MDN - Senior Scope - July / August 2022

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enior cope

A FREE PUBLICATION BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Coleman Senior Center Director Sheryl Watson retiring after 28½ years A summer dessert that is just peachy Tom Mayhew named Senior Services July Volunteer of Month JULY / AUGUST 2022

Table of Contents 3

Coleman Senior Center Director Sheryl Watson retiring after 28½ years Fire up the grill for fish

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Outdoor Feast Word Search Word Scrambles

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Senior Services Lunch Menu - July 2022 Guess Who?

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Meals on Wheels delivers over 350 hot meals a day in Midland County Randy Kursinsky can identify 100 birds by song without seeing them

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A summer dessert that is just peachy How to say that in...

Guess Who?

10 Did You Know? Socialization

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A look at the Senior Services renewal millage on the Aug. 2 ballot

13 Summer Vacation Foot Tips Crypto Fun Word Scramble 14 Tom Mayhew named Senior Services July Volunteer of Month Fun Fact: Peaches 15 Answer Key

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Midland County senior center locations and July events

Senior Scope is a product of Midland Daily News and Hearst Questions, comments and advertising inquiries SeniorScope@Hearst.com or 989.839.4228

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Senior Scope • July / August 2022

Coleman Senior Center Director Sheryl Watson retiring after 28½ years

BY NANCY KAWIECKI Center Services Manager, Midland County Senior Services

A retiring.

fter 28 ½ years as the director of the Coleman Senior Center, Sheryl Watson is

Watson started as the director on October 12, 1993. While she was working in Midland at another agency located in the same building as Senior Services, a co-worker saw an advertisement for the position and suggested that Watson apply. The co-worker thought Sheryl would be a good fit since she was from Coleman.

In Watson’s position, she has touched many lives in the Coleman community. When she first started, the Coleman Center was at the corner of Fifth and Washington streets.

In 2006, the center moved to its cur-

Sheryl Watson (Photo provided / Senior Services)

Fire up the grill for fish

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rilling season presents ample opportunities to explore new culinary horizons. Just about anything that can be cooked indoors also can be prepared outdoors over an open flame. And many foodies insist that grilling produces unique flavors that simply cannot be replicated when cooking via other means.

Individuals looking to stray from grilling season staples like hot dogs and hamburgers can try this recipe for “Mojito Fish Steaks” courtesy of Andrew Schloss’ “Cooking Slow: Recipes for Slowing Down and Cooking More” (Chronicle Books).

July / August 2022 • Senior Scope

rent location on East Webster. The main activity was playing cards and having various card tournaments.

As director, Sheryl has added many more activities, such as video exercise, arts and crafts, puzzles, bingo, and other games.

The center also hosts holiday parties, a monthly birthday and anniversary party, educational presentations, health clinics, and an annual picnic. Watson has also collaborated with 4-H and Boy Scouts to host a special holiday evening, and hosts the monthly Coleman Historical Society meetings.

We wish Sheryl Watson the best in her future endeavors and are thankful for her time and commitment during her years at Senior Services.

Mojito Fish Steaks

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients: Directions: 1. Light a grill for indirect low • 4 firm-fleshed fish steaks, heat, about 200 F. If using a such as salmon, swordfish, charcoal grill, build a small kingfish, or sable, each 6 to 8 charcoal fire at one end of ounces, about 3⁄4-inch thick the grill. If using a gas grill, • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus set a burner at one end of more for brushing the grill to medium-low. Put • Sea salt and freshly ground the grill grate on the grill and black pepper clean the grill grate with a For the Mojito Mop: wire brush.

• 3 tablespoons light rum 2. Coat the fish steaks with 2 • Juice and finely grated zest of tablespoons olive oil and • 1 large lime season with salt and pepper.

• 1 tablespoon canola oil Set aside for 5 minutes.

• 1 teaspoon hot-pepper sauce • 1 tablespoon sugar 3. Meanwhile, make the mop: • 4 tablespoons chopped fresh In a small bowl, stir together the rum, lime juice, canola mint leaves

oil, hot-pepper sauce, sugar, and 3 tablespoons of the mint leaves.

4. Brush the grill grate with olive oil. Put the fish on the grill away from the heat, spoon 1 tablespoon of the mop over each fish steak, cover the grill, and cook until the fish steaks flake to gentle pressure, about 1 hour, basting with mop about every 5 minutes.

