:00pm-2:30pm.

Charge: $5:00 a month. Florence Douglas Senior Center

Cancer Support Community

3276 McNutt Ave.

Walnut Creek, CA 94597 cancersupport.net

925-933-0107

A valuable resource for education programs, support groups and special activities for children, teens and adults living with cancer.

QUALITY OF LIFE INDEX

Caregivers Support Group

1200 Civic Center Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533

707-428-7421

4th Thursday, 9:00am-10:00am Fairfield Senior Center

Caregivers Support GroupRedwood Caregiver Resource Center

333 Amador St. Vallejo, 94590 CA www.redwoodcrc.org

707-542-0282 Ext 103 mxn@redwoodcrc.org

Family Caregiver Support Group

2nd and 4th Tuesday 10:30am12:30pm Florence Douglas Senior Center. Facilitated by Redwood Caregiver Resource Center

Caring and Sharing

333 Amador St. Vallejo, 94590 CA

707-469-6675

Tuesdays, 9:00am-10:00am. Florence Douglas Senior Center

Coping With Aging

McBride Center Vacaville

707-469-6620

Fridays, 9:30am-10:30am.

Facilitators: Paula La Doux, LMFT, Patricia Dawes, MSW

Crohn’s and Colitis Support Group

3700 Vaca Valley Pkwy. Vacaville, CA 95688

707-423-5302

1st Tuesday, 7:00pm Kaiser, Conference Room D

Diabetes Support Group

1010 Nut Tree Rd., Ste. 290 Vacaville, CA 95688

707-624-8230

1st Thursday, 3:00pm-4:00pm. VacaValley Health Plaza

Gamblers Anonymous Fellowship

866-442-5313

Call for meetings times, dates and locations.

LGBTQ Support GroupSolano Pride Center

1234 Empire St., Ste. 1560 Fairfield, CA 94533 solanopride.org

707-207-3430

SolanoPride@gmail.com

Call the Solano Pride Center for more information. Co-sponsored with Faith in Action.

Mental Health Peer Support Group

2101 Courage Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533

707-553 -5735

Every Wednesday 6:00pm-8:00pm. Enter through the patio door.

People Helping People Cancer Support Group

2700 Dover Ave. Fairfield, CA 94533

707-422-0851

Every Thursday 1:00pm-2:00pm. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church. Contact: Annie Hutcheson

Pet Loss Support GroupThe Nikki Hospice Foundation for Pets

400 New Bedford Dr. Vallejo, CA 94591

707-557-8595

For pet loss support or pet hospice consultations, please call 707-5578595, and leave a message. Someone will call you back within 48 hours.

Southern Solano Breast Cancer Support Group

Pace Building

1330 Georgia St. Vallejo, CA 94590

707-552-0567

Last Wednesday 5:00pm-7:00pm.

United Ostomy Association Meeting and Support Group, 3rd Wednesday 7:00pm-9:00pm.

Kaiser Vallejo Medical Office Building Conference Room A & B. Call 707422-6363 for info.

TELEPHONE REASSURANCE

Benicia Senior Center

187 East L St. Benicia, CA 94510

707-745-1202

Benicia residents only. Telecare every morning calls a list of shut ins or those who are alone to check up on them. Contact Sandy 707-745-8686.

Faith in Action

faithinactionsolano.org

707-469-6675

louissf@aol.com

Senior Counseling and Support to Homebound Elderly

TRANSPORTATION

Adult Recreation Center (ARC)

707-434-3800

Taxi Scrip Program provides taxi trips from Fairfield/Suisun City to the ARC. Participants must be 60+, be approved for the local Reduced Fare Taxi Program or DART Paratransit. Application and Scrip are available at ARC. Cost is $2:00 one way. Call for more information.

American Cancer Society

707-425-5006 or 800-227-2345

Rides to and from cancer related doctor appointments only. Must call a minimum of 3 days in advance.

Benicia Reduced Taxi Fare

250 East L St. Benicia, CA 94510

707-746-4225

Must go to City Hall to purchase reduced cost Tax Script. Purchase booklet for $5:00. Must be 65+, Valid only in Vallejo and Benicia.

DART Paratransit

fasttransit.org/services/dartparatransit-disabled-services/ 707-541-7184 or 707-429-2400

Paratransit service is provided in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you have

a disability that prevents you from riding the public bus system and would like to apply for paratransit service, please call the Solano County Paratransit Eligibility Center at 707-541-7184 Paratransit functions as a “safety net” for people with disabilities who have health conditions that prevent them from using the fixed-route transit bus system. DART is the ADA Paratransit complement to Fairfield and Suisun Transit’s (FAST) local fixed routes. This means that DART operates much the same as the fixed route bus system during the same days and hours.

