A program of Jewish Family Services of Northeastern New York
Volume 17, Number 5
May 2021
FEATURED VIRTUAL PROGRAMS
In celebration of Older Americans Month and its 2021 theme, “Communities of Strength”, we are honored to be joined by singer-songwriter-educator Ruth Pelham for another fun-filled workshop. With a spirit of warmth and enthusiasm that, for decades, has been a steady mark of her artistry, Ruth will lead us in an animated conversation, a sing-along of her original songs, and a “Communities of Strength” hands-on activity. She will also sing a new song that she composed especially for this workshop about the resilience that older adults have built up through life’s ups and downs, twists and turns, and bumps and beauty. Ruth Pelham lives in the Albany NNORC, where since 1977, she has been the founder and director of Music Mobile, whose concerts, residencies, workshops, special initiatives, and international cultural exchange projects have impacted the lives of generations of Capital Region residents.
In this Let’s Talk Albany, we’ll take a virtual tour of Historic Cherry Hill with their education coordinator Shawna Reilly. Located on South Pearl Street in Albany’s historic South End neighborhood, Cherry Hill was built in 1787 for Philip and Maria Van Rensselaer. Rare among this country's house museums, Cherry Hill's extensive and intact collection includes more than 70,000 items, including decorative arts and furnishings, books, manuscripts, clothing, photographs, and other objects reflecting daily life of the family, servants and people who were enslaved or lived there from 1787 to 1963. From 1884 through 1963, Cherry Hill was home to Catherine Putman Rankin and her family. Within those walls, she created a refined way of life that glorified her Van Rensselaer family heritage. During her lifetime, she and other members of America’s elite faced profound social, economic, and political changes that threatened their status and way of life. Catherine and many others in her class chose to look to the past as a means of coping with these changes. In this tour, we’ll see the home as Catherine left it and hear the stories of Cherry Hill’s past. Let’s Talk Albany will not meet in June, but we’ll resume in July.
We have launched a new page called: Your Albany NNORC. We encourage you to visit it often. The newsfeed will contain an electronic version of NNORC News, program flyers, YouTube videos (Chair Yoga), photos from (future) in-person events, and most importantly news flashes on important information that we think matters to you. Stop by, like a post or two, and you will begin seeing our posts in your own Facebook newsfeed. See you on the web!
Senior Health Ed. Coord. Judi England, RN, LMT
Director of Programs Marla Gornstein
Community Nurse Susan Hoffman, RN
Director of Community Care Erin Plonka, LMSW
Director of Marketing Monica Tan
Residents’ Council Kristin Barron Phyllis Cohen Eric Copland Jim Dennehey Leslie Dykeman Julie Elson Maria Hazapis Jeffery Marks Victor Reiner Olga Tenney Maryellen Casey Usis
Program Partners Lead Agency: Jewish Family Services B’nai Sholom Reform Congregation Catholic Charities Community Caregivers Congregation Beth Emeth First Congregational Church Helderberg Neighborhood Association Jewish Federation of NENY Maria College Mater Christi Parish Center Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany St. Peter’s Hospital St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church Life Path Sidney Albert Albany Jewish Community Center Temple Israel
NNORC is a Program of
This project is supported by funding from the New York State Office for the Aging. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the grantee and do not necessarily represent the official view of the New York State Office for the Aging.
@Your Albany NNORC
For the past year, NNORC has continued offering programs via Zoom (online video and audio conferencing). Your neighbors have been “attending” our programs using their computers, tablets and smartphones. Some have even called in to participate. If you would like to register for any of the programs below, please call 518-514-2023 or email us at NNORC@jfsneny.org. We will give you an access link or phone number for you to participate. New to Zoom? Contact us for a one-on-one Zoom tutorial. We look forward to seeing you or hearing from you!
Chair Yoga is an gentle and effective way to increase flexibility and fitness AND kick the pandemic stiffness to the curb! We’ll stretch, breathe, and ease our way to increased wellness. Stick around after class on May 4 and 25 for a shared 15-minute practice of meditation and mindfulness. If you miss a class, you can view it on the JFS YouTube channel; just search JFSNENY. (No class on 5/18)
There’s no doubt that stress is a part of our life, especially given the new challenges brought on by the pandemic. Let’s take a closer look at stress and how it impacts our eating behavior. By forging a better understanding of the mind-body connection, we can make conscious choices that will improve our health and reduce our stress. As part of this session, we’ll do an exercise in mindful eating. Please bring a small piece of food (raisins work well!) so we can practice together. Join Judi England, NNORC Senior Health Education Coordinator for this program.
