Connections, Fall 2022

Aging and Living Well

Piedmont’s Elaine Cook on

Exceptional Primary

and Specialty Care

PRIMARY

Athens Internal Medicine Associates

1500 Oglethorpe Ave. Bldg. 400, Athens 706.548.8600

Community Internal Medicine of Athens

1500 Oglethorpe Ave. Ste. 200C, Athens 706.389.3875

Georgia Family Medicine

2410 Hog Mountain Rd. Bldg. 200 Watkinsville 706.310.3470

Johnson & Murthy Family Practice

1500 Oglethorpe Ave. Ste. 200A, Athens 706.548.5833

Middle GA Medical Associates

1110 Commerce Dr. Ste. 108, Greensboro 706.999.0243

Sacred Heart Primary Care

355 Clear Creek Pkwy. Ste. 1003, Lavonia 706.356.1422

St. Mary’s Family Medicine

1181 Langford Dr. Bldg. 300, Ste. 103 Watkinsville 706.208.8038

St. Mary’s Internal Medicine Associates

2470 Daniells Bridge Rd. Bldg. 200, Ste. 271, Athens 706.769.3362

Hometown Pediatrics

1020 Jamestown Blvd. Bldg. 200, Watkinsville 706.769.0005

SPECIALTY

ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY

St. Mary’s Allergy Specialists

1360 Caduceus Way, Bldg. 200, Ste. 102 Watkinsville 706.389.3810

CARDIOLOGY

Oconee Heart & Vascular Center

2470 Daniells Bridge Rd. Bldg. 200, Ste. 251, Athens 706.389.3440

Offices in Greensboro, Lavonia, Monroe, with a second Athens location on Oglethorpe Ave.

ENDOCRINOLOGY

Endocrine Specialists of Athens

2470 Daniells Bridge Rd. Bldg. 200, Ste. 221, Athens 706.389.3180

INFECTIOUS DISEASE

Infectious Disease Specialists of Athens

1500 Oglethorpe Ave. Ste. 200D, Athens 706.559.4405

NEUROLOGY

St. Mary’s Neurological Specialists

2470 Daniells Bridge Rd. Bldg. 200, Ste. 261, Athens 706.310.1859

NEUROSURGERY

Georgia Neurological Surgery & Comprehensive Spine

2142 W. Broad St. Bldg. 100, Ste. 200, Athens 706.548.6881

Offices in Greensboro, Lavonia and Monroe.

OB/GYN

Clear Creek OB/GYN

355 Clear Creek Pkwy. Ste. 1003, Lavonia 706.356.0780

RHEUMATOLOGY

Rheumatology

Center of Athens

1622C Mars Hill Rd. Watkinsville 706.769.9931

Office in Greensboro.

SURGERY

Athens General and Colorectal Surgeons

1500 Oglethorpe Ave. Ste. 2000, Athens 706.548.5488

Offices in Lavonia and Greensboro.

St. Mary’s Breast Health Center

1500 Oglethorpe Ave. Ste. 2100, Athens 706.425.5437

For help help finding a primary care physician, scan here

Dear Connections Reader,

They’re sometimes the unsung heroes of life. Many times they quietly, faithfully and tenderly spend a large portion of their time focused on others. For anyone reading this, I would bet you’ve known one of them, or been one, or currently are one.

Who am I talking about? Caregivers. Or care partners, as they’re also called.

“There are only four kinds of people in this world: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers and those who will need caregivers. Caregiving is universal.” Rosalynn Carter,

Former First Lady of the United States

This issue is all about care. There are so many different ways people care for one another, and we get to see a lot of them here at ACCA. That’s why we strive to be a resource to all, no matter what stage someone finds themself in throughout the care partner journey.

One thing we’re especially celebrating is the passing of the Caregivers Act, which you’ll read about later. We’re also looking for more ways this fall to be advocates for aging before the new legislative session starts.