5. Serve each fish steak scattered with the remaining chopped mint and the lime zest.

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LEFT PICTURE: Lee Township resident Randy Kursinsky tries to get a closer look at one of the birds he spotted.

(Dave Shane / for the Daily News) MIDDLE PICTURE: When walking through nature, Randy Kursinsky keeps a tally of the birds he sees. (Dave Shane / for the Daily News) RIGHT PICTURE: Randy Kursinsky, 64, of Lee Township, takes notes during a recent trip to Pine River Park on South Seven Mile Road. He has been a bird watcher for 50 years. (Dave Shane / for the Daily News)

Randy Kursinsky can identify 100 birds by song without seeing them

BY DAVE SHANE for the Daily News

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hen 64-year-old Randy Kursinsky of Midland was a boy, he received a memorable assignment from a science teacher at his school in Deckerville, a small community in Michigan’s Thumb.

It was an assignment that would change his life.

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Kursinsky, now a retired City of Midland worker who lives on a quiet road in Lee Township, was asked to go out and make a list of all the different kinds of birds he could see.

That assignment got Kursinsky interested in his life-long hobby of bird watching, or birding. To this day, when he goes outside, he auto-

matically focuses on the sights and sounds around him.

“When I was younger, and I heard a bird, I had to go find it to identify it,” “I’m into anything in the natural world he said.

– astronomy, I collect rocks, take Fifty years later, Kursinsky is an photographs,” he said. “I feel aimless accomplished birder. and without a purpose if I’m not looking at birds or looking at plants.”

“I can walk outside in the woods When Kursinsky started birding, it was a journey of learning.

now and identify 100 birds (by song) without seeing them.”

Senior Scope • July / August 2022

Experienced birders can identify a particular bird by its call before they actually see it. Then, they pivot their binoculars in the direction of the sound to see if they can spot their finding.

Not only does Kursinsky know the songs of many birds, he can also tell you about the different sounds within the same species. Is it a robin looking for a mate? Is it in distress? Or, is the bird simply singing because it is a pleasant morning?

Birders enjoy keeping tabs on how many species they can identify, and they often record and share their findings. For instance, every year, Kursinsky keeps a running tally of how many different kinds of birds he has seen at his property.

July / August 2022 • Senior Scope

sounds recorded online, so newcom- Valley club through the Midland area. ers can identify what they are hearHe also is building a list and a map ing. Was that a wren, or a sparrow? of top Midland County viewing locations to share with naturalists.

They also can receive assistance from members of the Chippewa Val- Currently, he has 37 places on his ley Audubon Club of Mount Pleasant list – from Averill Preserve to Salt – the closest organization to Midland River Park to Whiting Overlook Park. for bird watchers.

Kursinsky said there are more than 10,000 bird species in the world.

Kursinsky said the recent global That includes about 450 that have pandemic didn’t hurt the hobby. been spotted in Michigan and 276 “I think it’s picking up, especially be- that have been spotted in Midland cause of COVID. People couldn’t go County. anywhere. It was a boon for birding.”

“Of those 276 in Midland County, Being retired also is an advantage probably 76 are rare,” he said. for Kursinsky.

His number might be higher than In his lifetime, Kursinsky has spotted that of most homeowners, as he “I did a lot more birding when I re718 different species. owns several acres, including a pond tired,” he said.

“The goal is to always find a new and woods. Last year, he identified Some birders, like Kursinsky, enbird you’ve never seen.”

109 species. This year, he has already identified 105. And, while most joy reporting their findings online through various birding associations Kursinsky has a few bird songs he migratory birds are spotted during enjoys hearing. Around here, it’s and apps. When a bird watcher rethe spring, he is confident he will the winter wren. Out West, it’s the ports seeing a rare species for their surpass last year’s mark. region, other birders may read about canyon wren.

Kursinsky is well prepared for the the finding and travel halfway across Another sound that impresses him job. He has binoculars set in front of the state just to catch a glimpse of it. comes from the titmouse. It is a tiny three different windows at his home. gray bird that has a powerful voice.

“It definitely gives you something to Kursinsky has gone birding in 35 do. You are contributing to citizen But if you ask Kursinsky what’s his states and to several countries – like science,” Kursinsky said. favorite bird in the world, he has a Poland, Ireland, Iceland and Costa hard time coming up with an answer.

