2026-summer-comm

Vol. 34, No. 3 | Summer 2026

Road Trip?

Outsmart higher prices with our travel tips and keep summer fun on schedule

SEE TRIP ON PAGE 4

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Be Prepared, Not Panicked Key Takeaways from the 2026 Senior Safety Summit at SourcePoint

On May 18, SourcePoint welcomed community members for the Senior Safety Summit, facilitated by Scott Stewart, Deputy Director of Delaware County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. In this informative and actionable program, he brought together experts from many of Delaware County’s public safety agencies to share practical information, answer questions, and help older adults stay safe, informed, and independent—emphasizing that preparation is one of the most effective ways to stay safe during an emergency. Representatives from Delaware County Emergency Communications (DelComm 911), the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, Delaware County EMS, and Delaware City Fire Department provided valuable insights and resources designed specifically for older adults and their families. See SAFETY on page 6.

Find us at MySourcePoint.org and follow us on

WHAT ELSE IS INSIDE?

Cybersecurity Training Welcome to the Caregiving Club Simple Steps to Reduce Everyday Exposures Cat Food Needed Find a Preservation Park Near You Fraud and Scam Classes Staying Safe in Hot Weather

...and more!

SUMMER CONTENT 01 Be Prepared, Not Panicked Emergency Preparedness

04 Road Trip?

Feature

08 Shifting Guidelines for Blood Pressure Health & Wellness

10 A Strong Community Requires Homes Within Reach In Our Community

11 AARP Approves County’s Second AgeFriendly Plan In Our Community

12 The Power of Parks

Age-Friendly Delaware County

14 From the Source

SourcePoint Program Highlights

16 Did You Know? CARFIT is Not a Driving Test Transitions in Aging

16 New Test May Find Early Pancreatic Cancer Health & Wellness

17 Sudoku

Fun & Games

18 Creating a Healthier Home Health & Wellness

20 Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease 101 Health & Wellness

22 Driving with Hearing Loss: What You Need to Know Health & Wellness

24 What Does Living on a Fixed Income Mean?

Personal Finance

26 Worried About Your Aging Parents?

Caregiving

SourcePoint 800 Cheshire Road, Delaware 740-363-6677 | MySourcePoint.org EIN 31-1354284 SourcePoint is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that provides professional expertise, services, and programs for Delaware County adults who want to thrive after 55, as well as family caregivers. Services and programs are supported by the local senior services levy, private and corporate donations, grants, and the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging.

2026 Board of Directors President: Pamela Foster, Orange Township Vice President: Cheri Thompson, Delaware Secretary: Annie Horstman, MD, Delaware Treasurer: Michael Tucker, JD, Delaware Eleanor Biddulph, Westerville Randy Bournique, Delaware Bill Brown, Delaware Adrienne Corbett, Delaware Todd Everingham, MBA, Dublin Ron Fantozzi, Columbus Beth Fligner, JD, Dublin Alice Frazier, MD, Delaware Liz Gitter, MSSW, Delaware Beth Long-Higgins, MDiv, Delaware Heidi Reed, Sunbury Jodie Wegmiller, BSN, MBA, Delaware The board typically meets the last Wednesday at noon for six months out of the year. Members of the public who wish to attend may call the chief executive officer at 740-363-6677.

My Communicator is published quarterly and is made possible through advertisers, donors, and volunteers. About 5,000 copies of each edition are printed and distributed throughout Delaware County. My Communicator is available for pick-up at SourcePoint and 50 other locations, such as libraries, senior living communities, health care facilities, and other nonprofit organizations. To find a nearby pickup site, contact SourcePoint at 740-363-6677. Read My Communicator online at MySourcePoint.org/publications.

To advertise or submit educational content for consideration, contact Chief Advancement Officer Alison Yeager at alison@MySourcePoint.org.

The appearance of advertising does not represent an endorsement by SourcePoint. We reserve the right to refuse any advertising that conflicts with our mission.

Summer 2026

3

Beat the Heat: Staying Safe in Hot Weather Staying safe in hot weather can be challenging, and it’s important to take steps to stay healthy as temperatures rise.

On average the city of Columbus experiences 18 days per year where temperatures reach 90 degrees or higher.

What is a heat event? A heat event is when temperatures remain above 90 degrees for at least two to three days.

Heat Warning

High temperatures and humidity are a dangerous combination for people of all ages because our bodies need to work harder to maintain a healthy temperature. Older adults, persons with disability, those with chronic illnesses, and very young children are among groups that are especially at risk.

Tips for Staying Safe in Extreme Heat

Watch for signs of Limit time heat-related illness. outside during the day.

Wear loosefitting clothes.

Drink lots of water.

Seek shade if outside.

Stay Connected

Create a communication plan and check in on family, friends, and neighbors before and after extreme weather events. Staying connected can help you and members of your community stay safe.

Remember to Wear Sunscreen •

Apply sunscreen and make sure to reapply every 2 hours, even on cloudy days.

•

Make sure your sunscreen has an SPF of 30 or higher.

•

Ask your medical provider if any of your medications increase your risk of sunburn, dehydration, or other heat illnesses.

W.A.R.M. Weather and Aging Resilience Model

MySourcePoint.org | 740-363-6677

Scan to download the most current weather preparedness flyers or visit our website at go.osu.edu/age-friendly-toolkit

33

4

Trip

From page 1 Summer is in full swing, but for those dreaming of a day trip, getaway, or vacation, the thermometer isn’t the only thing that’s gone up.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the U.S. Travel Association, many costs associated with travel and vacations are on the rise in 2026—gas is up nearly 30% compared to last summer, airfare has increased about 2%, and hotel rates are more than 4% higher.

If you still have an itch to hit the road— whether with friends, family, or solo—but would prefer not to break the bank, here are some tips that will help you to, in the words of the Beach Boys, have fun all summer long.

SCHEDULE A STAY-CATION One of the easier ways to cut down on travel costs is to cut down on the distance you’re traveling. While most of us can find plenty of reasons to not want to vacation close to home (“It doesn’t really feel like a vacation,” “If I’m taking time off, I want to go somewhere”), it can be a great opportunity to revisit some nearby gems or discover a new-to-you place you’ve neglected to visit simply because it’s local.

Delaware County has some obvious choices that fit the bill, especially if you have grandkids in tow—the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Zoombezi Bay Waterpark, and the Olentangy Caverns are just a few—along with plenty of other spots that are well worth discovering. Outdoor enthusiasts can plan adventures not only at the two state parks found within the county (Alum Creek State Park and Delaware State Park), but also at any or all of the 14 Preservation Parks. In addition to miles of trails and breathtaking scenery, Preservation Parks offer a variety of summer programming and events for all ages and interests. You can tap your

Summer 2026 feet at the summer concerts scheduled at Gallant Woods in July and August, pound the pavement during a trail run or summer night hike, bird watch, star gaze, and even check out model railroads.

For a complete list of parks and summer events and programs, visit preservationparks.com.

LEAVE THE DRIVING TO US If you still want to venture beyond the Delaware County—or even Ohio—borders this summer, there are ways to do so while staying within budget.

Trips offered through SourcePoint are popular year after year and include everything from daytrips to multi-night stays in other countries.

After burning some calories on a hiking trail or via kayak, canoe, or paddleboard on the water, what better summer reward is there than ice cream?

Mary Ann Evans, the trips coordinator at SourcePoint, said there are plenty of advantages to traveling with a group.

Sure, you could show your extreme ice cream fandom by checking out all of the stops on the Ohio Ice Cream Trail (yes, that’s a real thing—see all 195 stops at Ohio.org), but there are plenty of sweet treats to be had locally too. In and around Delaware alone, you can choose between Dari Point, Dari Depot, Whit’s Frozen Custard, Ciao Cafe, Sticky Fingers, United Dairy Farmers, Cold Stone Creamery, Baskin Robbins, and Dairy Queen. Venture to Powell and you can add Graeter’s, Handel’s, Culver’s, and Johnson’s to the list.

From small-town shopping to unique dining, there is much to explore in Delaware County, and you can put your own itinerary together at the Destination Delaware County website, visitdelohio. com. Whether you’re in the mood for historic walking tours, artsy destinations, or a trek along a mapped-out trail that highlights wine, coffee, or fishing, you’ll find it in Delaware County (don’t forget to check for special events this year to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence). And when your staycation ends, you will have made more memories and spent less.

“Group travel allows you to sit back and relax and leave the planning and details to us, and any cost savings we get in planning a group trip we pass on to registrants,” Evans said. “Our trips are friendly and inclusive with like-minded travel enthusiasts. Some people feel they can truly enjoy traveling with a group as opposed to on their own.”

Evans said other benefits of group travel include increased social connections, the friendships formed among trip goers, and enhanced mental well-being.

“I’ve had people tell me they feel alive when they’re out doing things,” Evans said.

For repeat travelers on the SourcePoint trips, Evans said no two trips are alike and if a destination is visited more than once, new places are added to the itinerary.

“It is more the exception than the rule that we revisit places. No two trips are an identical experience,” Evans said.

Another benefit of coordinating a trip through SourcePoint is you have the advantage of an experienced trip planner who has probably already thought of things you didn’t even know you needed to think of when traveling.

740-363-6677 | MySourcePoint.org

Summer 2026 “I’m happy to say that I think we have many repeat travelers,” Evans said. “We will say up front if a particular destination is not ADA accessible, in the rare case of some historic sites, or if walkers, canes, or a wheelchair can be accommodated. And I won’t overcrowd a trip.”

Evans said she conducts a digital survey each year to gauge opinions on various trips and destinations.

“That has been really helpful.

The last survey, which I did last fall, exceeded my goal for participation,” Evans said. “The more who take part, the better the data I get out of it.”