Also on our radar? Comprehensive care, which is why we’ve added a monthly support group that focuses on mental health. Learn more about that in our Center for Active Living calendar at the back of this issue.

Throughout these pages you’ll also meet a father/daughter care team, learn about aging well from Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center’s Elaine Cook’s personal story and much more.

I’d also love to hear from our readers, so if you have an article that resonated with you and want to share your thoughts, or have an article idea you want to suggest, send us an email at community@accaging.org.

Happy reading!

Eve Anthony

GROW YOUR BUSINESS:

CEO/PRESIDENT

Eve Anthony

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Magnolia Media Group

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Kelly Holloway, Chair

Dr. Reginald Woods, Vice Chair

Don DeMaria, Treasurer

Becky Lane, Secretary

ACCA STAFF

Eve Anthony

Erin Beasley

Christopher Jordan

Kellye Morgan

Allyn Rippin

Renee Seligman

ADVERTISING SALES

Anita Aubrey

CONTRIBUTORS

Sarah Berthiaume

Brooke Hofman

Heather Loveridge

Kellye Morgan

Carlie Russell

CONTACT ACCA

135 Hoyt Street Athens, GA 30601 706.549.4850

© 2022 ACCA

Connections is a quarterly publication distributed by ACCA throughout Northeast Georgia. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. Reproduction in whole or in part, without the expressed written permission from the publisher, is prohibited. Advertising in this publication does not imply a relationship with ACCA.

We would love to help grow your business by reaching your target audience within the pages of this magazine. You can help support the mission of the Athens Community Council on Aging by doing so. If you would like more information on advertising opportunities with Connections contact Anita Aubrey at connectionsadvertising2022@gmail.com or call 706.549.4850.

ACCA Turns 55!

We are so proud to know that we have been able to provide a sense of community and be the essential resource to older adults and their families all over Northeast Georgia and beyond! Without the support from those we serve, volunteers, staff, board members, and donors, it wouldn’t be possible.

ACCA Staf + Board Retreat

In June, ACCA’s dedicated Board of Directors met for its annual retreat to plan for our upcoming year. We love gathering together to remember our “why” and think of ways we can make ACCA even better in the future.

ACCA Hosts a Fan Drive

Thank you to Hughes Subaru, Subaru of America, Classic City Rotary Club, Oconee Rotary Club, and the community at large for helping us collect and provide over 75 fans to older adults through our Meals on Wheels program. During a time of great need, we are grateful to have such compassionate community partners who can help us improve the lives of those we serve.

Warm Welcome to Our New Staf Members

This summer ACCA welcomed several new staff members to our team! Including Bridget Allen as our Adult Day Health LPN, Latrinia Allen as our Adult Day Health Aide, Christopher Jordan as our Director of Development, Denesha Long as our Adult Day Health Aide, Ellie Pennybacker as our Meals on Wheels Program Specialist, Renee Seligman as our Outreach Coordinator, Jenna Kopp as our Executive Assistant, Jesse Lowe as our Adult Day Health Activities Coordinator, Bailey Mason as our Volunteer Coordinator, and Christy Ho as our Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Program Specialist.

Clarke County School District Partners With ACCA!

Through a partnership with the Clarke County School District and our AmeriCorps Senior Foster Grandparent Program, volunteers will

be able to provide even more classroom support to students across Clarke County! Thank you, Clarke County School District!

ACCA’s Garden Keeps Growing

Thank you to our Athens Area Master Gardener

Volunteers! With their help, we were able to become a certified “Connect to Protect” Garden. ACCA has been able to distribute the fruits (and veggies) of their labor to our clients all across Athens!

Fur-tastic News!

Thanks to Meals on Wheels America and PetSmart Charities we are able to continue to support seniors who are food insecure and their furry friends. In July, we received a generous grant of $5,000 to benefit our Will’s Pet Pantry. Will’s Pet Pantry provides food, pet toys, supplies, and vet care to the most loved companions of the seniors we serve.

