Forward
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Vol. 40 | No. 2
FiftyForward supports, champions, and enhances life for those 50 and older.
Our Farewell Issue
Celebrating the past with an eye to the future
Summer 2021 INSIDE HIGHLIGHTS
3 FiftyForward: advocating for older adults for more than 65 years 9 Telling our stories: How Music for Seniors came to be 11 Card Crusaders celebrate 10 years 12 Celebrating community partnerships with AgeWell 14 Forty years of Forward Focus
Lifelong Learning Centers
Volunteer Engagement
Supportive Care
Forward Focus through the years
Letter from our CEO
On the Cover FiftyForward Martin Center member Natalie Mertie is greeeted by Center Director Barbara Hunt and Office Manager Tonia Pyburn during a festive Beep and Greet event. Photo by Misa Acox/FiftyForward
FiftyForward Board of Directors Forward Focus is published by FiftyForward. An annual subscription is included with yearly dues to FiftyForward.
Executive Director Sallie Hussey Communications Director Susan W. Sizemore 615-743-3411 ssizemore@fiftyforward.org Marketing and Publications Manager Advertising Sales Misa Acox 615-743-3430 macox@fiftyforward.org
FiftyForward Headquarters 174 Rains Ave. Nashville, TN 37203 615-743-3400
FiftyForward.org
Our Mission: FiftyForward supports, champions and enhances life for those 50 and older. Advertisements appearing in Forward Focus do not necessarily carry the endorsement of the newspaper, but the staff will not knowingly accept ads which are misleading, fraudulent, objectionable, unethical or illegal. The inclusion of submitted articles does not imply an endorsement of FiftyForward. Funding sources for programs and services include the United Way of Metropolitan Nashville, the United Way of Williamson County, Metro Nashville Government, City of Brentwood, Williamson County Commission, Metro Arts Commission, Victims of Crimes Act, DHS, TDMHDD, GNRCAAA, Corp. for National and Community Service, private foundations, individuals, organizations/corporations, and FiftyForward special events and campaigns. FiftyForward is committed to fair and equitable treatment and protection of all employees, volunteers, and beneficiaries of our services. A profile of FiftyForward may be found at www.givingma�ers.com.
With your generous contributions, Fi�yForward continues to support older adults in the community through our comprehensive programming. To support our mission, please visit www.Fi�yForward.org/donate. 2 | Forward Focus
Every nonprofit depends on community involvement and contributions. We are thankful and honored to have generous community supporters and active board members. Learn more about the committed volunteers who comprise our FiftyForward Board of Directors, Advisory Council and Endowment Board at: https://fiftyforward.org/about/boards/
Connect with us! Calendars, events, and program information are available at www.FiftyForward.org
FiftyForward Directory General information and FiftyForward administration
615-743-3400
Fi�yForward Centers
Fi�yForward Bordeaux 3315 John Mallette Drive, Nashville 37218
615-248-2272
Fi�yForward College Grove 8607 Horton Hwy, College Grove 37046
615-368-7093
Fi�yForward Donelson Station 108 Donelson Pike, Nashville 37214
615-883-8375
Fi�yForward Knowles 174 Rains Ave., Nashville 37203
615-743-3433
Fi�yForward Madison Station 301 Madison St., Madison 37115
615-860-7180
Fi�yForward Martin Center 960 Heritage Way, Brentwood 37027
615-376-0102
Fi�yForward J. L. Turner Center 8101 Highway 100, Nashville 37221
615-622-3040
Supportive Care Services Fi�yForward Adult Day Services
615-742-4690
Fi�yForward Living at Home Care Management (Davidson County) 615-743-3416 Fi�yForward Living at Home Care Management (Williamson County) 615-376-0102 Fi�yForward Conservatorship Fi�yForward Care Team Fi�yForward Victory Over Crime Fi�yForward Fresh/Meals on Wheels All of Us Research Program
615-743-3436 615-743-3436 615-743-3417 615-463-2264 615-743-3431
Community Volunteer Opportunities
Fi�yForward Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) 615-743-3420 Fi�yForward Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) 615-743-3424 Fi�yForward Friends Learning In Pairs (FLIP)
615-743-3424
Hello, Friends. Over this agency’s 65 years, we’ve grown, adapted, and shifted to better serve older adults and support families and caregivers. I look back and marvel at the changes in programs and services and how quickly, and easily in many cases, we adapted to the changing times and community needs in response to the need to deliver innovative programs and services for older adults. Maybe it’s precisely because we made those shifts over the years that FiftyForward has continued to remain relevant. Our adaptability allows us to find new opportunities to support, enhance, and champion the lives of those we serve. Changing and growing often means we say goodbye to programs and projects as we welcome in new ones. After more than 40 years, we will close our print publication Forward Focus with this issue. This wonderful publication has provided resources and program information to the community, and we will continue to do that, just in new ways. I am grateful to so many on our communications team including Misa Acox, our current editor, and Susan Sizemore, communications director, who have taken the publication to new design and distribution levels. Many of you may remember The Senior Sentinel and Marion Caplan. We owe her a big thanks for se�ng a high standard for our print publication that has existed for decades. Thanks to all of you for joining us here to learn and share information. I hope you’ll continue to do that just in a different way – maybe through our video series FiftyForward Exchange (https://fiftyforward.org/video/) or our podcast Squeeze the Day (https://fiftyforward. org/podcast/) which can also be found anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts. Community may be created differently by each generation, but the desire to find it is still just as important today as it was when this publication began. We say goodbye to the printed pages of Forward Focus, and hope we say hello to you in the coming months at one of our lifelong learning centers, online through a virtual program, or in another way yet to be created. Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to seeing you in our programs and centers as we celebrate longevity and desire to love life at 50+. Sincerely,
