SENIORS in ACTION
Living Longer. Living Safer. Living Well.
Caring Made Easier with Sowega Council on Aging & CareABC
Caring for a loved one at home can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. SCOA has teamed up with CareABC, your on-demand guide for family caregivers, to provide the knowledge and support you need—anytime, anywhere.
With SCOA and CareABC, you gain:
• Step-by-step, on-demand guidance for caregiving at home
• Practical tips to manage daily care routines with confidence
• Resources designed to reduce stress and improve quality of life
• Local support and outreach, rooted in community care
"Family caregivers are the backbone of our community. With CareABC’s on-demand guidance and SCOA’s local support, we ensure caregivers are never left alone in their journey of care.”
– Dr. Johannes
scan to learn more.
Together, we empower caregivers and strengthen families.
For details, visit us online at sowegacoa.org/care-abc/
OMBUDSMAN UPDATE
How Long-Term Care Facilities Can Support Their Residents’ Right to Vote
Ombudsman representatives remind and educate residents and facility staff that residents do not lose any of their rights just because they move into a facility. Many residents may remember times in history before the Voting Rights Act of 1965 when it was difficult or impossible for certain groups, such as women and people of color, to participate in free elections in our country. Earning that right was not so easy. The right to vote is sacred. Many treat it as a gift not to be taken for granted, even as the process continues to face new challenges.
As you may imagine, residents of long-term care facilities sometimes have a harder time voting due to mobility, health and other issues that inhibit their ability to cast a ballot. Despite these issues, long-term care facilities should have plans in place to ensure that residents can vote. Staff, such as social workers or activities staff, can assist residents to check their registration status, register to vote or change the address on their voter registration by visiting the Georgia My Voter Page at https://mvp.sos.ga.gov/s/. Through this site, an absentee ballot can be requested, residents can view a sample ballot for the upcoming election and view their ballot status after they send their mail-in vote to the local Board of Elections office. It is important that staff and residents are keenly aware of certain deadlines so that residents don’t lose their opportunity to vote.
by
Kaleena
Morgan
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Representative Program Coordinator, South Region
In Georgia, residents have several options to cast their vote: absentee ballots, early voting and voting in person on Election Day. Residents should be able to choose the method of voting that they prefer and that works for them. Facilities can help by providing supplies like postage, assisting with mail-in voting and absentee ballot requests or even providing transportation for residents to the polls.
Ombudsman representatives support residents’ right to vote and advocate on behalf of all residents to ensure they have the opportunity to participate in our electoral process. You or your loved one can contact an Ombudsman representative in your area at (866) 552-4464 for assistance.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Leslie Jones Administrative & Programs Manager
I have been with the Sowega Council on Aging for six years, and it has truly been one of the most enjoyable and least stressful jobs I have ever had. As the Administrative and Programs Manager, I oversee all administrative functions for the agency. I make sure bills are paid, vendors are taken care of, and the systems that support our daily work stay organized and accurate. I also work with and oversee our community programs, which allows me to stay connected to the seniors we serve. Seeing how everything operates on an administrative level, then watching those efforts turn into real services for older adults, has been both eye-opening and rewarding.
When I first came to SCOA, I knew nothing about writing grants. With guidance from our Executive Director, Izzie Sadler, and some online courses, I learned how to write competitive proposals. Today, I am proud to say the grants I have written have been awarded more often than not. Each time we secure funding, it means more classes, more programs and more support for the people who depend on us. That is something I never take for granted. I believe in excellence in every task, whether it is paperwork behind the scenes or securing resources that help seniors stay healthy and independent.
One of the most rewarding parts of my job is doing interviews and presentations on behalf of SCOA. Public speaking has never been something I enjoyed, but this job changed that. It is easy to speak confidently about our mission because I believe in it with my whole heart. When
I share what we do, I know I am helping seniors learn about services, families find support, and communities understand how important aging resources are.
We help older adults by providing education, exercise and resources that improve their quality of life. In return, the work we do helps those of us at SCOA live better lives, too. I meet people who are grateful, relieved and hopeful, and moments like that remind me why this work matters. Serving others brings me joy, and I see what we do here as a ministry.
I love my job, and I love knowing that my work has purpose. Whether I am managing administrative tasks or representing the agency in the community, I feel blessed to be part of this mission and part of a team that cares deeply about our seniors.
Written by Wendy Bellacomo
A new year has a way of making us pause and consider where we are and where we’d like to go. For many older adults, January brings an opportunity to check in on personal goals, health, routines and priorities. Instead of focusing on big resolutions, the idea of New Year, New You can be as simple as deciding to make small, positive changes that improve daily life. Those changes don’t have to be dramatic. A short daily walk. A standing lunch date with a friend. Trying a new class. Drinking more water. Adding one extra serving of vegetables each day. Small habits add up, and over time they can strengthen the body, support better balance, improve mood and increase confidence.