It’s Back to School Season Here At ACCA

In July, with school just around the corner, our Grandparents Raising Grandchildren and AmeriCorps Foster Grandparent Programs ran a school supply drive to provide school supplies to children served in these programs. Using our donated supplies, we hosted a Back 2 School Carnival event where we distributed over 50 backpacks to get their school year started off on the right foot.

Let’s Talk About Brains

On July 29th, we partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association and UGA’s Cognitive Aging Research and Education Center to learn more about the science of aging well. Thank you to Dr. Lisa RenziHammond for coming out to teach us about maintaining a healthy brain and body!

Grief & Loss Support Group

On August 3, 2022, ACCA launched our brand new Grief and Loss Support Group through our Center for Active Living. The open group will be facilitated by Allison Lamb, LMSW of Revolution Therapy and Yoga. This group will meet on the first Wednesday of every month at 10:30 a.m. in ACCA’s Hudson Room and is free for everyone.

Thank you to the Kirby Smart Foundation!

In August, ACCA joined other community organizations at the UGA Football Indoor Practice Facility to celebrate receiving funds from Kirby Smart Foundation through the Athens Area Community Foundation. Because

of this generous grant, our Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Program can provide more supportive services to grandparent-headed households.

Age Well. Live Well.

By Brooke Hoffman

Elaine Cook wears many hats: director and major gifts officer at Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation, wife, mother and former caregiver. Here’s her inside perspective on the importance of caregiving, providing resources to those who need them, and how she ages well and lives well.

What was your early life like?

I was born in Washington, D.C., while my father was in the Episcopal Seminary, and my mom was working for the CIA. So, I grew up in a very interesting household with a family who cared deeply for us, our nation and our community. I mostly grew up in North Carolina and spent many summers in Georgia with my grandparents. When I was in fourth grade, we moved to Sugar Mountain, N.C., and I spent most of my time outside skiing, hiking and in white water sports. Education was huge in my family, though not as much in the surrounding area, so I went to prep school in Richmond, Virginia. And though I come from a family of Tarheels and Bulldogs, I ultimately decided to go to UGA for the Lamar Dodd School of Art.

Tell me about your career and what led you to choose the career path that you did.

Right after college, I taught art in Haiti West Indies and then in Atlanta. I loved teaching but had an aptitude for business, so I ended up working for Turner Broadcasting (TBS), later becoming their Vice President of Marketing and PR. I traveled all over North America with TBS, and when I tired of traveling so much, I went to work as the VP of Marketing/PR for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Olympic Games Cultural Olympiad.

The people, colleagues and projects of my career were all easy to get passionate about, and I realized quickly that I needed a job where I stay inspired and could satisfy my altruistic needs.

When I married an Athens boy and we moved back here, a few folks recommended that I work for Athens Regional. They said it was becoming a multi-entity Regional Health System and making a huge, positive impact on healthcare in our region. It was exciting to be part of this growth and engagement in improving the lives of all of the people we touch in our 17-county service area. So, becoming part of the Piedmont Healthcare System was a great fit for our vision, mission and values. Today, I serve as the Director of Major Gifts for our Foundation, and I’m blown away by the generosity of our donors who understand that a great hospital needs great support from our community in order to continue to provide the very best care for all people, regardless of their ability to pay.

What are some of the highlights of your career?

I’ve been so fortunate in my career to have some amazing jobs and experiences. I helped TBS vertically integrate their marketing so we could compete with networks for advertising dollars. We were “cable before cable was cool.” We purchased the MGM library and the HMS Bounty, and we started original programming like Captain Planet, Jacques Cousteau, and a remake of Treasure Island with Charlton Heston and a very young Christian Bale. We also started CNN, the first 24-hour news network, and the Goodwill Games. It was a very exciting time to work at TBS!