All of SourcePoint’s day trips are to destinations in Ohio (summer trips include a Hocking Hills visit in July, Putin-Bay and a Barry Manilow concert in Columbus in August, and a tour of Ohio Stadium in September). The overnight and longer trips, for which Evans said she has collaborating travel partners, can be to places within a few hours (French Lick, Indiana in August for three days) or as far away as Philadelphia (six days in August) and the Danube (10 days in late August/early September).

MySourcePoint.org | 740-363-6677

5 “We have national conventions that come our direction, too,” Evans said. “The American Quilters Society is in Columbus this year, toward the end of September, and we’ll go to that.”

SourcePoint members get a lower rate than nonmembers for the day trips; overnight and longer trips are the same rate for all.

Evans said there are a few ways to learn about and sign up for trips.

“We have printed trip flyers and quarterly program publications in different locations at SourcePoint and on the website, MySourcePoint.org,” Evans said. “People can also sign up for the once-a-month ‘Get to the Point’ email, which includes information on trips.”

Evans said the well-planned trips draw interest from people outside of Delaware County, too.

“To have one person at SourcePoint dedicated to trips and travel is uncommon,” Evans said. “But we’ve built a lot of momentum and I’m fortunate to do what I do.”

TIPS FOR THE DO-IT-YOURSELF-ER If, after all these other options, you’d still like to leave Ohio and do your own trip planning, there are still ways to save a few bucks. A May article on Forbes.com provides the following tips to make your vacation easier on your wallet: • Travel by car and use a gas card that will give you savings at the pump.

Driving is still less expensive than flying, and a fuel card or advantage card can earn you points and rewards.

• If you must fly, schedule your trip in late summer—nine of the 10 least expensive days to fly before Labor Day are in August, according to the article. September may bring even better rates, with kids back in school.

• Use a travel rewards credit card to help pay for a future trip. Points earned this year may drastically reduce the cost of your vacation next year.

Here’s to making the most of your summer fun this year. The shorter days aren’t far behind!

Jeff Robinson is the feature writer for My Communicator.

6

Summer 2026

Safety

it in an easily accessible location. Printed full- and wallet-sized versions are also available at SourcePoint.

From page 1

The overall message of the day was simple but powerful: safety starts with preparation. By taking a few proactive steps today, older adults and their families can feel more confident and better prepared for whatever tomorrow may bring.

Technology is also creating new opportunities to be proactive. Features such as smartwatch fall detection, automatic crash notifications, and SOS buttons can automatically connect people with emergency services when help is needed most.

Keep reading to learn more about the specific guidance on steps you can take to be more prepared.

Understanding When and How to Call 911

Delaware County Emergency Management shared information about severe weather awareness, emergency notifications, and disaster preparedness. Their mission centers on helping residents prepare, respond, recover, and mitigate risks before emergencies occur.

Top 5 Takeaways 1. Talking with a 911 dispatcher does not delay first responders.

2. If you text 911, include your location first.

3. Sign up for DelcoAlerts emergency notifications.

4. Keep a medication list and emergency information readily available.

5. Be cautious of requests for payment through gift cards or cryptocurrency.

One of the most important reminders from the summit was that calling 911 is always the right choice during an emergency.

DelComm representatives explained what happens when a call is received and emphasized that answering questions from a dispatcher does not delay the response of first responders. In fact, those questions help emergency personnel arrive better prepared to provide assistance.

When You Call 911 • Do not hang up • Follow instructions exactly • Use your speakerphone if you are administering aid

Being Ready for Weather and Other Emergencies

What to do when help is on the way When waiting for first responders, think about your location—is there someone available to help the patient while another person unlocks doors, turns on lights, secures pets, and directs responders?

Think about what information will be needed, like the patient’s ID, insurance card, If you can’t call, health history, and current text 911 - be sure to medications. SourcePoint’s include your location LifeCard is a simple tool that helps first responders quickly access important medical information during an emergency.

Download a free LifeCard at MySourcePoint.org/care and keep

A few key reminders include: • Extreme heat remains the leading weather-related cause of death each year. Staying hydrated, limiting strenuous activity, and seeking air-conditioned spaces during heat events can help prevent illness.

• Sign up for emergency alerts through DelcoAlerts.org to receive timely information during severe weather or other emergencies.

• Consider purchasing a NOAA Weather Radio with battery backup to stay informed during power outages.

• Know the difference between a weather watch and a warning so you can respond appropriately when conditions change.

Emergency Management officials also encouraged every household to assemble an emergency preparedness kit with water, nonperishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, important documents, and other essential supplies. Premade kits are available to purchase online,

Protecting Yourself from Scams and Identity Theft

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office shared information on a number of different community programs offered, including Project Lifesaver, which provides resources for families that have a loved one prone to wandering and medication disposal and Naloxone distribution.

Additionally, the sheriff’s office offered practical strategies for preventing scams, identity theft, and financial fraud. Rather than focusing on fear, the presentation encouraged attendees to stay informed and trust their instincts. Many scams are designed to create a false sense of urgency and pressure people into making quick decisions. Common scams continue to evolve, including phishing attempts, tech support scams, fake investment opportunities, romance scams, and cryptocurrency schemes.

Some of the best defenses are also the simplest: • Keep passwords and PINs private.

740-363-6677 | MySourcePoint.org

Summer 2026 • Regularly review bank and online accounts.

• Be extremely cautious of unsolicited calls, emails, or text messages requesting money or personal information.

• Verify requests independently before acting.

• Contact law enforcement if something feels suspicious.

Once money has been sent—especially through gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency—it is often very difficult to recover.

Fire Safety and Aging in Place

The City of Delaware Fire Department highlighted programs and services that help older adults remain safe and independent at home. In addition to responding to emergencies, the department works proactively through risk reduction, home safety education, and service coordination programs.

Attendees learned several important fire safety practices: • Install and regularly test smoke alarms.

• Develop and practice a home escape plan.

• Ensure doors and windows can be easily opened during an emergency.

The department also shared information about smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector assistance programs available to eligible City of Delaware residents.

Small Steps Make a Big Difference

One of the most encouraging themes throughout the day was that safety does not require dramatic changes. Often, the most effective actions are simple ones: • Establish an evening routine that includes locking doors and vehicles.

7 expecting the worst—it’s about having the knowledge, resources, and confidence to handle challenges when they arise. Through education, awareness, and community partnerships, Delaware County continues to empower older adults to live safely and thrive.

Contact Information:

Delaware County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management 740-833-2180 delcoema.org Delaware County Emergency Communications (DelComm 911) Emergency: 911 emergencycomms.co.delaware.oh.us Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Non-Emergency: 740-833-2800 sheriff.co.delaware.oh.us Delaware County EMS ems.co.delaware.oh.us Delaware City Fire Department delawareohio.net/government/departments/fire Chip Roberts, Community Service Coordinator 740-203-1362 SourcePoint MySourcePoint.org 740-363-6677 Jodie Kaminsky is SourcePoint’s community aging planner, leading the Age-Friendly Delaware County initiative.

• Stay aware of your surroundings.

• Keep emergency contacts easily accessible.

• Create an emergency plan with family members.

• Stay connected to trusted sources of information.

These small habits can provide peace of mind while helping older adults maintain their independence and confidence.

A Community Working Together

The Senior Safety Summit demonstrated the strength of collaboration across Delaware County’s public safety organizations. From emergency dispatchers and deputies to firefighters and emergency management professionals, each presenter shared a common goal: helping residents stay safe, informed, and prepared.

The event’s theme, “Be Prepared, Not Panicked,” perfectly captured the spirit of the day. Preparedness is not about

MySourcePoint.org | 740-363-6677

Join SourcePoint for upcoming safety classes: Introduction to Fraud Defense Thursday, July 16, 1–2:30 p.m.

Avoiding Scams: Easier Said Than Done Thursday, July 23, 1–3 p.m.

Avoiding Scams: Staying Safe Online Thursdays, July 9, Aug. 13, Sept. 10, 10–11 a.m.

Register online at MySourcePoint.org or call 740-363-6677.

8

Summer 2026

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Shifting Guidelines for Blood Pressure The patient initially came to see Mark Supiano in 2017 because her family was concerned about her short-term memory loss.

While taking her history and vital signs, Supiano, a geriatrician at the University of Utah, saw one disturbing signal: Her blood pressure was 148/86, above normal despite her taking two medications intended to lower it. “Clearly that was too high,” he said recently.

Several factors could have contributed to the high reading, including the anti-inflammatory drug the 78-year-old woman took for arthritis pain, a high-sodium diet, and a lack of regular exercise. She had also told Supiano that she typically drank a couple of glasses of wine each evening.

After Supiano discussed ways to lower her risk, the woman and her husband joined a gym. She stopped taking the antiinflammatory and cut back on salt and alcohol, bringing her systolic blood pressure readings into the 130-to-140 range — still hypertension, according to the guidelines issued by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology later that year, but more acceptable. (Systolic is the top number in the blood pressure ratio and the more clinically important number.)

By 2019, though, the patient had a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment, and medical evidence was emerging about a connection between hypertension (the medical term for high blood pressure) and dementia. “I was not as aggressive as I should have been,” Supiano recalled. He added a third drug for high blood pressure to the woman’s regimen, and her readings fell to 120 or lower.

The shifting guidelines for blood pressure control may remind those at advanced ages of a dance fad from their youth, the limbo. As Chubby Checker once intoned, “How low can you go?”

For more than 25 years, a reading of 140/90 or below was considered normal, according to the AHA/ACC guidelines. But the 2017 update introduced major changes, backed by results from the landmark SPRINT trial, which enrolled adults over 50 who were at high cardiovascular risk.

The SPRINT trial found that intensive treatment aimed at bringing the systolic number below 120 reduced the risk of heart attacks, strokes, other cardiovascular illnesses, and overall mortality so substantially that the investigators stopped the study early.

It was unethical, they decided, to deny half the trial participants the benefits of intensive treatment. The 2017 guidelines, therefore, recommended medication for those with a systolic blood pressure over 130.

