Seniors in Action | July, August , September 2022

S E N I O R S in A C T I O N L ivin g Lon g er. Liv ing Sa fer. Liv ing Well.

JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

LETTER f rom I Z Z I E

Gathering. That is a little word that packs a whole lot of meaning for everyone since 2020. After two years of quarantine, cancelled events and social distancing, momentum is increasing as COVID cases are decreasing. We are hopeful that this trend will continue as people are interested in gathering once more to engage in activities, events, and educational programs.

Our calendars are finally filling up with in-person events like the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum trip that forty of our seniors enjoyed this past April. The 15th Annual Comedy Night has been scheduled for August 25 to provide laughter, fellowship, and the opportunity to raise funds to benefit our Home Delivered Meals program. Our team is optimistically planning fall events and even trips for 2023!

A common question we are asked now is, “When we will get back to in-person programming in the senior centers, now that COVID has subsided?” Although the COVID-19 Pandemic was a catalyst, our shift in how we serve seniors was not due to COVID. Our team was in the process of changing operations pre-pandemic from direct services (providing services ourselves) to indirect services (contracting and collaborating with community partners to coordinate services). Senior Center Without Walls (SCWW), our new model of service delivery, allows us to serve even more seniors and offer a wider range of activities and classes than before – all outside the walls of a senior center.

We have a video library under the “About” section of our website (sowegacoa.org) that explains SCWW. Anyone interested in partnering with SCOA to provide programs can connect with us to see how we can help.

In closing, we are excited about the expansion of the Claris Companion project to include an additional 50 tablets, for a total of 75, to benefit individuals who want to engage virtually (read more on page 13). Please call our ADRC at 1-800-282-6612 to find out of you qualify.

We hope you have a happy – and safe – summer filled with fun!

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VITAL VACCINES FOR SENIOR ADULTS

Vaccines are one of the absolute best deterrents to infection diseases and illnesses. Did you know that General George Washington mandated that his troops received the smallpox vaccination?

Or that the Chinese were given inoculation from smallpox as early at 1000AD? Vaccines have been around for a very long time. Most of you were likely given a shot for polio, measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox, and Hepatitis B when you were younger. Some of these also offer booster versions so ask your doctor about any needs for a booster for any of your previous vaccines.

We’re going to look at immunizations that you should have or consider getting. (continue reading on next page)

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Seasonal Flu Shot Some may not think the flu is not as serious as other diseases. However, for older adults it can lead to a hospital stay and sometimes even be fatal. The CDC has estimated that 71-85% of seasonal flu-related deaths and 54-70% of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations have occurred in people 65 years and older. Consider getting your flu shot to help minimize your chances of getting the flu and developing serious complications from it. If you’re 65 years and older, you also have the option of getting a high-dose flu vaccine, known as the Fluzone High-Dose, instead of a regular flu shot. It has four times the amount of antigen as a regular flu shot and it creates a stronger immune response for better protection.

Shingles vaccine To help protect against the painful skin rash, shingles, it is recommended for adults 60 years or older to get the zoster (trade name Zostavax) vaccine. Some people who get the vaccine still get shingles, but it cuts your chances in half.

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C OV I D -19 vacc in e Pneumococcal vaccines Pneumococcal disease is an infection that can result in pneumonia, infection of the blood (bacteremia/sepsis), middleear infection (otitis media), or bacterial meningitis. Did you know that one dose of pneumococcal vaccine protects 75% of adults 65 years or older against pneumonia? There are two pneumococcal vaccines: Prevnar 13 and Pneumovax 23. It’s recommended that all seniors, 65 or older, get both at different times. Medicare Part B covers both shots of the pneumococcal vaccine if they are taken at least 11 months apart. If you have Original Medicare, visit a physician or health care provider who accepts Medicare.

Hepatitis B Vaccine Hepatitis B (or hep B) is a contagious virus that infects the liver. Acute hep B, which usually lasts a few weeks, often mimics symptoms similar to the flu, like fever and nausea. Chronic hep B is long-term, often has no symptoms at all, and can cause liver damage or death. The reason we get the vaccine is because the liver and its function change as we age, making hep B more prevalent among older adults. Your risk of contracting hepatitis B increases if you have hemophilia, end-stage renal disease (ESRD), diabetes, or other conditions that lower resistance to infection. Acute hep B is particularly dangerous for older adults because there is no specific treatment for the symptoms. Ask your doctor if you’re up to date with your Hepatitis B vaccine.

Have you received your COVID-19 vaccination, yet?

To schedule an appointment with your local health department, please call 229-352-6567.

You can also visit https://dph.georgia.gov/covid-vaccine to register.

If you need assistance with scheduling your vaccine appointment, or answers to questions, you can call us at 1-800-2826612. We can help!

All vaccine recipients: • Will be required to wear a mask • Will be asked to remain in the observation area for 15 minutes • Bring a valid ID • Wear clothing that makes your arm easily accessible

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OMBUDSMAN UPDATE INVOLUNTARY DISCHARGE

Helping Residents understand their Rights When a long-term facility resident receives a discharge or eviction notice from a facility, the news can be pretty devastating.