Delta Breeze

707-374-2878

Rio Vista Delta Breeze offers deviated fixed route bus service within the City of Rio Vista and between Isleton, Rio Vista, Fairfield, Suisun City, Pittsburg/Bay Point BART Station and Antioch with connections to Lodi. The bus actually comes to your door! Telephone Information Hours: 9:30am-5:30pm, Monday-Friday

Dixon Readi-Ride ci.dixon.ca.us

707-678-5020

Provides rides within Dixon city limits. Discounted tickets available at riding to and from the Center, can be purchased at the Dixon Senior Center.

FAST - Fairfield and Suisun City

Reduced Fare Taxi

707-428-3298

The Reduced Fare Taxi Program is a curb-to-curb demand response service designed to transport residents of Fairfield and Suisun City who are 60 years of age or older. This service operates within the cities of Fairfield and Suisun City, and nearby unincorporated areas. Participating Taxi CompaniesFairfield Cab 707-422-5555

Fairfield Yellow Cab 707-428-4400 and Veterans Cab 707-421-9999

QUALITY OF LIFE INDEX

Murphy Medical Transportation

2349 N. Watney Way, Ste. C Fairfield, CA 94533 murphymedicaltransportation.com

707-425-0100

Murphy Medical Transport provides Non-Emergency transportation for clients who require safe, professional, and friendly assistance with their travel needs. They provide a reliable and compassionate transport service for individuals requiring assistance with ambulatory, wheelchair and gurney travels.

Ride With Pride Faith in Action

707-469-6667

Transportation for seniors 60+ to appointments and events. Must be ambulatory. Medical Appointments priority. $5:00 donation. Countywide service. Call in advance, first come, first served. Volunteers needed to drive.

Solano Inter City Taxi

707-434-3800 or 707-429-2400

ADA Paratransit, Taxi service between cities in Solano County. Must be certified for paratransit. Scrip books are purchased for $15:00 and each contains $100 worth of scrip.

Solano Transportation Authority/ GoGo Grandparent

One Harbor Center, Ste. 130 Suisun City, CA 94585 solanomobility.org

800-535-6883

Medical trips are available 24/7 within Solano County for residents who are 60+. Must be able to enter and exit a vehicle without assistance. Call to register.

Vacaville City Coach citycoach.com

707-449-6000

Veterans Affairs

707-437-1800

Veterans Affairs offers a FREE medical shuttle from Solano County to VA Medical Facilities in neighboring counties. Reservations required.

VETERAN BENEFITS

AM Vets givetoveterans.org

1-800-747-8387

To pick up unwanted items for donations.

Mare Island Clinic

707-562-8218 and 707-562-8200

VA Medical ClinicMartinez

925-372-2000

Veteran Solano County Service Office, Fairfield

675 Texas St. Fairfield, CA 94533 707-784-6590

Veterans of Foreign Wars

Vallejo: 707-644-3097

Dixon: 707-685-0493

Suisun City: 707-429-3110

Vacaville: 707-447-6354

VISION SERVICES

Books for the Blind and Physically Handicapped

900 N St.

Sacramento, CA 95814

800-952-5666

California Department of Rehabilitation

450 Chadbourne Rd., Ste. A Fairfield, CA 94533

707-428-2080

Guide Dogs for the Blind

359 Los Ranchitas Rd. San Rafael, CA 94903

800-295-4050

Lions Center for the Visually Impaired

175 Alvarado Ave. Pittsburg, CA 94565 lcvi.org

800-750-3937

Serving Solano, Contra Costa and Alameda Counties.

WIGS

American Cancer Society cancer.org

707-425-5006

Free wigs, by appointment. 24 helpline

800-227-2345

WOUND CARE

NorthBay Center for Wound Care

1010 Nut Tree Rd. Ste. 100

Vacaville, CA 95687

NorthBay.org/Wound

707-624-7979

Diabetic Wound Care

Your Home… Nursing Services

3188 Jefferson St Napa, CA 94558 yourhomenursing.com

707-224-7780

yhns@earthlink.net

Center for Volunteer and Nonprofit Leadership - Change Starts Here

675 Texas St. Fairfield, CA 94533

707-784-3121

Faith In Action

707-469-6675

Volunteers needed to assist homebound elderly.