The most recent revisions, issued last year, encourage still tighter control. They call for patients at cardiovascular risk to strive for systolic readings below 120, and they also call that target “reasonable” even for those who are not at high risk. Readings considered normal not so long ago are now defined as hypertension.

Blood pressure normally rises with age because “with stiffening of the arteries, the heart has to pump harder,” said Erica Spatz, the director of the preventive cardiovascular health program at the Yale School of Medicine. From 2021 to 2023, about twothirds of adults over 65 had hypertension, according to the operative definition at the time.

But recent revisions could “define a lot more people as having high blood pressure,” said Rita Redberg, a cardiologist at the University of California-San Francisco.

To Supiano, recent studies in the United States and in China that show cognitive benefit for the lower readings “have tipped the scales” for older adults. “What’s good for the heart is good for the brain,” he said, calling those findings “a lever to get people to pay more attention to their blood pressure. They may not want to live longer, but they want to hold on to their cognition longer.”

Nearly all major medical associations, including the American Geriatrics Society (Supiano is the chair of the organization’s board), have endorsed the latest guidelines.

“I used to be lenient in many of my older patients,” said John Dodson, a cardiologist and researcher at NYU Langone Health. “If I overtreated high blood pressure, bad things were going to happen.”

740-363-6677 | MySourcePoint.org

Summer 2026

9

Blood pressure that drops too low — hypotension — can cause dizziness and fainting or injuries from falls.

They already seem overanxious about their blood pressure, she said, adding, “I encourage them to go out and enjoy themselves.”

Now, Dodson said, “I’m treating my older patients more aggressively.” Studies have shown that treating high blood pressure benefits even frail older adults. And while older adults in the SPRINT trial had more fall injuries, the rate wasn’t higher in those receiving intensive treatment than in those undergoing standard treatment. Among those over 75, it was about 5% for both groups.

“Take a class! Go to a museum!” she said. “You can’t do that if you’re at home taking your blood pressure five times a day.”

Another significant change: The new guidelines recommend athome monitoring.

“Blood pressure is tricky,” Spatz pointed out. “It varies throughout the day, depending on whether a person is just waking up or just ate or it’s hot outside.” Systolic readings can bounce around by 30 points or more in a single day.

And they’re almost always higher in a doctor’s office. “I don’t want to put much stock in one reading,” Spatz said.

“Maybe the patient has white-coat syndrome,” she added, referring to anxiety about doctors and testing, “or they had a fight with the parking attendant” on the way in.

She asks patients to record their blood pressure twice a day for a week or two before their appointments. Some doctors prescribe a 24-hour home monitor.

Will patients adopt home monitoring and more aggressive treatment? Cardiologists argue that high blood pressure, almost always asymptomatic, remains undertreated despite the newer guidelines.

Price is not likely to present an obstacle. Most patients need two or three drugs to lower blood pressure, but as generics they’re “dirt cheap, about $5 a month,” and rarely interact with the other drugs that are often prescribed for older people, Supiano said. A blood pressure monitor for home use runs $35, or more for those that digitally transmit data.

Although some side effects are serious — a fall can be life-altering — most complications “thankfully are transient and reversible and rather mild,” he said.

Yet the guidelines have skeptics, too. Redberg, for example, counsels older patients about diet, exercise, and weight loss but does not urge them to start medication to reduce a 135 systolic reading to below 120.

MySourcePoint.org | 740-363-6677

While trials and guidelines address benefits for the population as a whole — even small reductions in dementia would have an enormous impact — they are not useful for predicting individual outcomes. The PREVENT calculator, used to gauge whether someone would see cardiovascular benefit from hypertension treatment, has not been validated for people over 79 and does not factor in cognitive benefits, Supiano noted.

For people with other serious illnesses — cancer patients or frail nursing home residents with dementia, for instance — controlling blood pressure may be far down the list of concerns.

Time is also a factor in weighing risks versus benefits. A metaanalysis of older patients by Sei Lee, a geriatrician at UCSF, and colleagues found that for 200 patients in intensive treatment for hypertension, it would take 1.7 years to prevent a single stroke.

Reducing very high blood pressure is simpler and more important than trying to lower a 130 reading to below 120, Lee added. “You’d have to work a lot harder, add a third or fourth medication, and the risk of side effects is higher.”

Supiano’s 78-year-old patient did hit that target and did well for six or seven years. Then, as happens with many patients with mild cognitive impairment, she began to decline and eventually received an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.

Given what researchers are reporting about the cognitive benefits of treating high blood pressure, “maybe it gave her another couple of good years,” he mused. “Maybe it delayed the progression.” Or maybe, he added, he should have started intensive treatment earlier.

Source: KFF Health News. Read more at kffhealthnews.org.

10

Summer 2026

IN OUR COMMUNITY

A Strong Community Requires Homes Within Reach Something encouraging is happening in Delaware County: people are beginning to talk openly about housing affordability.

The recent Foundations in Faith: A YIGBY Event, presented by the Delaware County Housing Alliance, brought together faith leaders, housing advocates, nonprofit organizations, developers, and community members to discuss how faith-based organizations can use their underutilized property to develop affordable housing.

Too often, housing affordability is viewed as someone else’s problem. The reality is that housing affordability impacts all of us.

The YIGBY conversation highlighted how mission-driven organizations can retain ownership of their assets while helping address one of our community’s most critical needs.

Why does this matter? Because housing is about far more than real estate. Housing is one of the most important social determinants of health. Stable, affordable housing influences physical health, mental well-being, educational outcomes, employment opportunities, and a person’s ability to age safely and independently.

Without stable housing, it becomes significantly more difficult to address healthcare needs, maintain employment, access transportation, or support family caregivers. As housing costs rise, the impacts ripple throughout the entire community.

The data confirms what many residents are already experiencing firsthand.

Delaware County has the highest average home sale price in Ohio, with the average home selling for $568,133 during the first half of 2025. County officials report that demand continues to outpace available housing supply.

based organizations to develop affordable housing on underutilized land. Developers bring the expertise needed to build.

Community institutions—including faithbased organizations—can contribute land and a commitment to serving their neighbors. Programs such as YIGBY demonstrate how these sectors can work together to create housing opportunities while strengthening the missions of the organizations involved.

At the same time, 16 percent of Delaware County households are classified as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), while another 6 percent live below the poverty level. Together, nearly 19,542 households – or approximately 52,352 residents --struggle to afford basic necessities despite living in one of Ohio’s most prosperous counties. To provide context, 52,352 Delaware County residents is more than the population of the City of Delaware.

As local election season approaches, residents have an opportunity to move this conversation forward. Housing affordability should not be a niche issue discussed only by planners, developers, and advocates. It should be a question every voter asks every candidate seeking local office. Ask candidates for county commissioner, city council, township trustee, and other local offices where they stand on housing affordability. Ask whether they understand the challenges facing working families, older adults, and essential workers. Ask what specific policies they support to ensure Delaware County remains a place where people of all incomes and stages of life can live, work, and thrive.

This challenge extends beyond today’s workforce. By 2040, one in four Delaware County residents will be age 65 or older, and by 2050 the number of residents age 85 and older is expected to double.

Without housing options that are within reach, Delaware County risks creating workforce shortages in some of the very occupations that will be most critical in the decades ahead. The people we rely on to help our parents and grandparents age with dignity often cannot afford to live in the communities where they work.

Addressing housing affordability requires partnerships. Government must create policies that support housing options across the continuum. Efforts such as the proposed Senate Bill 250, the Promise Land Act, seek to make it easier for faith-

A strong community requires more than good schools, thriving businesses, and quality amenities. It requires homes within reach for the teachers who educate our children, the workers who keep our economy moving, the caregivers who support our loved ones, and the families who want to build their future here.

Learn more about the Delaware County Housing Alliance at delcohousing4all.org or follow on Facebook.

740-363-6677 | MySourcePoint.org

Summer 2026

11

IN OUR COMMUNITY

AARP Approves County’s Second Age-Friendly Plan SourcePoint is proud to announce that AARP has officially approved the community’s second Age-Friendly Action Plan, reaffirming the county’s commitment to creating a place where residents of all ages can thrive.

Spearheaded by SourcePoint and the Delaware Public Health District, the newly approved action plan builds on years of collaboration among local leaders, organizations, and residents to enhance livability across Delaware County. The plan outlines strategies to improve transportation, housing, social participation, health services, and more—ensuring that older adults can remain active, connected, and supported.

AGEFRIENDLY DELAWARE COUNTY Action Plan 2.0 | 2026‒2028

Aging with purpose.

Freedom to flourish.

“This milestone reflects the strong partnerships and shared vision across our community,” said Fara Waugh, SourcePoint CEO. “When we design a community that works for older adults, we create a better place for everyone.”

The Age-Friendly initiative recognizes that communities that are accessible, inclusive, and supportive of aging populations benefit residents of all ages. From safer streets to expanded opportunities for engagement, these efforts strengthen the overall quality of life in Delaware County.

MySourcePoint.org/age-friendly

A digital version of the Age-Friendly Action Plan is available at MySourcePoint.org/age-friendly.

Residents are encouraged to explore the plan and learn how they can get involved in building a more Age-Friendly community.

To learn more about Age-Friendly communities across the U.S., visit AARP.org/Livable.

SourcePoint is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that provides professional expertise, services, and programs for Delaware County adults who want to thrive after 55, as well as family caregivers. Services and programs are supported by the local senior services levy, private and corporate donations, grants, and the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging. Learn more at MySourcePoint.org.

614-276-1439

MySourcePoint.org | 740-363-6677

modlich-monument.com

12

Summer 2026

AGE-FRIENDLY DELAWARE COUNTY

The Power of Parks: How Preservation Parks Helps Delaware County Thrive July celebrates National Park and Recreation Month. Preservation Parks is promoting “The Power Of…” parks and recreation: the power of connection, nature, belonging, and well-being.

For more than 50 years, Preservation Parks of Delaware County has helped protect the natural beauty of our community while creating welcoming places for residents to gather, explore, and stay active outdoors.