As the weather warms up, we can’t wait to do more activities with our community in a safe and fun way. Join us for another socially-distant walk at the Buckingham Pond. We’ll meet up by the playground. Bring your mask and join some of your NNORC friends to catch up. It’s been a long year and we look forward to seeing you. Please plan to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. (Rain date – Thursday, May 13 at 10 a.m.)
The Albany primary election will be held on June 22, 2021. Included on the ballot are candidates for the Common Council for Wards 7, 9 and 14 – areas that are within the Albany NNORC. We are bringing you a unique opportunity to virtually meet the candidates for our Wards, hear about what issues are important to them, and learn the focus of their efforts/ initiatives, particularly as it relates to older adults.
JUST A QUICK REFRESHER: Albany is divided into 15 legislative districts or Wards. Each Ward is represented by a City resident who is elected by their constituency to serve a four-year term. Collectively, the elected Ward representatives comprise the Common Council, whose members regulate and protect the interests of residents within their Ward. They are authorized to introduce, adopt, amend or repeal local laws, ordinances, resolutions and regulations pertaining to property and government affairs within the City. The three Common Council members who have dedicated years of representing areas within the NNORC (Hon. Catherine Fahey, Hon. Judy Doesschate, Hon. Joseph Igoe) are not running for reelection. We are grateful for their service and protecting the interests of our Albany NNORC. Join us for this important discussion as we meet the candidates who have applied for the Common Council as of April 19: 7th Ward- Sergio Adams, Violetta De Rosa and Brian Scavo 9th Ward - Jolyn Gallagher and Meghan Keegan 14th Ward - Celia Evers and Deborah Zamer Read about each candidates’ platforms on our website: jfsneny.org/nnorc Please note that the above list is subject to change. The Board of Elections are reviewing candidate applications and will announce the official candidates on April 29. Please visit albanycounty.com/departments/board-ofelections) for the final candidates. The candidates have agreed to field questions from NNORC residents. Please submit your questions by Monday, May 10. Please keep your questions relevant to the scope of the Common Council role. Questions can be submitted to NNORC@jfsneny.org or 518-514-2023.
It’s spring, and that means the beginning of a bounty of local fruit and vegetables! What are your favorites from the farmer’s market or the grocery store? Is there a vegetable that you’ve always been curious about but didn’t know how to prepare it? Is there a new recipe you’ve wanted to try? We can’t wait to hear about what you’ve created! Please save the date for the next program on Thursday, June 17
This month’s Book Club title is Under the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer. Published in 2003, this nonfiction book explores the origin of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and the evolution of fundamentalist Mormon sects, leading up to the Utah v. Lafferty murder trial in 1984. With religion, history, and intrigue, this book is sure to delight lovers of theology, truecrime fans, and historians alike. Please save the date for the next Book Club on Monday, June 28. Book title to be announced in the June NNORC News.
The NNORC Resident Council is an opportunity to voice your opinions on NNORC programs, make suggestions, and stay up-to-date on all things happening in your Albany NNORC. This is an open meeting for everyone!
As the weather gets even nicer, we’re not slowing down with our safe and fun community walks! Please plan for the weather and dress appropriately. The date and location of this walk will be announced in the June newsletter. (Rain date is June 3 at 10 a.m.)
The idea that oral bacteria may contribute to disease in other parts of the body is not new information. Several studies show that oral health and overall health are indeed connected. This presentation will help connect the independent systems of our body and discuss how they are integral in keeping us healthy and happy. Topics will include plaque bacteria biofilm, Diabetes, periodontal disease, tooth decay and diet. This program will be presented by Professor Jeffrey McMinn, RDH, MA from Hudson Valley Community College. He is an educator with over 25 years of clinical experience in the dental field as well as 17 years as a professor.
Aaron F. Carbone, Esq., partner at Vella, Carbone & Associates, LLP, and Jessica Backer Brand, Esq., firm associate, will present on the importance of having a properly drafted Power of Attorney (POA). They will discuss everything from physical and financial incapacitation and planning (including Medicaid benefits) to choosing the best agent for you. Changes occurring to the POA format beginning in June 2021 will also be covered. You will have the opportunity to ask general questions regarding the POA and other general estate planning questions.