Imagine how difficult it would be to receive a letter out of the blue stating that you had to leave your own home and find a new place to live and only had thirty days to go. Facing homelessness can be traumatic, stressful, frightening, and even more so for many vulnerable and often frailer older adults. In many instances, these residents can become separated from people they are accustomed to seeing, including their friends, community connections, and even their family members. They often lose a lot emotionally and financially and sometimes never recover. As a result, discharges or evictions have been the number one complaint Ombudsman Representatives receive. Our advocacy centers around helping residents avoid being kicked out and potentially becoming homeless or exploited.

In Georgia, Ombudsman representatives assisted 354 in FFY2020 and 301 in FFY2021, who faced eviction. Under federal law, there are only six reasons a resident can be forced to leave a nursing home: • The resident has not paid their bill • The resident endangers the safety of others • The resident endangers the health of others • The resident no longer needs nursing facility care • The facility is going out of business • The facility can no longer meet the resident’s needs When residents are evicted because of “bad behavior,” these behaviors can be associated with their medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

“Nursing homes who admitted these residents in the first place should be able to care for them and should use care planning and assessments to address these behaviors,” said Frances Guice, Ombudsman Coordinator. “But unfortunately, some facilities may just

discharge the ‘difficult’ resident. Nursing home facilities may cite incidents by the resident such as yelling, hitting, pushing, or mood swings as problematic. However, these behaviors can be common with residents with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and other options should be considered before evicting them,” states Guice.

When residents who have been diagnosed with mental capacity issues get eviction notices because of their “behavior,” the facility is required to provide additional documentation. “The resident’s physician must list the resident’s needs, show why the current facility cannot meet those needs, the attempts to modify care to fit resident needs, and why the new facility can better serve the resident,” Guice added.

A ‘written’ discharge notice is required by law. The laws add that the notice to the resident and the resident’s representative is in a language they both understand. The notice must provide the reason for the eviction, the discharge date, where the resident will be transferred, an explanation of the resident’s appeal rights, and the contact information for the Ombudsman program. The notice must be given at least 30 days prior to the discharge date.

Suppose a resident wants to appeal a discharge. In that case, an appeal must be filed within 30 days of receiving it, so the clock begins the moment the notice is received. “Discharges can be appealed successfully, and the resident can reach out to the Ombudsman program to help start the process,” says Guice. Once the appeal is sent, the resident has a right to remain in the facility during the appeals process. “A verbal notice is not official: the notice must be in writing.”

Residents have other rights regarding an involuntary discharge, including requiring a discharge plan that should include a safe location and an orderly discharge, transferring any personal funds, care, and the resident’s medications. If facility staff pressures a resident to move, the resident should contact the Ombudsman program

TOP COMPLAINT CATEGORIES 400 300 200 100 0 Discharge or Eviction

Dignity, Respect Staff attitudes

Failure to respond to requests for assistance

Food Services

Housekeeping, Laundry, Pest control, infection control

Source: Georgia SLTCO Annual report FedeSourcral Fiscal year 2021 (Oct. 1, 2020-Sept. 30, 2021)

for help.

“In some instances, when an Ombudsman Representative gets involved, we discover that the reason the resident hasn’t paid the facility is they were being exploited by a family member or that they have issues with the resident’s Medicaid application,” says Guice. “Often, we work closely with other agencies such as the Elderly Legal Assistance Program (ELAP), Adult Protective Services (APS), case managers, or the Area Agencies on Aging, like SOWEGA COA staff, to coordinate help for the resident.”

In 2021, during the COVID-19 Pandemic, several assisted living facilities in South Georgia closed their doors, citing staffing and other reasons. U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff (D-Georgia) recently raised concerns during a U.S. Senate Banking Committee hearing. “I frequently hear from constituents that when seniors can find affordable housing, that the difficulties operators of senior-oriented and assisted living facilities face in sustaining their business models can pose dire challenges

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for seniors seeking housing,” Ossoff said in the hearing. “The only assisted living facility that accepts Medicaid patients in Camden County, Georgia, closed last summer giving residents just 30 days to find a new place to live.” (The Brunswick News, Vol.120 Number 168 April 2-3, 2022) A Sowega Council on Aging Ombudsman Representative was involved with that event and assisted residents and family members. “Sadly, many residents in that closure were displaced,” says Guice. “Some moved as far as hundreds of miles away or into more institutionalized homes because it was their only choice. It was horrible and traumatic for residents and families, and our community is left with a deficit.”

Contact the Georgia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program with concerns about residents, including involuntary discharges or eviction notices at 1-800-282-6612 (in South Georgia) or 1-866-552-4464 (Statewide toll-free line).

Be The Voice for Seniors!

Make their futures stronger.

We have a seat at the table for you as we seek to advocate for the seniors of Southwest Georgia. Together, can affect change and ensure an increasingly better quality of life for our loved ones.

Areas of Advocacy ADRC/Senior Hunger Coalition Meeting | August 18 **See Calendar of Events on pg. 39 for details

Are you a senior who STRUGGLES WITH LONELINESS? Or a caregiver who needs MORE PEACE OF MIND while away from your loved one?