Sallie Sallie Hussey CEO, FiftyForward
FiftyForward: A champion and advocate for older adults in Middle Tennessee While this publication may be ending, there is no end in sight to the ways in which you or your loved ones can benefit from our centers, programs, and services. With our 65-year history providing activities and resources we are working to plan and program well into the future. Here is a snapshot of some of the benefits you will receive when you become part of the FiftyForward family. For active older adults: From North to South our seven lifelong learning centers offer activities Monday through Friday to keep older adults active, healthy, and engaged. For example, our neighbors to the north, benefit from FiftyForward Madison one of our centers that offers a lively hub of events ranging from classes and fitness in the Janet Jernigan Wellness Center to holistic activities such as Tai Chi, Qi Gong, Pilates, and yoga. For our neighbors to the south (in Williamson County), our College Grove center offers a slice of rural life and is proudly located in the area community center. Contact a FiftyForward location near you (https://fiftyforward.org/ locations/) to learn more about how lifelong learning and engagement opportunities provide activities to mirror the communities we serve. Classes and programs continue to evolve based on member input. Daytrips are resuming, too, so members can explore Middle Tennessee and leave the driving to us. “I am glad we have such a fabulous center. I love going there and socializing.” •
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FiftyForward center membership offers a priceless way to connect with others, make new friends and explore new things in your second chapter of life. The friendships made at FiftyForward are priceless and since August is National Friendship Day, why not seize the opportunity to check out our many centers? They might just become your home away from home. Learn more https://fiftyforward.org/join/#join. Volunteering at FiftyForward is a way to use your skills to benefit others. From helping at a center or program location to participating our AmeriCorps Senior activities there is a little something for everyone. Volunteers share their expertise, find a sense of purpose, and gain so much in return for what they give. Learn more https:// fiftyforward.org/volunteer/. For those seeking support: FiftyForward is a resource hub offering a continuum of care and guidance for older adults in their second chapter of life. FiftyForward Supportive Care offers resources to provide help for older adults and their family members as they navigate some of the challenges of life.
Members of FiftyForward Knowles enjoy the Arthritis exercise class.
• FiftyForward Care Team – This service supports older adults and caregivers by assessing needs, helping select and purchase services such as in-home or residential care, monitoring care, accompanying customers to appointments, visits, and other individualized tasks. Sliding fee scale and payment plans are available.
Members of FiftyForward Madison Station enjoy some social time together at their recent summer kick-off party. •
FiftyForward Living at Home Care Management – This no-cost program for older adults with low incomes offers assessments to connect them with services that meet their specific needs (food, housing, transportation, health care, counseling, etc.). Davidson County: 615-743-3416; Williamson County: 615-376-4334.
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FiftyForward Fresh offers nutritious meals that are delivered to older adults in our community. While these meals may be for those who cannot get out or prepare their own meals, they are also a meal option for individuals who just need a break from cooking or who need to improve their diet.
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FiftyForward Adult Day Services - This social model licensed day program assists those with health and/or memory issues to participate in structured activities in a supportive and enriching environment. Subsidized and sliding fee scale plans are available.
FiftyForward advocates for older adults
A continuum of engagement, care, and support
Our many support groups (see page 13) offer forums through which community members share, gain acceptance, and peace of mind. “I am a full-time caregiver for my mother and the center gives me fun times with small acting groups.” Gain more insight about how we can help you or your family members. Call the FiftyForward Resource Line (615-743-3416), a one-stop shop, where our staff of trained social workers or care managers help you locate or access community resources. From navigating care, to delivering meals, advocating for scam and crime victims, to offering assistance and engagement, we’ve got you covered. Let our expertise and “The best things in life I ever signed up for experience help guide were the military and FiftyForward.” you as you navigate —Larry, FiftyForward Fresh customer new challenges facing (Photo by Dan Heller) older adults. We have long been a trusted community partner and plan to be readily available well into the future. Learn more at www.FiftyForward.org
Summer 3
Supportive Care Services
FiftyForward to offer training for family caregivers Do you help take care of an adult with chronic conditions? If so, you are not alone. According to www.caregiveraction.org, there are more than 43.5 million family caregivers in America providing a vast array of emotional, financial, nursing, social, homemaking and other services on a daily or an intermittent basis.
