Community Chat 2022 January-February Newsletter
Community Chat 2026 September-October Newsletter
The Health Benefits of Apples An update from Dana Pierce, Nutrition Administrator Fall is the time for apples! I love making a batch of homemade applesauce in the fall. It’s so easy in a crock-pot, and I only use apples, cinnamon, and lemon juice—this way is healthy and yummy! Did you know apples are a simple and powerful fruit that offer a variety of health benefits, especially for older adults? They are packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants, helping to maintain overall wellness and preventing agerelated diseases. A big benefit of apples is their high fiber content. One medium apple contains about 4 grams of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. For older adults, this can mean improved digestion and reduced risk of constipation—common concerns with age. Apples are also rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C. This helps protect cells from damage, which is linked to chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and cognitive decline. Regular apple consumption may contribute to better brain function and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Heart health is another area where apples shine. Their fiber and antioxidant content can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and reduce blood pressure. Additionally, apples are low in calories and have a high-water content, making them a smart snack for weight management. For seniors looking to maintain a healthy weight without feeling deprived, apples offer a satisfying and nutritious option. Apples are more than just a convenient snack—they’re a nutritional powerhouse that supports healthy aging. Including apples in a regular diet can help older adults maintain vitality, independence, and overall quality of life. Apples are easy to incorporate into daily meals. Whether eaten raw, baked, or added to salads and oatmeal, they require little preparation and suit a variety of dietary needs. Try the Healthy Apple Crisp recipe included on the next page, and enjoy the goodness of those fall apples!
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Upcoming Events Events *New* Expofest
National Caregiver Month
September 17, 2026 • Richmond, IN
November 10, 2026 • New Castle, IN
This fun-filled day will feature a variety of community resources, screenings and demonstrations to help promote socialization, activity, and community support.
This event will feature guest speaker Elizabeth Miller, owner of Happy Healthy Caregiver, who will be giving tips on balancing life, work, and caregiving, and completing a joy list with participants, in addition to other activities. Respte care available for individuals with care needs.
Visit lifestreaminc.org/events to learn more.
Visit lifestreaminc.org/events to learn more.
YOUR DONATION COUNTS! LifeStream coordinates the meals at 17 senior café sites throughout 12 counties. We rely on donations from generous people like you to help us continue to reach and help us serve more people in need. You can make your donation at meal sites, by sending a check to 1701 Pilgrim Blvd. Yorktown, IN 47396, or visiting lifestreaminc.org/nutrition to make a donation online.
What’s cooking? Healthy Apple Crisp Ingredients:
Apple Filling 2 lbs apples, 5 c, cored & diced 1 T corn starch 1 tsp lemon juice 2 T sugar 1/4 tsp cinnamon
Crisp Topping 1/2 c old fashioned oats 1/2 c all-purpose flour 2 T cane sugar 2 T brown sugar 1/4 c light butter, melted 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions: Preheat oven to 375°F. Peel, core, and dice the apples. Combine the apples with the rest of the filling ingredients and place into a round pie or tarte dish. Combine the flour, oats, sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Melt the butter and add it to the dry ingredients. Stir to combine. Using your fingers, sprinkle the crumble topping evenly on top of the apple mixture. Bake at 375 for 40 minutes, or until the inside is cooked and the top is golden brown. Serve with ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of yogurt. Recipe source: https://sweetsavoryandsteph.com/healthy-apple-crisp/
Please visit lifestreaminc.org/nutrition for more resources and information about our programs and services.