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It’s more important than ever that today’s seniors are connected to friends, family, social outlets, and tools to improve health. Yet, many seniors struggle with isolation due to physical or economic constraints. Sowega Council on Aging (SCOA) can help overcome these constraints by using the latest tablet technology built just for seniors and made available for use – free of charge!

The Claris Companion tablet provides a unique combination of intuitive senior-friendly software on an easy – and fun device. Each tablet is programmed to the needs of the senior user, with everything they need available on the home screen with just one touch of a button. In addition, seniors enjoy many tablet features, including video calling, messaging, virtual events, web browsing, wellness checks, medication reminders, photos, and videos.

Thanks to generous grant funding, we are excited to announce the expansion of our Claris Companion program to include your county. As a result, we are now accepting enrollee applications for a limited time. If you are interested in learning if you or your loved one qualifies for a Claris Companion tablet, please call our ADRC at 1-800-282-6612. A representative will gladly assist you in learning more.

IT'S SIMPLE AND EASY! • No tech experience required • Training and customization for each senior • It’s intuitive and fun • It’s secure

CLARIS COMPANION BENEFITS • Improvement in well-being • Learning new information & skills • Less loneliness and feelings of isolation • Better Health Management • Increased physical activity • Development of stronger support systems • Peace of mind for Caregivers

TABLET FEATURES Email and Text Messaging • Video Calling Medication Reminders • Exercise Videos Photo and Video Albums Automated Alerts • Internet Data Plan

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GA MES v ia PHONE BINGO Teleconference Join this BINGO Teleconference for a game of fun with friends! From your home, call in and play along! Registration is not required. If you do not already have a BINGO card, please call (800) 2826612 and one will be mailed to you.

2nd Tuesday of every month at 2:30 pm Call information: Dial (646) 876-9923 Meeting ID: 834 7879 2095# Passcode: 878525# Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/91273949514?pwd=cHRkUTJhL 1dXKzkyZ09ManEySUdwQT09 Meeting ID: 912 7394 9514 Passcode: vA18QZ If you do not already have a BINGO card, please call (800) 282-6612, and one will be mailed to you.

EASY T RI VI A co n fe re n ce Test your knowledge in a game of Easy Trivia. From the convenience of your home, call in and play along to see how much you know! Have pen and paper ready to record your answers. Registration is not required.

1st Tuesday of every month at 2:30 pm Call Information: Dial (646) 876-9923 Meeting ID: 834 7879 2095# Passcode: 878525# Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/97895824953?pwd=N3lUVHpld TdJT3VZcFhXTmxJVC90UT09 Meeting ID: 978 9582 4953 Passcode: LzEHJ6 Seniors in Action | 15

Join Us for a Day Trip to the Springer Opera House

Friday, Sept. 30

SCOA day trip AD

See Calendar of Events on pg. 34 for trip details

summer

REGIONAL SENIOR RESOURCE FA I R

SCOA resource fair ad spread

July 15

Colquitt Regional Sen Resource ior Fair

Seniors and caregivers are invited to attend the SCOA Summer Resource Fair to gather resources and information that support living better lives.

Resource Fair includes: • FREE Admission • Georgia Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program • Nutrition and Health Education • Access to Aging Network Providers • Giveaways **Please see pg 32 for location and details.

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PHOTO GALLERY SEE WHAT’S BEEN GOING ON ACROSS SOUTH GEORGIA

A group of 40 seniors had a blast on the Ark Encounter trip in April. The group toured the Ark Encounter, the Creation Museum, Cincinnati Art Museum and the Aquarium.

Spring Creek Heath - Shape Up Miller organized a floral arrangement class for participating seniors through the Miller County Activity Grant.

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The Boys and Girls Club volunteered to stuff produce bags alongside certified SFMNP farmer, Elton Baldy of Colquitt County.

Edith Bradley (right) and Jennifer Fykes (left) of MIDS-Bainbridge have been assisting seniors with transportation since 2014.

A Group Art Therapy Class was hosted through the Thanks Mom and Dad Foundation at the Grady County Library.

Back together again! Our AmeriCorps Senior volunteers enjoyed a day of training, food and fun at the Volunteer Training & Luncheon.

The Cross Church of Camilla, a recipient of SCOA Activity Mini-Grants hosted a variety of spring activities.

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P H YSICAL ACTIVITY

BENEFITS OF SWIMMING

If you’re looking to start a new exercise routine or looking to change to something lower impact, swimming is a wonderful option. It is low impact and has a low risk of injury while working out all the muscle groups in the body. Read below for more of the health benefits of swimming for older adults.

• Improves heart health. Because swimming is a type of aerobic exercise, it makes your heart stronger and improves your endurance. It can also lower blood pressure and improve circulation, which helps your overall cardiovascular health.

• Gentle on the joints. Because swimming is low impact and not weight bearing, it’s very easy on your joints. This is especially helpful for someone experiencing joint pain or discomfort.

• Reduces osteoporosis risk. Because swimming can improve bone mineral density (BMD), it can help fight osteoporosis. A third of women and a fifth of men over the age of 50 break a bone due to osteoporosis.

• Flexibility. Stretching before or after 20 July-September 2022

any exercise session can help you regain flexibility, but swimming itself can also help you to increase flexibility in your hips, legs, arm and neck while also helping to improve your posture and relieve or lessen back pain.