FiftyForward is offering caregivers a series of classes aimed at strengthening your skills at caregiving as well as learning about self-care practices. This series called Powerful Tools for Caregivers will be taught by two FiftyForward staff members who have been specifically trained to teach this class. As a participant you will learn how to: reduce stress, improve selfconfidence, better communicate your feelings, gain life balance, increase ability to make tough decisions, and locate helpful resources. Classes consist of six, 90-minute sessions held weekly on Zoom. Interactive lessons,
discussions, and brainstorming help you take the “tools” you choose and put them into action for your life. FiftyForward is excited to support the family caregivers in our community and to sponsor the Powerful Tools for Caregivers class on Zoom in 2021. Classes begin in August The first class will be held Tuesday, Aug. 3, from 12:30-2 p.m. via Zoom. The program will run each consecutive week for 6 weeks and wrap up on Tuesday, Sept. 7. The deadline to sign up for the class is July 30. For more information, contact Kaitlyn Parrish at kparrish@fiftyforward.org to sign up or receive more information.
Delivering nutritious meals with kindness and compassion
Offering meals and hope to older adults “FiftyForward meals are the answer to keeping up my strength, staying healthy and living at home.” —Winston
Learn more
FiftyForward.org donate ❘ volunteer ❘ purchase
615-463-2264 4 | Forward Focus
As several businesses reopen and recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, employers are looking to hire hard working applicants and many are returning to the work force. Scammers know that people are looking for work and pose as legitimate businesses trying to steal your money or your personal information. Here are some examples of how scammers try to take advantage of people in the job market.
FiftyForward Victory Over Crime celebrates a success story Recently Mr. Jackson shared his story with Nashville Public Television for an episode on scams. “When I had been a victim of a crime, it was a tough load to take. I was depressed, worried, and finally, I found someone to come to my rescue … This is how I came into [FiftyForward] Victory Over Crime. It’s been a blessing to have someone on your side. I rest better. I can see the future better. My bank account is better. This is the place where you can go and get help.” —Mr. Jackson, client
FREE
FREE Care Advisor 800-955-8510 Spring 2021 35th Edition
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Greater Nashville
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Cheatham • Davidson • Dickson • Maury • Robertson • Rutherford • Sumner • Williamson • Wilson Counties www.SeniorDirectory.com/nashville
Government job scams Watch out for scammers who advertise placement with the federal government or postal service. In these misleading ads, applicants are instructed to pay a fee to apply and get additional information about the position or pay for materials to be able to pass a postal exam before they start work. It is important to know that employment opportunities with the federal government or U.S. Postal service are available to everyone. Applying for these positions is free and can be viewed on USAJobs.gov and usps.com/employment.
FiftyForward Victory Over Crime wants you to have the tools you need to stay safe as you navigate these unprecedented and uncertain times. If you have been scammed or taken advantage of online, reach out to FiftyForward Victory Over Crime for assistance. If you are age 50 and older, live in Davidson County, and feel that you have been victimized, call FiftyForward Victory Over Crime at 615-743-3417 to get assistance. For more information on FiftyForward Victory Over Crime, visit https://fiftyforward.org/supportive-care/victory-over-crime/
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Job staffing specialists/recruiter scams There are many legitimate staffing, recruiting, placement, and headhunting services available. Real placement service providers usually do not charge a fee for their services as hiring companies pay finder’s fee for qualified applicants. Watch out for staffing companies that ask for a fee. They often promote old or even fake job postings in hopes of stealing people’s money or personal information without providing an actual service.
To avoid situations like these, do your research about a company and position for which you apply. Talk with someone you trust about the opportunity and NEVER pay an employer to apply for a position.
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Mystery shoppers scams In this scenario scammers offer mystery shopper positions and send applicants a check telling them to cash the check, make purchases as a secret shopper, and then wire a portion of the money back allowing you to keep the rest. Once the scammer receives the money, they disappear, and the victim has no way to get their money back. The bank later discovers the check is fraudulent and might even close the victims bank account all together after seeking reimbursement.
FiftyForward Victory Over Crime
Watch out for employment scams
Ashley Hunter, the new center director at FiftyForward J. L. Turner Center, is a licensed master level social worker who has devoted her career to advocating for the well-being of the older adult population. In her tenure as director of our Victory Over Crime program she has worked to provide assistance to adults 50+ who have been affected by crime. She will be sharing her expertise with the community in her new role.
Summer 5
Volunteer engagement
Do you want to make a difference in the lives of older adults?
We have the perfect opportunity! Join our team of caring professionals. Check out our employment listings at h�ps://fi�yforward.org/employment/
At FiftyForward we see and celebrate the differences in every person. Together, we are creating a responsive community that is open, engaged, and accepting of all.
Tutor Christoph Steinbruchel has found his perfect volunteer match working with students who need extra help with math.