Florence Douglas Senior Center

707-643-1044

333 Amador St. Vallejo, CA 94590

Need volunteers in travel office, bingo, gift shop and snack bars.

HICAP

Recruiting for the role of Volunteer Medicare Counselors! For more program specific information, call 707-526-4108 to talk with us about giving your time to help others who turn to Senior Advocacy Services.

Kaiser Hospice - Vallejo Park Place

Melanie Williams

Volunteer Coordinator

707-645-2245

Meals on Wheels of Solano

707-425-0638

Volunteers needed to deliver meals to home-bound seniors.

NAMI Solano County

NAMISolanoCounty.org

707-422-7792

As a volunteer organization, it is our community (like you!) that conducts all of our local activities, classes, fundraising, advocacy, service projects and support!

NorthBay Guild Volunteers

NorthBay.org/Guild

707-646-3136

4500 Business Center Dr. Fairfield, CA 94534

Since the 1950’s NorthBay Guild volunteers have donated their time

and talents working in our hospitals and clinics, raising funds to enhance programs and services, offering support to our community, and giving our patients a little extra TLC.

NorthBay Hospice & Bereavement

– Volunteer Services

NorthBay.org/Hospice

707-646-3517

4520 Business Center Dr. Fairfield, CA 94534

As a NorthBay Hospice Volunteer, you become a vital member of the NorthBay Hospice team, which cares for the terminally ill and provides support to their loved ones.

Ombudsman of Contra Costa and Solano ccsombudsman.org

925-685-2070

Become a Field Ombudsmen! Field Ombudsman are called to facilities to mediate, negotiate and bring about resolution between residents, facilities and family members. Visit our website to complete the online application.

Solano County Library

1150 Kentucky St. Fairfield, CA 94533

707-432-1995

Volunteers are needed to read to children and their families at local medical clinics.

SPCA of Solano County volunteer@solanospca.com

Maintain high quality care of animals and continue its life saving work. If you love animals and would like to make a difference in their lives, we would love for you to join our team of dedicated volunteers.

Sutter Care at Home

5099 Commercial Circle

Ste. 210 Concord, CA 94520

925-363-4120

Hospice volunteers are needed in Vacaville and Fairfield to provide respite care to weary family members and caregivers, and to provide companionship. Patients live in their own homes or facilities, and greatly benefit from weekly visits and

other practical assistance. Volunteers are well trained and self schedule visits with assigned patients.

Vacaville Police Department

The Vacaville Police Department needs volunteers to work and serve in graffiti abatement, neighborhood patrols, parking enforcement, streetlight night patrols, senior wellness checks and vehicle detail. Volunteers serve four hours a week for at least a year and must attend a Volunteer Training Academy. Contact Susanne Johnson at 707-449-5434.

Volunteer Center of Solano County volunteersolano.org

707-422-2232

There are over 375 volunteer positions open with over 125 nonprofit organizations in Solano County.

569

BRIDGING THE GAP: HOW OLDER & YOUNGER GENERATIONS CAN CONNECT

By Angelique MacArthur

It’s no secret that each generation has preconceived notions about other generations. Comparisons and generalizations abound when it comes to determining the characteristics that define those born during a certain time period. And in recent years, the stand out generations being spoken about are Millennials and Baby Boomers.

According to thecollege investor.com, several places including the Census Bureau and Pew Research, classify Millennials as being born between 1981 and 1996. Many view Millennials as entitled, lazy, behind the 8 ball financially speaking and the ones who popularized the widespread use of technology and side hustles.

Baby Boomers, on the other hand, are considered the complete antithesis of

Millennials. Elearningindustry.com highlights that this 1946 to 1964 cohort is filled with hard workers that are self assured, disciplined and mentally focused.

Although these generations seem to have nothing in common, there is certainly more beneath the surface they can connect on. And it isn’t just Millennials and Baby Boomers who can benefit from learning more about one another, it’s all generations.

But how can people of different generations begin to bridge this divide? Here are a few ways to get the communication ball rolling.

3 Great Ways To Bridge The Intergenerational Connection Gap

There are many great benefits to different generations getting to know one another on a

deeper level. The wisdom of each generation means they have a lot they can learn from one another. In addition, this offers a new type of social interaction, which expands to new community connections, promotes health, reduces stigmas and ageism. Discover more of the incredible benefits here:

Benefits of Intergenerational Connections

Benefits-Generations Working Together

To help you reap the benefits of intergenerational connection, try the suggestions below to begin bridging the gap with those of other generations around you.