STAYING ACTIVE MATTERS
As we age, movement becomes even more important for staying strong and independent. Daily activity helps maintain muscle, protects joints, improves balance and reduces the risk of falls. It also boosts energy and can make everyday tasks feel easier.
Many seniors are surprised by how much better they feel just by adding small amounts of movement to their routine. Ten minutes of walking after breakfast, light stretching before bed, or low-impact exercise a few times a week can make a noticeable difference. Those who prefer structure or accountability may enjoy the activities offered through SCOA and our Senior Recreation Partners. Fitness classes and social opportunities are great ways to stay active while also having fun and meeting others.
Some enjoy yoga or balance classes. Others prefer chair-based routines or dancing. There is no “right” way to exercise — the best activity is one you will stick with and enjoy. The goal is simply to move more in whatever way works for your body and comfort level.
KEEPING THE MIND STRONG
Healthy aging depends on more than physical activity. Staying mentally engaged is equally important. Learning new skills,
challenging the brain and staying active socially all contribute to better overall wellness.
This might mean taking a class, joining a card group, reading more often or picking up a hobby that has been set aside for a while. Creative activities such as painting, sewing or gardening provide more than entertainment. They help reduce stress and keep the mind stimulated. Even small daily habits, like working puzzles or learning to use a new app, support brain health. Many seniors also find that meeting new people makes a significant impact on their well-being. Social activities available at the SCOA Regional Resource Center or any of our Senior Recreation Partner locations offer a comfortable place to stay involved, enjoy conversation and avoid feeling isolated. One visit can turn into new friendships, regular routines and a stronger sense of connection.
PURPOSE MAKES A DIFFERENCE
A strong sense of purpose is one of the most important factors in living well. Purpose can come from many places — family, faith, hobbies, learning or serving others. For some, it may be helping with grandchildren or participating in community groups. For others, it may be setting a personal goal, traveling, trying new recipes or simply staying active. Volunteering is another meaningful option. SCOA has volunteer needs throughout the year, and seniors are often a perfect fit for those roles. Many appreciate having a routine, working with others and knowing their time makes a difference. Even a few hours a month can provide connection, purpose and a renewed sense of accomplishment.
ASKING FOR HELP WHEN NEEDED
Another part of taking care of yourself in the new year is recognizing when support could make life easier. Many older adults take on more than they need to simply because they are used to being
independent. But help with transportation, daily tasks or long-term planning can make aging at home safer and less stressful.
SCOA’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) can connect seniors and caregivers with answers and resources. Staff can help with questions about benefits, home support services, Medicare or options for long-term care. Reaching out for information early can help families plan, avoid crises and stay prepared for what comes next.
SMALL STEPS ADD UP
The idea of New Year, New You does not mean reinventing everything. It simply means choosing habits that support a healthier, happier year. You might start by:
• Going outside for a daily walk or light exercise
• Scheduling regular time with friends or family
• Trying a class at the SCOA Regional Resource Center or a Senior Recreation Partner location
• Drinking more water throughout the day
• Setting a small personal goal, like reading more or learning something new
One small step often leads to the next. Many seniors say they didn’t realize how much better they could feel, both mentally and physically, until they added just a little movement, connection or purpose back into their routine.
THE YEAR AHEAD
SCOA remains committed to helping older adults live well, stay active and remain connected. Whether you are looking for fitness opportunities, social activities, volunteer options or help navigating resources, support is available.
This year is a chance to check in with yourself and set a course that feels good — not overwhelming, not stressful, just steady and positive. A fresh start doesn’t require a calendar date, but the beginning of the year is a natural place to begin.
New Year, New You is not about becoming someone different. It’s about taking care of the person you already are. And a small decision today can make this year one of your healthiest and happiest yet.
Written by Wendy Bellacomo
Every day in Southwest Georgia, families are quietly doing some of the most important work there is — caring for loved ones at home. Some are helping aging parents manage medications. Others are assisting a spouse recovering from surgery or supporting a family member living with dementia. No two situations look the same, but most caregivers have something in common: they often feel like they are figuring things out on their own.
A PARTNERSHIP BUILT FOR CAREGIVERS
To make that journey easier, the Sowega Council on Aging has launched a partnership with CareABC, an on-demand digital platform that gives caregivers immediate access to training, guidance and practical stepby-step support. For a limited time, this service is completely free to local caregivers thanks to SCOA’s ongoing commitment to strengthening families and improving care at home.