Founded in 1974 as the Delaware County Metropolitan Park District, Preservation Parks now operates 12 parks and manages over 2,500 acres of land, including sections of the Ohio to Erie Trail, throughout the county.

Across Delaware County, our park system offers residents opportunities to walk, learn, volunteer, and enjoy nature close to home. For older adults, the parks provide important benefits. Research continues to show that spending time outdoors can improve physical health, reduce stress, strengthen social connections, and support overall well-being.

Importantly, activities do not need to be intense to provide benefits. Regular walking, gentle trail use, and outdoor social activities all contribute to healthier aging. And the parks help create environments where movement feels enjoyable rather than like a chore.

In many ways, parks have become essential public health resources. During stressful or isolating periods, people often rediscover the comfort and healing that nature provides. Parks offer room to breathe, think, move, and reconnect.

Preservation Parks creates outdoor spaces that don’t just belong to the young, athletic, or adventurous—they should belong to everyone.

Parks That Bring People Together

Preservation Parks is more than trails. The organization offers programs and gathering spaces that help residents stay active, engaged, and connected. And, they make intentional choices

about accessibility, transportation, programming, and amenities, so more residents can enjoy the benefits.

This summer, residents can enjoy the popular summer concert series, a relaxing opportunity to gather outdoors with neighbors and friends.

The new “Walk with a Doc” program combines gentle exercise with health education and social interaction, making it easier for people to stay active in a supportive environment.

Gallant Farm hosts a monthly book club through the Gallant Farm Literary and Cowpie Society, while Deer Haven Park is home to the Delaware County Bird Club, where nature lovers gather to learn and explore together.

The parks also offer volunteer opportunities for residents who want to stay involved, socialize, and share their passion for nature with others.

Even the Summer Letterbox Adventure encourages residents of all ages to explore the parks in a fun and unexpected way.

Download the Outer Spatial App to your phone to explore the parks and plan your trip. The app provides real-time information about each park, amenities, trail details, and more!

Follow Preservation Parks and SourcePoint on Facebook. Stay connected and learn about special pop-up events. Additionally, you can sign up for newsletters from both organizations on their websites.*

740-363-6677 | MySourcePoint.org

Summer 2026 Designed for Accessibility

While some people want to spend more time outdoors they also worry about uneven terrain, long distances, or limited seating.

Preservation Parks has intentionally worked to address these barriers.

Throughout the park system, visitors will find benches with backs and armrests, level trail options, and accessible parking. Several parks offer shorter trails and easier walking surfaces, and the park has started to introduce universal restrooms, and automatic door openers. Deer Haven Park, Hogback Ridge Park, and Gallant Woods Park are especially good options for visitors looking for gentler trail experiences.

At Deer Haven Park, visitors can Deer Haven Park and Gallant enjoy boardwalks Farms loan different trekking that go across sticks for residents to borrow and wetlands test out during their visit. and trails that traverse past wetlands into prairies and wooded canopies. The park encourages residents to try new experiences by loaning backpacks filled with activities, binoculars, and guidebooks.

Uniquely, this is the only park to feature a color-blind viewer, allowing individuals with color vision deficiencies to experience nature in a new way.

Hogback Ridge Park features a braille trail with guide ropes, tactile experiences, and braille signage. The short, level loop is designed for visitors with visual impairments but is also enjoyed by many families and people seeking a gentle, more accessible hike.

Additional improvements are on the way, including more hardpacked gravel and asphalt trails that will improve accessibility throughout the park system.

Take a Step Outside

Preservation Parks has thoughtfully grown so there is no single “right” way to participate. A visit might involve outdoor yoga, exploring a new trail, or meeting new friends. In a busy world, Delaware County’s parks offer something increasingly rare: space to breathe. In the spirit of National Park and Recreation Month, answer for yourself: Parks give me “The Power of… “ *Preservation Parks summer program guides are mailed automatically to residents and fall and winter guides are available by request. For more information on any of the programs listed or to find more information, visit Preservation Parks of Delaware County online at preservationparks.com or contactparks@ preservationparks.com.

MySourcePoint.org | 740-363-6677

13 SourcePoint provides quarterly program brochures online at MySourcePoint.org. Printed copies can be picked up at our building located at 800 Cheshire Road, Delaware. **DCT (Delaware County Transit) provides public transportation to residents of Delaware County. Visit delcotransit.com for more information.

Jodie Kaminsky is SourcePoint’s community aging planner, leading the Age-Friendly Delaware County initiative.

Find a Preservation Park near you!

Blues Creek Park 9627 Fontanelle Road, Ostrander, OH 43061 Char-Mar Ridge Park 7741 Lewis Center Road, Westerville, OH 43082 Deer Haven Park 4183 Liberty Road, Delaware, OH 43015 Emily Traphagen Park 5094 Seldom Seen Road, Powell, OH 43065 Gallant Farm 2150 Buttermilk Hill Road, Delaware, OH 43015 Gallant Woods Park 2151 Buttermilk Hill Road, Delaware, OH 43015 Hickory Woods Park 1271 Pollock Road, Delaware, OH 43015 (included in DCT’s FLEX route**) Hogback Ridge Park & District Offices 2656 Hogback Road, Sunbury, OH 43074 McCammon Creek Park North 3675 E. Orange Road, Lewis Center, OH 43035 River Run Park 168 Main Road, Delaware, OH 43015 Shale Hollow Park 6320 Artesian Run, Lewis Center, OH 43035 Sycamore Run Park 7341 Olentangy River Road, Delaware, OH 43015

14

Summer 2026

FROM THE SOURCE The latest news, programs, and resources available at SourcePoint.

Fitness & Wellness

Transitions in Aging

NOT YOUR MAMA’S WORKOUT: AFTER HOURS Wednesdays with Gina, 6–6:45 p.m.

Beginner-intermediate. Ditch the gentle routines and turn up the heat! This high-energy HIIT session is designed for active adults who want to finish the day strong. Build real-world power, endurance, and balance through structured intervals using dumbbells, resistance bands, and jump ropes. It’s safe, social, and a serious sweat—redefine what it means to stay active after dark. Members must be able to get up and down from the floor.

Fee: $50 for the series.

INTIMACY AT ANY AGE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW NEW! Wednesday, Aug. 26, 10–11:30 a.m.

Join us for an engaging session with the Delaware Public Health District exploring sexuality and wellness across older adults. We’ll challenge common misconceptions about sexuality later in life and discuss how aging naturally affects the body. The presentation also highlights common risk factors for sexually active adults and methods for personal protection. Most importantly, we’ll create a welcoming, judgment-free space for open conversation and questions.

TWIST & TARGET Tuesdays with Gina, noon–12:45 p.m.

Beginner-intermediate. Shake, step, and strengthen in Twist & Target! This low-impact class blends classic dance moves— like the twist, grapevine, and cha-cha—with light resistance training using dumbbells, bands, and body weight. Move to the timeless hits of the 50s through the 80s while improving balance, coordination, muscle strength, and cardiovascular fitness. It’s fun, energizing, and the perfect way to stay active and strong while dancing down memory lane!

Fee: $50 for the series.

SAILING: INTRODUCTION TO SAILING NEW! Tuesdays, Sept. 1 and 8, 1:30–4 p.m. at Alum Creek Sailing Association, 3241 Lewis Center Road, Lewis Center.

Set sail with confidence in this engaging two-part introductory sailing experience in partnership with the Alum Creek Sailing Association. Participants will begin with a land-based session covering basic sailing terminology, boat components, and essential safety guidelines, followed by a hands-on, on-the-water experience at Alum Creek. Guided by experienced sailors, you’ll learn fundamental skills such as steering, sail handling, and teamwork—no prior experience required. Dates are subject to favorable weather conditions with rain dates scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 15 and Sept. 22.

Must meet all the basic physical requirements to participate.

See online for more details.

Fee: $10 for the series.

ODOT ROUTE 23 CONNECT DISCUSSION HYBRID Wednesday, Sept. 9, 1–3 p.m.

Join the discussion with the Ohio Department of Transportation as they present the Route 23 Connect Study, an initiative focused on identifying improvements along the U.S. 23 corridor between I-270 and Waldo to create safer, more efficient travel and improve travel time reliability. An ODOT representative will share how the study evaluated potential concepts and developed recommendations to guide a long-term corridor action plan and identify projects that can move forward into development. The Route 23 Connect Study is an important step toward addressing these issues while also strengthening Columbus’s role as a national logistics hub with improved connections to northwest Ohio, Michigan, and Canada. Register for your choice of in-person or online option.

REVERSE MORTGAGES AND LONG-TERM HEALTH CARE INSURANCE NEW! Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2–3:30 p.m.

Discover ways to build and protect your legacy through reverse mortgages and long-term health care insurance. This educational session clears up common myths and explores options that support asset protection and financial growth.

Register for these programs and more at

MySourcePoint.org

740-363-6677 | MySourcePoint.org

Summer 2026

15

Learning

Social Connections

AI FOR FUN & PRODUCTIVITY NEW! Thursday, Aug. 6, 2–4 p.m.

Curious about AI but not sure where to start? This beginnerfriendly workshop introduces simple tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, and shows how they can help you write, stay organized, and explore new interests. You’ll learn what AI is in plain language, try it out for yourself, and get basic tips for staying safe online. No experience needed—Just bring a device with internet access to use AI. Fee $5.

SENIOR DAY AT THE DELAWARE COUNTY FAIR Tuesday, Sept. 22, 9 a.m.-noon at the Delaware County Fairgrounds, 236 Pennsylvania Ave., Delaware.

Join SourcePoint and other local organizations for a fun morning of bingo, breakfast, and other fun surprises.

Delaware County residents 55+ receive free admission all day Tuesday with ID.

COSMETOLOGY: SHADES THAT SHINE ON YOU NEW! Friday, Aug. 28, 1–2:30 p.m.