Share Experiences and Concerns

There are common life events and passages that we all go through, and they naturally act as a connector when shared. A few are:

Credit: Edward Eyer

• Education & Learning

• Family & Friends

• Career

• Social & Fun Hobbies

• Health & Wellness

• Leaving Home

• Relationships

• Economics & Finance

• Politics

• Religion & Spirituality

• Changes in Technology

On the flip side, these are also areas you can share your current concerns about and compare how it is now to how it was during a previous time. A lot of wisdom from both generations can surface while discussing these topics, allowing more understanding to take place.

If you are ever stumped on questions to ask, here are some great questions to connect with people on a deeper level.

Engage In A Shared Hobby

Enjoy travel? Playing board games? Exercising? With all of the options for hobbies

there are bound to be ones you can find to enjoy together. Bond over a mutual hobby or find a new hobby to try, for example:

• Intergenerational experiences and initiatives in your community

• Day trips to a favorite or new spot for exploration & discovery

• Play board games or a fun question & answer game

• Festivals

• Ar ts & crafts

• Gardening

• Dancing

• Karaoke

• E xercise class or try Wii Sports

• Spa or self care day

• Volunteer

• Join a club

As you get to know one another, you’ll learn more about things you enjoy doing together and increase your connection further!

Support One Another

Taking note of the important things in each other’s lives will offer a great opportunity to show the other person they matter to you.

From special events to holidays, there are ample points to continue to bridge the gap. Sending cards, small gifts or even showing up to cheer them on or lend support at special moments in their life will foster a new level of intergenerational connection.

Make This A Practice

We all lead busy lives and things can get in the way, but when intergenerational connection happens, it provides deeper benefits for the individuals and their generations. Agree on a regular schedule to connect, put it in your calendar and make it a priority.

At the end of the day, each person (and generation as a whole) wants to know they are respected, wanted and valued. And while it can seem difficult or scary to reach out for that connection, it can be well worth it. Take the time to learn more about those from a different generation than yours and reap those unique benefits in your life today.

Who can you connect with in your life that is from a different generation than yours? How will you reach out to them?

Credit: Andrea Piacquadio

BEREAVEMENT / GRIEF SUPPORT GROUPS

Grief Counseling for Seniors

333 Amador St., Vallejo, CA 94590 florencedouglasseniorcenter.org/ programs/

707-643-1844

Mondays 1:00pm-2:30pm

Florence Douglas Senior Center. Call to register.

GriefShare

4910 Allison Pkwy. Vacaville, CA 95688

707-446-4051

Call for dates/times of groups. New Hope Christian Fellowship.

Kaiser Grief Support

1 Quality Dr. Vacaville, CA 95688

707-645-2106

Groups are available in Vallejo and Vacaville. Call to register.

NorthBay Hospice & Bereavement

4520 Business Center Dr. Fairfield, CA 94534 NorthBay.org/Support

707-646-3517

BURIAL & CREMATION SERVICES, FUNERAL HOMES & MORTUARIES

Alta Vista Cremation and Funeral Service

901 Main St. Suisun City, CA 94585

707-421-0100

FD 1756, FD 1924 and CR 264

Bryan-Braker Funeral Home

1850 W. Texas St. Fairfield, CA 94533

bryanbraker.com

707-425-4697

FD 988, (FD988)

Colonial Chapels

1000 Redwood St. Vallejo, CA 94590

colonialchapels.net

707-643-0391 colonialchapels@gmail.com

Diablo Valley Cremation & Funeral Services

2261 Commerce Ave., Ste. 10 Concord, CA 94520 dvcfs.com

925-998-0303 dvcremation@gmail.com

Fairmont Cremation Services 1901 Union Ave. Fairfield, CA 94533 fairmontcremation.com

707-425-0208 info@fairmont.us.com (FD1548)

McCune Garden Chapel 212 Main St. Vacaville, CA 95688 mccunechapel.com

707-448-6546 mccunechapel@gmail.com (FD0388)

Milton Carpenter Funeral Home 569 North First St. Dixon, CA 95620 www.miltoncarpenter.com

707-678-2189 (FD0386)

Vaca Hills Chapel 524 Elmira Rd. Vacaville, CA 95687 vacahillschapel.com

707-446-3233

FD 1297

ESTATE ADMINISTRATION

Law Office of Yvonne F. Thrasher

78 Cernon St., Ste. A Vacaville, CA 95688 thrasherlawoffice.com

707-447-1200

yvonne@thrasherlawoffice.com

HOSPICE SERVICES

Adya Hospice & Palliative Care 1652 W. Texas St., Ste. 207 Fairfield, CA 94555 adyacare.com

707-803-0654 info@adyacare.com

Collabria Care Palliative & Hospice Services

414 S. Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 collabriacare.org/hospice

707-258-9080

Hospice is specialized care that addresses the unique needs of individuals and their families when facing end-of-life. The service includes a physiciandirected team of professionals who are committed to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients, caregivers and families. Serving Napa County and parts of Solano and Sonoma Counties.