CareABC is designed for real people facing real challenges — not medical professionals and not those with endless time to research every detail of care. Many caregivers step into the role suddenly, with little warning and no formal training. A loved one comes home from the hospital and needs help getting up safely. Dementia causes new behavior changes that are confusing and difficult to manage. Or the caregiver simply needs reassurance that they are doing things the right way. CareABC meets those needs by turning complex caregiving skills into simple easy-to-follow instructions and short video demonstrations available at any time.
REAL GUIDANCE FOR REAL CHALLENGES
The platform currently offers three expert-developed courses:
• Caregiving Essentials
Helps families become confident and capable with day-to-day care
• Discharge
From Hospital to Home, a guide for navigating the stressful transition after a hospital stay
• Dementia
A Caregiver’s Guide, which provides compassionate practical support for families caring for someone with cognitive decline.
New topics will continue to be added as the platform grows, expanding the library of tools available to local caregivers.
Because CareABC is available online families can learn at their own pace. There are no schedules, no classroom requirements and no need to wait for appointments. If someone needs to learn how to assist with bathing, manage medications, understand mobility supports or respond to dementia-related behaviors, they can find guidance right from their phone, tablet or computer, even in the middle of the night if that is when questions come up.
SUPPORT THAT STARTS AT HOME
What makes this partnership meaningful goes beyond the convenience of video tutorials. CareABC pairs its digital support with SCOA’s local resources, giving caregivers access to real people and real help right here in Southwest Georgia. Caregivers can turn to SCOA for additional programs, benefits assistance, health and wellness opportunities, support groups and personalized guidance. It is a blend of technology and hometown connection, an approach that ensures families do not feel alone.
For many caregivers, confidence is one of the biggest challenges. They want to do the right thing, but uncertainty makes everyday decisions stressful. The tools inside CareABC help remove that fear by demonstrating exactly how to provide care safely and respectfully. Families who never imagined themselves giving injections, managing chronic illnesses or assisting with mobility learn that they absolutely can and that they do not have to navigate the process by guesswork. Small lessons often lead to big relief.
MAKING CAREGIVING LESS OVERWHELMING
Caregiving can also be emotionally overwhelming. Even the most loving families can feel exhausted or isolated when responsibilities grow. Knowing that there is a trusted source of information and a community agency ready to help can make a meaningful difference in a caregiver’s wellbeing. Support often starts with simply knowing where to turn, and CareABC opens that door.
Whether someone is new to caregiving or has been doing it for years, the platform offers something useful. A daughter managing her mother’s memory changes may find new approaches in the dementia course that bring more peace into daily routines. A husband bringing his wife home after surgery may feel reassured seeing exactly how to help her move or dress safely. Grandchildren caring for an aging grandparent might use the
basics course to learn how to help with meals, medications and mobility. CareABC is there for all of them.
Most importantly, this service is free for a limited time to caregivers in Southwest Georgia. Through SCOA’s partnership with CareABC families can access the platform’s courses, videos and instructions without cost, removing a barrier that often prevents people from seeking help. As caregiving needs continue to grow across our region, this partnership ensures more families are supported, informed and confident at home. Caregiving is an act of love. It is also a responsibility that no one should have to navigate alone. With the combination of SCOA’s community support and CareABC’s on-demand learning, caregivers now have access to resources that make their jobs easier, safer and less stressful, not someday but today.
Together, we are strengthening caregivers, families and the communities they serve. For more information and to connect with CareABC, visit our website at sowegacoa.org/ care-abc/
Senior Centers exist to enrich the lives of senior citizens through programs and services that improve their health and wellness, decrease loneliness and isolation, and provide social, economic, and education opportunities to enhance their quality of life. Nutritious meals are served to people age 60+. Participants enjoy activities, exercise, special events, and engaging programs.
Senior Centers are reinventing themselves to meet the needs and desires of the aging baby boomer generation. In response to this upcoming active generation of seniors, our senior center programs have been operating under a new model – the Senior Center Without Walls. The program offers the same components as a physical senior center but utilizes partnerships within a community to deliver services to seniors outside of a brick-and-mortar building.
Partnering with county-local restaurants and activity providers, Sowega Council on Aging funds meals and activities for seniors within our 14-county service area Monday through Friday.
This program has been so popular that we are at capacity for congregate meals with over 787 clients in the program and over 550 on the waitlist. For activities, please contact the providers listed on this page directly.