These days, Kursinsky, a MichiRica. But newcomers to the hobby don’t have to travel far to get started. gan State University graduate in “A lot of people ask me that,” he parks and recreation design, enjoys said.

A good pair of binoculars and a bird showing others the best places to guide can help newcomers identify Perhaps that means he loves them see nature. He recently led a group backyard birds. There also are bird all. of bird watchers from the Chippewa 5

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Senior Scope • July / August 2022

Quality Assisted Living Licensed & Insured AFC

989-631-4406 • 2041 E. Freeland Rd., Freeland www.KindyCareCenter.com July / August 2022 • Senior Scope

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Meals on Wheels delivers over 350 hot meals a day in Midland County and helps combat social isolation for residents who live alone. (Photo provided / Senior Services)

Meals on Wheels delivers over 350 hot meals a day in Midland County

BY JULIE RANDOLPH Care Coordination Manager, Midland County Senior Services

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hen an older adult works grains, fruit and vegetables? with a care coordinator, one of the first discussions These factors and more help us determine the nutritional health of is about their nutritional health. older adults.

• Is the individual able to shop for groceries, cook, or clean up after One of the services that Senior Services provides to help older adults a meal? maintain their nutritional health is • Can the individual leave their Meals on Wheels, a national nutrition home to attend a Senior Serprogram for older adults adopted into vices Activity and Dining Center? law in March of 1972 when President Richard Nixon signed an amendment • Is the individual getting enough daily nutrients, including protein, to the Older Americans Act of 1965.

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Senior Services provides Meals on Wheels for older adults who have difficulty leaving their homes and difficulty preparing meals. Care coordination assessment determines Meals on Wheels eligibility. Income is not a determining factor for this program. Meals are intended to help during recovery from an illness, surgery, or medical treatments; or for frail individuals who would otherwise not have access to proper nutrition.

Meals on Wheels can be delivered as long as the need exists. During

the initial assessment, older adults have regularly reported fair or poor health, taking three or more medications, and a diagnosis of three or more medical conditions that impact their daily life.

Care coordinators arrange this service through the Nutrition Department at Senior Services. Each meal must adhere to strict dietary guidelines, meet state and local food safety and sanitation requirements, and appeal to older adults.

Senior Scope • July / August 2022

Ninety percent of our Meals on Wheels clients have reported increased consumption of fruits and vegetables since receiving meals.

Ninety-two percent report eating better overall since starting Meals on Wheels. Senior Services meals are prepared fresh each weekday morning. Nutrition staff, along with guidance from the American Heart Association and American Dietetic Association, ensure the inclusion of proper nutrients while choosing ingredients and planning menus. We follow these guidelines with great care to provide the best nutrition possible.

In Midland County, we prepare and deliver well over 350 hot meals each day, Monday through Friday. Meals on Wheels clients receive a hot meal intended for consumption upon arrival. Many of our clients also receive a cold meal, which is delivered with the hot meal and is intended to be kept in the refrigerator and eaten as a second meal later that day. Frozen meals may also be added to the delivery for a hot meal on Saturday and Sunday.

Meals on Wheels not only provides a well-balanced meal, it also combats social isolation. Senior Services has a team of more than 160 volunteers who deliver the meals through 21 routes covering all of Midland County. Oftentimes, the volunteer is the only person the older adult will see that day. Volunteers provide a nutritious meal and a friendly smile, encouraging words and support.

Ninety-one percent of Meals on Wheels clients report feeling safer knowing that the volunteer will be checking on them.

Southern Peach Cobbler Serves 15

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups self-rising flour • 1 stick butter • ½ cup water • 2 cups sugar, divided • 4 cups peaches, peeled and sliced • 1 cup milk • Ground cinnamon (optional)

A summer dessert that is just peachy

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eaches are a nutritious summertime favorite. Peaches are antioxidant-rich, include a wide range of vitamins and minerals, and are rich in fiber. And there is no denying how sweet and tasty peaches can be, whether they’re plucked right from a tree or enjoyed in any number of recipes.

Cobbler is a type of dessert that gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century. It is made by putting fruit in a deep baking dish and then topping it with a drop biscuit batter and sometimes a crumb topping. Any number of fruits

work well in cobblers, including apples, pears and various berries.