NorthBay Hospice & Bereavement

4520 Business Center Dr. Fairfield, CA 94534 NorthBay.org/Support 707-646-3595

Senior Helpers North Bay 1100 Trancas St., Ste. 105 Napa, CA 94558

seniorhelpers.com/ca/solano-yolo 707-251-1540

bnations@seniorhelpers.com

ORGAN DONATIONS

California Transplant Donor Network West 1611 Telegraph Ave., Ste. 600 Oakland, CA 94612 donornetworkwest.org 888-570-9400

UC San Francisco Willed Body Program San Francisco, CA 415-476-1981

DON’T FORGET TO “KEEP MOVING”

By Sally Gersbach

You’ve probably invested in your financial future but don’t forget to invest in yourself. Being inactive at any age can be detrimental to your over-all well-being. Keeping active can help you stay physically and mentally healthy. So the best investment in yourself is to “keep moving.”

There’s strong evidence that people who are active have a lower risk of certain diseases and remain mentally alert longer than those who are sedentary. A couple of reasons support this theory; Any form of exercise increases blood circulation, and because the exertion makes you breath deeper, your blood oxygen level also increases.

If you haven’t been active, your first step would be to ask your physician’s advice and approval before beginning any exercise regimen. Depending upon your physical health, there may be some activities you should avoid. Start slowly and gradually build up your activity level. Trying too hard to work above your level of comfort can do more harm than good.

As we age, we naturally lose muscle mass and flexibility, which can be exacerbated by even a short period of inactivity. Just work back slowly to regain as much strength as possible. Don’t feel frustrated; just feel proud of yourself for what you can do.

The current generation has become very active, and even our seniors are taking up some form of exercise. Thoughts of any physical activity probably make you think of treadmills and stationary bikes, but equipment is not always necessary. Physical activity includes anything from walking and gardening to a recreational sport, such as golf.

Even senior medical policies are beginning to offer free gym memberships to their members, such as SilverSneakers, Silver and Fit, and Renew Active. Check with your insurance to find which program is offered. Some offer online classes to take anytime. When you sign up, you’re given a membership number to present to your local gym. Remember: It’s FREE!

Though gyms have some daunting equipment, they also offer a variety of classes of all levels of difficulty. Some aerobic-type classes are lowintensity and designed for the “older generation.”

Also, consider trying Yoga for its breathing and stretching benefits. If you’re new to this discipline, begin with a “Restorative” class.

Joining a class not only helps you physically but mentally, as well, because you’ll be exercising and interacting with other people your age. Being with others, even once a week, can boost your morale and ward off depression.

As well as regular physical activity, try to reduce the amount of time you spend sitting down during the day. For example, instead of watching TV or reading all afternoon, take a walk.

What you do will depend on your own circumstances, but it’s a good idea to do activities you enjoy. Research shows it’s never too late to adopt and reap the health benefits from a more active lifestyle.

Sally, a “senior,” takes weekly ballet and yoga classes.

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

By Janice Lombardo

3. Listen to the concerns and questions from your caregiver team. Really listen, take notes, don’t listen only to be able to respond, don’t assume you know, don’t interrupt, only respond or ask questions when the speaker is done talking. After listening to another perspective, a solution you may not have thought of could be revealed and be the best course of action.

4. Set and maintain clear boundaries. Nothing will derail a caregiver team faster than having no set tasks assigned. Set and agree on shared responsibilities and boundaries:

• During a calm time sit down to discuss the plan of action

• Do it in clear, simple language both verbally and in writing so everyone knows who is responsible for which aspect of care

• Direct to the person(s) that responsibility or boundary applies to

• Keep reinforcing boundaries, as often as necessary

Caring for a loved one can be very stressful, especially if you don’t have support from extended family or friends. If you do have siblings or other family members who are willing and can carry some of the responsibility, great! It really does take a village to care for your aging, seriously or chronically ill loved one.

What do you do when not everyone agrees on the best course of action? Or, not everyone can commit to taking shifts, offer a meal, housekeeping or going to doctor appointments? This is where knowing extended family and or friends’ strengths and challenges can help determine what role they can play in caring for your loved one.

