Whistlestop February 2019

whistlestop.org February 2019 Marin’s Older Adult Community Connection Since 1954

Pg 3: A Toast to Love and Connection for People with Dementia Pg 10: Whistlestop Driver Shares the True Value of Her Job Pg 11: Tribute to a Beloved Meals on Wheels Driver Santa Rosa • Rohnert Park Cotati • Petaluma

Novato

Forest Knolls

Fairfax THE POWER OF LOVE AND CONNECTION

San Anselmo

Social Connection • Giving Back Resources • Information Hub Classes & Activities

Ross Kentfield Greenbrae

Richmond El Cerrito

Larkspur Corte Madera Mill Valley

Muir Beach

Marin City Sausalito

San Francisco • South San Francisco San Bruno • Daly City • Pacifica

Tiburon

FE B RUA RY 2 019 WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS

Stinson Beach

San Rafael

1

info@whistlestop.org

Laurence Suter-Gunn Programs Director lsuter-gunn@whistlestop.org

WHISTLESTOP PERSPECTIVE

Jennifer Golbus

He Epitomized the Power of Love and Connection Marketing Strategist jgolbus@whistlestop.org

, CEO

Development Director info@whistlestop.org

Programs Director lsuter-gunn@whistlestop.org

Whistlestop Express Editors 916.751.9189 john.bowman58@gmail.com

, Volunteer Manager volunteer@whistlestop.org

WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS FE B RUA RY 2 019

President Vice President Treasurer Secretary

Advertising dmccoy@pacificsun.com Advertising mmisz@pacificsun.com Production kara@metroactive.com

Publisher rolson@pacificsun.com

W

WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS O C TO B E R 2 018

Marketing Strategist jgolbus@whistlestop.org

WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS O C TO B E R 2 018

W

e de dow John and Val Bowman 14/2 14 Whistlestop Express Editors yea 916.751.9189 home, long an

By Yvonne Roberts john.bowman58@gmail.com since our youn WHISTLESTOP WHISTLESTOP PERSPECTIVE Laurie Vermont Volunteer – whatever was ,real and Manager personal problems in their ’ve been 930 Tamalpais Avenue volunteer@whistlestop.org away, is simply happening in need theiraffordable lives. housing, and San Rafael, CA 94901 lives. He would greet each reflecting a bittersweet goodbye www.whistlestop.org journey, leaving theWith houseOrville’s thatfriendly, there is a shortfall of caller with compassion on the would be one offor the two most people.

Main office open M-F 9am-5pm past hundreds of assisted living appreciative and upbeat and understandingwe socalled that home the of Frontconcept Desk – 415.456.9062 meaningful things I ever BOARD OFand DIRECTORS 28 years. It’s also been memory care units to Transportation – 415.454.0902 manner, he quickly became unconditional they felt like they could rooms we didn great fun to explore our meet the 2030 demand. did.” Orville was a true Meals on Wheels – 415.457.4636 President Dennis Ryan, love. To me, an an ambassador of goodwill handle whatever they I was new were neighborhood near One small part of the gem to Whistlestop.

Help Desk – 415.459.6700 of the yard tha Beth Reizman, President unconditional for Whistlestop.

IVice invited him struggling with. downtown San Rafael. resource@whistlestop.org housing solution in Marinheartened to hear him say To receive by email can’t help butTom wonder lovethe isExpress a very gratifying Bonomi, to support, fund, and that he was rewarded to speak aboutisTreasurer the hidden Soon after we met,I Orville too. decad saw, and sign up at whistlestop.org. For how much harder it would streamline the internal experience of loving poor inButler, Marin Secretary at donor process Orville connected with Fabia extended his volunteering annual subscription mailed to your be to do this if we were tohe create more accessory home, send $10 towithout Whistlestop. expecting seemed to repr someone house parties, spoke to our Meals on Wheels Jackson people and in turn gave in our 70s or 80s?Sharon What dwelling units. The new units anythingSTAFF in return. It is a on at Whistlestop home-delivered meal WHISTLESTOP his love, kindness, options are thereRobert for stage older Sonnenberg wegood weren’t wa can be for a caregiver, a family completely selfless act of Joe O’Hehir special about or the service. Each year people duringin Marin as their eventsmember humor, understanding, and the homeowner, Cynthia Wuthmann Yvonne Roberts what is best for all, me we had a wanting lifestyles Will circumstances who canofthen rent out thecompassion. Heof some the month of March, the change?dire taught there be enough resources another person no matterBy Linda Jackson, main house.he In San Rafael, Program of the meal recipients, local town and city mayors about the power of love and to be deserved for people who want to PACIFIC SUN STAFF Laurence Suter-Gunn the number of new accessory what the situation. I haveDirector, Aging Action was interviewed by the local would ride along togrow make connection.