SENIOR CENTER WITHOUT WALLS
DOUGHERTY
Albany YMCA
229-436-0531
1701 Gillionville Rd., Albany, GA
LEE
Lee YMCA
229-759-9770
316 Robert B. Lee Dr., Leesburg
COLQUITT
Arts Council
229-985-1922
401 7th Ave. SW, Moultrie, GA
MILLER
Spring Creek Health
Meeting at: First Methodist Church 229-726-0089
453 E. Main St., Colquitt, GA
MITCHELL
Christian Life Center
229-330-2767
647 Old GA Hwy 3, Camilla, GA
SYLVESTER TEDDY BEAR SEWERS
BRING COMFORT AND KINDNESS TO CHILDREN IN NEED
Every Wednesday morning at 9 a.m. the sound of quiet conversation, gentle laughter and sewing machines fills the Sylvester Senior Center. Around the tables sit the Sylvester Teddy Bear Sewers, a dedicated group of volunteers who create handmade teddy bears for children who need a little extra comfort. They are part of the SCOA RSVP Volunteer Craft Station, a program that gives older adults meaningful ways to stay active while giving back to their communities.
The Sylvester Teddy Bear Sewers began with a simple idea: a soft toy can bring joy when a child faces a difficult moment. Whether the bears end up in hospitals, social service programs or with area law enforcement officers, each one is made with care, patience and a generous amount of love. For the volunteers, it is a way to use their skills to make a difference.
The members say the project brings a sense of purpose and joy. When asked what keeps them coming back each week, the answer is always the same. Making the bears is fun but giving them away is what matters most. They talk often about how it feels to know that a child might smile or rest easier because of something their hands created. One volunteer shared
that it warms her heart to imagine a child hugging the bear and feeling safe. Another enjoys knowing that the bears are sent where they are needed most, especially in moments when a child may be frightened or uncertain.
The group also values the friendships that have formed. Every Wednesday brings familiar faces, new ideas and encouragement. They swap stories, trade tips and help one another with patterns and stitching. Some members have decades of sewing experience, while others learned as they went.
Their work shows how creativity can be used to help others. The bears are soft and colorful, each one slightly different from the next. No two are ever exactly alike, much like the children who receive them.
For the Sylvester group, the true reward is the knowledge that their time and talent make life a little brighter for someone else. Their work is a quiet act of service carried out week after week, stitch by stitch. It is a testament to the idea that giving back does not always require big gestures. Sometimes it looks like a small stuffed bear made with kindness and delivered to the right hands at the right time.
Pictured recently during a 9/11 Day of Service presentation were Flossie Hill, Nina Gunn (Phoebe Worth Emergency Department Manager), Lougenia Cross, Bertha Hanford, Freddie Walker and Annie Greene. The group chose to honor and remember first responders by donating a new batch of bears, recognizing the role that emergency workers play in comforting families during times of crisis.
WINTER WORKSHOP SERIES
PREPARING A CONTAINER GARDEN FOR SPRING
JANUARY 14-FEBRUARY 18
WEDNESDAYS AT 10 AM
SCOA REGIONAL RESOURCE CENTER
MAGNOLIA ROOM AND SCOA GARDEN
Join us and our UGA Certified Master Gardener/RSVP Community Garden Lead Volunteer for a 6-week workshop to learn the basics of container gardening. By the end of the workshop, each participant will have the skills to confidently launch their spring container garden, a written planting plan and a container or seed tray started indoors.
TOPICS COVERED WILL INCLUDE:
Session 1: Introduction to Container Gardening
Session 2: Soil & Fertility Basics
Session 3: Planning & Plant Selection
Session 4: Starting Seeds Indoors
Session 5: Care & Maintenance
Session 6: Transition to Spring
Class size limited to 20 participants. To register, call 432-0994 Option#3.
Empty Bowls
The Event Center at Northwest Library 2507 Dawson Road, Albany, GA 31707
The Sowega Council on Aging (SCOA) and Albany Area Arts Council (AAAC) are pleased to announce the 2026 Empty Bowls event to raise awareness about senior hunger, to provide funding for the AAAC and the SCOA Home Delivered Meals for seniors, and to place a spotlight on the talent of regional artisans and the culinary delights of local restaurants. Online ticket sales will open on January 20 at a cost of $40 per person and includes a delicious lunch provided by local restaurants and caterers and a pottery bowl handcrafted by local artisans. Visit Sowegacoa.org to purchase tickets starting January 20. March 18, 2026 | 11 am to 1 pm
PHOTO GALLERY
SEE WHAT’S BEEN GOING ON ACROSS SOUTH GEORGIA
SCOA volunteers continue to support Feeding the Valley food bank as they distribute food for more than 3 million meals a year.
A public hearing was held October 21 to listen to issues of importance to seniors and their caregivers.
SCOA recognized Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October by dressing pink!
A quilting group meets Tuesdays from 9 am-Noon at the SCOA Regional Resource Center. All interested in quilting are welcome!
An informative session on Advanced Planning was held in October as part of the new Live Well Now series.