However, peach cobbler is the quintessential summertime treat.

Cobbler gets its name from the fact that early American settlers didn’t have strict recipes with exact measurements for ingredients, so they took what they had and “cobbled” them together.

Today’s cobbler bakers enjoy the benefits of having more direction when putting together their desserts. This recipe for “Southern Peach Cobbler” comes courtesy of Paula Deen.

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. Combine the peaches, 1 cup sugar, and water in a saucepan and mix well. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.

Remove from the heat.

3. Put the butter in a 3-quart baking dish and place in oven to melt.

4. Mix remaining 1 cup sugar, flour, and milk slowly to prevent clumping. Pour mixture over melted butter. Do not stir.

5. Spoon fruit on top, gently pouring in syrup. Sprinkle top with ground cinnamon, if using.

Batter will rise to top during baking. Bake for 30 to 45 minutes.

6. To serve, scoop onto a plate and serve with your choice of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

In addition to the nutritional and social benefits, the care coordinator also works with the older adult to determine other areas where assistance may be helpful. The assessment addresses home safety hazards and an overall check of how the individual handles all daily tasks.

Call 989-633-3700 to speak with a care coordinator to determine if you are eligible for Meals on Wheels.

July / August 2022 • Senior Scope

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Midland County senior center locations and July events

BY SENIOR SERVICES

Midland County Senior Activity and Dining Center Locations: Coleman Center Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lunch at 11:30 a.m.

415 East Webster Coleman, MI 48618 989-465-6216 Sanford Center Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lunch at 11:30 a.m.

3243 N. West River Rd. Sanford, MI 48657 989-687-7888 Trailside Center Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Lunch at 11:30 a.m.

Senior Services Main Building 4700 Dublin Ave. Midland, MI 48642 989-633-3790 Greendale Center M-W-F 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Lunch at 11:30 a.m.

West Midland Family Center 4011 W. Isabella Rd. Shepherd, MI 48883 989-832-8683 Mills Center T-W-F 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Lunch at 11:30 a.m.

Greater Midland North Family Center 2601 E. Shearer Rd. Midland, MI 48642 989-633-3788 10

People participate in a round of bingo Wednesday, June 1, 2022 at Trailside Acitivity and Dining Center in Midland. (Katy Kildee / Midland Daily News)

Did you know?

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ocialization in midlife can have a profound impact on individuals as they approach their golden years. A 2019 study led by researchers at University College London found that being more socially active in your 50s and 60s predicts a lower risk of developing dementia later in life.

The study used data from a previous study that tracked more than

10,000 participants between 1985 and 2013. Participants in the study completed cognitive testing from 1997 onwards. Researchers found that someone who saw friends almost daily at age 60 was 12 percent less likely to develop dementia than someone who only saw one or two friends every month.

Strong associations between social contact at age 50 and subsequent

dementia were also uncovered.

The study supports the idea that remaining socially active in one’s 50s and 60s can benefit long-term cognitive health.

Senior Scope • July / August 2022

Activities in July: Sanford Center • Fri, July 1 • 4th of July Celebration • Mon, July 4 - Closed for holiday • Tues, July 5 • National Bikini Day Have your photo taken with a bikini babe today! Blueberry treats today.

• Tues, July 12, 10 am • Blueberry treats today.

• Fri, July 15 • Give something away day! Bring a clean gently used item for a dice game today!

• Tues, July 19, 10 am • Blueberry treats today.

• Thurs, July 21 • Jack’s and Jill’s Annual Picnic - Aloha. It’s a Luau!!

Dress in your favorite luau attire and come ready for fun! Bingo after lunch. Aloha • Mon, July 25 • Christmas in July Bring in your own decorations for your table and a gift to trade for your tablemates.

• Thurs, July 28, 10 am • Milk Chocolate Day - Enjoy treats today!

• Thurs, July 28, 8 am-5 pm • Little River Casino Trip with the Jack and Jills Regularly Scheduled Programs/ Events: • Assorted card/dice games, hand & foot, dice, Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays 9:15 am • Wii Tournament Mondays • 12:15 pm • Woodcarving Tuesdays & Thursdays • 8-11:30 am

• Nickel Bingo after lunch on Fridays!