When I worked at the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, we were doing very innovative projects to build new audiences – like concerts at Chastain Park where the Symphony played with popular artists like Diana Ross, James Taylor, the Dixie Chicks and even played the music of Led Zeppelin in tie-dyed shirts. Of course, the ASO is an awardwinning orchestra and did some very out of the box performances – like original scores with Yo Yo Ma, Kathleen Battle and the late Jessye Norman, plus a PBS Special Gospel Christmas concert with the Pointer Sisters. We turned a lot of new people on to great music, inspiring young audiences and young musicians.

A highlight for me, working here at Piedmont Athens Regional (PAR), is being in awe of the doctors and nurses and the team who deliver nationally-renowned healthcare, helping and healing people, every hour of every day. No matter how exciting my Atlanta life was, I am humbled and proud to be their cheerleader.

What are some of the best things about the Athens community?

It’s hard to pinpoint one thing about this community that I love – it’s the culture, the arts, and the quality of healthcare and education. Not only did my husband grow up here, but now my children have grown up here, too, so I especially love the people of Athens. I go to church where I did in college, and some of my beloved college roommates and sorority sisters live here. I just pinch myself everyday about being able to be a part of this very special place.

Who are some important older adults in your life, and what have you learned from them?

My earliest exposure to awesome older adults was my maternal grandfather, John T. McKenzie. He was a peach farmer, entrepreneur, state senator, golfer, quail hunter and gifted storyteller and instilled in us the importance of integrity, kindness and punctuality (the latter I’ve not yet mastered). I adored him!

Most poignantly, the older person I admired most was my Mama. She was an only child, and her Daddy raised her to be able to do anything a boy could do: hunt, fish with a cane pole, pitch a tent, change a tire, fly a plane… and yet she was brought up to be a genuine southern lady with a generous and positive disposition. She was an accomplished musician and scholar, obtaining her PhD in English and a member of Mensa. But most of all, she was fun and enthusiastic about life.

Having been a caregiver yourself, what advice would you give to someone who’s new in the role of caregiving?

I’ve just described two of my favorite people, and there was no greater sadness than to watch them age with Dementia and Alzheimer’s. My mom was one of the smartest people I’ve ever known, and to experience Alzheimer’s robbing her of her brain and zest for life was absolutely heartbreaking. Always a charming, southern lady, her reaction to the diagnosis was simply “How rude. I so value my mind.” She lived with me for 12 years, and she was so dear, always. Towards the end, she could barely form a sentence, read a book or watch television – but she could still remember words to songs and sing in perfect pitch. Eventually, she wouldn’t eat and needed 24-hour care, so before her last 11 months, God gave me the strength to put her in memory care where she could get the clinical care she needed.

My advice to someone new in the role of caregiving is to give yourself permission to do what is best for you and your loved ones. I was able to be with Mom while she was able to communicate, even if she said the same things over and over, and I recognize that was a huge blessing. I really began losing her 12 years ago, but when she passed away September of 2021, all I could do was miss her everyday and just wish I had more time to hold her hand and kiss her forehead. She never stopped responding to the love she could feel and the unspoken love we could show, so just keep your love at the forefront of everything. And remember that you can do anything, with God’s help.

What kind of help do you see organizations like ACCA providing to the aging population and their caregivers here in Athens? Why do you think providing these services matters?

Without the support and resources provided by organizations like ACCA, life as a caregiver would

have been even harder. Being a caregiver is a labor of love, but we all need to know what to expect and how to deal with an aging loved one. The services provided help you get what you need when you need it – and the information, counsel, fellowship, resources and respite are invaluable.

What are some of your favorite activities and/or pastimes?

I love spending as much time as possible outdoors with my family. We are all avid sports enthusiasts.

At this point in your life, what’s become most important to you?

The most important “things” to me are not things at all. Family, friends and faith enrich my life beyond measure. Kindness, love, respect, good people, good health – these all give me great joy.

What encouragement or advice would you give to younger generations?

Remember to always be kind; master the art of kindness and communication. Whenever possible, get your head out of your electronic devices, and learn how to listen and communicate with one another in person, even when you have differences of opinions. There is no need to be so critical of others. Learn how to both lead and be a team player! Help one another. Sports and being outdoors are great catalysts to developing these life skills.