Using a series of questions and pictures, your instructor Mindy Meyer will help you determine your undertone, best coloring family for clothing, makeup, accessories, and why it matters! No knowledge of color theory required! Fee: $5.

TECHNOLOGY 1:1 ASSISTANCE Mondays, 10 a.m.‒12:45 p.m. by appointment.

Jarren Ringle provides guidance on technology in a 45-minute time slot. Do you have questions regarding a cell phone, PC, laptop, or tablet? Specify your device and questions at registration. Limit: two sessions per month.

The Arts LIVE LAUGH LOOM NEW! 2nd Thursday of each month, 10:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m.

Join a relaxing self-led group to have a therapeutic time weaving hats, enjoy how crafting can be healing. Experience the meditative rhythm of looming while building friendships in a supportive, judgment-free environment. Bring your own supplies and a good attitude.

PET PORTRAITS RETURNS Monday, Sept. 21, 9:30–11:30 a.m.

Led by fine artist and picture book author-illustrator Becky Gehrisch, students will learn how to lay out their pet proportions, show lighting, fur direction, and choose the right colors to make their pet drawing come alive. This class uses soft pastels and is a great introduction to animal portraiture. Fee: $40.

MySourcePoint.org | 740-363-6677

SPECIAL LUNCHEON: BREAKFAST FOR LUNCH Friday, Sept. 4, 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

Join us in Cafe 55 as your favorite breakfast foods take center stage. Our talented kitchen staff will prepare a spread you’ll thoroughly enjoy. Also, stop by our photo booth to get some pics with your besties. For Delaware County residents age 55 and better, lunch is available on a donation basis upon completion of proper paperwork. For non-residents and those younger than 55, lunch is $8. This event is sponsored

by Anthem My Care Ohio.

Day Trips AQS QUILTWEEK NEW! Wednesday, Sept. 23; estimated timing: 8:15 a.m. bus departure, 5 p.m. estimated return.

Prepare to be amazed! The American Quilter’s Society will transform The Greater Columbus Convention Center into a celebration of quilting. Walk through exhibits showcasing the best in traditional and modern quilting. The Vendor Mall will be overflowing with fabric, notions, machines, books, and all the specialized supplies you need to fuel your next creative project. Transportation and show admission included.

Activity Level 2-3. Registration through Aug. 5. Fee: $60 for members; $80 for non-members.

OHIO STADIUM TOUR NEW! Thursday, Sept. 3; estimated timing: 1 p.m. bus departure, 5:30 p.m. estimated return.

On the banks of the Olentangy, stately Ohio Stadium is one of the most recognizable landmarks in all of college athletics.

Since 1922, over 40 million fans have streamed through its gates. Go behind the scenes at the Ohio Stadium on a private, guided VIP Tour that takes you inside the storied history of Buckeye Football. This trip includes a mystery bonus stop! Activity Level 2-3. Registration through July 23.

Fee: $65 for members; $85 for non-members.

16

Summer 2026

TRANSITIONS IN AGING

Did You Know? CARFIT is Not a Driving Test Have you ever noticed drivers who can’t see over the top of their steering wheel?

Sitting too low significantly reduces visibility and compromises safety—an issue affecting many older drivers who are not properly fitted to their vehicles. Proper positioning behind the wheel improves control, comfort, and awareness, while also reducing the risk of serious injury in a crash.

CARFIT is NOT A DRIVING TEST—it’s a simple, supportive service designed to help you stay safe and confident on the road. The Delaware Public Health District offers free CARFIT appointments at 470 S. Sandusky Street in Delaware. Schedule yours today at Mature Driver Safety at the Delaware Public Health District or call 740-203-2083.

Get “CARFiT” and take a proactive step toward safer, more comfortable driving.

The SAFE Delaware County Coalition invites all drivers to participate in older driver safety programs at SourcePoint and to contact coordinator Jackie Bain for additional information on how to keep you driving longer safely at jbain@ delawarehealth.org or 740-203-2083.

CARFIT: HELPING DRIVERS FIND THEIR SAFEST FIT Wednesday, Sept. 30, 1–4 p.m.

Schedule your personalized CarFit at SourcePoint. CarFit’s professionals take drivers through a 12-point checklist with their vehicle, recommending adjustments that help make their cars “fit” better for comfort and safety. *A Delaware Public Health District CarFit technician will phone you to schedule your 30-minute appointment time. Drive-ins will be accepted as space allows. Register at MySourcePoint.org.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

New Test May Find Early Pancreatic Cancer Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest types of cancer. Part of why it’s so deadly is that doctors usually don’t find it until it has spread to other parts of the body. After cancer has spread, treatment is less likely to work.

The combined test was able to distinguish between patients with cancer and noncancer patients. It correctly identified those with cancer about 92% of the time. The test was also able to find early-stage cancers in about 87% of cases.

Currently, there are no screening tests to find pancreatic cancer at its early stages. A recent study tested new ways to detect early-stage pancreatic cancer.

“Pancreatic cancer usually doesn’t present with symptoms until it’s too late for surgery,” says Dr. Kenneth Zaret of the University of Pennsylvania. A test that finds pancreatic cancer early on could increase a person’s chances of getting treatment and surviving.

Researchers looked at blood samples from 672 patients. These included people with pancreatic cancer and healthy people. The research team also looked at blood samples from people with other conditions of the pancreas, like pancreatitis.

The team found that people with early-stage pancreatic cancer had higher levels of two proteins in their blood. The new test looks for these two proteins. It also detects two other proteins that can be a sign of pancreatic cancer in some people.

More research is needed to confirm this study’s results in larger groups of people.

Source: NIH News in Health. Read more at newsinhealth.nih.gov.

740-363-6677 | MySourcePoint.org

Summer 2026

Staying Connected and Secure

SourcePoint’s nine-part cybersecurity informational video series is designed to help our community learn essential online safety practices. With a particular focus on supporting older adults, these videos provide easy-to-follow guidance on topics like: • Identifying scams • Protecting personal information

17 FUN & GAMES

Sudoku EASY Grid n°19472 easy

3 1 2 6 3 6 9 1 8 2 6 3 4 4 3 7 1 7 9 2 8 4 2 8 3 9

• Creating strong passwords • Safely using technology in everyday life It is SourcePoint’s goal to empower older adults with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the digital world more securely. Thanks to the Healthy Aging Grant and our partnership with Clark Schaefer, we’ve developed these valuable educational resources for our community.

HARD Grid n°113616234 hard

3

8 9 2

9

7

Make your own free printable sudoku at www.PrintMySudoku.com We have all the free sudokus you need! 400 new sudokus every week.

3 4

View the series at MySourcePoint.org/cybersecurity-training.

4 3

Skilled Nursing & Therapy Services Providing personalized care with compassion since 1985

Call to schedule a tour today!

4 New Market Drive Delaware, Ohio 43015 740-369-6400 delawarecourt.com

6 3 7 6 2

8 1 7 8 6 1

See Sudoku Solutions on page 27.

MySourcePoint.org | 740-363-6677 Make your own free printable sudoku at www.PrintMySudoku.com We have all the free sudokus you need! 400 new sudokus every week.

3 9 8

18

Summer 2026

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Creating a Healthier Home

Simple Steps to Reduce Everyday Exposures Home is where we eat, sleep, relax, and spend time with family. It’s where children grow and develop. Because we spend so much time there, scientists say the home is one of the most important places to think about health.

Over the past decade, researchers have learned much more about the harms we’re exposed to indoors. They have also learned how to reduce some of these risks. The science has advanced. So have the tools for measuring what’s in our air, water, and dust.

“The home environment plays a powerful role in shaping health,” says Dr. Heather Patisaul, an environmental toxicology expert at NIH. “The good news is that there are simple, manageable steps people can take to lower common exposures.”

CHEMICALS IN EVERYDAY PRODUCTS

Many everyday products in our homes contain chemicals that can be slowly released into the air or settle into dust over time. These include flame retardants in electronics and furniture, plastic additives, pesticides, dyes in fabrics, and PFAS. PFAS stands for a group of chemicals called perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.

“As building materials have evolved and we’ve shifted to newer construction standards, we’re introducing a lot more chemicals and a lot more plastics into our homes,” says Dr. Heather Stapleton, an environmental chemist at Duke University.

Flame retardants are chemicals added to products to slow the spread of fire. Years

ago, certain flame retardants were widely used in couch cushions and other items in the home.

Over time, research raised concerns about some of these older chemicals.

Some were linked to problems with brain development and thyroid hormones.

Many of the older flame retardants have now been phased out, Stapleton says. But she adds that scientists continue to pay attention to newer flame retardants used in electronics and products, like home insulation.

Many products are now available without flame retardants, such as furniture, mattresses, and clothing.

AIR, DUST, AND MOLD

One key way chemicals move through a home is by attaching to dust. “They’re very sticky,” Stapleton explains.

“They’re going to stick to particles that are in the air or in settled dust. So dust becomes a sink for these chemicals.”

Dust can especially affect children’s health. Kids spend more time close to the floor. They touch surfaces and often put their hands in their mouths, increasing exposure.

“Home hygiene plays a big role in reducing exposures coming from dust,” Patisaul says.

Stapleton’s NIH-funded work suggests that cleaning routines can make a difference.

In her ongoing study, families are using

a robotic vacuum on a set schedule at home.

After 10 weeks, Stapleton says her team saw exposure go down for many types of chemicals.

This included flame retardants and plastic additives.

Cooking, smoking, pets, candles, cleaners, and building materials can all add harmful particles and gases to indoor air, too.

“If you burn something in your house, it’s going to release toxic chemicals,” she says. “What you need to do is ventilate it.”

Ventilation means bringing in fresh air and pushing out stale air. Use a vent hood or open windows when possible.

Moisture indoors can also affect health because it can lead to mold. Mold is a fungus that grows on damp surfaces, such as around leaks or in humid bathrooms. It releases spores that can irritate the nose and lungs. So, it’s important to control moisture in the home.