Orville Teising older in their home dwelling units doubled last had the joy of both givingInitiative and new, happy fam papers as a Whistlestop epitomized unconditional meal deliveries. I joined and community? Danielle For those McCoy, Advertising year, and the city is on track Jennifer Golbus receiving unconditional love. facing dementia or declining andtohe love. Our dear Orville volunteer, wasthat in again. We need Orville and the mayors double dmccoy@pacificsun.com e decided to The challen Orville Teising was a giver. health, will they have what of Whistlestop passed away on December to do this across Marin! a number and witnessed compassion downsize this John and Val Bowman they need for safety, care Marianne Misz, I met him eight years ago TheAdvertising Aging Action Initiative 19 after a courageous battle would we mov “testimonial” videos. in action.

Orville made year.

Our family and companionship? is enthusiastic about San mmisz@pacificsun.com when he was volunteering home, long genuine an empty nest with cancer. He will be In one such video, Orville connectionsThe with question for Marin Rafael City Council’s recent We and wanted a onVermont Whistlestop’s since our youngest ones flew Laurie fondly remembered the people on his route and was interviewed about his Kara Production is: what percentage of Brown,support of assisted living in away, is simply too large Information and Referral cherished. residents to choose helped the recipients feel is goingkara@metroactive.com meal deliverydowntown. volunteerThis new housing in a neighborh There were lineOF toDIRECTORS help incoming for two people. to stay in San Rafael as BOARD comfortable talking with approval portends well role and he said, “It’s a rooms we didn’t go into, parts Yvonne Roberts is the Chief Donorwalk a Olson, Publisher proposed they grow older? Rosemary According we can callers Dennis Ryan, find the resources for gets Whistlestop’s the we mayors. toss-up for who more of the yard that never They would Relations Officer and has been with Beth Reizman, to a national survey by rolson@pacificsun.com affordable older adult Whistlestop for nine years.

Tomthey Bonomi,needed to deal with saw, and decades oflaughs, stuff thatstories, share sorrow …

I had no idea that it to restaurants AARP in 2012, about 90% of Fabia Butler, housing project in downtown seemed to reproduce when Sharon Jackson older adults intend to stay San Rafael. We are excited Robert Sonnenberg we weren’t watching. Most the movies. Af in their own homes for the OUR MISSION to see new housing options Cynthia Wuthmann of all, we had a home that next 5 to 10 years.

MEAL DELIVERY SERVICES WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS for older people in Marin, deserved to be full with a searching, we PACIFIC SUN STAFF People| working with ext. 176 Whistlestop believes we share a Whistlestop Nourish 415-456-9062 and Val Bowman, Whistlestop Express Editors especiallyJohn in places where new, happy family.

Danielle McCoy, older adults are aware of Meals on Wheels Eligibility (Marin County) | 415-457-4636 916-751-9189 | john.bowman58@gmail.com they walk to may be the ve responsibility to can ensure allservices Marin The challenge was: Where ACTIVE AGING CENTER the issues facing people as and shops and be part of the Marianne Misz, would we move to in Marin?

Jennifer Golbus, Marketing & Communications TRANSPORTATION residents to age they grow SERVICES older. Will there have an opportunity 930 Tamalpais Avenue | San Rafael, CA 94901 unit in Marin community.

We wanted a smaller place jgolbus@whistlestop.org be housing forProgram others who KaraOpen Brown,Monday-Friday 9:00AM-5:00PM CarePool Volunteer Driver | 415-454-0927 with dignity, independence and grace.

Aging Action Initiative is in a neighborhood where want to downsize?

Will there Travel Navigators/Marin Access Eligibility | 415-454-0902 Website: whistlestop.org | Email: info@whistlestop.org No doubt ab a network of more than 130 Rosemary Olson, we can walk about, close enoughRide housing for the Schedule abe Paratransit | 415-454-0964 PACIFIC SUN STAFF organizations, including Guest Services Reception | 415-456-9062 ext. 100shops, and to restaurants, people who in Marin process of dow Cancel a Paratransit Ridework | 415-457-4630 Rosemary Olson, Publisher | rolson@pacificsun.com Whistlestop, that addresses the movies. After months of Volunteer – those who are caregivers, OUR MISSIONOpportunities | 415-456-9067 community issues through Kara Brown, Production | kara@metroactive.com searching, we found what Resource Office 415-459-6700 healthcare managers, and daunting. It t Whistlestop believes we |share a the lens of aging. It focuses OUR MISSION may be the very last new responsibility to ensure all Marin LIKE US on findingTO Covia Home Match & Social Call | 415-456-9068 homecare experts? What ADVERTISE PLEASE CONTACT: ways to age-inresidents have an opportunity to age unit in Marin. of sorting, a m low-income people who to Whistlestopabout believes we share aon responsibility Danielle McCoy, Advertising | dmccoy@pacificsun.com Facebook with dignity, independence and grace. community, and having JACKSON CAFÉ No doubt about it, theensure all Marin needresidents affordable housing, have an opportunity to MarianneaMisz, Advertising | mmisz@pacificsun.com economic security, place to of millennials process of downsizing isage with dignity, or people who need extra Monday-Friday | 11:30AM to 2:00PM independence and grace. call home, and transportation daunting. It took months care, like assisted living or LIKE US for older adults. boxes to give a of sorting, a moving crew memory care? The recent on Facebook Want to receive the Express at home? Send $10 to of millennials, and many report, Older Adult Housing LIKE US on Facebook!