How do you age well and live well? What does that saying mean to you?

As ACCA says, “Aging…everybody’s doing it!” Each day is a blessing, and there is no guarantee that you’ll get another one. Therefore, don’t sweat the small stuff, and give as much love as you can, to all that you can, as often as you can. Mind your health! Find your joy! And give God the glory.

CARING FOR THE

Caregiver

By Heather Loveridge

Ifyou aren’t one, you know one.

Or you might become one. In fact, according to 2020 AARP stats, nearly one in five Americans provide unpaid care to an adult with health or functional needs.

While caregivers are focused on others, they also need to focus on themselves. But how?

That’s a question we asked Pat Baker.

“When you’re caring for someone, you’re really both in this together. So, one of the first things I encourage people to do is switch from calling themselves a ‘caregiver’ to a ‘care partner.’ It gives the person you’re caring for a bit more credibility and ownership,” said Baker.

Baker knows a thing or two about aging well. She’s consulted for AARP, The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving and the Alzheimer’s Association — to name a few.

Since 1973, she’s worked within the field of health and human services, focusing on aging services. She’s the immediate past president of the Georgia Gerontology Society Board of Directors, a 66-year-old organization serving the needs of seniors in Georgia. She’s also facilitated caregiver support groups since the early ‘80s, along

with a host of other experience in the field.

“I really encourage care partners to find support. Whether it’s through organizations specific to the disease - like the American Heart Association or the Alzheimer’s Association - or local organizations like ACCA who provide support groups. Get connected.”

But it’s not just about discovering good support groups. It’s also about finding a good team.

“[Care partners] may need to look outside the box for that. Obviously, other family members could be on their team. But what if you’re an older couple and never had children and don’t have any living siblings? Then think outside the box - what about your doctor, the people in your church, people in organizations you belong to, your pharmacist? Start thinking about the team you want to have around you that will support you and help you take care of your partner.”

Baker’s third suggestion is to plan.

“It’s really, really hard when you’re a caregiver to think beyond just what you’re doing today, the challenges you’re working with in the moment,” she said. “So, you need to be intentional about planning for the future and talking with your care partner about it.”

It helps to be intentional with your words, too.

“Try to use ‘I’ language with the person you’re

Pat Baker

caring for,” she added. “ Instead of saying ‘you really need to do this’, say ‘I would really feel better if you would let us bring in someone a few hours a day to help with caring’, or whatever the need is. Talk about how you’re feeling, not about what you think the person should be doing.”

Along with helping myriads of other people walk through the care partner journey, Baker has also experienced it herself. As a care partner for her sister who had cancer as well as her mother who had heart disease. Baker understands the challenge of being proactive while caregiving.

“When my mom was still healthy, I insisted that my sisters and I get my mother away for a weekend. We needed to have a girls’ weekend and talk about what her wishes were for the future. She was 84 at the time and still very cognitively good. My sisters thought it was kind of morbid, but I said it was practical. And so we got away and we did the Five Wishes document with my mom,” she explained.

“Well, six months later she became ill and less than a year later she passed away. So if we had not planned ahead we would have had to do it while we were in crisis, while she was in and out of the hospital. Planning ahead is hard, but it’s necessary - and a gift to your care team,” she added.

Baker’s biggest piece of encouragement for other care partners? Know you’re not in it alone.

“The resources available now compared to what we had in the early ‘80s are just huge,” she said. “There are so many websites now. So many really reliable places you can get information and help. So many support groups. And people who now have careers specifically devoted to helping care partners. And the local councils on aging, like the Athens Community Council on Aging, are some of the best resources out there.”

Another Way to Care

Are you a planner? Would you like to grow your assets for your retirement years? Are you worried about your ability to manage your assets if you become ill or disabled? Are you concerned about how your benefciaries will manage their inheritance?