Here are five examples of how to start an effective caregiving network/system:

1. Communicate clearly. If you decide to start the process, be sure to clearly outline what is happening with your loved one and what steps for care are needed. This will help and aid in setting up a system for their continued care. Write out what needs to be done, what responsibilities you want to handle and be as thorough and concise as possible – listen to your loved one’s concerns and factor their wishes into their care plan.

2. Manage the process with mindfulness. Sometimes being fully present in the moment can be difficult. Thoughts of past challenges or trying to solve a problem will remove you from the current situation. Deal with what is right in front of you, oftentimes a viable solution can be easily reached.

5. Keep family drama to a minimum. The sole reason you’re doing this is to help care for your mutual loved one. As needs change, sometimes it may be necessary to take a step back and regroup. This is where your self-care and well-being come in to play. As long as the situation is not urgent, take the time to rethink and approach the situation after a short break. Self-care is not selfish; caregiver burnout can be deadly.

The five keys to creating harmony and avoid conflict can only work as well as everyone’s willingness and ability to cooperate and abide by them.

Peace and harmony in providing your loved one’s care is always the goal. Everyone involved has a role to play, a responsibility to achieve. When you can all agree to fulfill your obligation, then your loved one’s needs and wants can be met.

TRUTHS & MYTHS BEHIND A REVERSE MORTGAGE

By Laura Biché

Areverse mortgage offers seniors tangible benefits that are not myths. First, this well-structured loan relieves them of worry over keeping up mortgage payments on a reduced income. Second, it may give them the option to increase their cash flow and decide how they want or need to use those extra funds.

Certain requirements must be met, however, to qualify for a reverse mortgage:

• Homeowners must be at least 55 years old

• Property must be owner occupied

• Owners continue to pay property taxes,

homeowners insurance, and other monthly obligations

• The home must be maintained in reasonable condition

Dispelling The Myths

The Bank Can Take Away My Home

Because a monthly payment is not required, a reverse mortgage remains in effect as long as the borrower abides by the requirements of the loan.

The Home Must Be Debt Free

One of the most important features of a

reverse mortgage is that it pays off any prior existing mortgage. In other words, it replaces any traditional mortgage on the property.

What If I Owe More Than My House Is Worth?

As a homeowning and borrower, you never owe more than the value of the property, even if the loan balance is larger than the value. If the selling price of the property doesn’t cover the full sale value of the property, neither borrower nor the estate is liable for the remainder of the loan.

Solano County Coronavirus Information and Resources

(Efforts were made to ensure that the following information was accurate at the time of printing.)

Coronavirus Warmline

Solano County has a warm line to answer questions about COVID-19: Call 707-784-8988 (M-F 9am-5pm) or email covid19@solanocounty.com

Older Adult Resource Phone Line

This phone line provides information on caring for older adults, elderly neighbors, and those with disabilities in Solano County during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please call and get information on how you can get help with caring for a loved one. To get resources, call: 707-784-1607 (M-F, 8:30am-4pm)

Additional Resources

Solano Public Health Facebook: @SolanoCountyPH State of California website: covid19.ca.gov White House website: coronavirus.gov

CDC: cdc.gov/covid19

Covid-19 Testing Sites

COVID-19 testing by appointment in Solano County and neighboring counties for those with or without COVID-19 symptoms. Results are available within 2-5 days. Register for an appointment online or call over the phone for those without internet access. Website: LHI.Care/covidtesting

Phone: (888) 634-1123

Stay healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic

Staying healthy during the pandemic is important. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether your vaccinations and other preventive services are up to date to help prevent you from becoming ill with other diseases. It is particularly important for those at increased risk of severe illness, including older adults, to receive recommended vaccinations against influenza and pneumococcal disease. Remember the importance of staying physically active and practicing healthy habits to cope with stress.

If you have an underlying medical condition, you should continue to follow your treatment plan:

Continue your medicines and do not change your treatment plan without talking to your healthcare provider. Have at least a 30-day supply of prescription and non-prescription medicines. Talk to a healthcare provider, insurer, and pharmacist about getting an extra supply (i.e., more than 30 days) of prescription medicines, if possible, to reduce your trips to the pharmacy. Do not delay getting emergency care for your underlying medical condition because of COVID-19. Emergency departments have contingency infection prevention plans to protect you from getting COVID-19 if you need care.

Call your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your underlying medical conditions or if you get sick and think that you may have COVID-19. If you need emergency help, call 911 right away.