For information, check out donate things for an annual delivered print subscription, boxes to give away andWhistlestopin Marin: Planning for www.agingactioninitiative.org facebook.com/WhistlestopMarin Cover design by Missy Reynolds or sign up at whistlestop.org for a free email version.

2 donate things we don’t 2030, estimated that 7,000 or contact Sami at support@ 2 need anymore of today’s older residents agingactioninitative.org. need anymore. It’s been

I

2

By Linda Jack Director, Agin Initiative

From left, Terry O’Neill-Nargiz, Paul Nargiz, Cara Wykowski, Kit Lewis, and Michelle Rugani-Lewis.

A Toast to The Power of Love and Connection

S

an event called “A Toast to Love.” Staff members brought in wedding photos, stories were shared, and two couples renewed their wedding vows.

“Caring for a family member with memory loss can be exhausting,” explained Pepp. “We wanted to create a special opportunity for family caregivers to remember the people they fell in love with, and also, to share in the joy of remembering with their Senior Access community.”

For caregiver/wife Terry O’Neill-Nargiz, donning her wedding gown and renewing her vows was a powerful experience. It reminded her of the love she shared with her husband and allowed her to reconnect with the man she married many years ago.

Exciting Announcement for Those Affected by Memory Loss!

2019 will bring great changes for memory care in Marin! Seniors at Home, a program of Jewish Family and Children’s Services (JFCS) will be opening Skyview Day Club on January 30, 2019, at 70 Skyview Terrace in San Rafael (the current location of Senior Access).

Senior Access will dissolve as of January 29, 2019, but Skyview Day Club will retain the same programming, services and staff that Senior Access has provided families for over 45 years, including the Excursion Program, on-site Club, Brain Fitness classes, community memory

screenings, and respite and support groups for family caregivers. As a result of this change, families will also benefit from JFCS’s senior services and its Center for Dementia Care, which provides personalized care plans, practical emotional support for families, and inhome services.

Senior Access welcomes any questions about these upcoming changes. Contact Dana Pepp at 415-491-2500, ext. 110 or dpepp@ senioraccess.org.

FE B RUA RY 2 019 WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS

enior Access is Marin’s resource for memory wellness, providing a wide range of memory care resources to the estimated 8,000 Marin residents living with memory loss and their families. According to Dana Pepp, Chief Growth Officer, the power of love and connection is a central ingredient in the overall health of Senior Access clients. “One of the key contributing factors to memory wellness is social connectedness. Feeling connected, part of a group and being hugged daily is very important. It improves people’s overall and cognitive health.”

Several years ago, Senior Access clients, family members and staff celebrated together at

3

WHISTLESTOP VOLUNTEERS

Barbara Olson

B

ay Area native Barbara Olson has had many adventures in her life and a long legacy of volunteering.

Barbara began her travels in Tehran and London when she worked for an engineering company, which gave her an eye-opening look at other cultures. She became the international company’s first female manager. Not satisfied to stop there, she eventually moved into system engineering in the computer

world for a 30-year career. grandparents, whose Barbara moved to San purpose was to help people in great distress. They were Francisco but learned she two of the highest ranking wasn’t a city girl so she individuals in the newly moved to beautiful Marin founded Salvation Army. in 1971. Post-career, she They helped worked in shortpeople get out term jobs in of extremely senior housing difficult and academia. situations in the Barbara has UK, Australia, worked with a Africa, and variety of people eventually the and industries, United States. solving business Over the years, problems, of the Barbara has helping them always had a implement hand in one-day business

By LAURIE or short-term changes and VERMONT volunteering troubleshooting. opportunities.

She traveled Then she found Whistlestop, extensively and discovered whose goal to help older that she loved helping adults live at home with people. independence, dignity and Barbara may have grace matched her beliefs. received her volunteer It was the first time she gene from her great-

VOL UNT EER MONTH

felt she could commit to a volunteer organization. As a Meals on Wheels driver for the past two and a half years, Barbara loves being a small but integral piece of a large service-oriented organization that never stops caring about its clients and its volunteers.