Oscar-Claude Monet was a French painter, a founder of French Impressionist painting, and the most consistent and prolific practitioner of the movement's philosophy of expressing one's perceptions before nature, especially as applied to plein-air landscape painting. In this program, Martie Teumim, a Master Gardener at Cornell Cooperative Extension, will present about Monet from his early years, to his painting, to his love of gardening. This talk is accompanied by pictures of his paintings and his house and gardens at Giverny. Dear NNORC Residents, Well, it is time for me to say goodbye, for now. Interning at Jewish Family Services and with the Albany NNORC has been an amazing experience. I feel as though I'm more connected to the city of Albany than ever before. The JFS & NNORC staff have been so helpful. During my internship, I experienced many firsts: a dedicated book club, consistent yoga practices, Romeo & Juliet, and surprise talents every turn around. Who knew there would be live music? At the end of spring, I will have successfully completed my bachelor's degree in social work from The College of Saint Rose. My next challenge will be in the fall of this year, when I will be tackling a master's degree in Social Work. I intend to keep learning even past my masters -- perhaps in another field. If there are words in print, I will read them.
Thank you, Giovani
The Albany County Department of Social Services will begin accepting applications for the HEAP Cooling Assistance program on May 3, 2021. This lesser-known HEAP component provides for the purchase and installation of an air conditioner or fan to eligible households once every five years. Eligibility is largely determined by income level and medical necessity. A physician’s note documenting that an individual living in the household has a medical condition that is exacerbated by heat must be submitted with the application. Only one air conditioner or fan, not to exceed $800 with installation, will be provided per applicant household. The air conditioner needs to be purchased from approved vendor. Please note that this benefit is paid directly to the vendor and will not provide resident with payment reimbursement. No additional HEAP cash benefits are available. You may be eligible for a Cooling Assistance HEAP benefit if: Your household's gross monthly income is at or below the current income guidelines for your household size: gross monthly maximum income cannot exceed $2,610 and the gross monthly maximum income for a household of two is $3,413. If you feel you need this benefit, we encourage you to apply early, as funds tend to be limited. For more information, call NNORC at 518-514-2023 or the Albany County Department of Social Services at 518-447-7323.
Reminder...
With over 5 million cases diagnosed in the United States each year, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Fortunately, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. About 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers and 85 percent of melanoma cases are associated with exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. By raising awareness of the dangers of unprotected exposure and encouraging sunsafe habits, we can change behaviors and save lives. The Skin Cancer Foundation has always recommended using a sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher as one important part of a complete sun protection regimen. They also recommend: • Seek the shade, especially between 10 a.m.
and 4 p.m. • Don’t get sunburned. • Avoid tanning, and never use UV tanning beds. • Cover up with clothing, including a broad-
brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. • Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB)
sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. For extended outdoor activity, use a waterresistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. • Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to
Federal and New York state income tax filing due date for individuals has been extended to May 17th. If you need help filing your taxes, please access services by calling 2-1-1 or by visiting unitedwaygcr.org/cash/VITA
your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or excessive sweating. • Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens
should be used on babies over the age of six months. • Examine your skin head-to-toe every month.
Your Albany NNORC and the Helderberg Neighborhood Association are joining forces to offer home-delivered meals from a local restaurant. Delivery will be limited to the NNORC area. Look for more details in the June NNORC News.
• See a dermatologist at least once a year for a
professional skin exam.
Dear Erin, My father lives with me and has vision impairment. I recently have started working again and am out of the house for hours at a time. He values his independence, especially in the kitchen, but I worry that without me being around, it may become difficult for him to manage on his own. Do you know of ways I could modify the kitchen so he can still do his own meal preparation? Are there any organizations that can provide support?
– Concerned about Safety Dear Concerned, There are many ways that the kitchen can be adjusted so that your father can safely manage meal preparation. Labeling your daily use or specialty items with colors that are visually bright can help with identification. Some individuals with vision impairment can see certain colors: red, orange, or yellow tend to work best. Brightly colored silverware, dish sets, cups and mugs can be purchased at major outlets or online. The pantry and refrigerator should be organized, keeping frequently used items in a place that he can easily access. Make notches or use bump dots on the stove dials to indicate the different temperatures and settings. This can also be done with appliances like the microwave or settings on the fridge water and ice machine. You can even switch to a talking thermometer for kitchen use. Using a sheet pan or deep cooking tray will help keep food from spilling or sliding off the edges. Non-slip pads can be placed beneath trays or cutting boards to secure it to the surface, so it won't slide around. Consider moving sharp knives to a knife block, rather than a drawer. This prevents rifling through a silverware and risking getting cut. Knives now come in different colors, which may help cooks with reduced vision. Also, nylon knives are available for cutting lettuce, vegetables, and breads. Use light and dark cutting boards that contrast with the food you want to cut, making it easier to see the item.