• Improve muscle strength and tone.

Because swimming uses every muscle group, it can help improve your overall strength and muscle tone.

• Boost mental health. Swimming can reduce stress levels, boost your mood, and increase your brain function.

Because water aerobics classes and other swimming activities are often done with a group of people, it can help you to avoid feeling isolated or lonely too. https://www.asccare.com/swimming-forseniors/

L IF E STY L E MANAGEMENT

MANAGING CHRONIC PAIN

Living with a chronic condition like COPD, diabetes, heart disease, or others can be difficult as they require continuous treatment and can continue to create new challenges after your diagnosis. This can all take a toll on your mental health, and it can be hard not to feel sorry for yourself. While a chronic condition certainly makes life a little more complicated, there are steps you can take to ensure that a new diagnosis doesn’t stop you from enjoying life.

• When you first learn about your diagnosis, it’s important to learn what you can about it. This can be empowering and also give you steps and actions you can control, rather than focusing on the things you can’t.

• However, all the new information you’re learning can be overwhelming, and it’s important to remember that you’re not going to make a huge life change overnight. Take small, action-oriented steps.

• When your diagnosis and everything that comes with it starts to seem overwhelming, it’s a good idea to figure out what your motivation is. Whether it’s

family and friends or a certain hobby or passion, knowing your motivation can help you to push through on the harder days.

• Once you know your motivation, you can also work on adjusting certain activities and expectations. If you know your time outside with your grandchildren is important, then you can prioritize that and use a chair or walker to make sure you still spend that time with them.

Likewise, if other activities are not something that motivates you, adjust your expectations to reflect that.

• Lastly, a positive mental attitude and daily gratitude can go a long way in making you feel better about your situation.

Having a chronic condition can certainly make a life a little more complicated and even harder at times, but don’t let it stop you from living a happy life. Happiness is something everyone has to work at. https://seniorplanet.org/thriving-despitechronic-pain/ Seniors in Action | 21

AWA RE NESS & PREVENTION

BEAT THE HEAT OF SUMMER

As the temperature rises this summer, the risks of heat exhaustion and heat stroke rise with it. For older adults the risks of heat related issues are even higher, as they have a harder time dissipating the heat.

Everyone can learn how better to protect themselves from the heat with the tips below: • Check the forecast. Before planning to be outside in the heat, check the weather forecast on your phone or online. Weather apps will often tell you if the weather is not considered safe for sensitive groups. Check the humidity levels when looking at the weather as well, as the humidity can further prevent you from dissipating the heat.

• Drink water. Staying hydrated is important regardless of the weather, but it’s crucial if you plan to be outside or indoors without air-conditioning.

Don’t wait until you feel thirsty.

• Scale back. As we get older, none of our bodies respond well to the heat, and this is even more true if you are taking medications that may affect your 22 July-September 2022

response to the heat. It’s okay to scale your activities back because of this.

• Check in. When there’s a big heatwave, it’s a good idea to check in with others who may be more sensitive to the heat and ask them to do the same for you.

In addition to understanding ways to protect yourself from the heat, it’s also important to know heat related warning signs. A heat rash, or a cluster of pimple-like blisters, may be the first sign of a heat related issue. This can then progress to heat cramps, which involve heavy sweating and muscle pain or spasms. This can further progress to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which may both involve headaches, nausea, dizziness, and more. A heat stroke usually means that the body temperature has risen to 103 degrees Fahrenheit or more, and someone with heat stroke may also be confused, pass out, and/ or have a rapid pulse. https://seniorplanet.org/heatwaves-andsenior-health/

NUTRITION

HEALTH BENEFITS OF WATERMELON

Watermelon is one of the perfect treats for a hot summer day, but there’s more to the fruit than its sweetness or juiciness. It also comes with lots of health benefits, making the summer treat even sweeter. Read below to learn more about the top health benefits of watermelon.

Hydration: Because watermelon is made up of about 92 percent water, it is a great source of hydration. Staying hydrated helps to improve your health in many different ways including temperature regulation, normal organ function, improved digestion, and more. Because watermelon is mostly water, it’s also a low calorie snack!

Vitamins and Nutrients: Despite being low in calories, watermelon is packed with lots of vitamins and nutrients including potassium, magnesium, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C. It also contains antioxidants like Vitamin C, carotenoids, lycopene, and cucurbitacin that combat free radicals and the damage they can do to your cells.

Anticancer effects: Plant compounds like lycopene and cucurbitacin E are thought to have anticancer effects. Lycopene is thought to lower blood levels of a hormone

that promotes cell division and cucurbitacin E may slow tumor growth. However, more research is needed on the effects of these compounds on cancer.

Heart health: The lycopene in watermelon may also help lower cholesterol and blood pressure which can reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. The amino acid, citrulline, contained in watermelon may increase nitric oxide levels in your body, which in turn help your blood vessels expand, and lower blood pressure.

Inflammation and oxidative stress: The antioxidants, lycopene, and Vitamin C in watermelon are thought to lower inflammation, a key driver for many diseases, and oxidative damage.