WATER QUALITY

Water quality is another important part of a healthy home. “It’s something that people are consuming frequently and directly, across the lifespan,” says Dr. Abby Fleisch, a pediatrician and environmental health researcher at MaineHealth.

Most public water systems in the U.S. are regulated and monitored for some contaminants like lead, arsenic, and pesticides, but not all. Drinking water 740-363-6677 | MySourcePoint.org

Summer 2026 levels of PFAS are monitored or regulated only in certain areas. And problems can still occur, especially with corroded pipes that can leach lead or other harmful chemicals.

Filtering your water can be an effective way to protect against contaminants. But be sure to check what the filters can be used for. Different filters protect against different contaminants.

Private wells are not regulated the same way. That means well owners should test their water regularly. Some contaminants, like PFAS, often have no taste, smell, or color.

“People need to do testing to be able to identify contaminants in well water,” Fleisch says. She adds that even small levels can matter because exposure can add up over time.

19 A recent report linked higher PFAS levels to higher cholesterol, lower response to some vaccines, higher risk of kidney cancer, and low birth weight in babies.

Fleisch stresses that exposure does not mean someone will get sick. “Having been exposed to PFAS doesn’t mean that a person is definitely going to develop a particular health outcome,” she says. She describes PFAS as a risk factor. That means it may raise the chance of some health problems, but it is only one part of the picture.

BUILD A HEALTHIER HOME

Experts say that you don’t need to make drastic changes all at once. Small steps, taken over time, can create a healthier home.

risk for diabetes. People with higher PFAS levels were more likely to gain weight and develop high cholesterol or diabetes over time. But people who followed a program focused on healthy eating and regular exercise did not show this increased risk.

The lifestyle changes appeared to undo the health risk in the study. That’s an important takeaway.

“People shouldn’t feel overwhelmed,” Patisaul says. “They should feel empowered to ask questions and stay informed, so that they can make choices that support their families’ health.”

Source: NIH News in Health. Read more at newsinhealth.nih.gov.

Fleisch points to an encouraging finding from her own NIH-supported research.

In a large study, she looked at adults at

MAKE YOUR HOME HEALTHIER

Cut down on dust. Vacuum regularly using a HEPA filter, if possible. Wet-mop floors and wipe surfaces with a damp cloth to trap dust.

Take off your shoes. Leave shoes at the door to avoid tracking pesticides, dirt, and other pollutants into the house.

Prevent mold. Fix leaks, dry wet areas quickly, improve airflow, and clean mold.

Can you lend a helping paw?

Improve indoor air. Open windows when possible to bring in fresh air. Use kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans to reduce moisture and pollutants.

Choose products with fewer added chemicals. Look for fragrance-free soaps, cleaners, and personal care products.

Try to avoid products marketed as stain resistant or nonstick.

Urgent donations are needed to help feed the furry feline companions of Meals on Wheels clients, specifically

Check your drinking water. If you use a private well, have the water tested regularly. Use a certified water filter if testing shows contaminants.

Practice healthy habits. Balanced eating and regular physical activity can help support overall health even when environmental exposures occur.

MySourcePoint.org | 740-363-6677

5.5 OZ. WET CAT FOOD (any brand or variety)

Drop off donations at SourcePoint Customer Service or deliver directly to SourcePoint by ordering from our online Amazon wishlist

Just for Paws

MySourcePoint.org/meals

20

Summer 2026

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease 101 The Difference and Why it Matters Many people use the terms dementia and Alzheimer’s disease interchangeably, but they don’t mean the same thing. Dementia is an umbrella term for symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and daily functioning, while Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia.

Understanding the difference can help you recognize symptoms, talk with your health care provider, and better support someone living with cognitive decline.

What’s the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s?

Dementia is a general term that describes a wide range of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills, including judgment, reasoning, and complex motor skills.

There are several dementia-related illnesses, and Alzheimer’s disease is one of them.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia and accounts for 60–80% of dementia cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It is a chronic disease that causes memory loss or difficulty thinking or problem-solving—to the point where it interferes with everyday activities. Alzheimer’s disease can progress to the point where a person doesn’t remember their own family and might undergo a complete personality change.

Other types of dementia include: Vascular dementia: A decline in memory and thinking skills brought on by blockage or reduction of blood flow to the brain that deprives the brain of oxygen and nutrients. Risk factors are similar to those for heart problems, stroke, and other diseases that affect blood vessels.

Lewy Body dementia (LBD): An umbrella term that refers to both Parkinson’s disease dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies, which are protein deposits that develop in nerve cells in the brain regions involved in thinking, memory, and movement.

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD): The Mayo Clinic describes FTD as a diverse group of uncommon disorders that primarily affect

the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain—the areas generally associated with personality, behavior, and language.

These dementia-related illnesses are not a normal part of aging, and in order to limit your chances of getting dementia and/or to better manage the condition, it’s important to know the symptoms and the prevention techniques that are most effective.

How can I prevent dementia?

The biggest risk factors for these conditions are things you often can’t control, including age, family history, and genetics. But according to research, lifestyle behaviors like those below can help slow or prevent the onset of dementia: Exercise on a regular basis: Staying active isn’t just good for your heart; it’s also great for your brain.

Get plenty of sleep: Your brain does important stuff while you are sleeping, so getting at least 7 hours of deep sleep a night is crucial.

Be smart about your diet: Research suggests that the foods you eat can affect your brain health, both for the better and for the worse.

Manage your blood sugar: High glucose levels can increase your risk for dementia, stroke, and heart disease. It can also be a precursor to diabetes. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help keep your blood sugar in check.

Control high blood pressure: Hypertension can damage your brain, blood vessels, and heart. It also raises your risk for vascular dementia and stroke. Treating high blood pressure with medication or lifestyle changes can help lower your dementia risk.

Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity and being overweight make you more likely to develop diabetes and heart disease. Take proactive steps to manage your weight, like staying active and being mindful of your nutrition.

Be mindful of harmful substances: Limit alcohol use and eliminate smoking.

740-363-6677 | MySourcePoint.org

Summer 2026 Challenge your brain: Try small things, such as brushing your teeth or eating with your non-dominant hand.

Continue to pursue favorite hobbies or take up new ones: Art, music, gardening, and learning a new language are just a few that can help keep your mind active.

Manage stress: Relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, can be helpful.

Stay socially connected: Spending time with family and friends can help you ward off social isolation. Loneliness has been linked to Alzheimer’s and cognitive decline.

Get regular checkups: Visit your doctor or other health care professional regularly and be sure to stay up to date on preventive screenings and benefits.

What are the early warning signs of dementia?

The following are some common warning signs and symptoms of dementia. Keep in mind that every person is unique and may not exhibit all of them. Always consult a physician to discuss changes in memory and thinking abilities. A thorough assessment by your physician or a specialist, such as a neurologist, can determine what is causing these symptoms.

• Difficulty finding words • Trouble completing multi-step tasks • Challenges with identifying time, person, or place • Misplacing familiar objects • Challenges solving problems • Trouble with reading and/or writing • Issues with balance and spatial relationships • Mood and/or personality changes • Loss of interest in important responsibilities • Social withdrawal • Expressing false beliefs • Changes in judgment Whether you are a professional, family member, friend, spouse, or community member, it is beneficial to understand different causes that can impact one’s memory other than the potential presence of dementia.

Physical health changes, such as a vitamin deficiency, thyroid problem, urinary tract infection, medication side effects, stress, substance abuse, and depression may all cause changes in memory and other symptoms of dementia, such as confusion. A thorough assessment by your physician or specialist, such as a neurologist can determine what is causing these symptoms.

MySourcePoint.org | 740-363-6677

21 Why is it important to detect dementia early?

Although it can be scary or challenging to acknowledge changes within ourselves or someone close to us, it is important to do so and take action.

Early detection of memory issues can allow you to participate in care planning decisions and explore clinical trials. For some people, receiving a diagnosis can bring relief by confirming that the changes they’re experiencing are part of a medical condition—not something they’re causing.

For those who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, it’s important to learn how to maintain quality of life and keep health care costs down. Chronic Disease Self-Management Education (CDSME) workshops—originally developed by Stanford University—are evidenced-based community programs proven to help people with early-stage dementia and their caregivers successfully manage chronic conditions. The workshops can be completed in-person at a local organization in your community or even online. To learn more about workshops in your community, use the Eldercare Locator to contact your local area agency on aging.

Where can I find dementia care support?

If you have questions, or are looking for support with dementia, try the following resources: Alzheimer’s Foundation of America: This organization has a tollfree national helpline where you can talk with a licensed social worker seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST. Call 1-866232-8484.

Alzheimers.gov: Learn about different types of care and services for people with dementia and their families. Explore resources for finding support in your local area.

Alzheimer’s Association: Call the 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900 for emotional support, crisis assistance, and information and resources. Live chat is also available.

Understanding dementia can help change the conversation, alleviate stigma around dementia-related illnesses, and increase support for people living with them. If you know someone who might have dementia, please share this information with them.

Source: National Council on Aging. Read more at ncoa.org.

22

Summer 2026

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Driving with Hearing Loss: What You Need to Know Every day, millions of people with hearing loss are out driving on America’s roads.

They’re young and old. They’re mildly hearing impaired and fully deaf. And unless they’re operating a commercial vehicle that requires a CDL license, there’s no federal restriction preventing them from doing so.

Why? Because it’s perfectly safe.

“There are many misconceptions around hearing loss and driving,” said Gretchen Dueñas-Tanbonliong, MS, MPH, RDN, Associate Director of Health and Wellness at NCOA. “Often, they’re rooted in bias, fear, ageism, or a combination. But the fact of the matter is this: people who are hearing impaired or deaf can drive just as well as anyone else.”

This is reassuring news—especially if you or someone you know is worried about hearing loss now or in the future. You don’t need to give up your license. You can maintain your independence. The key, Tanbonliong explained, is to pay extra attention to safe driving habits. “I also recommend using assistive technologies when it makes sense,” she said.