FiftyForward Friends Learning in Pairs (FLIP) has helped students with reading and math in Davidson County for more than 25 years and we are excited to once again be recruiting tutors to help students reach their academic goals. Tutors come from a variety backgrounds and career experiences. Some are retired educators who enjoy being able to slow down and work one-on-one with students. Others have no professional educational background but enjoy working with children and want to help them succeed. FLIP volunteers must be age 55 or over. All tutors are trained by FiftyForward staff, provided with high-quality materials that are curriculum aligned, and are offered additional learning opportunities each fall and spring. Volunteers commit to working with students once a week for two hours in a one-on-one or small group se�ng. School partners are located throughout Davidson County, and most are less than a 20-minute drive from a volunteer’s residence. With the COVID pandemic, schools need help now more than ever. If you are interested in working with students, please contact Lisa Hill at lhill@fiftyforward.org or 615- 622-9867. All volunteers must complete a background check and attend training prior to beginning service. FiftyForward FLIP is grateful to our funding partners – AmeriCorps Seniors, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, the Maddox Charitable Trust, United Way of Greater Nashville, Ingram Industries, and Publix Super Markets Charities – for their ongoing support. 6 | Forward Focus
FiftyForward partners with Our Place to provide older adults affordable housing with fellowship opportunities •
Are you 55 or older?
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On a fixed income ($16,000/ year or below)?
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Interested in an affordable housing option which combines a low fixed rent (about $400/ month) with the chance to develop supportive, meaningful connections with other older adults, younger adults with developmental disabilities and area college students?
FiftyForward is partnering with Our Place to screen older adults interested in this wonderful opportunity. To learn more, contact FiftyForward Care Manager Ron Henson at 615-743-3418 or email rhenson@fiftyforward.org.
The All of Us Research Program is a large research program from the National Institutes of Health. The program’s goal is to help researchers understand more about why people get sick or stay healthy. We hope that one million or more people will join the All of Us Research Program. Those who join will share information about their health, habits, and the area where they live. By looking for patterns in this information, researchers may learn more about what affects people’s health. The All of Us Research Program will last for 10 years or more to allow researchers to study health over time. If you decide to join All of Us, you will be contributing to an effort to improve the health of generations to come, and you also may gain insight about your own health. Visit our website to learn more: JoinAllofUs.org/FiftyForward
JOIN OUR TEAM!
As a National Community Engagement Partner, FiftyForward is seeking volunteer Peer Ambassadors to help us educate, engage, and encourage program enrollment of older adults in the All of Us Research Program. Our trained ambassadors take on roles of educator, activist, role model, and team member. They have the lived experience of enrolling in the All of Us Research Program and can help work through barriers to participation, including challenges related to the digital divide. If you are interested in learning more about this unique opportunity, please contact Kelsey Mahaffey, All of Us project director, kmahaffey@fiftyforward.org or 615-743-3431.
Peer Ambassador Testimonials:
“I’ve always believed in the merits of research. Now, I have an awesome opportunity to be involved in something that will not only prove beneficial for me, but for my family and community as well. The All of Us Research Program has become my passion!” —Vera Coleman, FiftyForward All of Us Peer
Ambassador “I believe in participating in medical research and have been a participant in several projects, but nothing has held the promise for improved health care like All of Us does. Their passion for including underserved population groups is a large draw. I am proud to be a volunteer with this landmark program.” —Mary Jo McKelvey, FiftyForward All of Us Peer Ambassador
All of Us Peer Ambassadors Royce Sisk and Vera Coleman represent the agency at a health fair.
Catch the August edition of our podcast, Squeeze the Day, as we sit down with All of Us Peer Ambassador Vera Coleman. She discusses her research background and how it played into her decision to become a peer ambassador as well as how medical research needs a variety of people of all ages and backgrounds to participate, especially older adults. Listen to this insightful conversation here: https://fiftyforward.org/podcast/
Summer 7
“An active spirit is the key to a long and happy life. From friendly faces to a vibrant, full social calendar, The Village at Bellevue offers your loved one a variety of activities, matched with their unique interests and passions.” Assisted Living | Memory Care
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8 | Forward Focus
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Special feature: How Music for Seniors came to be
Telling Our Stories By Sarah Martin McConnell “Sarah, you have to come get mother” said my sister Priscilla when we finally connected after hours of dead phone lines. Hurricane Katrina had just pummeled the Mississippi Gulf Coast. There was no power, no water, and four families were holed up in the 96-degree heat of the steamy aftermath, all crammed into my mother’s three-bedroom, two-bath house in Moss Point, which, blessedly, had suffered no significant damage. But the entire coast from Mobile to New Orleans resembled a bombed-out war zone. Mom, had been recently diagnosed with mid-stage Alzheimer’s, and was becoming more undone by the minute. The chaos was too much for her. “Who are all these men sleeping on the dining room floor?” she asked over and over, as her agitation mounted. “I can’t just drive into the disaster area,” I told Pris. So we made a plan that we’d meet half way. “I’ll take the last Montgomery exit off I-65 coming south,” I told her. “That’ll be the first exit for you heading north. Turn right and pull into the first gas station you come to. I’ll turn left at the last Montgomery exit heading