Partner Spotlight: Reid Health Hospice Lasting change happens when communities come together. Every partnership we build at LifeStream whether with a local business, healthcare provider, faith community, school, or community organization creates new opportunities to educate, support, and empower the people we serve. When community partners invest in learning and understanding the needs of older adults and individuals living with dementia, and their care partners the impact extends far beyond one organization. Together, we’re building more welcoming, informed, and compassionate communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. This month, we’re proud to highlight one of our community partners and share how dementia education is making a meaningful difference in the way they serve others. Their testimonial is a reminder that every partnership has the power to create lasting impact. “Reid Health Hospice is grateful for the opportunity to participate in LifeStream’s Dementia Programming which included Dementia Friends, Dementia Live, and Dementia Aware Organization Training. These trainings have enhanced our team’s understanding of dementia and provided practical strategies for delivering compassionate, person-centered care. As a result, our staff is better equipped to communicate effectively, support families through the hospice journey, and create meaningful connections with those living with dementia. We appreciate LifeStream’s partnership in helping us strengthen the care we provide to our community. “ -Reid Health Hospice For more information on education and trainings available throughout our 12 Counties at no cost, contact LifeStream:
Christina Davidson cdavidson@lifestreaminc.org 765-759-1121 ext. 298
Kelly Smith kjsmith@lifestreaminc.org 765-759-1121 ext. 297
SUPPORT LIFESTREAM BY PURCHASING A 50TH ANNIVERSARY COOKBOOK! In celebration of LifeStream’s 50th year of service, we’ve created a special keepsake cookbook filled with favorite recipes from clients, staff members, community partners, café participants, and supporters. To purchase a cookbook, scan the QR code or visit: lifestreaminc.org/50thcookbook
Caregiver Happenings
An update from Tia Drumm, Caregiver Programs Coordinator Are you part of the caregiving community? Are you providing care for another person in some way? This could be picking up medications, making sure bills are paid, or providing hands on care?! If this is you, remember that you aren’t alone in this and there are others on a caregiving journey too! Where do you meet these people? Well… here are a few options! And don’t worry, if you’re a person who prefers NOT being with others, we have opportunities for you too! Find these offerings and MORE on the LifeStream Caregiver Support Webpage or reach out to the Caregiver Program Coordinator in your area! Caregiver Support Groups: Caregiver Support Groups are a time for caregivers and care partners to come together and take a break, enjoy food, share resources, and support one another. This event is for anyone who is providing care in any way, shape, or form. Whether you live with an individual with care needs and provide 24/7 care, pick up medications for a friend, take your neighbor to their appointments, or anything in between, you are welcome to attend! - Caregiver Support Groups are available in Delaware, Randolph, Union, and Wayne Counties Powerful Tools for Caregivers: This workshop helps caregivers prioritize their well-being and take care of themselves while caring for a friend or a loved one. The class meets once a week face to face OR virtually for six weeks and has been studied and shown to help family caregivers reduce stress and improve emotional well-being, manage time, set goals, and problem solve, master caregiver transitions and be part of decision making, communicate effectively with the person needing care, family members, and members of the care team. - Contact Angie Jenkins at 765-759-1121 EXT 121 to schedule a workshop or get more information. Memory Café: Memory Cafés are a welcoming safe place for people living with dementia and their caregivers to enjoy social connection, activities, and a break from their normal routine. Café’s are an opportunity to socialize and connect with others who are in a similar situation. The activities are provided at no cost; however, some activities may request a donation to cover the cost of supplies. We do request RSVP’s to make sure every individual can take part in activities! - Memory Cafes are available in Madison, Delaware, Rush, and Wayne Counties If you or someone you know are in need of at home or community-based Caregiver Supports, reach out to the Caregiver Program Coordinator in your area for more resources. For Delaware, Grant, Henry, Blackford, Jay, Randolph, and Madison Counties call Tia Drumm, Caregiver Program Coordinator at 765-759-1121 ext. 101 or for Union, Fayette, Wayne, Rush, and Franklin Counties call Chelsea Wells at 765-759-1121 ext. 283.