“Many clients thank me for doing what I do, but I always let them know I get much more from them than the time I give. I usually get a big smile.”

Erika Vaughn, the Meals on Wheels and Whistlestop Nourish Program Manager, said, “The world is a better place because of volunteers like Barbara Olson. She may not realize this, but she is a Superwoman to all of us at Whistlestop for the impact she makes.”

To learn more about volunteering for the Meals on Wheels program or other volunteer opportunities, contact Laurie: volunteer@ whistlestop.org or 415-456-9067.

WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS FE B RUA RY 2 019

CAFÉ GUYS TABLE

4

Standing from left: Franklin Amster, Harvey Firestone, Bill Brennen. Seated from left: Don Bixby, Rich Gosse, Dick Savage, Denis Savage.

Every day at the Jackson Café, a group of men gathers to enjoy good food and good company. They have developed friendships at Whistlestop and a sense of camaraderie. Rich Gosse said, “It’s just like the sign says!

Fresh. Affordable. Delicious!”

They enjoy sharing nutritious food and love talking and joking with each other.

HAPPENINGS@WHISTLESTOP FEBRUARY

WEEKLYACTIVITIES

FRIDAYS

COMPUTER

EXERCISE

LANGUAGE

TIME

CLASS

INFO

9:45AM-10:45AM 10:00AM–NOON 10:30AM-NOON 10:30AM-NOON 11:00AM-NOON 12:30PM-1:45PM 2:00PM-3:30PM 9:30–10:30AM 10:00AM–NOON 11:30AM–12:30PM 1:00PM–3:00PM 3:00PM-4:00PM 1:00PM-2:00PM 3:00PM-4:00PM 3:00PM-5:00PM 10:00AM–NOON 9:30AM-12:30PM 11:15AM-12:15PM 10:30AM-NOON 12:30PM-1:30PM 2:00PM-3:30PM 3:00PM-4:00PM 3:30PM-4:45PM 9:00AM-10:00AM 11:00AM-NOON 12:30PM-1:30PM 1:00PM-2:00PM 1:00PM–2:30PM 2:00PM-3:00PM 9:00AM-10:00AM 9:15AM-10:15AM 10:30AM-NOON 10:30AM-NOON 11:00AM–NOON 1:30PM-3:00PM 2:00PM–4:00PM 3:00PM-4:00PM

Zumba Gold Computer Lab German Social Group Persian Social Group Tai Chi Russian Social Group ESL 100, 150, 250 Resumes 2/4 Whistlesizers Mah-Jongg French All Levels Spanish 2 Spanish 1 French Social Group Too Much Stuff?

Matter of Balance Starts 2/5 Computer Lab Monthly Food Box for Seniors 2/20 Beginner Ukulele Persian Social Group Inter. Ukulele ESL 100, 150, 250 Resumes 2/4 Capoeira Citizenship Exam Prep Resumes 2/6 Rollin’ Root Farmers’ Market Whistlesizers Italian 3 Italian Study Group Adv. Write Your Life Stories Italian 2 Community Breakfast 2/1 Age Reversing Essentrics Cal-Fresh 2/1 & 2/15 BrightStar Health Check 2/8 & 2/22 Brown Bag Pantry Spanish Social Group Ping-Pong Yoga with Kelly

Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in Register Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in Register Register Drop-in Register Register Drop-in Register Register Drop-in Register Drop-in Drop-in Register Drop-in Prerequisite required Register Drop-in Drop-In (415)697-7411 Drop-in Register at 11:30 am Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in

Active Aging Center Closures: Monday, February 18 for President’s Day

MISC

FEE $6/8 Free Free Free $8/10 Free $40/45 $4/5 Free $3/5 $3/5 $3/5 Free Free Free Free Free $40/45 Free $40/45 $40/45 $8/10 $35/$40 $4/5 $30/35 $2/4 $20/30 $30/35 $3/6 $6/8 Free Free Free Free $2/4 $3/5

ONGOING

EVENTS

Active Aging Center Holiday Closures Closed for President’s Day on Mon, Feb 18

Rollin’ Root Mobile Farmers Market Truck

Thursdays rain or shine; 9-10am The Agricultural Institute of Marin’s Mobile Farmers Market visits Whistlestop every Thursday rain or shine. Purchase local seasonal fruits and vegetables with ease right here at Whistlestop.

Basic Life Story Writing, 4-week series, Part 1

Thursdays, Feb 7, 14, 21, & 28; 3-4:45pm; $40/50, plus $10 textbook fee payable to facilitator first day of class This Basic Life Story Writing 4-week workshop uses universal themes and sensitizing questions to help you rediscover memories and continue your life story writing. Weekly writing assignments will be done at home. You must complete Part One to take this class.