Americorps RSVP Volunteers who manage the
community garden took a field trip to
Ag Expo to see Farmer Fredo’s demonstration garden and learn more about best practices for raised gardens.
SCOA
Sunbelt
SCOA staff had fun celebrating Halloween!
MOVE FOR YOUR HEART: EXERCISES SUPPORT CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
Exercises for heart health work best when they are safe, simple, and done most days. Exercises for heart health can be as basic as walking, stretching, and light strength work. Start with a gentle warmup: shoulder rolls, ankle circles, and slow marching in place for two to three minutes.
Begin with walking, indoors or outdoors. A ten-minute stroll after breakfast and another after dinner can raise the heart rate without strain. Gradually add minutes or distance each week. If weather or safety is a concern, walk in a mall, a community center, or around your home with music you enjoy.
Add low-impact cardio options. Water walking, a recumbent bike, or a beginner dance video keeps joints happy while challenging the heart. Use a talk test to guide effort: you should be able to speak in short sentences while moving.
Include strength training twice a week. Use light dumbbells, resistance bands, or body weight moves like wall pushups and sit to stand from a sturdy chair. Aim for eight to
twelve repetitions per exercise and stop well before pain or breathlessness.
Do not forget flexibility and balance. Gentle stretches for calves, hamstrings, hips, chest, and shoulders improve comfort and posture. Practice heel-to-toe walking along a counter, single-leg stands while holding a chair, and slow weight shifts to reduce fall risk.
Safety first. Wear supportive shoes, keep a water bottle nearby, and stop with chest pain, dizziness, or unusual shortness of breath. Talk with your healthcare provider about any limits before you begin. The Sowega Council on Aging offers classes designed for older adults that pair movement with community. Track sessions on a calendar, celebrate progress weekly, and let consistency be your secret to a stronger heart all year.
When energy is low, split activity into fiveminute segments, several times a day, to keep the body moving without feeling overwhelmed.
SELF-CARE FOR SENIORS: SMALL ACTS WITH BIG BENEFITS
Self-care for seniors is a series of small, thoughtful choices that protect energy, mood, and independence. Self-care does not require expensive tools or long hours— just steady attention to what helps you feel your best.
Start with sleep. Go to bed and wake at consistent times, keep the bedroom cool and dark, and avoid caffeine late in the day. If pain, snoring, or frequent waking is a problem, talk with your healthcare provider. Good sleep restores memory, balance, and patience.
Nourish your body. Build meals around fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Keep a water bottle nearby and sip throughout the day. When appetite is low, try small, frequent meals like yogurt with fruit or half a sandwich and soup.
Move gently every day. Stretching, short walks, simple strength exercises, or chair yoga reduce stiffness and lift mood. Tie
movement to a routine task like breakfast so it becomes automatic.
Care for your mind and spirit. Try a fiveminute gratitude list, a favorite hymn, gentle breathing, or a chapter of a good book. Limit news when it raises stress and choose music or a phone call instead.
Stay connected. Join a class at the Sowega Council on Aging, volunteer, or invite a neighbor for tea. Friendly contact lowers loneliness and strengthens resilience. Make self-care realistic. Prepare a small kit with lotion, lip balm, tissues, a pen, and a notepad so comfort and reminders are always handy. Place comfortable shoes by the door and your water glass on the counter. Celebrate tiny wins daily. Small steps repeated often lead to steadier health, calmer days, and more joy in the season ahead. Post important numbers by the phone, including your doctor, pharmacy, and a trusted neighbor, so help is easy to reach. Keep a simple calendar for appointments, refills, and goals to reduce mental clutter.
NATIONAL GLAUCOMA AWARENESS MONTH:
PROTECT YOUR VISION
National Glaucoma Awareness Month in January is a reminder to schedule an eye exam and learn your personal risk. National Glaucoma Awareness Month matters because glaucoma often develops slowly without pain or obvious symptoms, yet the condition can quietly damage the optic nerve over time. Know the risk factors. Age over sixty, diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, African or Hispanic ancestry, and long-term steroid use all increase risk. Some forms, such as angleclosure glaucoma, may appear suddenly with headache, eye pain, blurry vision, or halos around lights. Any of these require urgent care.
Make annual eye exams a habit. A comprehensive visit may include measuring eye pressure, examining the optic nerve, and testing side vision. Early diagnosis allows treatment that protects sight, often with medicated eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery when needed.
Support eye health daily. Manage blood pressure and blood sugar, do not smoke, and choose nutrient-dense foods that include leafy greens, citrus, and fish rich in omega-3s.
Regular physical activity improves circulation to the eyes and to the brain.
