Chatham County Council on Aging Winter 2022 Newsletter

THE CHATHAM SENIOR TIMES The Official Newsletter of the Chatham County Council on Aging Winter 2022- Do Right By My Seniors

A collection of memory rocks wait to be placed along a river bed during the dedication of Peaceful Pathways for Caregivers, held November 10, 2021 at Northeast District Park. For more information, turn to pages 3 and 4 of this issue. Photo by Kim Hawks | Chatham News + Record

In This Issue 1

Director's Message

Do Right By My Seniors

By Dennis W. Streets, Executive Director - (Be Bold, Claim Old - Age 69)

These are not my words, but they are my sentiment.

3 Peaceful Pathways 6 Thanksgiving Celebration 7

Your Healthcare Future

10 Hello and Goodbye 16 Driving Safety 19 Planning For Winter 23 Making A Difference 25 Word Search 26 Recipe 27 NC Senior Games 31 Holiday Celebration

I’ve shared many times that on my first day at the Council on Aging (May 1, 2014), Rev. Juanita Milliken grabbed my arm and said these simple but profound five words: “Do right by my seniors.” Keep in mind, that she was about to celebrate her 102nd birthday at the time, and she was not joking. Her directive was not meant to benefit herself but rather all her fellow seniors.

Rev. Milliken understood that growing old can be lonely and challenging. She had experienced firsthand the importance of the services, programs and volunteer opportunities offered by our Council that help seniors feel more secure and live more fulfilling lives.

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These words — “Do right by my seniors” — have driven my work at the Council. They will remain my goal throughout the balance of my time here. As you likely have heard, I am retiring as director on Feb. 1, 2022.

My retirement was not an easy decision because I share the love that filled the heart and spirit of Rev. Milliken (otherwise known as the beloved “Ms. Juanita” at the Council.)

For those who have read my newsletter articles over these past seven years, you know that I often reference verses from songs. There are many songs that inspire me, but the one that our Council’s Choral

Group has frequently and beautifully sung is at the top of the list: “Love Lifted Me,” authored by James Rowe in 1912.

It was surely love that drove Mattie Page, Lacy D. Marsh, and Charlie Baldwin to found the Council on July 8, 1974. These African-American community leaders had a vision and were on a mission to help seniors remain active, healthy and able to stay living safely in their homes. That is still what we are about.

In my first newsletter article in the summer of 2014, I shared some ideas about the future and made a plea for your involvement and assistance—one I said that I was “sure to repeat many times.”

I expressed excitement about joining the Council and my appreciation for the opportunity to work with the outstanding personnel, volunteers, and leadership associated with our Council’s Board of Directors and Chatham County government. I also shared some anxiety as I knew our county’s population age 60 and older would grow significantly. Now we see that by 2039, more than 40 percent will be age 60 and older, and the fastest growing age group is aged 85 and older.

I noted in 2014 that “I am anxious because we struggle today with meeting service needs. As these needs grow with an aging population, can we adequately respond?” When I retire in early 2022, I think that will remain our fundamental question.

I concluded my initial message with these words: “I am excited because I believe in Chatham County— that we have what it takes to come together across our neighborhoods, communities and organizations (including faith and civic) to protect the vulnerable, meet the needs of those struggling to remain safe and independent, and promote the engagement of seniors as an essential part of our social, economic, educational and civic fabric.”

In that summer 2014 newsletter, I also made my first plea for your support: “WE NEED YOUR HELP.” Your donations to the Council are vital to our work, as is the support of our volunteers. We can’t “do right by our seniors” without your support and involvement.

For those who want to wish me well as I leave as Council director, you can best do this by continuing your support of the Council.

When I was asked to speak at Rev. Milliken’s funeral, I borrowed several quotes of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I noted that throughout her long life, “Ms. Juanita” had positively answered an urgent question Dr. King asked: “What are you doing for others?”

I promise to be a lifelong supporter of the Council and advocate for seniors. I promise to do my part in doing right by our seniors. I hope you will join me in this pledge.

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Caregivers Find Respite at Peaceful Pathways

By Jimmy Lewis, COA Director of Grants and Communications

Being a caregiver, particularly for a loved one with dementia, can amount to a job lasting 24 hours a day.

Breaks are fleeting, and the ability to enjoy personal time is few and far between.

The demands can seem never ending. In this case, who is providing care to the caregivers?

That's where Peaceful Pathways for Caregivers contributes to a solution.

A joint venture of the Chatham County Council on Aging, Chatham County Parks and Recreation and the Chatham County Center of NC Cooperative Extension, the Peaceful Pathways area at Northeast District Park was formally dedicated Nov. 10 under an existing shelter.

In addition to a picnic table, the area includes three rocking chairs and a rocking swing. The park is located at 5408 Big Woods Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27517.

Recently retired COA Family Caregiver Specialist Susan Hardy speaks at the Peaceful Pathways for Caregivers Dedication, held Nov. 10, 2021 at Northeast District Park.

Photo by Kim Hawks | Chatham News + Record

Six separate flower beds were planted, each representing a color on Teepa Snow's GEMS model.

Snow, the owner of Positive Approach to Care and a dementia education specialist with over 40 years’ experience, served as the event's featured speaker. She has spent a large portion of her career expanding the scope of dementia care beyond the cookie cutter "mild, moderate and advanced" stages.

The idea for the project started with Susan Hardy, the Council’s recently retired Human Services Team Leader and Caregiver Specialist. Attendees were encouraged to take river rocks and paint the name of a caregiver or loved one, placing it along the dry riverbed that runs through the GEMS gardens.

"My idea for the park was all about giving a caregiver a place to go and feel good, and not look at negative statistics about how many people have died with dementia, or how many people developed dementia over their lifetime," Hardy said. "I didn't want anything that was depressing. I only wanted things that would be uplifting."

That's the cornerstone of Snow's GEMS model, which serves to account for both the "good" and "bad" days a dementia patient may experience. Even in the throes of later-stage dementia - or in Snow's model, the "Ruby" or "Pearl" gardens - there can be moments where the patient returns to "Sapphire" or "Diamond" status.

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Sapphire represents a normal, aging brain, while Diamond is a clear mind that has encountered rigidity. Declining levels of cognition are marked

by Emerald, Amber, Ruby and Pearl, respectively.

"One day, the mind might be a Sapphire with no problem," Hardy said. "It's like they're back to their normal selves one day.”

The initial idea for Peaceful Pathways came about roughly a year ago when Hardy shared an article with COA Executive Director Dennis Streets about a park in upstate New York that provided space for caregivers and their loved ones.

The Council pressed forward during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to explore the feasibility of bringing a respite area to Chatham County.

Hardy consulted with family caregivers, and nearly all expressed interest in an outdoor area

Teepa Snow, owner of Positive Approach to Care, gives an overview of her GEMS model during the dedication of Peaceful Pathways on Nov. 10, 2021 at Northeast District Park.