If you answered yes to any of the previous questions, then a Trust may be a great vehicle to meet your wealth preservation goals.

A Trust is a fnancial arrangement where you, the Grantor, transfers the legal title of assets to a Trustee. The Trustee manages the assets for you, for members of your family, or for any other benefciary you might designate. There are two types of trusts – Living Trusts (established and funded during life) and Testamentary Trusts (established through your Will and are efective after your death). Trusts can help protect your wealth in life and after death, while possibly reducing legal fees and saving taxes. If you would like to learn more about how a Trust can help you meet your wealth preservation goals, please contact the Trust Department at First American Bank & Trust.

Jackie Bishof

Group Vice President & Trust O fcer

jackie@fabt.bank

First American Bank & Trust

300 College Avenue Athens, GA 30603

10 Considerations…

to help you determine if it might be time to get more involved and help a loved one address challenges they may be facing. Please rank each item from 1 to 10: 1—not a concern, 5—starting to be a concern, and 10—a major concern that needs attention.

1. MEDICAL CONDITION - Has your loved one been diagnosed with a disease, illness, or other medical condition that could impact his or her ability to function in daily life?

1 5 10

2. DRIVING - If your loved one drives, is there reason to believe he or she poses an above average risk of being involved in an accident? How are your loved one’s vision, reflexes, and ability to respond in unexpected situations?

1 5 10

3. FOOD/NUTRITION - Is your loved one eating a balanced diet? Is his or her weight stable? Does he or she have a reasonable variety of food in the refrigerator with future expiration dates?

1 5 10

4. HYGIENE - Does it appear your loved one is bathing and brushing his or her teeth regularly? How are his or her overall appearance, grooming and ability to match clothing compared to prior years? Are the bed linens and towels fresh? Does the soap in the bathroom appear to have been used recently?

1 5 10

5. BEHAVIOR - Does your loved one seem anxious or irritable - more so than usual? Does being away from home make him or her uncomfortable? Does he or she seem depressed? Are there inconsistence in the things he or she says? Does your loved one remember names, places and current events?

1 5 10

6. DAILY TASKS - Are basic tasks, such as getting ready to go out or preparing a meal or shopping, overly challenging, frustrating, or time consuming for your loved one? Does their living space appear clean? Is there a concern about hoarding?

1 5 10

7. MEDICATION - Can your loved one manage his or her medications properly including dosage, frequency and changes in prescriptions? Does your loved one understand why he or she is taking the medication? Are prescriptions getting refilled in a timely manner?

1 5 10

8. FINANCES - Does it appear your loved one is capable of making sound financial decisions? Is he or she able to manage personal affairs and finances? Does he or she have a reasonable amount of cash on hand? Have there been any unusual purchases or suspicious expenses or investments?

1 5 10

9. MAIL/EMAIL - Is the mail stacking up? Is there reason to suspect any past due or delinquency notices or email hacks? Does your loved one appear to be a target for solicitation and sweepstakes offers or fraudulent emails?

1 5 10

10. SAFETY - Is your loved one careful about turning off appliances (e.g. stove, coffee pot, etc.)? Does he or she ever carelessly leave candles or cigarettes burning? Are sharp objects properly put away? Are firearms properly put away? Are the stairs and hallways unobstructed? Are the doors and windows locked? Is he or she able to easily locate their house and car keys? Is there any reason to believe someone is trying to control or take advantage of him or her?

1 5 10

This is a great exercise to continue to do every six months as your loved ones condition or disease progresses.

Adapted from “A

Charles Puchta,

America Resources,

Hartford’s We Need to Talk: Family Conversations with Older Drivers

Five Wishes

An easy-to-use legal advance directive document written in everyday language.

Intentional Individuality: The heart behind ACCA’s Adult Day Health Center

By Carlie Russell

If you ask Allyson Mann to describe ACCA’s Adult Day Health program in a few words, she’ll immediately say: Caring. Supportive. A Lifesaver.