In this guide to driving with hearing loss, we’ll answer common questions and cover relevant laws and tips, including: • How you can safely drive with hearing loss • Restrictions on driving with hearing loss or when deaf • How to get or renew your driver’s license • Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)

protections for hearing impaired drivers • And more Is it safe to drive with hearing loss?

Yes. According to a systematic research review commissioned by the United States Department of Transportation, there’s no compelling evidence “to support the conclusion that deaf or hard of hearing drivers have an increased crash risk.”

Observational studies agree.

It helps that driving primarily is a visual task. Still, it’s important to acknowledge that many of us do rely on hearing to perform it safely—perhaps more so than we even realize.

“Those of us who were born with our hearing and learned to drive with it don’t really think about it all that much,” Tanbonliong said. “But we’re constantly listening as well as watching when we’re behind the wheel.”

A tooting horn, a dinging seat belt chime, a beeping backup camera, even a blaring emergency siren—all of these things alert us to situations we need to pay attention to. Being unable to hear them, especially when we once used to, could put us at a disadvantage. Fortunately, there are ways to adapt. (More on this further on).

Driving laws, restrictions, and protections for the hearing impaired There are no federal laws that prevent you from driving with hearing loss.

There is one notable exception. If you drive a commercial vehicle and need a CDL endorsement on your license, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that you pass a hearing test. Commercial drivers who fail the test may be eligible to apply for an exemption. But these exemptions only are available for drivers whose routes cross state lines. (That’s because the FMCSA doesn’t have authority to regulate in-state driving laws).

State laws for driving with hearing loss If you drive a regular passenger car, some individual states may require you—or ask that you volunteer—to: • Notify the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) of your hearing loss • Take a hearing test • Include a notation on your license (like “DHH” for “deaf or hard of hearing”) • Contact your state’s DMV to learn about any specific requirements where you live.

Can you drive if you’re deaf?

Yes. The same federal guidelines apply whether you’re fully deaf or live with partial hearing loss.

Depending on where you live, your state may have specific guidelines and requirements. Find contact information for your DMV here. If you use TTY and your state doesn’t maintain a dedicated 740-363-6677 | MySourcePoint.org

Summer 2026 number, call 711 to use the nationwide telecommunication relay service.

It’s important to know that driving when deaf is perfectly safe. According to interviews with board-certified audiologists (hearing specialists) and American Sign Language experts, deaf drivers—especially those who were born without hearing—demonstrate increased visual acuity (awareness) on the road. And there’s a scientific explanation for it.

When you’re deaf, your brain uses the space reserved for hearing and applies it to vision. This doesn’t mean you see better than other people. It does mean that you use your sense of vision differently and likely have sharper related skills. For example, these experts report that deaf drivers constantly scan their car mirrors and the road. As a result, they’re often more tuned into visual warning signs like flashing lights and lane-change signage. They also may spot important clues to potential hazards more quickly— such as other cars making way for emergency vehicles or slowing down due to an accident.

Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) If you’re deaf or hearing impaired, the ADA offers broad protection against discrimination. This includes your ability to apply for a driver’s license and how you’re treated when doing so. The ADA also applies to any interactions you may have with police officers during a traffic stop.

Getting (or renewing) your driver’s license While the ADA guarantees that you may apply for a driver’s license, it does not guarantee that you’ll get one.

You still will need to pass the same standard tests that every other driver must. Usually, this includes a written exam covering your state’s traffic laws and a practical test demonstrating your ability to safely operate a vehicle.

MySourcePoint.org | 740-363-6677

23 You do have the right to ask for accommodations when applying for or renewing your driver’s license, such as written instructions or a sign language interpreter.

Get your hearing tested: Work with an audiologist to measure your hearing loss, discuss options for prescription or over the counter hearing aids, and track how well your hearing aids fit and work for you.

“That’s why it’s important to tell the DMV about your hearing loss up front,” Tanbonliong said. “When you do, the DMV is legally obligated to comply.”

Get your vision tested: Because driving is mostly a visual task—and because people with hearing loss rely more heavily on vision when driving—it’s especially important to stay on top of your eye health.

Some states also allow you to add a special designation on your license. For example, in Oregon, you can voluntarily apply to include the International Symbol of Access for Hearing Loss on your license, vehicle registration, and DMV record. Such designations can alert law enforcement officers, emergency responders, and others that you are deaf or hard of hearing.

The process varies by state; be sure to ask whether this is an option when you get or renew your license.

Know your rights: interacting with law enforcement Whether you have the option to add this designation or not, there are other practical strategies you can use to ease communications and protect yourself during a traffic stop.

These include: Keeping a visor card in your car: This printed tool can quickly and effectively alert police officers to your hearing status.

If you’re pulled over, calmly point to the card first; then, remove it from your visor and show it to the officer.

Remembering your ADA rights: Just as the DMV is, law enforcement officers are required to comply with the ADA. This means you have the right to ask for handwritten instructions, voice-to-text assistance, or other accommodations to support clear communication.

Tips for driving safely with hearing loss There are several steps you can take to ensure your safety behind the wheel.

Minimize noise: When possible, keep your windows rolled up, your radio turned off, and conversations with passengers brief.

This improves your chances of hearing things you need to hear, like sirens or GPS cues.

Assistive devices In addition to the strategies listed above, advances in technology can more easily help you adapt to driving with hearing loss.

Hearing aids Some of the best hearing aids include Bluetooth technology, which seamlessly connects to your GPS system and phone.

This helps you keep your eyes on the road while maintaining the ability to navigate and have conversations. Check our hearing aid buyers guide for helpful tips on types, features, and how and where to shop.

If your hearing loss no longer responds well to hearing aids, cochlear implants may be an option. Depending on the procedure and device, these implants also may include Bluetooth capabilities.

Vehicle technology Today’s advanced safety features benefit all drivers. These include things like automatic braking, lane departure correction, backup cameras, and blind spot monitoring.

Some manufactures have begun offering additional options specifically intended to aid drivers with hearing loss. For example, vibrating alert systems attached to the steering wheel or driver’s seat provide tactile warning when their sensors pick...

See HEARING on page 25.

24

Summer 2026

PERSONAL FINANCE

What Does Living on a Fixed Income Mean?

With an annual Social Security income of less than $20,000, MC—a 77-year-old New Jersey resident—finds it hard to cover basic daily expenses including her rent, utilities, and groceries. She also lives with degenerative vision loss and depends on third-party transportation to run errands, get to medical appointments, and participate in social events.

“A monthly check of $1,667 may sound pretty solid,” said Jessica Johnston, NCOA Senior Strategist for Economic Well-Being, “until you consider that the average rent in New Jersey is $1,686 for a single person in good health, according to the Elder Index. That doesn’t leave much wiggle room for older adults like MC.” Or, for that matter, the millions of other older adults whose budgets are shrinking in the face of inflation. Reaching 3.8% in April 2026 , high inflation is not welcome news for the nation’s 61.2 million older adults age 65+. Many are already living on a low fixed income. And nearly 15% of older adults (age 60+) live below the poverty line, based on the Supplemental Poverty Measure.

What happens when inflation and fixed incomes collide? It can spell trouble for many older adults already struggling to cover basic expenses like food, fuel, utilities, and housing.

What does it mean when someone lives on a fixed income?

Living on a fixed income generally applies to older adults who are no longer working and collecting a regular paycheck. Instead, they depend mostly or entirely on fixed payments from sources such as Social Security, pensions, and/or retirement savings.

There is very little flexibility in the amount of income they receive each month. Approximately 40% of older Americans rely solely on their Social Security income to get by, which averages about $1,913 monthly.

Approximately 40% of older Americans rely solely on Social Security payments to cover their basic needs. These payments average $2,081.16 monthly for retirement benefits.

In times of economic instability—such as high inflation—living on a fixed income becomes especially challenging for people.

As expenses rise, their ability to pay for them stays the same. For older adults on a tight budget, an unexpected medical emergency or household repair can tip the scales and lead to financial disaster that’s hard to recover from.

How can I survive inflation on a fixed income?

If you or an older adult you care for is burdened with bills and facing economic insecurity, there are steps you can take to stretch your budget.

Eliminate debt: Older Americans are carrying more unpaid financial obligations than ever before, with the average credit card balance for people age 61-79 reaching $6,795 in 2025. If you’re a senior on a fixed income, it can be overwhelming trying to keep up with snowballing credit card payments. That’s why credit counseling may be a solution worth exploring. Working one-on-one with a trained counselor can help you get your debt under control and create a manageable repayment plan. Securing a lower monthly payment, and ultimately eliminating your credit card debt altogether, can free up extra funds to apply toward other expenses.

Create a budget calendar: Tracking your finances is important at any age and income bracket. But when you live on a fixed or limited income, it’s essential to know exactly where your money is going. A budget calendar is a visual tool that allows you to see what your income is each month, when it will arrive, and what your expenses are. This helps you gain a clearer picture of your financial activity—so you’re less inclined to spend money you simply don’t have. A budget calendar also gives you a greater sense of control over your finances, which can help you feel less worried about money.

Making your own budget calendar is easy and something you can do on your own (a simple wall calendar will do just fine). Learn how to create a budget calendar here.

See if you qualify for food assistance: In 2023, about 12.6 million seniors and older adults did not have reliable access to nutritious food. And as grocery store prices rise, the issue of food insecurity among seniors will only get worse. SNAP, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, offers a financial safety net to older adults who might not otherwise get enough to eat. This need740-363-6677 | MySourcePoint.org

Summer 2026 based program serves many seniors living on a low fixed income.

Adults who qualify receive monthly financial benefits loaded onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. This card can be used just like a credit or debit card at Walmart, other grocery retailers, and even farmers markets to purchase eligible food items.