Kim Hawks | Chatham News + Record

tailored to them and their loved ones.

"Given the existing paths that mark this park, we all loved the serenity of this area," Streets shared.

"Nestled among pine trees, overlooking the pond, with a shelter already built years before through the support of Carolina Meadows—this was a perfect spot for our first Peaceful Pathways area."

Preliminary plans are underway for additional Peaceful Pathways locations in other geographic areas of Chatham County. Those ideas recently received a boost via a grant from the NextFifty Initiative, a Colorado-based foundation that supports efforts to improve lives of older adults and their caregivers.

"Even in my caregiver support group, I had one caregiver talking about how she was dreading taking her husband to the beach because she thought it would be really difficult for her," Hardy recalled. "She said once he got there on the beach, surrounded by nature, she said he was wonderful. It was like that the whole time we were outside, they can remember that from their childhood."

For information about Teepa Snow, visit https://teepasnow.com/.

Volunteers Needed!

Join us in serving Chatham's older adults and their families as a COA Volunteer! We have a number of opportunities available, including with Meals on Wheels and other roles. To learn more about volunteering, contact Linda Saum at 919542-4512 or linda.saum@chathamcouncilonaging.org

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COA Receives Funding from NextFifty Initiative for Family Caregiving The Chatham County Council on Aging has received funding from NextFifty Initiative, a Colorado-based foundation that supports efforts to improve the lives of older adults and their caregivers. This funding will allow the Council on Aging to expand respite options for family caregivers.

“We are very excited to receive this grant from NextFifty Initiative,” shared Dennis Streets, director of the Chatham County Council on Aging. “Family caregivers are the backbone of long-term care.”

As the Chatham County Board of Commissioners acknowledged in their proclamation designating November as Family Caregiver and Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, more than one in five adults are unpaid family caregivers who provide a wide array of assistance.

Caregiving can take a toll on caregivers’ physical, emotional and financial wellbeing.

“The NextFifty Initiative grant will enable our Council to continue working with community partners to provide new ways to support family caregivers and their loved ones,” added Streets.

A recent example of this is the Peaceful Pathways for Caregivers area created within the Northeast District Park.

The Council on Aging joined Chatham County Parks and Recreation and the Chatham County Center of the NC Cooperative Extension Service to provide this special place of respite for caregivers and their loved ones.

The dedication of this park area took place Nov. 10.

In selecting the Council on Aging for the grant, Diana McFail, president and CEO of NextFifty Initiative, said “Our goal is to transform the way our society views and experiences aging, and that influences the types of programs and projects we fund. The Council on Aging's work with older adults and family caregivers aligns with our efforts to improve and sustain quality of life for people in their second 50 years. We offer our support and congratulations.”

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Celebrating Thanksgiving Together Again Nov. 23 was a day to gather for fun, food and fellowship as the Council held an in-person Thanksgiving Celebration at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center. Photos by Joe Johnson and Jimmy Lewis

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Preparing for Your Healthcare Future

By Jared Lowe, MD, UNC Hospice

Our world and lives have changed dramatically in the last 18 months. I imagine we have each learned something different from adapting to new ways of life and grappling with loss. One lesson – or perhaps more accurately, one reminder – shared by all of us is that we cannot predict the future. Each new day brings uncertainty into our lives, and some days our entire lives can be upended. One thing we can do, though, is think about the “what ifs” – if certain things happen, how would you respond?

In the wake of the pandemic, now more than ever it is important for each of us to reflect on our own health and values, and for us to confront the scary “what ifs” that surround illness and mortality.

Advance care planning helps us do that. It is a process of understanding and sharing personal values, life goals, and preferences regarding future medical care. By preparing in advance for situations where you become seriously ill, you can still have a say in your healthcare no matter what happens. This may be brought up in a doctor’s office, but you can take steps on your own to begin preparing for the future. There are three major steps to advance care planning: 1) Reflecting on what matters most to you 2) Talking to your loved ones about your wishes 3) Documenting your wishes.

Each of these steps is critical, and the first two you can start doing today. We’ll look at each of them individually.

Reflecting on what matters most to you The first part of advance care planning is thinking about your own values and how you would define quality of life. This relates to both how do you enjoy spending your time, as well as thinking about what gives your life meaning. The Conversation Project (www.theconversationproject.org) is an organization dedicated to improving advance care planning and has many great resources.

Some questions they ask you to consider are:

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What does a good day look like to you?

What or who supports you during a difficult time?

What are your biggest worries or fears about the future with your health?

Try finishing this sentence: What matters to me through the end of my life is _____.

These questions may be difficult to answer, but they can help with making health care decisions that will shape your life. Your answer to the last question is particularly helpful when it comes to determining what medical interventions you may want at the end of life.

In addition to the above questions, the single most important question to answer is: If you were unable to make decisions, who would you trust to make decisions for you?

If you’re ever unable to speak for yourself, health care providers would turn to someone else to speak for you. This person is known as your surrogate decision maker. For many people, the person they would trust to make difficult health care decisions isn’t always their spouse or family member – sometimes it’s a trusted friend who understands their wishes best.

Talking to your loved ones about your wishes In case you’re not able to speak for yourself, it’s important that you’ve talked about your wishes in advance. With the holidays approaching, you may have an opportunity to talk in person with family you don’t see very often. Sitting down together can be easier than talking by phone. You may even find that your loved ones have been just as worried about you, and that they are relieved to hear from you.

It’s a big responsibility to make healthcare decisions for someone else, and by providing guidance in advance, you can help lift a heavy burden for your loved ones.

It can be difficult to start a conversation about such a serious topic, and The Conversation Project offers some tips: Think through the conversation in advance. It may even help to first write out a letter about what you wish to say.

Conversations about recent events, such as the news about the pandemic or the illness of a friend, can be a natural starting point for talking about your own life and bringing up these issues.

Some phrases to consider: “Even though I’m OK right now, I’m worried that my health could get worse and I want to be prepared.

Can we talk about some things that matter to me?”

“I was thinking about what happened to ____, and it made me realize we’ve never talked about my wishes.”

Remember that you can always change your wishes and share them again in the future. It’s natural for others to get nervous when this topic comes up. It’s OK if you don’t express everything in one conversation – it’s good to talk about this over time and with multiple people!