Create a home that supports vision. Increase task lighting, use high-contrast labels, and remove tripping hazards. Keep glasses prescriptions current and store a spare pair in an easy-to-find place. Ask your pharmacist about large-print labels for medications.
SCOA encourages preventive care because vision supports independence—reading mail, managing medications, cooking safely, and enjoying hobbies. If cost or transportation is a barrier, ask about community resources that assist with exams and eyeglasses.
If you already have glaucoma, take drops exactly as prescribed and keep follow-up appointments. Set phone alarms, link drop times to meals, and bring your bottle to each visit so your care team can review technique. This month, call your eye doctor, add reminders to your calendar, and tell a friend to do the same. Protecting sight protects the way you connect with people and places you love, today and in the seasons ahead.
SIMPLE NUTRITION TIPS FOR A HEALTHY NEW YEAR
Simple nutrition tips can help seniors start the year feeling steady and strong. Simple nutrition tips work best when they are realistic, budget friendly, and easy to practice day after day. Begin with balance at every meal. Aim for a quarter of the plate as lean protein, a quarter as whole grains, and half as fruits and vegetables. This mix supports energy, digestion, and muscle health.
Plan hydration like a habit. Keep water visible, sip throughout the morning, and pair a glass with each medication or snack. Unsweet tea, milk, and broth count toward fluids. If plain water is dull, add a splash of citrus or a few frozen berries.
Think fiber first. Oats, beans, apples, and leafy greens help control cholesterol and keep you regular. Add a spoonful of ground flax to yogurt or cereal for a gentle boost. Choose whole-grain bread most days and keep high fiber soups on hand.
Right-size portions. Use a smaller plate, share restaurant meals, and check serving sizes on labels. Enjoy sweets occasionally
without guilt, but let fruit satisfy most cravings for something sweet.
Make the healthy choice the easy choice. Set up a weekly routine: roast a pan of vegetables, cook a pot of brown rice, and wash salad greens. Keep canned tuna, lowsodium beans, and frozen vegetables ready for quick meals. When appetite is low, try mini meals like half a sandwich, a cup of soup, or peanut butter with crackers.
SCOA’s congregate meals and nutrition programs offer balanced menus and friendly faces. Eating well is not about perfection. It is about small steps repeated often, so you can stay active, independent, and ready for the year ahead.
Check with your healthcare provider about supplements. Many seniors benefit from vitamin D and calcium for bone health but needs vary. A registered dietitian can personalize a plan, especially if you manage diabetes, kidney disease, or food allergies.
PUBLIC HEARING
Tuesday, March 4 at 9 am
Sowega Council on Aging’s Regional Resource Center
The SCOA Public Hearing seeks to bring together seniors, advocates, volunteers and community members to share information and discuss critical issues affecting seniors. Be a part of this important event, where your insights will help identify gaps and redundancies in senior services and shape our advocacy efforts. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference!
FREE COMMUNITY SCREENING of Remember Me
Friday, February 6, 2026
9 am - 11 am
SCOA Regional Resource Center
Free and open to the public.
Join us for a free community screening of Remember Me, a documentary by C. Nathaniel Brown featuring personal stories, expert insight and appearances from Academy Award winner Lou Gossett Jr. The film explores how dementia uniquely affects the African American community.
A moderated panel discussion with producer Nathaniel Brown will follow, offering space for questions, shared experiences and access to helpful resources.
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.
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
STROLL WITH THE STAFF
Friday, March 6, 9:00 a.m.
First Baptist Church of Dawson
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
Join the SCOA Staff as we enjoy a community walk in Terrell County at First Baptist Church
Pre-Registration is requested by calling 229-432-0994 Option #3.
EMPTY BOWLS
March 18, 2025 11 am-1 pm
The Event Center at Northwest Library
The Sowega Council on Aging (SCOA) and Albany Area Arts Council (AAAC) are pleased to announce the 2026 Empty Bowls event to raise awareness about senior hunger, to provide funding for the AAAC and the SCOA Home Delivered Meals for seniors, and to place a spotlight on the talent of regional artisans and the culinary delights of local restaurants. Online ticket sales will open on January 20. A cost of $40 per person includes a delicious lunch provided by local restaurants and caterers and a pottery bowl handcrafted by local artisans. Visit Sowegacoa.org to purchase tickets starting January 20.
OPEN HOUSE
January 5 – 8 , 9 am - Noon
Sowega Council on Aging’s Regional Resource Center
The SCOA Regional Resource Center is open to all seniors age 60 and older who live within our 14-county service area. Open House is the perfect time to visit and try all of the classes and activities we offer. For more information, please call 229-432-0994 Option #3.