south, and we’ll meet there, If we both leave at 8 a.m. tomorrow morning we should get there about the same time.” “Okay,” she said. Then the phone went dead. We never know where our Driving into Montgomery that next stories will lead us. This is morning, I was hopeful. I exited just one of my stories about the freeway at the appointed exit, the transformative power turned left, and sure enough, of sharing live music. Just there was a gas station right there. one of the stories that led That was lucky. I hadn’t really me, ultimately, to Music for known that there would even be a Seniors. station at that exit. With towers down and dead batteries, we had had no no cell phone connection since last night. So after 45 minutes of waiting, I really began to worry. I thought this might have been the most hairbrained plan I had ever concocted. So when Priscilla’s car rolled in ten minutes later, I sent a hallelujah heavenward. Following a gleeful reunion Mom and I were soon on the road to Nashville along with Andy-Dandy (her faithful cat) who was very sweet and like my mother Marge, very traumatized. To provide distraction and fun on the way back to Tennessee, I started singing and Mom joined me. Singing together is a Martin family tradition, especially on road trips. First we sang to the radio. Then we sang favorite camp songs and those Mom taught
me growing up, like There’s a Hole in the Bottom of the Sea and The Prisoner’s Song (my grandfather’s favorite). We sang every song from every musical I could think of, followed by songs from the 1930s and 40s we had sung together in close harmony when I was a child while she washed and I dried the supper dishes. I exhausted my whole folk song repertoire, which is vast. We sang “It’s a Long Road to Freedom” made popular by Sarah Martin McConnell (left) dancing with her mother The Singing Nuns. I Marge. remember a line from that song, “When you walk in love with the wind on your wing and cover the earth with the songs you sing, the miles fly by.” It was especially appropriate that day. Singing together the miles did fly by as we laughed and sang music as bright as the light of that summer afternoon. Our hearts were lifted and we made it home, tired but happy. We all have stories that give our lives shape and meaning. Family stories. Love stories. Stories of struggle and heartbreak. Triumph and tragedy. We never know where our stories will lead us. This is just one of my stories about the transformative power of sharing live music. Just one of the stories that led me, ultimately, to Music for Seniors. Telling my own story often leads to wonderous new stories with so many stories still to tell. I wrote a song titled Stories. One of the lines goes like this “... the falls from grace, the crimes and the glories. We all come face to face telling our stories.” Catch our latest podcast, Squeeze the Day, featuring an in-depth conversation with Sarah Martin McConnell about how she launched her nonprofit Music for Seniors out of this transformative love of music. She discusses the programs early beginning at FiftyForward into the nonprofit success it is today. Listen to it here: https://fiftyforward.org/podcast/ or on your preferred podcast platform. Sarah Martin McConnell is the founder and executive director of the Nashville-based arts nonprofit organization Music for Seniors launched it in 2007 as an affiliate arts program of FiftyForward. Sarah’s mother Marge lived with Sarah and her husband in Nashville for the rest of her life. During her time in Nashville, she attended FiftyForward’s Adult Day Services where Sarah began sharing sing-alongs and stories with Marge and her friends. Music for Seniors was inspired by the story of those visits.
Summer 9
FiftyForward Online
FiftyForward online
FiftyForward offers a wealth of online programs, videos, and podcasts While stores, restaurants, fitness centers, and other businesses are opening up, FiftyForward has continued to build out virtual programming for those who might want to engage with us online. Our membership portal has a growing library of videos on various topics including jewelry making, yoga, meditation, Tabata strength training, musical performances, and much more. To enjoy the benefits of membership join FiftyForward by visiting www.FiftyForward.org/join. Squeeze the Day podcast FiftyForward launched its first podcast in October 2020 to celebrate and share the inspiring stories of older adults in our community. We have had numerous conversations with inspiring older adults who are making the most of their second chapters. Our July podcast features Sarah Martin McConnell, executive director of Music for Seniors, which started as an affiliate program of FiftyForward. Listen to the podcast to hear about the caregiving journey that inspired this incredible music program (see page 8). You can listen to this podcast, as well as past podcasts on our website (https://fiftyforward. org/podcast/) or on your favorite streaming platform. If you have a smart speaker system (such as Siri, Alexa, or Google Home), ask it to “play the Squeeze the Day podcast.” It’s that easy! FiftyForward Exchange — a series of video chats with Nashville community leaders — offers up some in-depth, thought-provoking conversations on a variety of topics including mental health, coping in the time of COVID-19, systemic racism, ageism, and much more! To watch the videos, visit https://fiftyforward.org/videos/#exchange. Social media FiftyForward enjoys a connection to our community through our social media channels including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Join us on any of these platforms to learn more.
FiftyForward Center News Fi�yForward introduces the F.A.N. Card We are excited to introduce the FiftyForward F.A.N. (Fun, Adventures, New Experiences) Card. FiftyForward F.A.N. cards are punch cards that are pre-paid and can be used towards any activity, program, or day trip that has a cost. Each “punch” is valued at $5 and cards are available for purchase in amounts of $10, $25, and $50. Cards can be used across any FiftyForward center and are available in the membership portal on our website. Friends and family can purchase them for their loved ones, too. Visit this link to learn more: https://fiftyforward.org/member-store/#!form/FANcard
Coming in August: A return to normal operating hours Beginning August 2, all FiftyForward lifelong learning centers will resume their normal Monday-Friday business hours. Visit our website for each center’s hours of operation, https://fiftyforward.org/locations/.