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Documenting your wishes The last step in the process is putting your wishes

their dying process prolonged using life-

on paper. By writing your goals down, you provide

prolonging measures. The document also allows

your loved ones with guidance that they can refer

you to specify which situations this would apply

to if you do become seriously ill. The documents

to, such as in advanced dementia or if the medical

can be presented to your medical team to help

team thinks the person would never regain

with decision-making in complex situations. The

consciousness. The hypothetical situations to

major documents include:

consider can be complicated, and I would

Health Care Power of Attorney (HCPOA): The HCPOA is the legally designated person who would make medical decisions if you were unable to. In the state of North Carolina, if you don’t have a designated HCPOA, there is a list of whom would have the decision-making authority, in order: 1) your spouse 2) the majority of your adult children 3) the majority of your siblings 4) a close friend acting in good faith.

recommend talking with a medical professional when completing your Advance Directives.

An Advance Directive form is also provided by the State of North Carolina. However, it uses medical language that can be confusing. There are other similar forms that are easier to read and understand, included in the references below. The Advances Directives form must also be notarized.

Medical Orders for Scope of Treatment (MOST):

The State of North Carolina provides a free online

The MOST form is the most specific of these three

form that you may print and complete, then you

documents. It allows you to specify exactly what

must sign in the presence of a notary. The form

types of treatments you would or would not want,

also allows you to set specific limits on what

such as a breathing machine or feeding tube. It is

decisions could be made.

best to talk through this form with a medical professional, and it must be signed by a healthcare

It is important to note that the HCPOA authority is

provider.

only for medical decisions. Many people confuse ‘Health Care Power of Attorney’ with ‘Durable

It is important to keep these documents in an Power of Attorney’. A Durable Power of Attorney is accessible place in your home so that family or authorized to make legal and business decisions friends may find them if they ever need to. You

on your behalf, but they are not permitted to make should also share them with your healthcare health care decisions. provider, who can enter them into the electronic A link to North Carolina's Health Care Power of Attorney Form can be found at: https://www.sosnc.gov/documents/forms/advanc e_healthcare_directives/health_care_power_of _attorney.pdf

medical record. That way if you ever become hospitalized, the hospital team will be able to access the documents.

Jared Lowe MD is a hospice and palliative medicine physician living in Pittsboro and is the medical director for UNC Hospice.

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Hello and Goodbye As we welcome several new staff members to our Council and a new Board member, we also regrettably say farewell to three others. We begin by thanking Susan Hardy, Allison Andrews and Krista Westervelt for their dedicated service.

Susan retired Dec. 31, 2021 after serving as Family Caregiver Specialist and Human Services Team Leader.

Having joined the Council on April 1, 2015, Susan’s exceptional performance was not only recognized by her Chatham colleagues but also statewide. In 2018, she received the Service Excellence Award from the North Carolina Association on Aging.

Allison started at the Council on April 15, 2013 as the Fitness/Activities/Wellness Specialist and in 2018, became the Volunteer Coordinator. Among her many duties, she led Meals on Wheels and VITA. In all she did, Allison brought energy and compassion.

While having served at the Council for a shorter time, Krista also made a tremendous positive impact.

Her teamwork, creativity, communication and social media skills were invaluable as we worked through the challenges brought by COVID-19. She often worked behind the scenes facilitating the work of other staff members, and the Council overall. When you got to see her in such online programming as Couch to Couch, Listen and Learn and our 47th Anniversary Celebration, you realized firsthand what a talent we had in Krista.

While still missing Susan, Allison and Krista, we are happy to introduce four new staff members: Olivia Hayden, Lynn Parks, Linda Saum, and Jimmy Lewis—and a new Board member: Maria Maldonado.

Olivia joined us in June as Western Center’s Activities and Fitness Specialist. She hit the ground running as they say—offering Aquatic exercise and helping reopen the center to fully vaccinated participants. A resident of Asheboro, Olivia graduated from East Carolina University with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology.

In early August, we welcomed Lynn Parks to the Aging Social Work position at our Western Center.

She too immediately made a positive contribution to our work and recently was promoted into the position formerly held by Susan Hardy. Another resident of Asheboro, Lynn has brought a wealth of valuable experience. A graduate of Guilford College, she previously held several positions with

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Therapeutic Alternatives, involving senior care and adult mental health. Lynn is a Certified Dementia Practitioner and experienced case manager.

In September, we were pleased to welcome Linda Saum to serve as Volunteer Coordinator. Having recently moved to North Carolina from San Diego, California, Linda has taken to her role with great enthusiasm. Before joining us, she worked as Resource Counselor and Job Coach for persons with developmental disabilities. She also served as Volunteer and Fundraising Coordinator for Boy Scouts of America in her area.

And in mid-October, Jimmy Lewis joined our Council family as Director of Grants and Communications. Production of newsletters will be one of his many duties.

A 2005 graduate of East Carolina University, Jimmy has extensive experience as a newspaper reporter and editor. He is a 13-time award winner for sports columns, sports feature writing and headline writing, including six first-place honors in North Carolina Press Association’s News, Editorial and Photojournalism Contest.

Another wonderful addition to our Council is Maria Maldonado, who joined our Board of Directors in August. Maria serves as Director of Chatham Hospital Interpreter Services. She has already made many contributions to our Council with fresh ideas, collaborative spirit, and willingness to help us enrich our outreach to Chatham’s growing Latino community.

COA Teamwork in Action!

Recently, one of our Meals on Wheels volunteers noticed a client mailbox in rather poor condition and reported the situation to Wynne Fields, Minor Home Repair Coordinator.

Another volunteer leaped into action and took pictures to note the extent of needed repairs.

Two Minor Home Repair (MHR) volunteers offered to return to the residence and replace the mailbox. While at the site, the MHR volunteers were able to fix a cabinet so her refrigerator could slide back into place.

When contacted to see how the repairs went, the client said: “I just love it! Thank you all so much!”

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A Litany And A Cry of Thanksgiving

By Reverend Neriah Edwards-Boone, COA Board Member

One of my favorite people is the poet, mystic, philosopher, and theologian, the late Dr. Howard Thurman. Once, I had a chance to meet him. He wore on his face an element of grace.

A few weeks ago, I re-read one of the meditations in his book, Meditations of the Heart, “A Litany of Thanksgiving,” and was moved to a posture of thanksgiving in my own spirit. Before I share my own words, I share his. If he were here, he might do the same. He writes: Today, I make my Sacrifice of Thanksgiving, I begin with the simple things of my days: Fresh air to breathe, cool water to drink, the taste of food, The protection of houses and clothes, the comforts of home.

For these, I make an act of Thanksgiving this day!

COA Board Member Neriah Edwards-Boone gives her own "Cry of Thanksgiving" during the Council's Thanksgiving Celebration Nov. 23, 2021 at Chatham County Agricultural and Conference Center.

Photo by Joe Johnson

I bring to mind all the warmth of humankind that I have known: My mother’s arms, the strength of my father, the playmates of my childhood, The wonderful stories brought to me from the lives of many who talked of days gone by when fairies and giants and all kinds of magic held sway: The tears I have shed, the tears I have seen; the excitement of laughter and the twinkle in the eye with its reminder that life is good.