Coleman • Mon, July 4 - Closed for holiday • Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:30 am • Chair Exercise Videos • Thursdays • Ice Cream served after lunch • Fri, July 1, 11 am • Music with Paul Wilkinson • Wed, July 6 • Puzzle Day! • Fri, July 8, 12:15 pm • Card Crafts • Mon, July 11 • Join us for board games or cards!

• Tues, July 12, 12:15 pm • Friendly Folks Meeting • Wed, July 13, 10:30 am-noon • Blood Pressure Clinic; 12:15 pm • Fun Bingo • Fri, July 15 • Christmas in July!

• Mon, July 18 • Come over this morning for a game of pool!

• Thurs, July 21 • 25th Annual Picnic!

Music starts at 11 am with Dale Hafer • Fri, July 22, 12:30 pm • Afternoon Chair Exercises • Mon, July 25, 12:15 pm • Advisory Council Meeting • Wed, July 27, 12:15 pm • Fun Bingo • Fri, July 29, 12:15 pm • Birthday & Anniversary Party—serving cupcakes & ice cream!

Mills

• Pool Tournament Tuesdays • 9:30 am

• Fri, July 1 • 4th of July Celebration

• Make Crochet Bags with Barb Tuesdays • 12:15 pm

• Wed July 6 • Craft • Make a card!

• Bingo Wednesdays after lunch • Stitching with Friends Wednesdays • 9:30 am • Shuffleboard Tournament Wednesdays • 10 am • Texas Hold Em Mondays & Thursdays • 12:15 pm July / August 2022 • Senior Scope

• Tues, July 5 • World Kiss Day! • Fri, July 8 • Coca-Cola Day & National Freezer Pop Day • Tues, July 12 • Healthy Hints on High Blood Pressure & Sodium Controlled Diet

• Tues, July 19 • Blood Pressure Clinic at 11:30am, Mills Advisory Board Meeting after lunch • Wed, July 20 • National Lollipop Day • Fri, July 22 • Julie Wright’s Balloons 11-12 • Tues, July 26 • Join us for exercise class!

• Wed, July 27 • Christmas in July • Fri, July 29 • Monthly Birthday & Anniversary Party Trailside • Mon, July 4 - Closed for holiday • Tues, July 5, 10 am • Book Club We will be discussing Where’d You Go Bernadette by Maria Semple • Tues, July 5 • World Kiss Day! • Thurs, July 7 • National Strawberry Sundae Day! • Wed, July 13 • Let’s celebrate Blueberry Month - Bring in your favorite blueberry recipe.

at 12 pm meeting on even numbered days • Pinochle • Tuesdays at 12 pm • Crochet Class with Carol Rumba Wednesdays • 9:30-10:30 am in the Arts & Crafts Room • Creative Writer’s Group • Fridays • 10:15-11:45 am • Quilters • Every Thursday • 10 am-2 pm • Bingo • Wednesdays after Lunch • Cribbage • Wednesdays at 9 am • Euchre • Fridays at 12 pm Ongoing Activities: • Come in and work on a puzzle!

• Coupon exchange • Borrow a book from our library!

Greendale • Mon, July 4 - Closed for holiday • Fri, July 1 • Otago, Music W/ David Marasus

• Thurs, July 14 • Music by Sarah Li and Bobo Qiu!

• Wed, July 6 • Bingo

• Mon, July 18 • Sour Candy Day Treats for all.

• Mon, July 11 • Crafting/Marble Sun Catchers

• Thurs, July 21 • Birthday /Anniversary Party - Music from George Eagle beginning at 11 am and a delicious treat after lunch! Sign up to receive your special gift!

• Wed, July 13 • Bingo

• Thurs, July 21, 10:45 am-12 pm • Blood Pressure Clinic • Mon, July 25-Fri, July 29 • National Scrabble Week - Come each day at 10 am and play in our dining room!

• Mon, July 25 • Red Shoe Day Wear yours for a special treat!

• Wed, July 27 • Celebrate Ice Cream Month with this yummy treat!

Regularly Scheduled Programs:

• Fri, July 8 • Otago

• Fri, July 15 • Otago • Mon, July 18 • Bowling • Wed, July 20 • Monthly Anniversary and Birthday Celebration • Fri, July 22 • Otago • Mon, July 25 • Music with Kathy Hagen • Wed, July 27 • Bingo/ Healthy Hints with Billie • Fri, July 29 Otago, Bowling Regularly Scheduled Programs/ Events: • Senior Theatre Fridays 10:45-11:15 amWalking Group M, W, F

• Wed, July 13 • Join us for a tea party!