SENIOR WEEK AT THE CAPITAL
February 11, 2026
The Georgia Council on Aging has announced Senior Week at the Capital on February 11, 2026. For more information about Senior Week, please visit gcoa.org and click on CO-AGE. While SCOA will not be organizing a trip to Senior Week at the Capitol, we encourage you visit their website to learn more about advocating for seniors!
GCOA CO-AGE
The Georgia Council on Aging has opportunities for organizations, citizens and providers to become involved in The Coalition of Advocates for Georgia’s Elderly (CO-AGE). This group identifies and addresses “aging specific” issues that affect older Georgians throughout the state and brings awareness to the legislature on these issues. Please visit www.gcoa.org for more information.
AGING & DISABILITY RESOURCE CONNECTION ADVISORY COUNCIL/SENIOR HUNGER COALITION – VIRTUAL
February 19, at 9:00 a.m.
The Senior Hunger Coalition is an initiative that brings Southwest Georgia area businesses together around the shared goal of combating senior hunger. Through innovative programming and partnerships, The Senior Hunger Coalition hopes to ensure that all clients are food secure and expands that commitment to serve all older adults within our community. If you, a business or other organization would like to get involved in our Senior Hunger Coalition, please join us! Those interested in joining via Zoom may request a link by emailing Sabriecka.Ford@sowegacoa.org.
The Senior Hunger Coalition provides mini grant funds annually for innovative projects throughout the region focusing on the following areas:
• Today’s Seniors
• Food Access
• Food Waste and Reclamation
• Meeting the Needs of the Community
• Health Impact of Food Insecurity
SOUTHWEST GEORGIA PUBLIC HEARING
March 4, 9 am
SCOA Regional Resource Center
The SCOA Public hearing seeks to bring together seniors, advocates, volunteers and community members to share information and discuss critical issues affecting seniors. Be a part of this important event, where your insights will help identify gaps and redundancies in senior services and shape our advocacy efforts. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference!
AARP SMART DRIVER COURSE
January 13 & 14, 9 am-Noon (must attend both days)
SCOA Regional Resource Center
$20 AARP Member / $25 Non-Member. Call Kimberly Knighton, 229.291.3564 for details and to register.
AARP TAX AIDE
Feb 2 – April 15
Mondays & Tuesdays 9 am - 3 pm
SCOA Regional Resource Center
Representatives will be on site to prepare taxes at no cost. We will begin taking appointments on Jan. 26 for the 2026 Tax Season. Please call 229-432-0994 Option #3 to make an appointment.
“A BETTER WAY GROCERS” MOBILE GROCERY TRUCK
January 29, February 26, March 26
SCOA Regional Resource Center
A Better Way Grocers makes it convenient and easy to buy fruits and vegetables! They match SNAP EBT dollars – that means twice the fruits and veggies.
DEALING WITH DEMENTIA WORKSHOP
March 5, 9 am - 1 pm
Margaret Jo Hogg Dementia Support Center, 229 N. Jackson St.
Pre-registration is required.
This free workshop is hosted by the Margaret Jo Hogg Dementia Support Center and is for those caring for someone with dementia. Learn how to manage problem behaviors and how to relieve stress and find time for you. To reserve your spot email Nancy Goode, nancygoode1215@gmail.com or call 229-432-2705.
MEN’S DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Last Tuesday of the Month, Noon
Margaret Jo Hogg Dementia Support Center, 229 N. Jackson St.
Support group for male caregivers of spouses or parents with dementia, hosted by the Margaret Jo Hogg Dementia Support Center. Lunch is provided. For more information, call 229-432-2705.
DEMENTIA FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP
1st Wednesday of each month
Margaret Jo Hogg Dementia Support Center, 229 N. Jackson St. Support group for families and caregivers of persons with dementia, hosted by the Margaret Jo Hogg Dementia Support Center. Lunch is provided. For more information, call 229-432-2705.
LIVEWELL NOW SENIOR SEMINARS:
TOOLS, TIPS & TALKS FOR AGING WELL
January 12, 11 am - Noon
SCOA Regional Resource Center
Fitness Lifestyle Changes with Samantha Helton
Join us for free quarterly seminars focused on key areas of healthy aging—designed
to inspire and inform. Stay informed. Stay connected. Live well now. Learn more at sowegacoa.org or call 229-432-0994 Option #3.
WINTER WORKSHOP SERIES: PREPARING A CONTAINER GARDEN FOR SPRING
January 14 - February 18
Wednesday @ 10 am
SCOA Regional Resource Center, Magnolia Room and SCOA garden
Join us and our UGA Certified Master Gardener/RSVP Community Garden Lead Volunteer for a 6-week workshop offered once a week on Wednesdays to learn the basics of container gardening.