For all these I make an act of Thanksgiving this day.

I finger one by one the messages of hope that awaited me at the crossroads.

The smile of approval from those who held in their hands the reins of my security; The tightening of the grip in a single handshake when I feared the step before me in the darkness; The whisper in my heart when the temptation was fiercest and the claims of appetite were not to be denied; The crucial word said, the simple sentence from an open page when my decision hung in the balance.

For all these I make an act of Thanksgiving this day.

I pass before me the mainsprings of my heritage;

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The fruits of the labors of countless generations who lived before me, without whom my own life would have no meaning: The seers who saw visions and dreamed dreams; The prophets who sensed a truth greater than the mind could grasp and whose words could only find fulfillment in the years which they would never see; The workers whose sweat has watered the trees, the leaves of which are for the healing of the nations; The pilgrims who set their sails for lands beyond all horizons, whose courage made paths into new worlds and far-off places; The saviors whose blood was shed with a recklessness that only a dream could inspire and God could command.

For all this I make an act of Thanksgiving this day.

I linger over the meaning of my own life and the commitment to which I give the loyalty of my heart and mind: The little purposes in which I have shared with my loves, my desires, my gifts; The restlessness which bottoms all I do with its stark insistence that I have never done my best, I have never dared to reach for the highest: The big hope that never quite deserts me, that I and my kind will study war no more, that love and tenderness and all the inner graces of Almighty affection will cover the life of the children of God as the waters cover the sea.

All these and more than mind can think and heart can feel, I make as my sacrament of Thanksgiving to Thee, Our Father, in humbleness of mind and simplicity of heart.

These words inspire me. Today, I make my own cry of Thanksgiving.

I call out in thankfulness; I shout; I make loud exclamation Because my cup of thankfulness runs over.

I begin with the simple graces that bless both you and me every day, Life and breath and a reasonable portion of health and strength, Food on our table, clothing upon our backs, shoes on our feet, Somewhere to sleep at night.

For these I make a cry of Thanksgiving this day.

I, too, linger over the meaning of my life, and the commitments to which I give the loyalty of my heart and mind.

I found my niche in the community, I re-discovered my purpose in life, my love, my desire to share my gifts with seniors, like me.

The restlessness which surrounds all I do with its stark reality that I am still trying to do my best, Still trying to reach my goal to be a servant after the model of Jesus Christ

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And countless others who have gone before me.

For this I make my cry of Thanksgiving this day.

I bring to mind all the warmth and kindness and care That come to seniors through two senior centers in Chatham County, Hot meals, frozen meals, shelf-stable meals, congregate meals, Fitness classes, exercise equipment, walking opportunities, water aerobics, Information forums, Bible study, senior games, Partners in service to clients, faithful Board members, Dedicated staff, committed volunteers, an awesome executive director, And so much more.

I bring to mind Battles we have fought together through a pandemic, Sacrifices we all have made, Risks we have taken, The excitement of laughter and socially distanced fellowship, Reminders that, despite a pandemic, reminders that in the middle of a pandemic, It is a good time to be alive, It is a good thing to claim the appellation, “Senior.”

To have been blessed with the gift of longevity.

For all of these I make a cry of Thanksgiving this day.

The coronavirus buried us beneath the constraints of it.

We sheltered in place, but service to seniors never ceased, Zoom calls, conference calls, friendly calls kept us together.

Messages of joy kept us out of the valley of despair.

Clients were not overcome by fear, nor overwhelmed with anxiety.

We instilled whispers of hope When lives hung in the balance of loneliness and isolation, We were blessed with presence and peace that defies understanding.

For all of this, and for all of you, I make a cry of Thanksgiving this day.

For belief in the power of resurrection even when death is looming, For the mountain of life when death lurks in the shadows, For the voice of the Almighty God who hears our cry for mercy, For the Creator who turns His ear toward us, Leaning far out over the battlements of Glory, listening, Who becomes our Bridge over Troubled Waters of life long-lived, Until we cross over, until we overcome.

For the Creator who determines the limits of a pandemic.

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Who controls a virus that we cannot control and whose limits we cannot determine, But who has healing in the hem of His coat, Who reminds us that there is something beyond what we can see, Something beyond what we can touch, Something beyond what we can feel or hear, A transcendent power that does not belong to us, It belongs to the Creator.

For these mighty acts of love and salvation, I make a cry of Thanksgiving this day.

For times when it seems we are at the end of our rope, For the divine reminder that we are never at the end of our hope.

Instead of despair and dread, We offer prayers of thanksgiving to the Creator The One who has power to raise us up.

For this, O Divine Maker, I make a cry of Thanksgiving this day.

Despite the things that had us buried; the Creator has raised us.

Despite the things that had us chained up, the Lord Omnipotent has freed us.

Despite having to be socially distanced,

By Divine power, we are still together.

Despite death all around us, we are still alive.

It is, indeed, a good day to be alive right about now. Hallelujah!

And the people of God said, “Amen!”

We make a humble cry of Thanksgiving this day.

Housing Repair Assistance Applications Are Open Need home repairs? Accessibility modifications?

Weatherization? If you are a Chatham County low- or moderate-income homeowner, and your household includes someone who is either a veteran, 62 years or older, or disabled, you are eligible to apply for housing repair assistance. We can also help households with children ages 6 and under living in a home with lead exposure.

To apply, contact Triangle J Council of Governments (Attn: Jack Watson) at 919-558-9394, or email jwatson@tjcog.org. More information about the program can be found on TJCOG’s website at https://www.tjcog.org/focus-areas-housing-homemaintenance-home-repair/chatham-county

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Driving Safety & The Aging Driver

By Kristel Robison, UNC Highway Safety Research Center

Throughout our lives, our minds and bodies are in a continuous state of change. Often, the changes are so small, we do not notice them at first. However, over time, they become more obvious.

As we age, the changes to our bodies and minds can begin to affect our ability to perform some of the complex tasks needed for safe driving. These changes do not have to mean an immediate end to driving, but safety – for yourself and others – must always be a key factor in the equation. This article provides information and tips about driving safety for the aging driver.

Common changes you may or may not experience: Vision: This is perhaps the most recognizable change, but it extends beyond prescription updates.

As we age, the way our eyes respond to light changes, causing more difficulty with glare from headlights, sunny days, and with seeing objects against a similarly colored background.

Physical Fitness: Both strength and flexibility diminish with age. These changes can make it harder to do things like hitting the brakes quickly, turning to see when backing up or checking blind spots, and turning the wheel.

Attention & Reaction Time: Driving involves dividing our attention between awareness of the environment and the mechanics of driving itself. Driving also requires that we respond quickly to unexpected changes in the environment. Unfortunately, reaction time often slows with age, and it becomes more challenging to maintain focus with distractions such as a chatty passenger, phone call, or the radio.