National Friendship Day
Did you know Sunday, August 1 is National Friendship Day? We know countless friendships are made at FiftyForward, so for the month of August, we are inviting guests to visit and try out a day pass at our centers at no charge. If you have friends, neighbors, family members, or anyone else in your Loretta Wright and Dot Carter of life who has been wanting to see FiftyForward College Grove enjoy a what FiftyForward is all about, we good game of cards. hope you’ll encourage them to stop by our centers so they can see all of the wonderful, varied offerings that are provided. Our $5 guest day pass will return in September. Contact one of our centers for more information or visit us online: https://fiftyforward.org/locations/
Virtual programs Visit Facebook and catch Zoom presentations from the All of Us Research Program, as well as center programs, on a variety of health and wellness topics.
Friendships are forged through shared interests as these pool players from FiftyForward Martin Center can attest.
10 | Forward Focus
FiftyForward friendships: Libby Baughman and Anne McKinney met at FiftyForward Madison Station several years ago and became fast friends.
Following a happy and loving marriage of almost 58 years, Marilyn Nevens suddenly became a widow. Devasted by the loss she later found her new home, new friends, and a new beginning at FiftyForward Martin Center. Nevens became a center member and regularly volunteered at the reception desk. She served on the welcoming committee and helped with other odd tasks as needed. Little did she know that her greatest love and passion would be to raise funds to purchase a new vehicle for the center. It all started with an Iris paper folding class taught by Judy Chilton, another center member who loved the arts and who had an interest in teaching others. Nevens recalls not wanting Judy to stop the card-making class because it was so fun and the center members were producing wonderful works of art. The card making lead the women to become entrepreneurs of sorts, launching what is now known as the Card Crusaders, a group of card collaborators who handcraft beautiful works of art.
Architect. Designer. Artist. Visionary.
At the end of the 19th century, the Glasgow Style emerged as the major manifestation of Art Nouveau in Britain, and Charles Rennie Mackintosh was its greatest proponent. Experience the first US exhibition in a generation to highlight Mackintosh’s innovative architecture, designs, and paintings. Explore the larger circle of artists and craftspeople, including many women, with whom he collaborated to create the Glasgow Style.
They have raised more than $26,000 for their beloved center. Over the years, they have purchased a van, paid for new ottomans in the center, purchased a 72-inch television, resurfaced game tables and bought new chairs for the tables, as well as adding some upgrades to the parking lot. As Nevens says, “None of our goals would have been possible if it were not for these dedicated and talented women.” Clientele for the cards varies from individuals to corporate buyers. With custom designs and cards for all occasions, the Card Crusaders have done work for businesses ranging from Merrill Lynch to Cigna. The beautiful cards have been sold at the Nashville (L-R): Frist Marketing Director Kathy Demonbreun, International Frist Gift Shop Manager Jon Emmitt, with Card Airport as well as Crusaders Judy Davis, Marilyn Nevens, Barbara the Nashville and Thompson, and Adele Tomlinson. Chattanooga Zoos. The Card Crusaders are so excited to have their cards now available in the Frist Art Museum gift shop. “We are delighted and proud to offer the wonderful Iris folding cards from the FiftyForward Martin Center “Card Crusaders” in our gift shop. With designs inspired by the natural world, they have been a popular addition to our gift shop and an excellent way for the Frist Art Museum and our guests to support our sister nonprofit FiftyForward,” says Jon Emmitt, Frist Art Museum Gift Shop Manager. Each card, lovingly handcrafted and a work of art, is worthy of framing. These social entrepreneurs are making things happen for their center and community. Learn more at https://fiftyforward.org/locations/martin-center/ greeting-cards/.
THROUGH SEPTEMBER 12 FristArtMuseum.org @FristArtMuseum #TheFrist #FristGlasgowStyle Downtown Nashville, 919 Broadway
Designing the New: Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow Style is a touring exhibition co-organized by Glasgow Museums and the American Federation of Arts. The exhibition comprises works from the collections of Glasgow City Council (Museums and Collections), with loans from Scottish collections and private lenders. Support for the US national tour is provided by the Dr. Lee MacCormick Edwards Charitable Foundation. Platinum sponsor
Hospitality sponsor
Spanish translation sponsor
Education and community engagement supporters
The Frist Art Museum is supported in part by Friends of the Arts of Scotland
Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh. The May Queen (detail), 1900. Made for the Ladies’ Luncheon Room, Miss Cranston’s Ingram Street Tearooms, Glasgow. Gesso on burlap (hessian), scrim, twine, glass beads, thread, and tin leaf, 62 1/2 x 179 7/8 in. overall. Glasgow Museums: Acquired by Glasgow Corporation as part of the Ingram Street Tearooms, 1950. © CSG CIC Glasgow Museums Collection. Courtesy American Federation of Arts
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Arts across Nashville
FiftyForward Martin Center Card Crusaders celebrate 10 years
Celebrating community partnerships
Collaboration is key to providing support for older adults In the last few decades multiple community organizations have sprung up offering support to older adults in various ways. Whether it is essential services such as food delivery, or care management or programming to keep older adults active and engaged, many of these community organizations partner with each other to form a web of care and support. We celebrate those partnerships and hope you will, too. One such agency is AgeWell, formerly the Council on Aging of Middle Tennessee. They are advocates for aging adults and provide a network of support in several ways including publishing directories and guidebooks aimed at providing necessary information. FiftyForward is pleased to partner with AgeWell and to highlight the many ways they are part of our village.