Healthy Aging Month
An update from Gina Harvey, Wellness Educator September is Healthy Aging Month! It’s the perfect time to celebrate the many positive aspects of growing older and focus on habits that help you feel your best. Living a healthy, active lifestyle supports your physical, mental, and social wellbeing while helping you stay independent and enjoy everyday life. When people think about healthy living, physical activity is often the first thing that comes to mind. Staying active is one of the best ways to maintain your strength, balance, and mobility. Remember, every little bit counts—you don’t have to set aside 30–60 minutes at once. Find activities you truly enjoy so exercise feels fun instead of like a chore. Walking with a friend, joining a fitness class at your local Senior Center, or spending time in the garden are all wonderful ways to stay active. Healthy aging also means keeping your mind and spirit engaged. Try learning a new hobby or skill to challenge your brain. Enjoy a puzzle, play a favorite game, or get lost in a good book. Mindful breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga can also help reduce stress and bring a sense of calm. Make social connections a priority, too. Spending time with family and friends helps strengthen your sense of belonging and purpose. Having someone to laugh with, share experiences with, or talk through challenges can ease stress and provide support when you need it most. Good nutrition ties it all together and helps your body thrive. Colorful fruits and vegetables provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. Aim to “eat the rainbow” to get the greatest nutritional benefits from your meals. Small, healthy choices each day can make a big difference, and there are so many ways to age well! To learn more about LifeStream wellness courses, contact Gina Harvey, Wellness Educator, at gharvey@lifestreaminc.org.
Small Moments Matter
A note from Chelsea Wells, Caregiver Programs Coordinator
When caring for a loved one living with dementia or another chronic condition, it’s easy to focus on doctor’s appointments, medications, and the daily to-do list. While those things are important, it’s often the small moments that have the greatest impact.
It’s also important to remember that caregivers need care, too. Taking a few minutes each day to rest, connect with a friend, or simply step outside for fresh air can help reduce stress and prevent burnout. Caring for yourself isn’t selfish- it’s an essential part of being able to care for someone else.
Sharing a favorite song, taking a short walk, looking through old family photos, watering flowers together, or simply sitting and enjoying a cup of coffee can provide comfort and meaningful connection. These moments don’t have to be elaborate or time-consuming. They remind both the caregiver and the person receiving care that quality time doesn’t always require special occasion.
At Lifestreams, we’re committed to supporting caregivers through many free resources, caregiver coaching, support groups, memory cafes, and educational opportunities. Whether you’re looking for practical tools or simply someone to help you navigate the caregiving journey, you don’t have to do it alone. Sometimes the biggest difference comes from the smallest moments.
Area 9 Frozen Menu September 2026
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
Oriental Shoyu Chicken Jasmine Rice Japanese Vegetable Blend Pineapple Tidbits Fortune Cookie Milk
7
Cal: 553 Sodium: 426
Sodium: 1158
New! Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Green Peas Carrots Wheat Dinner Roll Milk Oatmeal Crème Cookie Margarine Cal: 763 Sodium: 901
BBQ Pork Riblet Hawaiian Baked Beans Mixed Vegetable Blend Hamburger Bun Rice Krispie Treat Milk