The Northeastern Association of the Blind at Albany (NABA) is an organization dedicated to providing additional services and support to people with vision impairments. They offer free low-vision education programs and presentations. NABA can provide low vision examinations, distance aids, high-powered reading glasses, lighted magnifiers, and more. Vision Rehabilitation therapy is available specifically for the legally blind and assists with home tasks such as cooking and managing household tasks. You can learn more at the NABA website naba-vision.org or by calling 518-463-1211.
The New York State Commission for the Blind provides The Adaptive Living Program, which provides support and services for people with vision impairment, who want to maintain their independence. Visit https://tinyurl.com/adaptiveliving for more information or call 518-473-1675.
Ask Erin will address any questions you have about aging services and provide advice on challenges you or a loved one are facing. Please send in all questions to eplonka@jfsneny.org with the subject Ask Erin, or mail your questions to Jewish Family Services, Albany NNORC (Ask Erin), 184 Washington Ave. Extension, Albany, NY 12203.
Throughout the pandemic, technology has helped us stay connected to friends, family, doctors, and the NNORC! But many of our residents lack the skills and confidence to make full use of their devices, which can impede their ability to stay in touch and connected to love ones. If you, or someone you know, is comfortable with computers, tablets or smart phones, and would like to provide technical assistance via telephone, please call NNORC at 518-514-2023. Your skills will be appreciated.
Please call 518-514-2023 or email us at NNORC@jfsneny.org to sign up so that we can give you the correct access link or phone number for you to participate. You can also contact us for a oneon-one Zoom tutorial with a staff member. We look forward to seeing you or hearing from you!
EVENT
DATE, TIME & PLACE
Zoom in for Chair Yoga
Tuesdays, May 4, 11, 25 at 11 a.m.
Post-Yoga Meditation
Tuesdays, May 4 and 25 at 12 p.m.
Diabetes Prevention—The Stress-Food
Wednesday, May 5 at 10 a.m.
Let’s Take Another Walk
Wednesday, May 12 at 10 a.m. (rain date: Thursday, May 13 at 10 a.m.)
Meet Our Common Council Candidates
Wednesday, May 12 at 6 p.m.
Celebrate Older American Month
Wednesday, May 19 at 1 p.m.
Cook the Book
Thursday, May 20 at 1 p.m. Thursday, June 17 at 1 p.m.
Novel NNORC Book Club
Monday, May 24 at 1 p.m. Monday, June 28 at 1 p.m.
NNORC Residents’ Council Meeting
Wednesday, May 26 at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 30 at 10 a.m.
Let’s Talk Albany
Thursday, May 27 at 1 p.m. No meeting in June
Spring is for Outdoor Walking!
Wednesday, June 2 at 10 a.m. (rain date: Thursday, June 3 at 10 a.m.)
Oral Health & Your Overall Health
Wednesday, June 9 at 10 a.m.
The Importance of a Power of Attorney
Wednesday, June 16 at 10 a.m.
Monet: Artist and Gardener
Wednesday, June 23 at 10 a.m.
The Albany JCC Senior Center is offering senior programming via Zoom. For a listing of their programs, please visit albancyjcc.org/adults.
Albany NNORC Office Hours NNORC Program & Jewish Family Services: Monday—Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. We have temporarily extended our hours to include Fridays. (Messages are checked twice on Fridays and calls concerning URGENT matters will be returned the same day.) We are closed May 17 & 18 for Shavuot and May 31st for Memorial Day.
City of Albany Rapp Road Landfill (525 Rapp Road) from 4 to 7 p.m., May 6 & 20 and June 3. Residents must preregister to participate. To pre-register, please call the Department of General Services at (518) 434-2489 or visit albanyrecycles.com to register online.
184 Washington Ave Extension Albany, NY 12203 518-514-2023 nnorc@jfsneny.org
Non-Profit Org. US Postage PAID Albany, NY Permit # 587
jfsneny.org
Contact us for more information, if you have a question or if you want to attend a program: nnorc@jfsneny.org or 518-514-2023.