2025 Spring/Summer Newsletter
LifeStream Update
Dear Friends of LifeStream:
This year, LifeStream Services proudly celebrates 50 years of service to older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers. As we reflect on this milestone, we want to thank our partners, volunteers, and community members who have supported our mission over the decades. Your continued commitment has made it possible for us to advocate and empower so many along the way.
Our Golden Year is not only a time to reflect on how far we’ve come, but to renew our commitment and vision for the future. The compassion of our staff, the dedication of our volunteers, and the strength of our partnerships have fueled our progress, and will continue to drive our work in the years to come. Together we can stay steadfast in providing the right information, resources and support for improving quality of life and maintaining independence for older adults, those with disabilities, and caregivers.
In this edition of our newsletter, you will find updates on important programs including our Dementia Outreach Specialists, STEP In Caregiver Support, nutrition services, and more. These areas are working hard daily to reach those who need support, information, and education.
We are also excited to share highlights from our 50th Anniversary Celebration and give you a sneak peek at our upcoming events that help us stay connected to the communities we serve.
These events not only offer education and access to local resources; they give individuals a chance to stay active, be social, and enjoy some time with their friends, peers, neighbors, and community.
As always, LifeStream remains committed to providing the right information, resources, and support for improving quality of life and maintaining independence for older adults, those with disabilities, and caregivers. We look forward to continuing our mission and helping create a better life for those we serve.
Sincerely,
Jenny Hamilton, President & CEO
LifeStream’s Impact
Table of contents: July 2023-June 2024
PAGE 2
LifeStream Updates
PAGE 3
LifeStream Impact
PAGE 4
LifeStream Outreach
PAGE 5
Healthy Aging Expo Collage
PAGE 6
Caregiver Needs Assessment
PAGE 7
Advocacy Callout
PAGE 8-10
STEP In Caregiver Programs
PAGE 11
Staying Connected
PAGE 12
Golf Save the Date
Mission: Provide the right information, resources, and support for improving quality of life and maintaining independence for older adults, those with disabilities, and caregivers.
Vision: In the region we serve, individuals are living lives of quality, choice, and independence.
Values: Respect, Compassion, Collaboration, and Excellence
222,787 meals provided
12 counties served in East Central Indiana
485,616 in-home service hours
37,358 transportation trips
538 volunteers provided 20,475 hours
12,214 calls answered by Information & Assistance
Celebrating 50 Years of LifeStream at Café Sites
Thank you to everyone who joined us at our local meal sites to celebrate National Nutrition Month and LifeStream’s 50th anniversary all throughout March!
Everyone had a great time and left with goody bags, information about LifeStream’s programs, and full bellies.
Don’t forget, LifeStream’s meal sites serve all-year round — find your local meal site’s hours of operation at lifestreaminc.org/nutrition.
LifeStream Outreach
We are looking forward to a spring and summer full of events focused on providing information, resources, and support for improving quality of life for older adults, those with disabilities, and caregivers.
Aging Well Conference & 50th Anniversary Celebration
Tuesday, June 3 · Muncie, IN
Golf Outing
Thursday, August 7 · Yorktown, IN
A conference for caregivers, aging adults, wellness enthusiasts, and health professionals to learn how to make positive changes in their lives and the lives of others. In addition to our Annual Aging Well Conference, LifeStream will be holding an anniversary celebration and awards program honoring just some of those who have helped advance LifeStream’s mission.
JOY Games
North
July 14-17 · Muncie, IN
Those 55 and older are invited to join us for some friendly competition in activities including pickleball, Bingo, chair volleyball, Euchre, a golf scramble, and more.
LifeStream’s Annual Golf Outing raises funds to help us continue our mission.
JOY Games South
August 25-27 · Richmond, IN
Those 55 and older are invited to join us for some friendly competition in activities including pickleball, Bingo, chair volleyball, Euchre, a golf scramble, and more.
Fall Festival
Thursday, September 25 · Liberty, IN
LifeStream’s annual Fall Festival invites older adults for a day of pontoon boat rides, a health fair, car show, musical entertainment, crafts, Bingo, and much more.
For a complete list of events, details, and support opportunities, visit: lifestreaminc.org/events
If you step in to provide help or assistance to a friend, family member, or loved one – you’re a caregiver!
LifeStream’s caregiver programs are growing, and we need your input on what comes next!
Scan the QR code or visit the link below* to take this quick 10-minute caregiver survey for the chance to win one of four $25 grocery gift cards!
https://bit.ly/lifestreamcaregiving
* If you would like to request a print copy of the survey, call (765) 759-1121 ext. 101
To learn more about Medicare Fraud and how to spot it, prevent it, and report it, reach out to LifeStream at I&A@lifestreaminc.org. To learn more about Senior Medicare Patrol, visit their website at www.smpresource.org
Could YOUR Services be at risk?
Over the past few months, executive orders and federal actions have created confusion and put critical programs that benefit older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers at risk. Delays in funding or cuts could jeopardize these services you take part in through LifeStream, including transportation, nutrition, wellness, and caregiver support. It’s imperative your elected officials hear from you about how these services are critical to you, your family, and community.
See the below for direct contact information of representatives in your area, and make your voice heard!
Sample script when calling your representatives:
“Hi, my name is _______ and I am urging you to protect funding for older adults and caregivers. I currently receive support and education that allows me to safely care for (myself/my loved one). Without it, (I/they) may not be able to remain at home in my care. Please protect these critical programs and Older Americans Act funding.”