Consider taking on a part-time (or full-time job): A growing number of older adults are either returning to the workforce or seeking employment for the first time. There are several paths to employment for older adults. These include online job boards, newspaper ads, job fairs, and networking.

NCOA’s employment tool, Job Skills CheckUp, helps older adults get tips on how to succeed as a mature worker. All you have to do is tell us about your goals, describe your current employment situation, and the Job Skills CheckUp will create a personalized plan to help you find job openings, build a professional network, prepare for job interviews, and more.

And remember: SNAP is a vital resource, too. That’s what MC learned after visiting her local Benefits Enrollment Center.

Together with other financial assistance programs that staff helped MC find and apply for, her SNAP benefits contribute to $2,175 in total monthly value that she otherwise would have overlooked.

Hearing From page 23

...up noise from sirens, car horns, train whistles, and other urgent sounds. Visual alert systems on the dashboard can indicate many of the same things.

If you own an older car and aren’t ready to buy a new one, you might consider some simple after-market additions like wideangle mirrors to improve your field of vision.

Is it time to re-evaluate your driving?

Always, advised Tanbonliong.

“No matter our age, our hearing ability, our mobility, or anything else, it makes good sense to check in with ourselves regarding our skills on the road,” she said.

“Of course,” she continued, “it’s not always easy to be objective about our own driving. Most of us are pretty confident we’re good and safe drivers!”

MySourcePoint.org | 740-363-6677

25 Millions of older adults on a fixed income are likely eligible for, but not enrolled in, programs that can help them afford everything from healthcare and prescriptions to food and utilities. While these supplemental benefits may not close the financial gap completely, they can provide some breathing room for those who are barely scraping by month to month. Some assistance programs can potentially add hundreds or even thousands of dollars to your budget every year.

Researching money-saving programs for seniors may feel like an overwhelming task. But NCOA has made it simple for you with BenefitsCheckUp®. This easy-to-use digital tool can help you browse benefits in your area, such as SNAP and other nutrition programs as well as tax relief, transportation, and education programs. You can find information on a broad array of offerings, all in one convenient place.

Use BenefitsCheckup for yourself—or if you’re a caregiver, friend, or neighbor who knows of an older adult who needs help. If you or they qualify for assistance, we’ll give you detailed information on how to apply.

Source: National Council on Aging. Read more at ncoa.org.

Here are some signs to pay attention to: • A trusted person has approached you to talk about hearing loss • You’ve noticed hearing loss yourself and wonder whether it affects your driving • You’ve experienced vision changes regardless of your hearing status • You’ve started a new medication that makes you feel dizzy or drowsy • You don’t react to other drivers or conditions as quickly as you used to “None of these things necessarily means you have to give up your license or your keys,” Tanbonliong emphasized. “If nothing else, they point to the benefits of talking to your doctor and maybe even enrolling in a driving refresher course.”

Your local senior center may host such classes or can advise you on where to find one.

Source: National Council on Aging. Read more at ncoa.org.

26

Summer 2026

CAREGIVING

Worried About Your Aging Parents?

Welcome to the Caregiving Club When his father was diagnosed with gallbladder cancer in 2025, William Morrison immediately went into caregiving mode.

“We were in the hospital every day,” he said. “I was really playing the intermediary between the medical staff and our family and kind of helping have those conversations and push for those answers.”

One in 10 Americans say they are a caregiver for a parent 65 or older, according to 2025 Pew research. And many people in the sandwich generation —those who have both children and aging parents—start their caregiving journeys like Morrison: stepping up during a medical crisis and becoming a family caregiver essentially overnight.

For other people, taking on the role and identity of a caregiver happens more slowly.

Researchers and experts say the spectrum of caregiving is broader than many people realize and that embracing the caregiver title before there’s a crisis can make a significant difference in this phase of life.

Worry Comes First

Being a caregiver can start long before you go to a doctor appointment with a loved one or move your parents into your house. “Oftentimes what we see out in the world is a very limited definition of who a family caregiver is,” said Denise Brown, a caregiving coach and the founder of Caregiving Years Training Academy in Illinois. Being a caregiver is “not necessarily around defining caregiving by

tasks and chores, but about that emotional impact.”

Brown created a framework that defines caregiving as a journey with six stages. She said the first stage —the “expectant caregiver”—begins the moment you start to feel concerned about a loved one. “ You look into the future and you think, ‘Oh, I think someone’s going to need help in the family,’” Brown said.

When you start to get actively involved in a loved one’s care, that triggers the second stage, what Brown calls the “freshman caregiver”: “You’re learning the lay of the land. You’re learning the language of all the systems that you now manage. The best thing to do in this stage is to get comfortable experimenting.”

Caring for Parents Brings Different Stressors

The kind of care that Morrison provided —responding to an immediate medical crisis—catapulted him into the third stage of caregiving, the “entrenched caregiver.”

By the time you hit this point, Brown said, “you can feel completely overwhelmed and swallowed up by the experience.”

Research suggests that the stress is especially acute for people taking care of parents. The role reversal stresses the relationship: Caregivers who focus solely on children don’t deal with the tension linked to shifting power dynamics and

other changes that happen when an adult child starts to care for a parent.

Burnout, defined by physical and psychological fatigue, was higher among caregivers of aging parents than among caregivers caring only for children. And for caregivers in the “sandwich generation,” who were taking care of both children and aging parents, personal burnout scores were even higher.

The Title Makes a Difference

Many people who perform care tasks don’t consider themselves caregivers, researchers have found, but those who do are more likely to access support services and feel a sense of community with other caregivers.

“Anyone in a caregiving situation deserves support and help,” Brown said.

Embracing the role of caregiver early also allows you to have “really good conversations with people in your life” about their desires—and yours—as you enter this phase, Brown said.

Morrison, whose father died earlier this year, is about to enter his own sandwich generation era: He and his wife are expecting a baby boy in August, and he’s been stepping in to help his mom with housework and administrative tasks.

Morrison and his wife have already had conversations about making time for 740-363-6677 | MySourcePoint.org

Summer 2026 themselves and each other after their son is born. Morrison also wants to be more intentional with his own health, even if that means just going for walks.

People and Policy

Beyond the emotional strain, caregiving comes with substantial costs. On average, caregivers spend more than $7,000 a year on medical and other expenses to support a loved one, according to AARP research in 2021.

27 Meanwhile, a handful of states offer tax credits for unpaid caregivers. For example, starting in 2027, Connecticut will allow family caregivers who make less than $50,000, or couples who make under $100,000, to apply for a tax credit up to $2,000.

Source: KFF Health News. Read more at kffhealthnews.org.

Some efforts aim to mitigate the financial burden. In most states, family members can get paid to take care of relatives who qualify for Medicaid. But state Medicaid programs face new pressure from federal cuts, and some states have pulled back funding for home-care programs designed to help residents with disabilities.

Sudoku Solutions EASY Grid n°19472 easy

8 4 3 7 9 5 6 2 1 7 1 2 4 6 3 5 9 8 6 9 5 1 8 2 4 3 7 5 2 9 8 1 6 3 7 4 4 3 8 2 5 7 1 6 9 1 6 7 9 3 4 2 8 5 2 5 4 3 7 8 9 1 6 9 7 6 5 2 1 8 4 3 3 8 1 6 4 9 7 5 2 HARD Grid n°113616234 hard

3 1 8 5 2 9 4 6 7 4 9 2 7 8 6 1 3 5 7 5 6 4 3 1 8 2 9 5 8 1 9 4 3 2 7 6 6 3 4 8 7 2 9 5 1 2 7 9 1 6 5 3 4 8 8 6 5 2 9 4 7 1 3 1 2 7 3 5 8 6 9 4 9 4 3 6 1 7 5 8 2

DYNAMIC SUPPORT GROUPS SourcePoint promotes a variety of support groups tailored to meet your needs, ensuring you find the right community for your journey.

Care, Share, and Connect We experience different losses in life‒ loved ones, pets, to things or illnesses in our everyday lives. Come share or listen as topics are discussed.

Caregiver Conversations This group fosters supportive conversations, allows you to share experiences, meet other caregivers, discover new resources, and ask questions.

MySourcePoint.org | 740-363-6677

Grandparents as Parents Meetup Join this casual group of older adults, holding space for other grandparents acting as second-time parents. This group aims to support one another through shared life experience as well as help individuals get connected with resources in their communities.

Grief Support: Living Beyond Loss Provides dynamic support for those dealing with loss and empowers members to steer the conversation.

Rediscover yourself, regain a sense of identity, and build your support system.

Make your own free printable sudoku at www.P 400 new sudokus and solutions every week.

17

thur

SEPT

TICKETS GO ON SALE IN AUGUST!

fri

SOURCEPOINT SPEAKEASY Thursday, Sept. 17, time TBA at Bridgewater Banquet Center, 10561 Sawmill Road, Powell.

Save the date for an unforgettable evening of fun and philanthropy. Enjoy casino games, delicious hors d’oeuvres, music, and comfortable lounge spaces perfect for mingling with friends old and new. Whether you’re trying your luck at the tables or simply soaking in the atmosphere, every moment helps support SourcePoint’s mission of helping older adults thrive in Delaware County. Dress to impress and join us for a night of vintage charm and modern impact.

The 2026 Fall Fundraiser is Sponsored by

Save the Date!

Consolidated Cooperative

SourcePoint’s Premier Fall Fundraiser!

V&P Hydraulics

Ohio Living Sarah Moore

Partner with SourcePoint. Reach the community.

Make a difference.

Local businesses are invited to support SourcePoint’s mission of helping older adults thrive. Sponsorship opportunities and advertising in our 2027 Services Directory connect your business with thousands of local residents and caregivers while demonstrating your commitment to the community.

Join us as a community partner and put your business in front of the people who need your services most.

Learn more about sponsorships and directory advertising today!

2024-2026

SERVICES Y DIRECTOR

MySourcePoint.org/events/sponsors | MySourcePoint.org/publications or call the advancement team at 740-363-6677.