Community Breakfast

Fri, Feb 1; 9-10am; $3/6; Drop-in Stop by and enjoy our tasty, hot breakfast buffet.

Older Adult Housing Information Session

Wed, Feb 13; 11am-Noon; No fee; Registration suggested: 415-456-9068 Jen Arent, director of Covia’s Home Match Marin, will discuss senior housing options in Marin. Information about Covia’s free, Home Match Marin’s comprehensive home sharing services to older adults and the Marin Housing Authority’s subsidized and low-cost housing will be shared.

Healthy Aging Workshop

Thur, Feb 21; 12:30-2pm; No fee; Registration required Are you interested in evaluating and improving your health?

Join Wells Whitney, board member of the Buck Institute, for a presentation of his healthy aging scorecard. Dr. Whitney will help you evaluate and identify the areas where you can improve your health and your life.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 >

FE B RUA RY 2 019 WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS

THURSDAYS

WEDNESDAYS

TUESDAYS

MONDAYS

FOOD

For a full list of classes, visit whistlestop.org/classes/ calendar or call 415-456-9062, ext. 100

5

< CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

RETURNING

CLASSES

ESL Starts Week of Feb 4-May 8

Mondays and Wednesdays; 2-3:30pm Sign up before Feb 1 for a $5 discount $35/40; after Feb 4, pay $40/45. We will be offering levels 100, 150 and 250.

Citizenship Prep Class

Resumes Week of Feb 4-May 8; Wednesdays; 3:30-4:45pm Sign up before Feb 1 for a $5 discount ($35/$40); after Feb 4 pay $40/$45. Naturalization is the process to voluntarily become a U.S. citizen if you were born outside of the United States. You may be eligible if you can show continuous U.S. residence for three to five years, are at least 18 years old, and demonstrate good moral character and loyalty to the U.S. Constitution. If you are currently studying for your Citizenship Exam and need additional support, join us.

Valentine’s Day Luncheon with the Tina Carella Trio

Thur, Feb 14; $10, Limited number of tickets available day of event Beau Taplin said, “Once a deep and powerful connection between two people has been made, they become a vital part of each other’s lives and there is no separating them.” Join us for a celebration of love and connection at our Valentine’s Day Luncheon.

SPECIAL EVENTS &

Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit Expo

Offered by Marin County Commission on Aging Thur, Feb 7; 9am-12:30pm Reserve a spot at sanrafaeljadu.eventbrite.com Come to Whistlestop to find out all about Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADU). California has recently streamlined requirements for conversion of a bedroom/bathroom to a legal rental. The Marin County Commission on Aging will conduct its monthly business meeting from 11am-Noon. All are encouraged to attend.

Estate Planning WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS FE B RUA RY 2 019

Thur, Feb 7; 3-4 pm; No fee; Registration required Come learn about a variety of nutrition-related topics, like diet modifications, why to eat organic, and cooking tips. Topics change each month.

Nutrition Bites Social Group

Thur, Feb 21; 3-4 pm; No fee; Registration required Are you a self-proclaimed foodie? This group is for anyone who loves food! We talk about restaurant suggestions and recipes, with a focus on how to eat healthier while still enjoying delicious food.

WORKSHOPS

6

Nutrition Bites Education Class

Wed, Feb 27; 10-11:15am; No Fee; Speaker Peter Tabet Join us for an in depth presentation on Estate Planning. Most people associate the phrase estate planning with having a will, a legal document that names your beneficiaries and spells out who gets what when you die. And while the transfer of your assets is an important part of estate planning, a will or a trust is just one aspect of a broader estate planning strategy to ensure your wishes are known, honored and carried out.

Tai Chi NEW TIME

Mondays, 11am-Noon; $8/10; Drop-in Join David Mac Lam on a Tai Chi journey. This non-competitive martial art, known for its self-defense techniques and health benefits, combines gentle physical exercise and stretching with mindfulness.

Capoeira in partnership with Abada Capoeira Marin

Wednesdays; 3-4pm; $8/10; Registration suggested Capoeira begins with a gentle warm up, followed by a series of acrobatic, martial art movements. This class for individuals and partners builds strength, balance and agility. Movements are led by the rhythm of the berimbau, a Brazilian instrument.

Vote for Whistlestop!

Forever Young Meditation (NEW!) Visit pacificsun.com

Starting Mon, Feb 4; 4-5pm Fee: $8/10 Join Rev. Libby Sherwood, a teacher and 20 year practitioner of yoga and meditation. All spiritual backgrounds are welcome. Starting February 4, join us in a peaceful and joyful experience by practicing meditation.

Matter of Balance

Starting Tue, Feb 5; 3-5pm; No Fee; Registration required A Matter of Balance is an 8-week structured group intervention that emphasizes practical strategies to reduce fear of falling and increase activity levels. Participants learn to view falls and fear of falling as controllable by setting realistic goals to increase activity, changing their environment to reduce fall risk factors, and learning exercises that increase strength and balance.