As a caregiver for her father John, Allyson has personally experienced the benefts ACCA’s ADH program provides. Allyson has been caring for her father since early 2017 and recently moved him from Alabama to her home in Athens when it became clear that he needed additional assistance. Allyson works in-person, full-time which became increasingly difcult when her father could no longer be home alone. She was at an impossible crossroads between needing to work to fnancially support herself and her father and needing to be at home to properly care for him.

She was physically and mentally exhausted, until she started participating in the ADH program through ACCA in summer of 2019. She was quickly blown away, though, by the staf ’s intentionality and holistic care for her

dad. Her father received not only excellent medical assistance, but also built valuable personal connections through ADH.

“It’s been a really great program for him and me. I have peace of mind, knowing that he’s safe and taken care of while I’m working, and he gets to have some social activity and be around other people than just me. The program has been very valuable to us because of this,” said Allyson. “It’s the best option for us really. Putting him in assisted living is not really an option fnancially, and this allows him to still stay with me and get the care he needs afordably.”

I have peace of mind, knowing that he’s safe and taken care of while I’m working, and he gets to have some social activity and be around other people than just me.

The ADH program ofers medical monitoring, therapeutic services, fnancial assistance, nutritious meals, and personal care to medically frail adults and individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. The center provides safe, engaging environments in both Athens and Winder for participants and respite for their caregivers.

Allyson’s father started ADH when he was recovering from hand surgery, and he currently participates in the program fve days a week, thanks to generous donors. Initially, Allyson was attracted to ADH because of the fnancial assistance and physical therapy services that the program ofers.

“The physical therapy practitioners that work in the health center are really helpful. We’ve used them on and of since he frst started going to the Adult Day Health Center. They’re able to work with him a couple times a week, and it has made a huge diference in improving his mobility. It’s one of those things that I’d need to take a lot of time of work to be able to get him the care he needs, but with the Adult Day Health Center, it’s easy. It’s all inhouse. The program has made a huge diference in

both of our lives,” said Allyson.

“The staf and volunteers care beyond their roles. They consistently go the extra mile for their clients, sacrifcing their personal time and tailoring their approach to each individual.”

Their selfess hearts became

clear to Allyson during the pandemic. The center had closed in person for the safety of their clients, but the staf still wanted to provide for them during the pandemic.

“Even when the program was not operating as normal during Covid, they would come and visit my dad and me at our house. Several diferent staf members consistently came by. We’d sit outside in a distanced space and just chat. It was so nice, especially for my dad, because we were only seeing each other during that time,” said Allyson. “They would also always bring him ice cream or some kind of treat. Their gesture was hugely important to both of us.”

The center holistically cares for each participant. In addition to creating fun activities and connecting points for clients, ADH also provides diverse medical and personal assistance. The program monitors clients’ general health, arranges doctors appointments, administers medications, and advocates for participants as a liaison within the healthcare community. Physical, speech, and occupational therapy are also ofered fve days a week at both the Athens and Winder locations. To ensure every client is cared for properly and receives the assistance they need, all ADH staf members are Eden at Home certifed and complete Alzheimer’s training.

Each client is known on a personal level at ADH. Whether seasoned or new, the staf and volunteers work hard every day to show each person they are loved and important. They pay attention to the little things, making sure every client and caregiver feels that they matter as an individual.

For example, Allyson’s father loves tennis. She spoke about how he was a pro player at his country club when he was younger, and how she was struggling to fnd a way for him to watch the Wimbledon tournament at the center. The staf helped her troubleshoot and eventually found a way for her dad to watch the match on his phone. They texted Allyson throughout the day making sure everything was set up for her dad to enjoy Wimbledon while she was at work.

“They are just super kind. The staf goes the extra mile to make sure that whatever is important to their clients is available to them, even little things like watching a tennis match. They know and care for my dad personally down to the smallest details. They know that whenever he arrives, he’s going to want a black cofee and a second breakfast. They take good care of him,” said Allyson.