Class size limited to 20 participants
Led by Jim Ball, UGA Certified Master Gardener and other Subject Matter Experts
To register, call 432-0994 Option #3. Registration deadline: open until full.
PLARN
Wednesdays
9:30 am - 11:30 am
SCOA Regional Resource Center
This recycling project is aimed at reducing the number of single-use plastic bags that enter local landfills. We turn gently used plastic bags into sleeping mats for the homeless and other items that are reinvested in local programming and initiatives.
RSVP
GARDEN CLUB
Every Monday & Wednesday 8 am - 10 am
SCOA Regional Resource Center
Join our RSVP volunteer group for our weekly gardening activities that include planting, maintaining and harvesting beds that are currently yielding produce and a beautiful array of flowers and herbs for all to enjoy. This group is led by a UGA-certified master gardener who guides our crop development while giving insightful and useful tips for home gardeners as well.
GAME DAY/BINGO
1st & 3rd Thursday of the Month, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
SCOA Regional Resource Center
Participants must pay $1 for 2 BINGO cards.
VIRTUAL CLARIS COMPANION ACTIVITIES
For those actively enrolled in the Claris Companion Tablet Program
If you have a Claris Companion Tablet, you can engage in daily content from Claris with the new Automated Daily Content. Claris recently developed and designed senior-friendly content for each day of the week. This new fun content includes videos, pictures, fun facts, trivia, music, wellness surveys and events. These different forms of content are scheduled and deployed by Claris for seniors to enjoy something new every day of the week.
• Meditation Monday
• Wellness Wednesday
• Fun-filled Friday
• Scramble Sunday
• Trivia Tuesday
• Throw-back Thursday
• Sightseeing Saturday
The following classes are available at SCOA Regional Resource Center.
CHAIR FITNESS
Mondays and Thursdays - 10 am | Wednesdays 11 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.
LINE DANCING CLASS
Mondays – Beginner’s Class 9 am, Advanced Class 11 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.
LOW IMPACT SENIOR FITNESS
Tuesdays – 10 am
This class will benefit seniors who want to begin to exercise or those who need a low impact class. It will begin in the chair with a warm-up, exercises in the chair, a short standing portion, weights in the chair and a short cool-down segment.
SENIOR STRETCH & YOGA
Tuesdays – 11 am and Thursdays at 11 am
This class is led by a certified volunteer instructor, and is a relaxing workout designed to improve flexibility, balance, and joint mobility.
TAI CHI INTRODUCTORY SESSION
Wednesdays – 10 am
A certified instructor leads this program to build skills in Tai Chi and to explore its benefits. This class is a gentle low-impact form of martial arts that emphasizes slow, flowing movements, balance and controlled breathing. This class helps improve joint flexibility, strength and range of motion, while reducing pain and stiffness. This class is a prerequisite for the in-person 16-week Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention class.
TAI CHI FOR ARTHRITIS AND FALL PREVENTION IN PERSON
Wednesdays – 10 am
This 16-week evidence-based program is designed to improve muscular strength, flexibility, balance and stamina, making it an effective strategy for preventing falls and promoting overall well-being. It incorporates Sun-style Tai Chi and educational components into a seamless class. Must have attended the prerequisite Tai Chi Introductory Session.
TAI CHI FOR ARTHRITIS AND FALLS PREVENTION - VIRTUAL
January 6 – April 15 | Beginners: Tuesdays at 10 – 11 am or 1:30 – 2:30 pm
Advanced: Fridays at 9-10 am
Jennifer Crosby, Instructor. Call the front desk at 229-432-0994 Option #3 to register.
Open House
JANUARY 5-8 | 9 AM-NOON
SCOA Regional Resource Center
The SCOA Regional Resource Center is open to all seniors age 60 and older who live within our 14-county service area. Open House is the perfect time to visit and try all of the classes and activities we offer.
For more information, please call 229-432-0994 Option 3.
DIABETES SELF-MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP
Wednesdays, February 11 - March 18 Leesburg Library
This is a six-week group workshop for individuals living with type 2 diabetes. The workshop was developed by Stanford University to help individuals manage their diabetes symptoms, tiredness, pain and emotional issues. The interactive workshop meets for 2 hours each week and is taught by two trained instructors, at least one of whom has diabetes. Concepts include how to manage diabetes symptoms, information on physical activity, healthy eating practices, following medication plans and how to work effectively with healthcare professionals. Class size limited to 12. Please call 229-432-0994 Option #3 to register.
Note: Sowega Council on Aging does not necessarily endorse or recommend the advertisers in this publication. Select programs and services are supported in part by the United Way.
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www.sowegacoa.org
*If you would like to support the congregate meal program, please include your donation in the self-address stamped envelope inside.
United Way of Southwest Georgia