Vote for Whistlestop!

Visit pacificsun.com

HIGHLIGHTED

SUPPORT SERVICES

Cal-Fresh (eligibility & application assistance)

Fri, Feb 1 & 15; 10am-Noon; No fee; Call Cal-Fresh/ SF Marin Food Bank for assistance: 415-697-7411 The Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, Cal-Fresh, provides qualified applicants with an EBT card to use at participating grocery stores and Farmers Markets.

SF-Marin Food Bank’s Monthly Food Box for Older Adults

Wed, Feb 20; 9:30am-12:30pm; Drop-in The SF-Marin Food Bank operates the Supplemental Food Program, providing a monthly box of quality U.S. Dept. of Agriculture food to low income older adults. To register, bring an ID, proof of income, and proof of residency, and one of the Food Bank specialists will determine your eligibility.

NEW Nutrition Consultations

By Appointment Only; Mon-Fri, 9:30am-3:30pm Schedule a 30-minute session with our in-house Nutritionist, Sophia Osotio. Discuss your nutrition-related concerns or questions. Enjoy our new Whistlestop Member perk! Schedule an appointment with Sophia at 415-456-9062, ext. 115.

Bi-Weekly Blood Pressure, Cholesterol Screenings, & Medication Reviews

Fri, Feb 8 & 22; 10:30am-Noon; No fee Bi-weekly blood pressure checks, cholesterol screenings, and medication reviews offered by BrightStar Care. BrightStar is a local agency providing home care, caregivers, and medical staffing solutions to families and businesses in Marin.

Free Legal Consultation

Thursdays, by appointment only; Call 415-459-6700 Legal Aid of Marin provides free 30-minute legal consultations for Marin County residents who are 60+. Local volunteer lawyers offer general advice, explain legal options and rights, and recommend referrals to attorneys who have expertise in your particular area of concern.

Are you an older adult or a homebound or disabled individual who lives alone? Register today for free, reassuring calls three mornings a week to say, “Good morning” and check in with you. Call 877-797-7299 to sign up.

Entrees from $6-$10 Open to the public for lunch every weekday!

Located in Whistlestop Active Aging Center.

FE B RUA RY 2 019 WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS

Covia’s Social Call Program

7

Trusted providers of compassionate in-home care for seniors. licensed • bonded • insured

COMPUTER CLASSES FEB & MAR 2018

PRE-REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT REQUIRED: 415-456-9062

iPad/iPhone Basics 2: Essential Builtin Applications

Thursdays, Feb 5 & Feb 12, 10am-Noon (2 classes) Fee: $48 Maximum 8 people Review basics and learn about built-in apps including photo editing, iCloud, Calendar, Siri, E-mail, Texting, Facetime, and more! Please bring your fully charged device, Apple ID, and Apple password to class. (For Apple devices only)

Intro to Computers – Windows or Apple • • • • • • • •

Light Housekeeping & Laundry Meal Preparation & Clean Up Medication Reminders Personal Care • Respite Care Wardrobe, Dressing Assistance Help with Daily Grooming Bathing & Toileting Assistance Help with Ambulation

• Bed-bound Assistance • Protective Supervision for those with Impaired Judgment • Transportation & Errand Services • Companionship, Conversation • Meal Planning, Grocery Shopping • Help with Pets And much, much more…

Tuesdays, March 5, 12, 19, 26, 10am-Noon (4 classes) Fee: $78 Minimum 4 people & Maximum 6 people Designed for first-time computer users, you will learn how to start your computer and turn it off, use the mouse and keyboard to perform basic computer tasks, how to create and print a document, identify the basic parts of a computer and their use, search the Internet to find information and set up an email account.

ONGOING Open Lab

(707) 931-4280 • (415) 599-4333 northbay.homewellseniorcare.com

No Fee | Every Monday and Wednesday, 10am-Noon Use our Apple and PC computers to access the Internet. Volunteers are available to help and give advice on problems with your laptops and tablets and software applications.

WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS FE B RUA RY 2 019

Finding Our New Normal. Together.

8

As our region recovers from the 2017 fires, Healthcare Foundation, together with local and national partners, created the Wildfire Mental Health Collaborative. We want all local residents to have access to evidence-based strategies to recover and build resiliency post-wildfire, including: Drop-in counseling sessions • Individual and group counseling • Download the free app Sonoma Rises • Online wellness self-assessment MySonomaStrong.com • Restorative yoga and meditation sessions • Mental health professionals available to work with your group.

Please donate to fund these free bilingual services to support our employees, friends and neighbors in their healing. Visit healthcarefoundation.net or call 707-473-0583 today.