Macular degeneration prevention: Yet another benefit of the lycopene found in watermelons and its antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties is the benefits it may provide for your eyes by preventing age-related macular degeneration. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ watermelon-health-benefits#TOC_TITLE_ HDR_9

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Sowega Council on Aging presents the 15th Annual

Comedy Night Benefiting the Home Delivered Meals Program

Thursday, August 25 Sherwood Baptist Church Fellowship Hall 2201 Whispering Pines Road Doors open at 5:30 pm Dinner served at 6:00 pm Show begins shortly after dinner is served.

Tickets are $50 in advance, $60 at the door (with limited availability) Tickets go on sale August 1 at sowegacoa.org

Featuring Comedian Ty Barnett A Chicago native, Ty started his career at Seattle’s “Comedy Underground”, and his star keeps rising!!

Dedicated to “BRINGING THE FUNNY”, he’s been called hilarious, a true talent, naturally funny, and thought provoking.

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PEDALING FOR PARKINSON’S Research has shown that riding a stationary bicycle can reduce motor symptoms of Parkinson’s by up to 35%. Start cycling today with our Pedaling for Parkinson’s program.

FREE PROGRAM – space is limited Call 1-800-282-6612 to reserve your seat.

See Calendar of Events for schedule

Caring Is Heroic.

But even Heroes need help.

Sowega Council on Aging’s Family Caregiver Program provides emotional support, resources, education and hope to those providing in home care to seniors. Assistance includes respite care and material aid. Monthly support group meetings let caregivers share information with those who understand.

Dealing with Dementia Workshop Oct. 13, 8:30 am First United Methodist Church, Albany CA L L 1- 800- 2 8 2 - 6 6 1 2 TO L E A R N M O R E

Pre-registration is required. **See details on pg. 32 Seniors in Action | 25

FALL 2022 | OCTOBER 10-14, 2022

SAVANNAH, JEKYLL ISLAND & BEAUFORT, SC

$635 per person

Price includes: • Motorcoach transportation • 4 nights lodging • 8 meaLs (4 breakfasts, 4 dinners) • Guided Trolley Tour of Savannah (followed by hop on/off privileges) • Guided tour of St. Simon’s Island, Jekyll Island, and Beaufort, SC with a visit to Paris Island • Evening show at the famous Savannah Theatre and more!

Deposit of $75 due upon registration.

Final payment due 8/3/2022.

Register at www.sowegacoa.org Travel Insurance available upon request Price is for double occupancy.

Add $179 for single room, limited spaces.

A signed release of liability and waiver for COVID-19 will be required to participate in the upcoming trips.

save the date more info to come

Myrtle Beach Show Trip April 24-28, 2023 Smoky Mountains Show Trip October 2-6, 2023

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Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays at 10:00 am Grab your favorite cup of coffee and connect with seniors from your county over the phone from your home! Calls are scheduled for 10:00 am on Mondays Wednesdays, and Fridays. We encourage seniors to use this time to socialize with friends, tell stories, and catch-up with one another. Please refer to your county for call information. *If you have a laptop, tablet, or smartphone and would like the option to join virtual Zoom programs that do NOT require pre-registration, please call (229) 432-0994 and provide your name and email. You will be added to all meeting invitations.

COFFEE CONNECTIONS TEL ECONF EREN C E

Baker – Dial (229) 431-3050 Pin # 1234

Lee – Dial (229) 435-7272 Pin #1234

Calhoun – Dial (229) 432-1131 Pin # 1234

Miller – Dial (229) 435-2425 Pin #1234

Colquitt – Dial (229) 435-6531 Pin # 1234

Mitchell – Dial (229) 435-9366 Pin #1234

Decatur – Dial (229) 432-6531 Pin #1234

Seminole – Dial (229) 436-3632 Pin #1234

Dougherty – Dial (229) 439-7148 Pin #5555

Terrell – Dial (229) 432-1866 Pin #1234

Early – Dial (229) 432-1595 Pin #1234

Thomas – Dial (229) 435-9779 Pin #1234

Grady – Dial (229) 435-1903 Pin #1234

Worth – Dial (229) 439-8608 Pin #1234

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NEED A RIDE? WE CAN HELP! Transportation can be scheduled for medical appointments, local shopping trips, or meal services.

CALL 1-800-282-6612 TO LEARN MORE. *A 3-day notice is required when scheduling. Transpor tation is dependent on eligibility.

LEND A HELPING HAND Donations for senior programs and services are encouraged to help support meals, transportation, and activities for senior citizens in your community.

The power to stay connected with family and friends.

Please send donations to: Sowega Council on Aging PO Box 88, Albany, GA 31702 or visit our website at www.sowegacoa.org.

Call 1-800-282-6612 if you have questions.

We appreciate your support!

If you or someone that you care for have trouble hearing over the phone, Georgia Relay can help with services like Captioned Telephone (CapTel®).

This service allows users to engage freely in conversation, listening and speaking while also reading captions on an easy-to-read screen.

CapTel is a registered trademark of Ultratec, Inc.

To learn how you can obtain a CapTel phone at low or no cost, call 1-888-269-7477 (Voice/ TTY) or visit www.GeorgiaRelay.org today!