Rep. Marlin Stutzman (District 3) Blackford and Jay Counties (202) 225-4436
Rep. Victoria Spartz (District 5) Delaware, Grant, and Madison Counties (765) 639-0671
Rep. Jefferson Shreve (District 6) Fayette, Henry, Randolph, Rush, Union, and Wayne Counties (317) 399-3333
Rep. Erin Houchin (District 9) Franklin County (812) 288-3999
Sen. Todd Young (State) (317) 226-6700
Sen. Jim Banks (State) (202) 224-4814
Find more information at lifestreaminc.org/advocacy
Using Gardening as a Caregiver
Gardening can be a rewarding and therapeutic activity, from planning and planting to tending to the garden or even enjoying the fresh air while outside. If you are tending to a garden of your own or looking to attend a community garden, there are safety measures one should consider.
For caregivers, it’s important to balance enjoyment with safety, especially when looking out for the health and well-being of yourself and loved ones.
No matter who you are caring for, whether they’re someone with mobility or cognitive challenges or other health concerns, a garden can be a place for relaxation and connection with each other and your senses.
If you or your loved do not have a garden of your own or just wish to engage your senses and connection while in the community, be on the lookout for the new LifeStream and COPE Environmental Center partnered Sensory Garden with future workshops. Available for caregivers in the community and their loved ones to connect together and their senses while in nature.
The workshops are a free and special gardening event designed to inspire and empower older adults and caregivers. The first workshop was a hands-on event with planting, learning, and connection. Be on the lookout for future workshops to come!
A few garden safety tips to consider:
Create clear, accessible paths: Navigating a garden should be as clear and simple as possible. Ensure garden paths are wide, flat, and free of obstacles to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers. Include shaded seating areas along the way for rest and conversation.
Choose safe plants: Choose nontoxic plants and be aware of any that may cause allergic reactions for you or your loved ones.
Prepare for the weather: Excessive heat or cold can be dangerous for anyone. Before heading out to a garden, check the forecast and prepare appropriately. On hot days, stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and light-colored, breathable clothing. Plan to garden during cooler times of the day like early morning.
Use tools safely: Many gardenrelated injuries can be from using tools improperly. Ensure that all gardening tools are in good working condition, with sturdy handles. Store tools safely when not in use. If you’re unfamiliar with a tool, ask for a demonstration or assistance.
For more information, resources, and events, visit lifestreaminc.org/stepin
Dementia Outreach Specialists Making Strides
LifeStream’s Dementia Outreach Specialists – Christy Davidson of Area 6 and Kelly Smith of Area 9 – received their Memory Screener Training Workshop certificates from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America this past fall and are now certified to perform memory screenings across our 12-county service area.
A memory screening is a simple and safe evaluation tool that checks memory or other thinking skills. Memory screenings can indicate whether an additional checkup by a healthcare professional is needed.
Here are a few questions to help you decide if a memory screening might be beneficial:
- Am I becoming more forgetful?
- Am I misplacing things often?
- Am I becoming lost while driving or walking?
- Am I repeating the same thing to family and friends?
- Am I having trouble concentrating?
- Am I having difficulty performing familiar tasks?
You can visit www.lifestreaminc.org/memory-screening-request to take a
Hands-on Educational Event for Family Caregivers A Success!
Thanks to our partnership with Ball State University School of Nursing, family caregivers had the opportunity to learn hands-on care tips from Ball State nursing students.
Participants rotated through 6 different stations, ranging from different aspects of hands-on care to an immersive station that allows a caregiver to experience life with mild cognitive or sensory impairment.
Thank you to everyone who made this event possible, and to the caregivers who joined us—your constant dedication is appreciated!
Help for you and your loved one starts here.
If you step in to provide help or assistance to a friend, family member, or loved one –you’re a caregiver.
LifeStream Services can help with support, transitions, education, and planning for those who STEP In to caregiving.
Programs and resources include:
Caregiver Kits (Memory, Parkinson’s, & Kinship)
Care Team Resource Binder
Care Coaching
Powerful Tools for Caregivers
Speakers Bureau
Dementia Friends
Memory Cafés
Caregiver Support Groups
Respite Care
PASTA - Parenting A Second Time Around
Staying Connected
For many older adults, isolation can often lead to depression and loneliness. Find some helpful ways to stay connected to your community. Here are a few ways LifeStream can help!
Blooming Health: Sign up to receive call or text notifications from LifeStream about new programs or events near you. To register, call 765-405-0022 or email ekatz@lifestreaminc.org
Café Sites: LifeStream has senior community cafés throughout 12 counties in Indiana. Lunch is available on a donation basis to those who are 60 years of age and over and their spouse.
Volunteer: The LifeStream Volunteer Program matches students, children, adults and groups with community needs. We have an opportunity for almost anyone to contribute — contact us for information about volunteer opportunities!
Wellness Classes: LifeStream is dedicated to promoting healthy and active living in the communities we serve. We provide a variety of health and wellness programs and classes, both virtual and in-person, to help promote active living among older adults, people with disabilities, and their caregivers.
Virtual Tours: With the help of Ball State University student volunteers, LifeStream invites you to travel from the comfort and safety of your home to sites around the world. Our playlist of virtual tours is added to periodically, so check out our YouTube playlist often at bit.ly/LifeStreamTours
For a complete list of nutrition sites, virtual events and tours, wellness classes, social events, and volunteer opportunities to take part in, visit: lifestreaminc.org
Headquarters
1701 S. Pilgrim Blvd. Yorktown, IN 47396
Madison County
1 Plaza Dr. Suite 6 Pendleton, IN 46064
Wayne County
2404 National Rd. W. Richmond, IN 47374