Medications & Medical Conditions: With age, the likelihood of developing medical conditions increases, many of which are controlled with medication. Many medications can impact driving (and carry warnings against operating heavy machinery). As the number of medications taken increases, so does the likelihood that one, or a combination, will impact the ability to drive safely.

Be on the lookout for warning signs that may indicate that your driving safety has been impacted: * Trouble hearing or seeing Find it difficult to turn head to back up or check mirrors

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Trouble moving foot between pedals Hitting curbs Trouble judging distance Loss of confidence Getting confused at intersections or ramps Getting lost in familiar places Involved in crashes or close calls (including fender benders) Friends, family, or police have expressed concerns Doctor/Pharmacist has recommended setting limits or giving up driving *Adapted from AARP ‘s Warning Signs of Unsafe Driving For many, driving gives them the freedom to pick up and go wherever, whenever they prefer.

While some people eventually have to give up driving, the more drivers do to maintain their ability to drive safely, the longer they may be able to continue driving. Below are several things people can do to ensure they are as safe as possible when behind the wheel.

Visit your doctors regularly: Keep on top of your health, including your vision and hearing. Have your eyes checked annually and keep your glasses prescription up to date. Share concerns about changes in physical and cognitive abilities with your health providers. And, don’t forget to discuss how your medication(s) might impact your driving. For help understanding which medications to review with your provider, visit roadwiserx.com, add in your medications, and print the summary to use at your next visit.

Get regular exercise: Pay particular attention to strength and flexibility – 2 important physical skills needed for safe driving and maneuverability.

Set safe limits: Many drivers choose to limit driving to situations that are simpler and more likely to be safe. Daylight & fair weather, light traffic, familiar routes, and shorter trips are all examples of limits some drivers set.

Have your skills evaluated: If you have concerns that the changes you’ve experienced are affecting your ability to drive safely, particularly if you are struggling with several of the warning signs listed above, consider contacting a Driver Rehabilitation Specialist for a comprehensive and individualized assessment. These specialists are trained to work with drivers to identify strengths and weaknesses and help determine what steps might be available to help them maintain their driving safety.

Make a plan to stay independent: Retiring from driving is a daunting idea for many.

Make the transition easier by learning about and practicing alternative transportation options while you are still able to drive safely. Ask family & friends to try out public transportation or rideshare with you and consider carpooling with others.

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There is no specific age at which a person is no longer safe to drive. Every driver is unique. Abilities, vehicles, and roads change throughout our lifetime. Safe drivers understand and adjust to these changes.

For more in-depth information on how aging affects driving and how to manage those changes and maintain independence, visit http://www.ncseniordriver.org

Healthy Weight Loss with TOPS

By Robin Leto, COA Board Member and TOPS Instructor

It was so much fun baking bread, cakes, cookies, and all those delicious treats during the pandemic! Stepping on the scale now is not so much fun. According to the American Psychological Association's recent survey, the average weight gain during the pandemic was 29 pounds! In addition to that, many people gain 12 pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. What to do to fit back into that wardrobe? We have a Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) chapter at the Council on Aging to help with weight loss.

Although we cannot guarantee you will lose weight, in 2019 TOPS members in the United States and Canada lost nearly 241.5 tons! At our meetings, we

We meet virtually every Thursday via the Zoom

support each other's struggles in a non-judgmental

platform at 1 p.m. TOPS is an international

way as well as celebrate our successes. Anyone can

program that was founded in 1948 and has been

attend an introductory meeting before deciding to

helping and supporting members take off and

join. I am very happy to have lost weight and brought

keep off pounds sensibly. TOPS meetings offer

down my blood sugar levels with the help of TOPS!

flexible diets, emotional support as well as short programs to learn about weight loss without

For more information, call Robin Leto at 919-942-

resorting to fad diets.

2298.

Family Caregiving Support Group The Chatham County Council on Aging’s Family Caregiver Support Program offers a twice-monthly support group, with in-person and virtual meetings. Meetings take place in person on the third Monday of each month from 6 to 7 p.m. in the double meeting room at Chatham Community Library, 197 Highway 87 North, Pittsboro.

A virtual meeting is held via Zoom on the fourth Monday of the month from 6 to 7 p.m. Participants must RSVP by noon on the day of virtual meetings in order to receive the link. For more information on upcoming discussion topics or joining the mailing list, contact Lynn Parks at 919-742-3975 or email lynn.parks@chathamcoa.org.

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Planning for a Safe and Warm Winter

By Mike Zelek, Anne Lowry, Steve Newton, William Judson & Jennie Kristiansen, Chatham County Government

Winter is a time to enjoy cozy blankets, fun indoor games, and lots of hot chocolate, but winter also requires that people be prepared to stay healthy, stay warm, and stay safe.

When we talk about staying healthy these days, the first thing that comes to mind is COVID-19. The best thing people can do to prevent COVID is to be vaccinated and get a booster shot. To find the vaccine and/or booster near you please consult with your doctor, or visit vaccines.gov, or for locations of vaccine providers in Chatham County visit the Chatham County Health Department Vaccine Website.

Though we are all trying to prevent COVID-19, we cannot forget about the flu.

“Flu vaccines are the most important tool we have for preventing the flu,” says Mike Zelek, Chatham County Public Health Director. Find a place near you that is providing flu shots by visiting vaccines.gov and select “flu vaccine” at the top of the page. You can also make an appointment with the Chatham County Public Health Department to get your flu shot at the Siler City Clinic (1000 S. 10th Ave) by calling 919-742-5641. If you have not received a pneumonia vaccination or the booster, you should speak with your medical provider about that as well.

A few things you can do to stay safe is to be prepared for the freezing temperatures in your home and in your car. When you are outside for extended periods of time while shoveling snow or just exercising be sure to wear a hat, mittens, coat, scarf, and boots: loose layers are always a good idea.

Be sure to check with your doctor if you should be shoveling snow. Your heart works twice as hard keeping you warm in the cold weather, which adds another strain if you already have a heart condition.

Slips/trips/falls on icy decks, walkways, and driveways can also be a common winter occurrence.

Make sure steps and walkways are clear before you walk, be especially careful if you see wet pavement, it could easily be iced over. Salt your walkways at home, wear boots with non-skid soles, change the rubber tip on the ends of canes if the tip is worn, and consider an ice pick attachment for the ends of a cane for additional traction.

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When you are inside, keep your temperature at 65 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer. Take time now to have your heating system inspected, whether it is central HVAC or a space heater. If you are using a kerosene heater or electric space heater, make sure it is 3 feet away from anything that might catch fire, like curtains, clothing, beds, and furniture. Choose a heater with a thermostat, overheat protection and an auto shut-off to turn the heater off if it tips over. Always place the heater on a solid, flat surface and plug the heater directly into the wall outlet. Never use an extension cord. If using a fuel-fired heater, such as kerosene, open a window - just a crack will do. This will help with carbon monoxide levels within your home. Finally, remember to turn off your space heater when you leave your home.