1.800.283.0041

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GET PLUGGED IN TO THE COMMUNITY NEAREST YOU! Check out what we have to offer this month around the region.

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Lee- Cheshire Park Trail Miller- Downtown Colquitt Courthouse Mitchell- Mitchell Co Stadium in Camilla Seminole- Track by Seminole Co Elementary Terrell- First Baptist Church of Dawson Thomas- Cherokee Lake Park Worth- Poulan City Park

AGING & DISABILITY RESOURCE CONNECTION/SENIOR HUNGER COALITION Thursday, August 18 – 9:00 am The ADRC/Senior Hunger Coalition focuses on innovative solutions to combat food insecurity. We collaborate with new community partners to implement projects throughout our service area. You can join in-person or by Zoom – Call (800)-282-6612 for more information.

ADVOCACY OPPORTUNITIES

Baker- Senior Center Parking Lot Calhoun- Track by Health Department in Morgan Colquitt- Tom White Walking Trail Decatur- Boat Basin Track Dougherty- River Front Park or Tift Park Early- Blakely Senior Center Grady- Davis Park

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENTS

SENIOR STROLL Walking Sites for Seniors Below are recommended local walking sites within each county. Seniors are encouraged to start their own weekly walking groups.

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FREE NUTRITION EDUCATION CLASSES Virtual Class 4th Wednesday of each month - 10:00 am & 11:00 am These virtual group classes are taught by a Registered Dietitian from Open Hand Atlanta. Each session includes interactive discussions, group activities, recipes, and games. Learn how to plan healthy meals, build a strong immune system, incorporate more fruits and veggies into your diet, and how to become overall a healthier person.

The Open Hand Atlanta Dietitian will also offer FREE one-on-one nutrition education for individuals and customized nutrition coaching.

All participants must pre-register to attend these classes by calling 229-432-0994.

EDUCATION & LEARNING SUPPORT

DEALING WITH DEMENTIA WORKSHOP October 13, 8:30 am First United Methodist Church, Albany Pre-registration is required This free workshop is hosted by the Alzheimer Outreach Center and is for those caring for someone with Dementia. Learning how to manage problem behaviors and how to relieve stress and find time for you.

To reserve your spot email Nancy Goode, nancygoode@bellsouth.net or call (229) 432-2705

AARP SMART DRIVER COURSE Albany – SCOA Regional Resource Center * Pre-registration is required for these classes July 12 & 13, 9 am – 12 pm (must attend both days) $20 AARP Member / $25 Non-Member Call Donna Dowling (229) 886-0130 for details or to register August 16 & 17, 9 am – 12 pm (must attend both days) $20 AARP Member / $25 Non-Member Call Blande Cleesattle at 229-435-2316 for details or to register September 13 & 14, 9 am – 12 pm (must attend both days) $20 AARP Member / $25 Non-Member Call Kimberly Knighton at 229-291-3564 for details or to register

SUMMER RESOURCE FAIRS & GEORGIA SENIOR FARMERS MARKETS July 15 – 9:00 am – 12:00 pm The First Baptist Church, 351 E. Pine Street, Colquitt (Serving Miller, Calhoun, Early, Decatur, and Seminole Counties) Seniors and caretakers are invited to attend these regional events to gather resources and information to help them live better lives. Aging network providers from all over Georgia will be available to connect you to resources and answer your questions. The fairs will include the Georgia Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program. This federally funded program offers fresh fruits and vegetables to eligible participants at approved market sites each year. Farmer’s Market participants will also receive nutrition and health education on the benefits of fresh fruits and vegetables.

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OPEN HAND ATLANTA DIABETIC SELF-MANAGEMENT CLASS July 13 – August 17 (6 week workshop) from 1 – 3 pm Limited to 12-15 people (virtual) This class is for those who are pre-diabetic, diabetic or caring for a person with diabetes. Learn how to manage diabetes successfully.

The following classes are available at Sowega Council on Aging’s Regional Resource Center.

CHAIR FITNESS Monday and Thursday - 10:00 am In this class, you will work to improve your stamina, strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination with the assistance of a chair. Chairs and equipment will be provided.

For anyone not able to attend, tune in to the SCOA YouTube Channel and enjoy these workouts from the comfort of your home. *No class July 4 or September 5

Monday - 11:00 am This fun and motivating class will be sure to get you moving while learning some of the more popular line dances. No previous dance experience required. *No class July 4 or September 5

TAI CHI FOR ARTHRITIS AND FALL PREVENTION Skills Session Wednesdays - 10:00 am A certified instructor leads this program to build skills and experience Tai Chi and its benefits.

PEDALING FOR PARKINSON’S TM Wednesdays - 2:00 pm An exercise and support group for participants living with Parkinson’s Disease.

The program is free, but the class size is limited to 10 participants. Must have medical clearance and referral to participate. Call (800) 282-6612 to reserve your seat.

Easy and safe excercise videos are also available on the SCOA YouTube channel.