Chicken Breast New! w/ Romesco Sauce Parslied Noodles Tuscany Vegetable Blend Tropical Fruit, 4.5 oz Milk
Teriyaki Meatballs Lentil Vegetable Pilaf Broccoli Naan Bread Mandarin Oranges, 4.5 oz Milk Cal: 733
Cal: 802
14
Sodium: 1065
21
New! Creamy Marsala Garden Meatballs Penne Pasta Italian Vegetable Blend Broccoli Chocolate Chip Cookie Milk Cal: 579 Sodium: 778 Frito Pie Whole Kernel Corn Green Beans Corn Chips Lorna Doone Cookies Milk Cal: 669
Sodium: 554
28
1
8
15
Cal: 522 Sodium: 672 Sloppy Joe Baked Beans Carrots Hamburger Bun Applesauce, 4.5 oz Milk Cal: 775
Sodium: 953
Chicken Cordon Bleu Broccoli Glazed Carrots Wheat Dinner Roll Pineapple Tidbits, 4.5 oz Milk Margarine Cal: 679
22
29
Sodium: 1083
THURSDAY 2
Salisbury Steak w/ Steakhouse Sauce Whipped Potatoes Green Beans Whole Grain Bread Pears, 4.5 oz Milk Margarine Tossed Salad/Salad Dressing Cal: 683 Sodium: 782
9
Cal: 700
Sodium: 1232
Santa Fe Chicken w/ Penne Pasta Southwest Corn Green Beans Rice Krispie Treat Milk Cal: 649
Krab Cake w/Dill Sauce Garden Vegetable Blend Green Peas Saltine Crackers Chocolate Cake Milk Tossed Salad/Salad Dressing Cal: 760 Sodium: 809
Smothered Beef Patty Whipped Potatoes Green Beans Whole Grain Bread Applesauce, 4.5 oz Milk Margarine Cal: 606 Sodium: 684
Beef Stroganoff (Egg Noodles in Stroganoff) Yellow Squash Green Beans Fig Bar Cookie Milk Tossed Salad/Salad Dressing
Egg Patty (2) Hashbrown Potatoes French Toast Sticks Peaches, 4.5 oz Milk Pancake Syrup
23
Cal: 641 Sodium: 497
30
3
Creole Baked Chicken Red Beans and Rice Collard Greens Cornbread Nutty Buddy Bar Milk Margarine
Egg Patty Breakfast Sausage Hashbrown Potatoes Biscuit Hot Peaches Milk Margarine Tossed Salad/Salad Dressing Cal: 811 Sodium: 1242
16
FRIDAY
Cal: 692
Loaded Potato Bake w/Ham Spring Vegetable Blend Cabbage Whole Grain Bread Mandarin Oranges, 4.5 oz Milk Assorted Jelly Tossed Salad/Salad Dressing Cal: 599 Sodium: 1361
________________________________ Courtney Furr RDN LD License # 37004552A
Sodium: 490
Sodium: 851
10
17
24
4
Turkey Divan Parslied Rice Succotash Brussels Sprouts Snickerdoodle Bar Milk
Cal: 765
Sodium: 540
Beef Patty Potato Wedges Hamburger Bun Pineapple Cobbler Milk Ketchup | Mustard Cal: 845
Sodium: 834
11
18
Butter Chicken w/ Yellow Rice Cauliflower Spiced Peaches n' Granola Milk Cal: 535
Sodium: 394
25
Chicken Enchilada w/ New! Citrus Mojo Sauce Fiesta Black Beans Stewed Tomatoes Sugar Cookie Milk Cal: 544
Sodium: 847
Menus subject to change
Area 9 Frozen Menu October 2026
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY 1
Meatloaf w/Ketchup Sauce Whipped Potatoes Zucchini w/Tomatoes Wheat Dinner Roll Oreo Cookies Milk Margarine Cal: 652 Sodium: 1285 5
7 8 Chopped Steak w/Onion Gravy Chicken & Sausage Jambalaya Breakfast Sausage New! Chicken Tenders w/Country Gravy Potato Wedges Ranch Beans Whole Kernel Corn O'Brien Hashbrown Potatoes Green Beans Summer Vegetables Okra & Tomatoes Hamburger Bun Cinnamon Raisin Oatmeal Saltine Crackers Cornbread Oatmeal Crème Cookie Peaches, 4.5 oz Rice Krispie Treat Fudge Crème Cookie Milk Milk Milk Milk BBQ Sauce Ketchup Margarine Tossed Salad/Salad Dressing Cal: 901 Sodium: 1326 Cal: 599 Sodium: 707 Cal: 677 Sodium: 643 Cal: 821 Sodium: 651 12 14 15 16 Southwest Stew Oriental Shoyu Chicken Creole Baked Chicken Salisbury Steak w/ Summer Vegetable Blend Jasmine Rice Steakhouse Sauce Red Beans and Rice Saltine Crackers Japanese Vegetable Blend Whipped Potatoes Collard Greens Apple Cobbler Pineapple Tidbits Green Beans Cornbread Milk Fortune Cookie Whole Grain Bread Nutty Buddy Bar Milk Pears, 4.5 oz Milk Milk Margarine Margarine Cal: 584 Sodium: 948 Cal: 553 Sodium: 426 Cal: 619 Sodium: 660 Cal: 700 Sodium: 1232 19 20 21 22 Meatloaf