• Bridge • Tuesdays & Thursdays • 12:15 pm

• Photography Club M, W, F

• Fri, July 15 - Bingo

• Hand & Foot card game • Mondays

• OTAGO Fridays at 10 am

• Assorted Card Games M, W, F 11

About a dozen people participate in a line dancing class Friday, March 11, 2022 at Trailside Acitivity and Dining Center in Midland. (Katy Kildee / Midland Daily News)

Beacher Pearce participates in a Zumba class hosted by Senior Services of Midland County during the Spring Senior Expo Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at the Mildand Mall. (Katy Kildee / Midland Daily News)

A look at the Senior Services renewal millage on the Aug. 2 ballot

BY SENIOR SERVICES OF MIDLAND COUNTY

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he Senior Services of Midland County renewal millage will be on the Tuesday, August 2 ballot. This millage supports programs such as: • Activity and dining centers • Adult day services • Care coordination • Counseling • Education • Handyman services • Home care • Meals on wheels • Transportation About 30% of Midland County’s population is over 60, having increased by 4,800 people over the last four years.

The fastest growing segment is those over age 80, the group often needing more extensive services.

Even with a steady increase in the number of seniors, Senior Services only levies what is truly needed to maintain services. This year’s ballot for a renewal of 0.9 mill will allow Se12

nior Services to continue to cover the cost of services to the growing senior population.

or $0.19 a day.

their homes, 265 older adults were able to get minor repairs to increase the safety of their homes, and 291 individuals received assistance sorting through their Medicare options.

What is the millage used to pay for?

Tax dollars are used solely to support ongoing services to older adults To sign up for absentee voting, call the and family caregivers. contact person of the city or township in which you live and they will explain What is the value of the millage to Who is eligible for services? the process to you. If you’re not sure me if I don’t need services?

Midland County residents aged 60 which number to call or would like Of the many older adults assisted and over are eligible. Some services more information, contact the Midland through the millage, 497 are at high require an assessment of need; County Clerk at 989-832-6739 or fill risk of nursing home placement. others do not. Some educational out an absent voter ballot application Most people who enter nursing programs such as caregiver trainonline at https://bit.ly/3QEhRuZ homes quickly wipe out their saving are open to those under age 60. ings and then need to depend on Frequently asked questions about the What level of service is provided in taxpayer dollars through Medicaid. millage a year?

With the typical yearly cost of nursFor core services including adult ing home care at $105,850, the cost How much is the millage? day services, care coordination, of their care would be $52.6 million This is a five-year renewal millage personal care and transportation, on per year, 15.7 times the yearly of 0.9 mill. There is no increase. It average, well over 65,320 service amount expected to be raised by the is the same amount that has been hours are provided and nearly millage. levied for the past eight years.

181,000 meals are prepared and If you have further questions or would What does this cost the average provided annually. In 2021 alone, like more information pertaining to taxpayer?

890 older adults visited Activity and the senior millage vote on Aug. 2, call Based on a home valued at Dining Centers, Care Coordinators the Midland County Clerk at 989-832$150,000, the cost per year is helped 1,772 clients arrange ser$67.50. That is about $5.62 a month vices to help them remain safely in 6739.

Senior Scope • July / August 2022

Summer Vacation Foot Tips

BY DR. KRISTIN RALEIGH

T

he summer time is often a time when people have their feet on display. We have some travel tips on how to keep your feet and legs looking good and healthy so you can enjoy your summer!

Avoid going barefoot. Not only does this protect you from getting sunburnt but it also keeps your skin hydrated.

Limit barefoot walking as it decreases your exposure and potential to develop plantar’s wart, athlete’s foot, ringworm and other infections. Remember to apply suntan lotion all over your feet, focusing on the tops of the feet and front of the ankles. Make sure to re-apply once you’ve been in the water. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This can not only keep you hydrated and healthy but can also limit your chances of swelling due to the heat. Keep the blood flowing with periodical stretches, toe movement and walking. Try to wear shoes or swim shoes around the pools, gyms and locker rooms and the beach to avoid injury and decrease chance of contracting any bacterial infections. If you are going to be at the beach or pool deck, bring an extra pair of shoes or swim shoes just in case.