Billy Judson, Chatham County Fire Marshal, reports that according to the Office of the State Fire Marshal, space heaters are responsible for one third of home heating fires and about 80% of home heating fire deaths. Fire Marshal Judson recommends that all homes have a working smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector: “A working smoke alarm is your best way to be alerted of a fire, and alarms should be replaced every 10 years,” he says.

If you do not have a working smoke detector, contact the Chatham County Fire Marshal’s Office at 919-545-8342 for a free one.

The Chatham County Department of Social Services has funding available to help income eligible individuals and families with heating bills this winter through two programs, the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program and Crisis Intervention Program. Applications are available in English and Spanish and can be made by mail, curbside, over the phone, or online through NC EPass. Paper applications are available outside the DSS main entrance 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can be returned in the secure drop box.

For the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program, households may apply from now until March 31, or until funds are exhausted.

The Crisis Intervention Program is for individuals and families experiencing a heating or coolingrelated crisis. Applicants can present a final notice or past due utility bill and must have a healthrelated or life-threatening emergency to be eligible for crisis funds. Each household will be evaluated on an individual basis to determine if there is a heating or cooling crisis. Please contact the Chatham County Department of Social Services at 919-542-2759 with any questions about these programs.

Stay safe whether at home or on the road. Keep a preparedness kit in the home and in the car. The car kit should include first aid kit, blankets, extra clothes, booster cables, windshield scraper, shovel, rock salt/sand/or kitty litter, water, food, and a flashlight.

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Winter 2022 - Page 21

The home kit should include water, food, blankets, flashlight, battery, first aid kit, medications, and a multi-purpose tool. For more information on what should be included in your emergency supply kit contact the Chatham County Environmental Health Division at 919-542-8310.

Finally, if you have any special needs, such as limited mobility, vision or hearing impairment, lack of transportation, critical health issues, or other needs that are impacted by emergencies or disasters consider registering with the Chatham SAFE (Strategic Action For Emergencies). Steve Newton, Chatham County Emergency Management Director, says “registering with SAFE Chatham helps us better prepare for residents who may require special assistance during disasters.“ You can register for SAFE Chatham online at www.readychatham.org and clicking on “SAFE Chatham,” or by calling the Emergency Operation Center at 919-545-8163.

By taking time to prepare you can plan for a safe and healthy winter.

Now let’s go and enjoy some delicious hot chocolate!

CORA: From Firewood to Food in Chatham

By Melissa Beard, Executive Director, Chatham Outreach Alliance

What began as a community effort to provide firewood to residents of Chatham County has grown into an organization that provides over 1 million meals each year to people facing food insecurity. In the late 1980s, church volunteers delivered firewood to families in need and when visiting these homes, they found that food was often a more pressing need than firewood.

Chatham Outreach Alliance (CORA) was founded in 1989 by members of several local churches who recognized that hunger plagued numerous families within the community. CORA's mission was – and continues to be – providing food to any Chatham County resident experiencing food insecurity.

In 1990, its first full year of operation, CORA served 253 families. After a decade of continued growth, by 2003 CORA was serving 1,400 families a year. By 2015, the demand for CORA’s services had increased by 850% to 2,400 families. Today, CORA continues to see an increase in need, and in 2021, CORA served over 3,500 families.

Since the mid-2000s, CORA has received growing prominence in the community and respect of community leaders and residents. In 2009, CORA launched SNACK! (Summer Nutritional Assistance for Chatham Kids) which distributes food to children who depend upon free or reduced-cost meals at school during the school year, but who have little or no replacement for this nutrition when school is not in session. In summer 2009, CORA served 117 children and the program has grown to serve over 1,100 in summer 2021. CORA also established our Mobile Market program in 2019.

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CORA’s Mobile Market provides nutritious food to neighbors in a farmers-market style setting. This program helps CORA reach those in need of food far beyond the boundaries of our Pantry location.

Each month, CORA hosts Mobile Markets in Siler City and the Nature Trail community.

CORA also has a long-standing partnership with the Food Bank of Central and Eastern NC. CORA and the Food Bank work together to distribute food through federal programs, one of which, CSFP (Commodity Supplemental Food Program), is designed specifically to improve the health of lowincome seniors by supplementing their diets with nutritious USDA foods. In partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture and the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, CORA distributes pre-packed boxes of shelf-stable foods to registered individuals once each month through the Commodity Supplemental Food Program. Individuals are eligible for this program if they are 60 years of age and older and make $1,396 per month or less.

CORA clients reflect the diverse community in which we live and serve. CORA provides food for families, students, individuals, and the elderly – many of whom never imagined they would have to seek food assistance. CORA is committed to meeting the needs of those we serve at a “hyper-local” level and establishing new partnerships across the county to ensure that anyone in need of nutritious food will have easy access to CORA's services.

In response to the pandemic, CORA has restructured its direct service strategy across all programs.

The client intake process is conducted outside, and clients receive their groceries curbside in a drive-through manner. Clients receive pre-packed bags of shelf-stable food including canned fruits and vegetables, rice or pasta, soups, breakfast cereal or cereal bars, and a variety of other nutritious food. CORA supplements these staples with fresh produce, bakery items, milk, and eggs. Each person receives enough food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for (21) meals each time the pantry is visited. Choice options are also available once again despite the drive-through manner of service.

Additionally, the number of possible visits has been expanded from six to 24 times per year. When families have chronic food needs that extend beyond 24 visits, CORA provides emergency food boxes to help alleviate the hunger that they face.

This past year, with overwhelming support from the community, CORA began construction on a new building that is adjacent to the existing Pantry. In 2022, CORA will open this new 2,800 square foot building that will serve as both a food storage warehouse and pantry. The additional space will allow for streamlined operations and a more effective provision of food to those facing hunger. The relocation of the pantry will also enable CORA to repurpose its current space to include meeting, educational, and food preparation space, all of which will better serve the community. Both the new building and the renovated building will serve as a space where food can be used as a platform to build upon our strategic priorities including health, belonging, and social justice.

CORA is committed to serving nutritious food in a welcoming community space that brings people together to grow, cook, share, and advocate for healthy food.

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Winter 2022 - Page 23

CORA strives to be a place of hope, compassion, and dignity for those experiencing food insecurity in our community.

At CORA, there is always an empathetic ear, supportive smile, and plenty of nutritious food available to meet the needs of those we serve. CORA's ultimate goal is to build a community without hunger.