By Kayse Martin Director of Community Engagement, AgeWell AgeWell Middle Tennessee champions positive aging. We believe as more of us live longer we have an exciting opportunity to reimagine our community where older adults and caregivers are respected and valued and where helpful resources are readily available and easily accessible. Formerly known as the Council on Aging of Middle Tennessee, we’ve been a voice for older adults, families, and caregivers for 37+ years. Throughout 13 counties in Middle Tennessee, we serve as the area’s trusted community resource by providing information, education, and advocacy. Our initiatives have included Senior Ride Nashville, Discover Nashville, Discover Franklin, and the Living at Home Program. AgeWell offers a number of free resources and supports. The “Directory of Services” is a one-stop resource print and online resource for older adults, caregivers, and professionals. It is published every other year and the information is continuously updated on our website. Directories are also available at all Middle Tennessee public libraries. “Aging & Caring” is a guidebook created by caregivers for caregivers. It includes great information including checklists, legal and financial information, and advice on navigating the healthcare system. “Empowering Grandparents: A Guide for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren” includes resources, programs, supports, benefits, laws & policies available to grandparents. The” Preparing & Planning” guidebook is for end-of-life care planning with practical consideration about care options, clarification about important documents, and guidance for communicating decisions.
unmet needs are identified, the Leadership Council comes together to exchange vital information, explore solutions, and ensure that needs are met, often seeding new initiatives or collaborative opportunities.
Kayse Martin of AgeWell shares a photo with members of the Springfield Senior Center as she presented a program on aging in place resources.
AgeWell partners with organizations across the state as a member of the Tennessee Coalition for Better Aging (TCBA) to promote the general welfare of older Tennesseans and their families through partnerships that mobilize resources to educate and advocate for important policies and programs. In addition, the AgeWell Legislative/Advocacy Committee meets throughout the year to discuss current policy issues, communicate with state and local leaders, and share calls to action. We advocate for and with older adults and family caregivers to enhance our community and support positive aging. Members include community volunteers and colleagues from public and private organizations. Learn more about AgeWell Middle Tennessee and access valuable supports at 615-353-4335 or visit www.agewelltn.org.
The Sycamores Terrace Retirement Community has provided exceptional care and service to Nashville seniors for more than 40 years. Now under new ownership and a new name, Sycamores Terrace Senior Apartments will continue to offer extraordinary service while providing a unique affordable housing option to Nashville's rapidly growing senior community.
Under new ownership! Newly Remodeled Units
New scams surface every day that are aimed at older adults. The best defense is knowledge and awareness of criminal behavior. AgeWell offers a scam prevention brochure in English and Spanish and a scam-of-the-month email.
AgeWell is also a catalyst for solutions, and we collaborate with key community partners to find solutions for older adults in our area. These partners might include other aging services organizations (including FiftyForward), community businesses or government agencies. Together, we identify unmet needs, create solutions, promote access to resources, provide education, and advocate for positive aging.
One such collaboration is the Middle Tennessee Elder Watch committee. This is the region’s affiliate for the TN Vulnerable Adults Coalition which brings together individuals and organizations to combat fraud, abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults; to prevent elder abuse and scams; and to provide assistance to victims. Member organizations work together to educate the public and raise awareness about elder abuse, annually promoting World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in June.
AgeWell also convenes the Leadership Council comprised of invited leaders from 20+ organizations across Middle Tennessee to share information, exchange ideas, and foster better service coordination and collaboration. Members stay abreast of new programs and services and help each other amplify outreach to older adults and caregivers. When disaster strikes or 12 | Forward Focus
News You Can Use
FiftyForward offers support groups to help you make meaningful connections Have you ever wanted to go someplace, where everyone knows your name and they’re always glad you came? Remember that line from the popular TV series Cheers? FiftyForward’s support groups give you the chance to meet people who want to connect and share support and encouragement. Join one to make new and meaningful connections. FiftyForward is here for you, always.
Men’s Support Group
“Bold and Golden,” the retired men’s group that started two years ago at FiftyForward Knowles, is looking for more members. The group has met online after the pandemic started in March 2020, and returned to in-person meetings at FiftyForward in mid-June. For more information, contact Dan Surface, 615-476-6364 or dan@dansurface.me. “I have been pleasantly surprised to discover how important our retired men’s group has become to me,” says John, a current member of the group.
Center Member/Client Virtual Support Groups
Are you looking for a virtual space to engage with other older adults, share and navigate similar experiences, offer and receive encouragement, and get connected to resources? If so, you can join our new center member/client virtual support group. Groups meet twice a month over the course of three months. If you would like to join this group, have questions, and/or need more information, contact Kristen Maloney at 615-743-3436.