Free health services brought to you by the Wildfire Mental Health Collaborative— an initiative of the Healthcare Foundation Northern Sonoma County. Media campaign supported by the Community Foundation Sonoma County’s Resilience Fund, Constellation Brands and Medtronic. Support also provided by Tipping Point Community Emergency Relief Fund.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Staying Connected With Covia

no gas... all electric no noise... quiet power no license, insurance, maintenance

C

ovia is a Bay Area organization that is committed to aging well. They create, initiate, and support a variety of engagement programs to help older adults stay connected, active, and healthy, wherever they live.

Here are some of the amazing programs offered through Covia in Marin County:

Sales, Service, Repairs, & Rentals

415.457.1664

Home Match Marin formerly Home Share Program

Social connectedness is key to good memory health

contact: Jen Arent: 415-4569068 or jarent@covia.org.

Social Call formerly Telephone Reassurance Program and ElderWise

For many older adults, a compassionate, human presence in their lives can make a powerful difference.

Since 2009, Social Call has been matching fully vetted, trained volunteers with people over the age of 60 in need of companionship or just conversation. Because human connection makes life better for everyone. For more information: 877-7977299 or coviaconnections@ covia.org.

Well Connected formerly Senior Center Without Walls

Well Connected members call

in via a toll-free number at a set time each week, with some groups also offering the option to connect via computer, tablet, or mobile device. Most groups last 30 minutes to an hour with around 12 participants.

Newcomers are always welcome! If you don’t feel like talking at first, you’re welcome to just listen as long as you’ve let the group know you’re there. For more information: 877-797-7299, or coviaconnections@covia.org.

A Licensed Homecare Agency offering

Home Care Aide Services: Agency is employer; insured, bonded, Employees registered with the state

Celebrating 20 years of service

Geriatric Care Management:

Dignity • Respect • Personal Care • Safety

RN resource specialist and advocate for seniors and their families

All services managed by owner

Nancy Mack, RN, PHN, GCM

FE B RUA RY 2 019 WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS

For older adults who live alone, a little help around the house and companionship can make a huge difference.

Home Match interviews prospective homeowners and home seekers to check backgrounds and ensure compatibility, then connects people by researching personal preferences, house types, and interests. In some cases, accommodation can be provided in exchange for services, such as driving to the grocery store or lending a hand around the house. With this kind of arrangement, older adult homeowners can often continue to be successful in their own home, while lodgers have access to affordable housing so they can remain in the area and continue their good work.

For more information,

1281 Anderson Dr., Ste. F, San Rafael

9

GETTING AROUND

She Considers Whistlestop Passengers Her Family

By John Bowman

W

histlestop bus drivers are known for their caring manner and Claudia Taylor, 68, of Novato is a prime example. “You always have a happy face,” says Claudia. “And keep a positive attitude, especially with clients who are facing serious health challenges.”

Claudia has been driving Whistlestop buses for 15 years. Before that, she drove school buses in Novato for 17 years. She was having wrist problems because of the five-gear buses and mentioned it to a neighbor, John, who drove for Whistlestop. He encouraged her to apply there and she did. She’s been driving for

Whistlestop ever since.

Claudia has transported passengers to doctor’s appointments, shopping and often to and from dialysis appointments. “It can be hard, but we never talk about how serious their condition is unless they bring it up or want to talk about what they are going through. Then you know to listen.

“Sometimes they ask me what to do, how to proceed with their treatment, and when they do, I am always honest about what I would do for me, Claudia. They seem to appreciate my honesty.”

How does Claudia stay positive? “My job is my life; I live alone, no pets, one son, age 50, who I don’t see often,

Driver Claudia Taylor says, “This is my family, the people I drive.”

and two grandchildren that I am very proud of. By going to work and being surrounded by people I love and who care for me, that’s how I stay positive.”

She added, “I work six days a week. I form relationships with people by talking with them. This is my family, the people I drive – they are my extended family.”

10

E

veryday at Whistlestop’s Active Aging Center, you can see people hugging. Clients hug other clients, volunteers hug fellow volunteers, staff members exchange hugs to start the day. It is a common and heartwarming scene.

This simple but elegant gesture, according to an article in Psychology Today, provides complex responses that warm our heart and make us feel better.

“When most of us see people in distress, our empathy

kicks into gear and drives us to reach out – figuratively and literally – to comfort the wounded, whether they are victims of terror, disaster, or everyday hassles of heartache or stress. Once you reach out and offer a hand, a pat on the back, or a supportive embrace, you set in motion the body’s own means to a natural high – oxytocin production.

Oxytocin is a neurochemical that helps us build trust, that somewhat “dissolves” shortterm memory, and that makes you feel, well, warm all over.”

Stephanie Mohan

WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS FE B RUA RY 2 019

Hugs are Healthy!