Making a Difference with Meals on Wheels

By Kara Lusk Dudley, Chatham County Public Information Officer

For many years, I have heard about the Meals on Wheels program and how it provides a warm, nutritious meal to older adults who may otherwise go hungry. On December 6, 2021, I got to experience firsthand how the program makes a difference in the lives of Chatham County seniors by delivering these meals and so much more.

Just before 10:30 a.m., Alan Russo, who oversees the nutrition program at the Chatham County Council on Aging Eastern Senior Center in Pittsboro, began packing up food delivery bags. Some bags were insulated to keep hot meals warm. Other bags were filled with ice packs to keep perishable items cold.

Chatham County Public Information Officer Kara Lusk Dudley, center, joined COA Board President Larry Ross, right, on a Meals on Wheels route Dec. 6, 2021. Pictured with Dudley and Ross is Mary Reaves, holding her "Share The Love" card from Subaru of America.

Photo by Jimmy Lewis

Even while wearing his face covering, I could see Mr. Russo beaming with joy as he prepared the day’s meals. “Being able to feed those who can’t get regular, warm meals is really important,” said Russo.

“It makes their day to see someone, a friendly face, at their door. Sometimes, we might be the only people they see.”

The Chatham County Council on Aging currently serves approximately 80 seniors through its Meals on Wheels program. Delivering meals to this many folks five days a week is no small feat. About 65 volunteer drivers have regular Meals on Wheels routes and another 40 drivers serve as backup volunteers who can fill in as needed. The volunteers serve a critical need. The warm meal leads to a warm conversation, which goes a long way in connecting many of these seniors with the community.

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The Chatham Senior Times Larry Ross is one of the volunteer drivers. He currently serves as president on the Council on Aging’s Board of Directors, but he has been volunteering with Meals on Wheels for six years. I got to ride along with him on his regular Monday delivery route. It was a beautiful day as we traveled along Highway 64 and lots of rural roads in Chatham County. “This is where you get to know the people,” said Ross. “We’re not just delivery drivers. We provide meaningful conversation, and we become their friends.”

Alan Russo, COA Nutrition Program and Site Manager for the Eastern Center, prepares meals for packing prior to a Meals on Wheels route Dec. 6, 2021.

Photo by Kara Lusk Dudley

Eighty-seven-year-old Mary Reaves, of Pittsboro, can attest to that friendship. Mrs. Reaves not only anticipates the delicious meal she receives from Ross, but she also looks forward to seeing her friend. “He is so wonderful, and I appreciate him and this meal so much.”

During our route, we delivered meals to seven Chatham County seniors. It was a great feeling to watch Mr. Ross deliver each meal with care and compassion.

Meals on Wheels volunteers can check on other things in the home as they come to know the people they visit. For example, if they see some minor home repairs that need to be made, they can refer those needs to Council on Aging staff.

If you would like to learn about the Meals on Wheels program and other ways the Chatham County Council on Aging makes a difference in the lives of seniors, visit: https://chathamcouncilonaging.org. You can also find out how to volunteer at https://chathamcouncilonaging.org/volunteer or by calling 919-542-4512.

Looking for Upcoming Opportunities at the COA?

For a complete listing of upcoming COA programs and events, visit our website at chathamcoa.org.

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Winter 2022 - Page 25

Winter Word Search!

Puzzle created with Puzzle Maker @ DiscoveryEducation.com

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The Chatham Senior Times

Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup Adapted from BudgetBytes.com

Perfect for when the temperature drops!

Ingredients 1 yellow onion 3 cloves garlic 1/2 lb. carrots 4 ribs celery 2 split chicken breasts 1 tsp dried basil 1 tbsp dried parsley 1/2 tsp dried thyme 1 bay leaf 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper 8 cups water 6 oz. wide egg noodles 1 tbsp salt 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Directions: 1. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, peel and slice the carrots, and slice the celery. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to a 6 quart slow cooker or crock pot.

2. Remove the skin from the bone-in split chicken breasts, then place them on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker. Add the basil, parsley, thyme, bay leaf, and pepper to the slow cooker.

3. Pour 8 cups of water over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours.

4. After cooking on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours, carefully remove the chicken to a cutting board and discard the bay leaf. Add the egg noodles to the slow cooker, stir to combine, and replace the lid, with the heat turned on to high.

5. Use two forks to remove the chicken meat from the bones, shredding the meat as you go.

Return the meat to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the soup.

6. Once the chicken has been returned to the soup and the noodles are tender, begin seasoning the soup with salt. Stir in a handful of chopped parsley for garnish just before serving.

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Winter 2022- Page 27

Chatham Athletes Win Medals at Senior Games Virtual State Finals

By Jimmy Lewis, COA Director of Grants and Communications

A total of 18 athletes from Chatham County won medals in the 2021 North Carolina Senior Games Virtual Finals, held from October 1-22. Qualification took place at the Chatham County Senior Games last spring.

Chatham residents excelled in the pool, with gold medals claimed by Steve Barrett in the men’s 200-yard breaststroke (5:28.04), 50 backstroke (57.17), 50 breaststroke (1:04.06) and 50 freestyle (49.08).

Stan Cox logged first-place finishes in the men’s 200 breaststroke (3:45.00) and 200 butterfly (4:15.00), while picking up silver medals in the 200 individual medley and the 400 IM. Keith Megginson won silver in the men’s 50 and 100 breaststrokes and bronze in the 500 freestyle.

On the track, Denise Lynch sprinted her way to gold in the women’s 50-meter dash in a time of 8.48 seconds and secured silver in the 100. Rob Silbajoris finished third in the men’s 50.

Wayne Eckert was first in the men’s 10K run, finishing in 53:45.02. He claimed bronze in the 1,500-meter run. Eckert and Joel Rivers were first and second in the 10K run, respectively. In the 5K run, Edward Beroset picked up silver in the men’s event while Janet Cromer was third in the women’s race.

Ronald Bousquet’s marksmanship earned a gold medal in Archery Conv-Recurve Barebow with his score of 397. Dean Selleseth came away with bronze in Archery Comp with sight and release aid. The doubles tandem of Kathleen Havlin-Leslie Pyatt secured gold in women’s pickleball, with Jane Hamilton-Gwen McWilliams finishing second.

Michael Flanary took home a bronze medal in the softball throw. Daniel Tunstall made it a clean sweep of men’s cycling events, racking up gold medals in the 1-mile (3:10.34), 5K (12:04.70) and 10K (23:38.92) races. Mark Herboth turned in a silver-medal performance in 1,500-meter power walking.

Chatham County Senior Games is a part of a statewide of 53 local programs sanctioned by North Carolina Senior Games, Inc. NCSG is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing year-round health promotion and education for adults 50 years of age and better. Senior Games is sponsored statewide by the North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services.

Qualification for next year's State Finals will be held in the spring of 2022 at the Chatham County Senior Games. For more information on Chatham County Senior Games, please contact Liz Lahti at (919)-542-4512 or liz.lahti@chathamcoa.org.