LGBTQ+ Peer Support Group
In this group, we socialize, share, and receive encouragement and ideas to build a community with each other. Group meetings are held on Zoom once a month. If you would like to join this group, have questions, and/or need more information, please contact Ashley Hunter at 615-743-3417.
WE’RE HERE FOR YOU. Caring for an individual with Alzheimer’s or Dementia can be challengeing, to say the least. Life changes day to day, even hour to hour. At Barton House, we’re here—with full time residency, respite, an active support group and many shoulders to lean on.
Memory Care Assisted Living 6961 US-70S, Nashville, TN 37221 | 615.673.6922
www.bartonhousetn.com ~Specializing in Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care~ Summer 13
Forward Focus: A look back over 40 years
Leaving a legacy
Forty years of Forward Focus: Changing people’s lives one edition at a time By Misa Acox Editor, Forward Focus When I became the editor of Forward Focus more than 10 years ago, my aim was to do two things: 1.) change perspectives on aging, and 2.) to celebrate and show the joy of aging. In these years, Susan Sizemore, FiftyForward communications director, and I have had the good fortune of working with like-minded colleagues who strive to help older adults live happy and independent lives. FiftyForward provides not only provides services to assist older adults, but operates seven centers to keep them active, engaged, and connected. The early editions of The Senior Sentinel were 8 pages in black and white and soon grew to 16. The paper featured stories on programming and included center calendars. From the start, printing costs were offset by selling advertisements; the early editions even had personal ads of ladies and gents looking for love. Even early on, The Sentinel strove to bring important news to older adults, featuring articles on legislation and health that would impact older adults. In 2008, the agency rebranded from Senior Citizens, Inc. to FiftyForward and it only seemed right to update the name of the publication, too. The Senior Sentinel became Forward Focus. Over the past 10 years, this publication model has served us well. Forward Focus works to share the latest news on health and wellness, trends in technology, interesting venues to visit, arts, as well as inspiring and insightful interviews with people making the most of second chapters. Some of these folks were our own center members, embracing new adventures in our initiative of “FiftyForward Firsts.” In one issue we featured Joe Murray who at 78 did his first skydive. Of course he had company -- two friends he met through a FiftyForward men’s group who shared his sense of adventure. Another First included FiftyForward Madison Station members who made their dream come true to touch the sky in a hot air balloon. We also had the great pleasure to interview some well-known celebrities such as Amy Grant, Vicki Lawrence, Kimberly Williams Paisley, and Leeza Gibbons, who are using their voices to bring awareness to issues that impact older adults. Some of their stories were bittersweet, but they were also a joy to interview. We also introduced several regular columns in our paper such as Jenni Hargrove from NonProfit Jenni who wrote about tech apps in our column, “What the Tech?” Connie Sue Davenport graced our paper for many years with her insightful column about antiques. We also featured ongoing columns written by our 14 | Forward Focus
staff of in-house experts on care management, food insecurity, and scams. It is our hope that these articles gave you food for thought and resources to call upon in times of need.
September 2019
Our very first issue of The Senior Sentinel in 1981 is framed at our headquaters at the FiftyForward Patricial Hart Building.
As we say farewell to Forward Focus and its history that spans more than four decades, we hope that you will join us online for our many programs and events happening across all the centers. This last edition serves as an evergreen issue highlighting the many programs and services available through FiftyForward. Visit our website to learn more (https://fiftyforward.org/) or reach out to one of our centers. If you are in need of resources, call the Resource Line at 615-743-3416.
June 2018
It has been a joy to create this publication and to hear how it has been well received by so many readers over the years. The end of a print publication is always bittersweet. From the first edition in 1981 to this last edition, we hope you have enjoyed the journey with us. Take a look back with us at some of our favorite past covers. Special Peter Max issue, June 2015
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at Join the fun d! FiftyForwar August 1 is National Friedship Day and we are celebrating all month long! Enjoy a free one-day guest pass to visit a center near you.
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FiftyForward supports, champions, and enhances life for those 50 and older.
Meet new friends. Stay active and engaged. Be a lifelong learner. Live your best life with FiftyForward. Join online by visiting www.FiftyForward.org/join or call Member Services at 615-242-3659 today. At FiftyForward we see and celebrate the differences in every person. Together, we are creating a responsive community that is open, engaged, and accepting of all.
FiftyForward
Care Team Providing older adults and caregivers access to services and peace of mind. Without the guidance of a professional, decisions and choices can be overwhelming. Let us support you with our 60+ years of experience. Whether you are in crisis or want to plan ahead, you can
receive the appropriate in-home care learn what questions to ask when going to the doctor understand and take medications correctly be confident that your loved one is living in the right place for them get the benefits you need alleviate family stress and feel better
You can get help with one phone call: 615-743-3436
Kristen Maloney, LMFT Masters Level Clinician
We offer competitive pricing, a sliding fee scale and 24/7 availability, making us accessible when you need us most. All funds raised through this initiative are re-invested to serve lower income older adults who cannot purchase services.