WELLNESS CLASSES & GROUPS

LINE DANCING CLASS

AGING MASTERY PROGRAM WORKSHOPS Mondays - 2:30 pm (90-minute classes) for 10 weeks, July 18 – Sept 19, 2022 This workshop focuses on 10 topics with various speakers, including, 1) The Basics of Aging Mastery, 2) Exercise and You, 3) Sleep, 4) Healthy Eating and Hydration, 5) Financial Fitness, 6) Advance Planning, 7) Healthy Relationships, 8) Medication Management, 9) Falls Prevention, 10) Community Engagement.

VIRTUAL TAI CHI FOR ARTHRITIS & FALL PREVENTION Tuesdays at 10 am and 1:30 pm – August 16 – November 29, 2022 *Jennifer Crosby, Instructor. Call (800) 282-6612 for more information Seniors in Action | 33

DAY TRIP – “THE BODYGUARD” Friday, September 30 at 7:30 pm at the Springer Opera House Come enjoy a show with friends. The bus for Columbus, Georgia leaves at 4:00 pm from Sowega Council on Aging (335 W. Society, Ave. Albany) and returns around 11:30 pm.

Registration Deadline: September 9 The cost is $45 and includes the show ticket and transportation. Bring money for supper.

COFFEE CONNECTIONS

SOCIAL ACTIVITES

Monday, Wednesday, Friday - 10:00 am Grab your cup of coffee and connect with seniors from your county over the phone from home!

Use this time to socialize, tell stories, make new friends, and catch-up with one another.

A phone line has been designated for each county below.

Baker Dial (229) 431-3050 Pin # 1234 Calhoun Dial (229) 432-1131 Pin # 1234 Colquitt Dial (229) 435-6531 Pin # 1234 Decatur Dial (229) 432-6531 Pin # 1234 Dougherty Dial (229) 439-7148 Pin # 5555 Early Dial (229) 432-1595 Pin #1234 Grady Dial (229) 435-1903 Pin #1234

Lee Dial (229) 435-7272 Pin #1234 Miller Dial (229) 435-2425 Pin #1234 Mitchell Dial (229) 435-9366 Pin #1234 Seminole Dial (229) 436-3632 Pin #1234 Terrell Dial (229) 432-1866 Pin #1234 Thomas Dial (229) 435-9779 Pin #1234 Worth Dial (229) 439-8608 Pin #1234

15TH ANNUAL COMEDY NIGHT FEATURING COMEDIAN TY BARNETT Thursday, August 25 – Doors open at 5:30pm, Dinner served at 6pm Enjoy a load of laughs and delicious dinner with friends - all to benefit SCOA’s Home Delivered Meals program. Tickets are $50 in advance, $60 at the door (with limited availability). Purchase your tickets online at sowegacoa.org beginning August 1!

DAY TRIP – “THE BODYGUARD” AT THE SPRINGER OPERA HOUSE Friday, September 30 – 7:30 pm Come enjoy a show with friends. The bus for Columbus, Georgia leaves at 4:00 pm from Sowega Council on Aging (335 W. Society, Ave. Albany) and returns around 11:30 pm .The cost is $45 and includes the show ticket and transportation. Bring money for supper.

34 July-September 2022

BEEYONDER VIRTUAL TOURS Join live walking tours of some of the world’s most beautiful places! Seniors can join in the fun in-person at the SCOA Regional Resource Center to watch on the big screen or can participate from their tablet or computer!

• Thursday, July 14 at 3 pm – Belgium “Bruge, The Venice of the North” (Live Walking Tour) • Wednesday, August 31: 1 – 2 pm – Portugal “Cascais, Town of Fisherman and Kings” (Live Walking Tour) • Thursday, September 8: – 2:30 – 3:30 pm – England “Beatles Swinging London” (Live Presentation)

Call (800)-282-6612 for more information on August and September events.

EASY TRIVIA TELECONFERENCE 1st Thursday of the month at 2:30 pm - July 7, August 4, September 1 Test your knowledge in a game of Easy Trivia. From the convenience of your home, call in and play along to see how much you know! Have pen and paper ready to record your answers. Registration is not required.

Call Information: Dial (646)876-9923 Meeting ID: 834 7879 2095# Passcode: 878525# Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/97895824953?pwd=N3lUVHpldTdJT3VZcFhXTm xJVC90UT09 Meeting ID: 978 9582 4953 Passcode: LzEHJ6

BINGO TELECONFERENCE 2nd Thursday of the month at 2:30 pm – July 14, August 11, September 8 Do you miss playing BINGO? Join this BINGO Teleconference for a game with friends!

Call in and play along. Registration is not required.

Call information: Dial (646)876-9923 Meeting ID: 834 7879 2095# Passcode: 878525# Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/91273949514?pwd=cHRkUTJhL1dXKzkyZ09ManE ySUdwQT09 Meeting ID: 912 7394 9514 Passcode: vA18QZ

GAME DAY & BINGO In-Person 3rd Tuesday of each month, 9am - noon Join with friends for a fun time of games - including everyone’s favorite - BINGO!

Seniors in Action | 35

NEED MORE INFORMATION? Contact our offices at 1-800-282-6612.

We’d be happy to assist you!