At Whistlestop, the power of human connection is the main ingredient that informs everything we do. While most of us intuitively understand that human connection is the antidote to isolation and loneliness, we are starting to understand that it also makes us healthier. Medical experts agree. Leaders in the health field broadly recognize that many factors combine together to affect our health. In fact, a recent study showed that social, environmental and behavioral factors have a 60% impact on overall health, while genetics and healthcare accounted for only 20% each. Older adults in particular are more prone to illness if they become isolated. How wonderful to learn that connecting with others can not only make us feel happier but can improve our physical health as well!

Orville Was a Beloved Meals on Wheels Driver

By John Bowman

E

Orville & Erika

hated not being able to be at Whistlestop because he loved the place so much.

Then he said, ‘Kiddo, this might be the last time you see me.’ It was a rough visit but we laughed and talked about some of his clients.”

She added, “When I myself was diagnosed with cancer, Orville was one of the first people I told outside of my family. He said, ‘Stay positive; kick that cancer in the butt.’

On my rough days I would always remember that. He is my guardian angel.”

Orville told Erika he loved her so much that he wanted her to speak at his celebration of life. Erika said, “This will be difficult to do, but I will be strong for my friend so that I can honor him the way he honored us all through his good humor, compassion, and love of life.”

2018

Schedule a Tour!

Contact: Cheri Drees 415.383.2741 x223

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

FE B RUA RY 2 019 WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS

rika Vaughn, Whistlestop Meals on Wheels Manager, remembers Orville Teising as more than a volunteer.

“Orville was a dear friend.

He is the reason I am here today in this position.”

Orville was a beloved volunteer driver for the Whistlestop Meals on Wheels program since March 2013 and was honored as Whistlestop’s Volunteer of the Month in July 2018. Over the years he became a cherished member of the Whistlestop team, always expanding the ways in which he contributed. He passed away Dec. 19 after a courageous struggle with cancer.

“Orville was more than a volunteer to me; he inspired me over the years,” Erika said. “He always had a smile on his face and had a wonderful attitude. I learned so much from him. I started as a driver, then coordinator and now manager. Orville helped me all along the way.

He was such a great role model because of how he loved and treated our clients.

He always said our mission was to help them stay in their own homes and to age with grace.”

Erika recalls the last time she saw Orville, about a month ago. “I went to his home to have lunch with him. He told me that he

SNF# 010000390 RCFE# 210102866

11

Whistlestop

E PRESS Marin Senior Coordinating Council 930 Tamalpais Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901-3325

VOLUNTEER FAIR

Estate Planning Basics

By Serena D’Arcy-Fisher, CFRE

WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS FE B RUA RY 2 019

T

12

he beginning of a new year is a good opportunity to review, and possibly revise, your financial goals and estate plans.

What happens if you don’t have any estate plan at all? Do you need a will or a trust, or should you have both? If your estate is subject to probate, what does that mean? What is a durable power of attorney, and why might you need one? Who can help you create an estate plan, and how expensive would that be? How can you be sure that provisions of your plan will be properly carried out after you die?

Join us for a free presentation by Peter Tabet on Wednesday, February 27, 10-11:15am at Whistlestop.

Peter Tabet recently retired after a 40-year career as a Financial Advisor with Northwestern Mutual. His credentials include an Accredited Estate Planner (AEP) designation and an MBA from The Wharton School.

Peter will give you a comprehensive overview of the various elements

and issues involved in creating a comprehensive estate plan for yourself and your heirs.

This free presentation is part of the monthly estate planning series generously sponsored by Valley Memorial Park Cemetery and Funeral Home in Novato. First time attendees will receive an estate planning binder.

Drop-ins are welcome, but it helps us plan if you register: 415-456-9062. You can park in our free parking lot on the corner of 3rd and Tamalpais.

Need help with your estate documents? Older adults can schedule free half-hour appointments at Whistlestop with an attorney from Legal Aid of Marin. Call Whistlestop’s Information and Referral office: 415-459-6700.

To learn more about making charitable gifts to Whistlestop, please contact Serena D’Arcy-Fisher, CFRE at sfisher@whistlestop.org, or 415-456-9062, ext. 138.

Share the LOVE every day!

We are seeking friendly and reliable volunteers who want to give back to their community.

DATE

Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019

TIME

3:00pm – 4:30pm

930 Tamalpais Avenue, San Rafael

LOCATION

Volunteer positions include: • CarePool volunteer drivers • Meals on Wheels drivers • Jackson Café lunch servers & cashiers • General office help and Parking Services • Home Delivered Grocery Shoppers (in partnership with Covia) For more information contact: Laurie Vermont, Volunteer Program Manager Phone: 415-456-9067 or Email: volunteer@ whistlestop.org