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Residents Snag 9 Medals at NC Senior Games SilverArts finals

By Jimmy Lewis, COA Director of Grants and Communications

Six Chatham County artists brought back medals following their respective showings at the 2021 North Carolina Senior Games finals.

Taking part in the SilverArts portion of the Games – a celebration of the creative expression of seniors in North Carolina – Patricia Reid led the way with three total medals. Reid won gold in tole/decorative painting, silver in stained glass and third in drawing.

A quartet of Chatham residents came away with silver medals in SilverArts competition, with Boots Quimby (acrylics), Alan Reid (woodturning), Ruth Slates (instrumental solo) and Michael Stano (film photography, digital photography) representing the group. Mark Herboth was third in film photography.

Chatham County Senior Games is one of 53 local programs sanctioned by North Carolina Senior Games, Inc. North Carolina Senior Games (NCSG) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing year-round health promotion and education for adults 50 years of age and better. Senior Games is sponsored statewide by the North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services.

NCSG offers Silver Arts, which is a statewide heritage, visual, literary, and performing arts program.

NCSG also offers Silver Liners, senior line dancing program, and Silver Striders, a national awardwinning walking program.

Here We Grow Again!

The COA continues to count down the days until the completion of its Eastern Center renovations, which are on track to conclude in May. Once complete, clients, volunteers and staff will have access to expanded office, meeting and activity space. While the popular "rocking chair" front porch will remain, the side porch was recently removed to allow for expansion of the main building.

Substantial expansion to the rear of the center is also underway.

The renovation and expansion of the COA's Eastern Center, shown in this Dec. 8 photo, is expected to be completed by May. Photo by Jimmy Lewis

Currently, fully vaccinated clients who typically use our Eastern Center are bused via Chatham Transit to the Western Center in Siler City.

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ECSC Advisory Team Members Wanted

By Liz Lahti, ECSC Manager

The Eastern Chatham Senior Center (ECSC) is looking for additional members that live and work in Chatham County to share their thoughts and time on the Eastern Chatham Advisory Team.

The members are currently meeting virtually on the first Thursday of the month at 10:30 a.m. Some of the responsibilities include:

Promote and participate in ECSC functions and activities in the community.

Members of the East Chatham Advisory Team include top row, left to right: Neriah Edwards-Boone, Elizabeth Fridley, Debbie Lee, Joe Johnson. Seated at bottom are Juliana Walton and MaryLou Mackintosh.

Not pictured are Bill Alston, Phyllis Blair, Heather Little, Philip Richard and Rosemary Szydlek.

Review and provide suggestions to ECSC staff in planning the center’s services, programs and activities.

Review matters regarding ECSC rules, regulations, policies & procedures as proper for the management of ECSC. Serve as an ambassador for ECSC programs, services, and activities consistently seeking to enhance the community’s awareness and support.

Identify resources and assist in securing resources from the private and/or public sector.

Encourage all seniors to take an active interest and participate in the programs and activities of the senior center.

If you are interested in serving a two-year term, please contact Liz Lahti at 919-542-4512 or liz.lahti@chathamcoa.org

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Chatham's Generosity Comes Alive Through Angel Tree

By Jimmy Lewis, COA Director of Grants and Communications

The angels were off the tree, seemingly packed away for another year.

Yet the residents of Chatham County still kept coming.

That was the experience of staff members at the Chatham County Council on Aging who oversaw the return of the live "Angel Tree" event for 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Angel Tree was held virtually in 2020.

The premise is simple and effective.

Prior to Thanksgiving, Council staff contacted its homebound clients to ask what three items they would like for the holidays.

ECSC Angel Tree coordinator Liz Lahti, background, works with Council on Aging volunteer coordinator Linda Saum as gifts begin to fill the Council’s conference room at its Eastern Center in Pittsboro. Photo by Jimmy Lewis

Those requests then find their way - in the form of angels - to miniature Christmas trees erected at the two centers in Pittsboro and Siler City. There, the public is asked to come collect as many angels as they desire.

"It's wonderful," Eastern Center Angel Tree coordinator Liz Lahti said. "They wrapped them up so nicely, and you can tell their hearts have really gone into it. It's very endearing to see. They bought the presents and came back, and there was a lot of care and attention that went into them. It was kind of neat to see it all."

The gifts are brought back and delivered alongside traditional visits, whether for Meals on Wheels or another Council service. In some instances, the response was massive. Ebenzer United Methodist Church, for example, took away 18 angels. In all, Angel Tree, in its traditional form, delivered to 114 homebound clients this year. There was also an option to donate to an emergency assistance fund that is designed to help seniors with urgent, pressing needs this holiday season. In addition to wrapped Angel Tree gifts, a late social media call went out for $10 gift cards to local stores. That produced a total of 160 such cards, many of which were received after deliveries were underway.

"They're very appreciative," Lahti assured. "A lot of them are homebound and don't get out. And so, it's neat to know that the volunteers are bringing Christmas cheer to the seniors."

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Winter 2022- Page 31

Getting Back to Holiday Cheer The Council on Aging held its annual Holiday Celebration on Wednesday, Dec. 15, 2021 at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center. While Mr. Grinch made an unwelcome appearance, Santa's arrival came just in the "nick" of time!

Council on Aging PO BOX 715 Pittsboro, NC 27312

Expanded Online Issue!

Serving Chatham's Seniors and Their Families Since 1974 How has the Council impacted you or your family? We'd love to hear from you!

Email Sigi Markworth at sigi.markworth@chathamcouncilonaging.org

Serving Chatham Seniors for Over 47 Years

Chatham County Council on Aging 365 Highway 87 North Pittsboro, NC 27312 PHONE: (919) 542-4512

112 Village Lake Road Siler City, NC 27344 PHONE: (919) 742-3975

FAX: (919) 542-5191

Assistive Equipment Loan Program Caregiver Respite and Support Group Chatham County Senior Games & SIlverArts Congregate Meals Diabetic Support Group Disaster Preparation Emergency Meals & Assistance Family Caregiver Support Health Education Heat-Relief Fan Distribution Hiking Club Housing Information Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Incontinence Supplies Information & Options Counseling In-Home Aide Service Legal Services

Meals on Wheels & Frozen Meals Medical Transportation Minor Home Repair Reporting Neglect/Abuse/Exploitation Senior Center Activities Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program-SHIIP Telephone Reassurance Transportation Travelers Club Volunteer Opportunities Information & Assistance Mental Health Hospice Adult Day Care/Health Rehabilitation Services Medicaid & Medicare A/B Social Security Benefits

www.chathamcoa.org

The Chatham County Council on Aging does not discriminate as to eligibility for services on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, national origin, sexual orientation or gender identity.