Phone numbers for Coffee Connections can be found on page 27

JU LY

2022

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

10 AM Coffee Connections

No Activities

5

4

11

10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Chair Fitness 11 AM Line Dancing

10 AM Coffee 18 Connections 10 AM Chair Fitness 11 AM Line Dancing 2:30 PM Aging Mastery 10 AM Coffee 25 Connections 10 AM Chair Fitness 11 AM Line Dancing 2:30 PM Aging Mastery

12 9 AM - 12 PM Smart Driver

19 9AM - Noon Game Day & BINGO

26

10 AM Coffee 6 Connections 10 AM Tai Chi 2 PM Pedal Parkinsons

7 10 AM Chair Fitness 2:30pm – Easy Trivia (Virtual)

14 13 9 AM Smart Driver 10 AM Chair Fitness 10 AM Tai Chi 2:30 PM BINGO 2 PM Pedal Parkinsons (Virtual) 10 AM Coffee 3 PM Beeyonder Tour Connections 10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Tai Chi 2 PM Pedal Parkinsons

20

8 10 AM Coffee Connections

15 9AM Resource Fair Colquitt 10 AM Coffee Connections

21 10 AM Chair Fitness

22 10 AM Coffee Connections

27

28 10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Chair Fitness 10 AM Tai Chi 11 AM Nutrition C;ass 2 PM Pedal Parkinsons

1

29 10 AM Coffee Connections

AU GUST Monday

202 2

Tuesday

Wednesday

10 AM Coffee 1 Connections 10 AM Chair Fitness 11 AM Line Dancing 2:30 PM Aging Mastery

2

10 AM Coffee 8 Connections 10 AM Chair Fitness 11 AM Line Dancing 2:30 PM Aging Mastery

9

10 AM Coffee 15 Connections 10 AM Chair Fitness 11 AM Line Dancing 2:30 PM Aging Mastery

9 AM Smart Driver 16 9 AM - Noon Game Day & BINGO 10 AM Tai Chi (Virtual) 1:30 PM Tai Chi (Virtual)

10 AM Coffee 22 Connections 10 AM Chair Fitness 11 AM Line Dancing 2:30 PM Aging Mastery

23

10 AM Coffee 29 Connections 10 AM Chair Fitness 11 AM Line Dancing 2:30 PM Aging Mastery

38 July-September 2022

3 10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Tai Chi 2 PM Pedal Parkinsons

10 AM Tai Chi (Virtual) 1:30 PM Tai Chi (Virtual)

10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Tai Chi 2 PM Pedal Parkinsons

Friday 4

10 AM Chair Fitness 2:30pm – Easy Trivia (Virtual)

10

9 AM ADRC/Hunger Coalition 10 AM Chair Fitness

24

25

31 10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Tai Chi 2 PM Pedal Parkinsons

10 AM Coffee Connections

12 10 AM Coffee Connections

18

9 AM Smart Driver 10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Tai Chi 2 PM Pedal Park.

10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Tai Chi 11 AM Nutrition Class 2 PM Pedal Park.

5

11 10 AM Chair Fitness 2:30 PM BINGO (Virtual)

17

30 10 AM Tai Chi (Virtual) 1:30 PM Tai Chi (Virtual)

Thursday

10 AM Chair Fitness 6 PM Comedy Night

19 10 AM Coffee Connections

26 10 AM Coffee Connections

SE P T E M BE R Monday

Tuesday

2 02 2

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday 1

10 AM Chair Fitness 2:30pm – Easy Trivia (Virtual)

5

6 10 AM Tai Chi (Virtual) 1:30 PM Tai Chi (Virtual)

No Activities

12

7

10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Tai Chi 2 PM Pedal Parkinsons

14

9 AM Smart Driver 10 AM Tai Chi (Virtual) 1:30 PM Tai Chi (Virtual)

9 AM Smart Driver 10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Tai Chi 2 PM Pedal Park.

10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Chair Fitness 11 AM Line Dancing

10 AM Tai Chi 20 (Virtual) 1:30 PM Tai Chi (Virtual) 9 AM - Noon Game Day & BINGO

10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Tai Chi 2 PM Pedal Parkinsons

26

27

10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Chair Fitness 11 AM Line Dancing

19

10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Chair Fitness 11 AM Line Dancing

10 AM Tai Chi (Virtual) 1:30 PM Tai Chi (Virtual)

21

28

9 10 AM Coffee Connections

15 10 AM Chair Fitness

16 10 AM Coffee Connections

22 10 AM Chair Fitness

10 AM Coffee Connections 10 AM Tai Chi 11 AM Nutrition Class 2 PM Pedal Park.

10 AM Coffee Connections

8 10 AM Chair Fitness 2:30 PM BINGO (Virtual)

13

2

23 10 AM Coffee Connections

29 10 AM Chair Fitness

30 10 AM Coffee Connections 4 PM Day Trip

26

Seniors in Action | 39

P.O. Box 88 | Albany, GA 31702

Select programs and services are supported in part by the United Way.

Note: Sowega Council on Aging does not necessarily endorse or recommend the advertisers in this publication.

Another great way to help Sowega Council on Aging financially is to save postage money.

Sign up online to receive this newsletter and other communications in your email. www.sowegacoa.org *If you would like to support the congregate meal program, please include your donation in the self-address stamped envelope inside.

40 July-September 2022