Don’t wear wet shoes as this increases your chances of growing bacteria or fungus in the shoes. If you are on vacation and sustain an injury, seek

July / August 2022 • Senior Scope

out your local podiatrist as they can get you back on your feet right away so that you can enjoy the rest of your vacation or trip!

dals-to avoid walking around barefoot and for use at hotels and beaches.

Blister pads or moleskin-to help avoid blisters. Antibiotic cream- to treat any superificial cuts or scrapes. Toenail Wear comfortable shoes to the airport. clippers, emory boards and pumice You never know how your day is stone to keep everything in check. going to go no matter how scheduled Aloe or silvadene in case of sunburn. you think it is. You may end up in line Anti-fungal cream or powder if you waiting, or have to walk across the are staying at a hotel or using a pool airport making a mad dash to make as this can protect you from getting a your connecting flight. You want to avoid loose-fitting flips flops or sandals fungal infection. as they increase your risk of tripping If you would like to talk more about an and falling. Also, consider wearing upcoming vacation or anything to do compression stockings on the plane with the summer health of your legs to help from developing blood clots or and feet, call us for an appointment.

DVT’s by pushing blood through the We are accepting new patients in both legs and back to the heart and lungs.

Midland and Mount Pleasant. Call 989-488-6355 today!

Wear socks with those comfortable shoes. Socks not only protect you from shoe friction that causes blisters A MISSION OF THE A&D CHARITABLE or calluses but also keeps your healthy. Walking barefoot through an airport exposes your feet to bacteria and viruses that could cause wart or athlete’s foot. Also, avoid bringing new shoes on vacation. They are stiff and can cause blisters as you are breaking them in. Wear shoes that make your feet and you happy.

FOUNDATION

A few things to pack in your bag just in case. Bandages-for minor scrapes/ cuts. Suntan lotion-to protect the feet from sunburn. Swim shoes/san-

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Tom Mayhew named Senior Services July Volunteer of Month

BY ALLISON ROSSI UTTER Volunteer & Community Outreach Manager, Midland County Senior Services

will come with every visit. Every Meals on Wheels client is connected with a care coordinator, who works in partnership with each older adult and their family to take the guesswork out of identifying needs and coordinating services.

T

om Mayhew has been named Senior Services July Volunteer of the Month.

Tom volunteers at the Coleman Activity and Dining Center, driving for Meals on Wheels, since December 2019.

Thank you, Tom, for your dedication to Senior Services Meals on Wheels clients! We really appreciate your volunteer spirit. Congratulations on being chosen Volunteer of the Month.

He has logged over 172 hours driving the out-of-town route in Coleman. He not only delivers a hot meal to clients, but also provides a kind demeanor and listening ear they can rely on.

Sheryl Watson, Coleman Center director, says, “I love having Tom as a volunteer! He is very conscientious and caring with the seniors.”

When asked why he volunteers, Tom replied, “I wanted to give back to my community that helped me when I had a kidney transplant years ago.”

He explained that he was born and raised in Coleman and has lived there all of his life. He continued, “I know the area and know that there is a great need here.”

Tom got choked up asked why he continues to volunteer at Senior Services. He said, “I feel like I am their protector. I have gotten to know the clients and they will tell you everything. You become part of their family.”

Tom shared a story of how he saw

FUN FACT:

More volunteers needed About a dozen people participate in a line dancing class Friday, March 11, 2022 at Trailside Acitivity and Dining Center in Midland. (Katy Kildee / Midland Daily News) an unsafe situation that was concerning to him while he was delivering a meal to a client. He shared the situation with Sheryl Watson.

Tom explained that the following week when he delivered to the same client, the unsafe situation had been taken care of and a safer solution was put in place. “Tom notices things that may not seem right and will report back right away so that we can check on those folks,” Sheryl said. “He takes his volunteer job very seriously and can always be depended on to do the job right and with compassion.”

Tom retired from Delfield after 37 years. He has also been married to his wife, Shari, for the same amount of time. They have two grown sons along with two granddaughters and one grandson. Tom enjoys rabbit hunting with his three beagles along with raising chickens. He has been a volunteer coach for Little League and football in the past.

Meals on Wheels helps older adults live healthier and more nourished lives in their own homes by providing nutritious, well-balanced meals.