w/Brown Gravy Ham & Black-Eyed Peas Frito Pie Smoked Sausage Cilantro Lime Rice Whipped Potatoes w/Onions and Peppers Whole Kernel Corn Potato Wedges Collard Greens Carrots New! Lemon Garlic Green Beans Wheat Dinner Roll Broccoli Cornbread Frito Corn Chips Butter Sugar Cookie Whole Grain Hot Dog Bun Pears, 4.5 oz Darlington Chocolate Chip Cookie Milk Mandarin Oranges, 4.5 oz Milk Margarine Milk Milk Margarine Mustard | Ketchup Tossed Salad/Salad Dressing Cal: 666 Sodium: 953 Cal: 783 Sodium: 1035 Cal: 701 Sodium: 1101 Cal: 679 Sodium: 539 26 27 28 29 Egg Patty Chicken Breast w/ New! Bolognese Casserole New! Chinese Chicken (Pasta in entrée) Jasmine Rice Breakfast Sausage Poultry Gravy Japanese Vegetable Blend Country Gravy Garlic Whipped Potatoes Whole Kernel Corn Oven Roasted Potatoes Mandarin Oranges, 4.5 oz Seasoned Green Beans Cauliflower Fortune Cookie Buttermilk Biscuit Whole Wheat Bread Whole Wheat Bread Milk Cranberry Juice Pumpkin Cookie Pineapple Tidbits, 4.5 oz Milk Milk Milk Margarine Margarine Margarine Diet - Graham Crackers Tossed Salad/Salad Dressing Cal: 613 Sodium: 551 Cal: 642 Sodium: 1199 Cal: 653 Sodium: 856 Cal: 576 Sodium: 593
2 Sweet & Sour Chicken Parslied Rice Japanese Vegetable Blend Green Peas Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Milk Cal: 633 Sodium: 514
6
________________________________ Courtney Furr RDN LD
License # 37004552A
9 BBQ Pulled Pork Macaroni & Cheese Carrots Hamburger Bun Apple Juice, 6 oz Milk
Cal: 669 Sodium: 1288 17 Turkey Divan Parslied Rice Succotash Brussels Sprouts Snickerdoodle Bar Milk
Cal: 765
Sodium: 540 23
Cheese Omelet Hashbrown Potatoes English Muffin Hot Peaches Milk Assorted Jelly
Cal: 735 Sodium: 849 30 BBQ Pulled Pork Baked Beans Capri Vegetable Blend Hamburger Bun Applesauce, 4.5 oz Milk
Cal: 652 Sodium: 1183
Celebrating Our LifeStream Golden Hoosier Award Winners An update from Laura Bray, Volunteer Services Administrator Each year, LifeStream Services searches our community for the remarkable volunteers who give their time and skills to make life better for everyone around them. Out of all the incredible nominations we received, two truly tremendous individuals were awarded the LifeStream Golden Hoosier Award. They have also been nominated for the state-level Golden Hoosier Award, and we will find out soon if they receive that high honor! Please join us in congratulating Amy Reeves of Wayne County, honored for her 55-year dedication as a Girl Scout leader for her special needs troop, as well as her volunteer work with the First English Lutheran Church, Circle U Help Center, and Friends Fellowship Community. We also celebrate Jeannine Harrold of Delaware County, honored for 45 years of civic leadership and volunteerism with the Shafer Leadership Academy, Minnetrista Cultural Center, Delaware County Historical Society, YWCA, Altrusa Club of Muncie, and many others. Volunteers are the heartbeat of our communities! If you would like to find out about volunteer opportunities with LifeStream Services, reach out to Laura Bray at Lbray@LifeStreaminc.org or call 765-808-8827.
Volunteer Concierge Program
What is the Volunteer Concierge Program?
A volunteering initiative in which individuals are matched with older adults in need of: - Friendly Call/Visit - Companionship - Technology Assistance
Who can volunteer?
- Task Assistance · Housekeeping · Meal prep · Light yardwork
Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older with a desire to impact an older adults life through support and companionship. Those interested can contact Laura Bray, Volunteer Services Administrator, at 765-808-8827 or lbray@lifestreaminc.org or Fill out an application at lifestreaminc.org/support/volunteer.
lifestreaminc.org · 800-589-1121