Seniors can find comfort in knowing that a good meal and a friendly face

Peaches are used to add flavor to many different foods. Perhaps that is why each year the United States grows 1.9 billion pounds of peaches.

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Senior Services is in need of Seasons Adult Day volunteers, friendly visitors, shopping and Meals on Wheels drivers, transportation drivers, and handyman volunteers. If you choose to volunteer with us, you will be embarking on a rewarding adventure that will have a huge impact on the older adults of Midland County.

The Activity & Dining Centers and Seasons are always looking for any and all kinds of entertainment.

Do you play an instrument?

Do magic? Puppets? Call Allison if you are interested in volunteering to share your talent. Visit www.SeniorServicesMidland.org to fill out a volunteer contact form or call Allison Rossi Utter, Volunteer and Community Outreach Manager, at 989-633-3741.

Senior Scope • July / August 2022

Answer Key Page 6 Word Scramble - Grill; Flour Word Search -

Page 7 Guess Who? - Megan Rapinoe Page 9 Guess Who? - Bebe Rexha Page 13 Word Scramble - Drought

Delivering top-quality care is our bottom line.

We place people over profit, and it shows in everything we do.

Assisted Living & Nursing Care

midlandkdh.org July / August 2022 • Senior Scope

Call us today to schedule a tour!

989.839.9800

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Putting A Spring In Your Step Written by: Kristin Raleigh, DPM AACFAS, CWSP

Spring is finally here and summer is fast approaching, which means it’s time to get your feet ready for warmer weather. When the weather warms up, we often take a lot of activity and exercise outside. After a long winter, our feet and lower limbs become very susceptible to injury. Whether you are an experienced athlete or just thinking about starting a workout routine, it’s important to be smart as you increase your physical activity. Start by gradually increasing your exercises and not leaping into a vigorous program when your body isn’t ready. Start by warming up and stretching out. Start by wearing supportive shoe gear that is appropriate for your chosen activities. When you are able to establish a solid foundation at the beginning of your training, you OURto DOCTORS: make yourself less vulnerable injury.

Our advice on how to avoid injury suggests you play by the following rules.

Warm up and cool down your muscles. It’s important to warm up your tendons and muscles before any activity, especially when starting new activities. Slowly stretch until you feel a slight pulling sensation in your muscles.

Hold stretches instead of performs quick pulsating stretches. If you feel any pain while stretching, then release the stretch. Cooldown afterwards to avoid muscle stiffness and reduce lactic acid buildup.

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Stay hydrated. Making sure you are drinking enough water can be key in avoiding soft tissue injuries such as sprains and strains. Making sure you’re properly hydrated can also relieve and avoid muscle cramping and spasming.

Your muscles need a certain amount of water to operate properly, so if you find yourself dealing with frequent foot and/or leg cramps, you might want to try drinking more water. Water consumption if very important for patients with diabetes. Diabetes greatly affects the circulatory system and not getting enough water can exacerbate your condition.

Dress for the part. Avoid unnecessary injuries by wearing proper shoes and orthotics. Wear properly fitting shoes that support your foot and ankle. We recommend you choose shoes with adequate cushioning. Wear a shoe that is recommended for you particular sport or activity. Your shoes should provide good support in front and underneath your arch. If you feel you’ve become more active this spring and need recommendations on shoes and shoe types, we are more than happy to guide you in the right direction. If you feel an orthotic is something you’d benefit from, or you’d just like to learn more about, make an appointment for possible fitting and discussion.

If you find yourself with an injury, never play though the pain. You should hold off on intense physical activity, rest the injured area, apply ice to reduce swelling and inflammation, and possibly take an anti-inflammatory medication. You can easily recall this by remembering the term RICE therapy.

Rest, ice, compression, elevation. If that

Kristin Raleigh DPM, AACFAS, CWS-P

Nicholas Post-Vasold DPM, FACFAS, CWS-P

Heidi Monaghan DPM, FACFAS, CWS-P

doesn’t help then contact one of our local expert Podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Specialists of Mid-Michigan to discuss any foot or ankle related problems.

We’re here not just this season, but all year long!

Midland Location 111 E. Wackerly St., Suite B. Midland

Mt. Pleasant Location 4851 E. Pickard, Suite 2400 Mt. Pleasant

Senior Scope • July / August 2022