Want to learn more about the Adult Day Health Center? Visit accaging.org/services/healthwellness/adult-day-health.

What, exactly, is inspired living? It’s a calendar dotted with goings and doings. It’s trying new things. Making the most of every day. It’s a dedication to wellness. It’s having good friends. Being a good friend. Laughing a lot. It’s looking ahead with purpose and optimism and confidence. In short, inspired living is living at Wesley Woods of Athens.

Caregivers Act Aims to Support Seniors, Caregivers

by Sarah Berthiaume

Go ahead. Make it official.

Georgia seniors entering a hospital can now officially choose a caregiver and that caregiver must be educated by the hospital on aftercare — all thanks to the brand-new Georgia Caregivers Act.

The Georgia Caregivers Act, HB 1304, gained unanimous approval from both chambers of the Assembly in April, and officially became law when it was signed by the governor in May.

“Bills like this have passed in many other states,” explained Debra Stokes, executive director of the Georgia Council on Aging (GCOA). “It provides an opportunity for hospitals and other medical facilities to identify or have a patient identify a caregiver. That caregiver is trained on what medical needs that patient has when the patient goes home.”

So, what exactly does this legislation mean for older adults?

“The example I like to use is this,” explained Stokes. “If I were your caregiver and I came in before discharge and the nurse said to me: ‘You’re going to have to flush her trach three times a day and change her colostomy bag three times a day. I would know I’m not capable of doing that. This way the caregiver and the patient get to determine what the next step is.”

With the Georgia Caregivers Act, patients admitted to the hospital can identify a caregiver. Under the legislation, their caregiver must be is notified when the hospital plans to discharge the patient. Live instruction and training are then provided on what that patient will need for medical and nursing tasks at home.

“Sometimes the person caregiving just knows, ‘Oh, great. I get to take them home.’ And you end up with a readmission,” said Stokes.

But receiving that instruction from nurses helps patients and their caregivers make better decisions about care.

“It can also cut down on [hospital] readmission rates,” she said.

What else should you know about this law?

“I would want seniors to know this policy existsthat hospitals are able to use it and follow it to help them make that transition from the medical setting to home as smooth as possible,” Stokes said. “This is something they have the right to request and receive.”

For over a year, GCOA’s Coalition of Advocates for Georgia’s Elderly (CO-AGE) worked together with other organizations, including AARP and the Georgia Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, as well as Rep. Lee Hawkins, to make the Georgia Caregivers Act a reality for seniors.

CO-AGE includes nearly 1,000 members throughout Georgia, including both organizations and individuals. Every year, members submit issues that impact seniors. Those issues must meet specific criteria to be voted on, presented to the council as a whole and eventually pursued legislatively as a priority.

“We take these priorities through a very rigorous review process,” explained Stokes. “One of the good things about CO-AGE is we’re a very trusted source. When our bills come to the legislature, the legislators know we’ve done our due diligence.”

To learn more about the Georgia Caregivers Act, HB 1304, scan here

To learn more about CO-AGE, scan here

Volunteer Spotlight: Ann Darby & Cherlyn Granrose

By Carlie Russell

These days, you never see Ann Darby without Cherlyn Granrose at ACCA. But years ago, these best friends connected over a shared set of hardships, which has led to a life-changing set of experiences – not just for them, but for the Athens community, too.

Shortly after becoming single parents, Ann Darby and Cherlyn Granrose moved into the same apartment complex in Athens. There they found a community of young, newly divorced women and grew their friendship. At the time, the resources and opportunities for single women were limited. According to Granrose, the main occupations for women in the 1970s were nurses, teachers, or secretaries, all which paid far too little to raise a family. In the height of the second wave of feminism and the women’s rights movement, Darby formed and led consciousness raising meetings out of her home.

It was at those meetings that the two women connected over discussions of Ruth Bader Ginsburg and the book, Our Bodies, Ourselves.

“I think we first became close because of our similarities, being divorced at a young age with kids of similar ages. I was lost. I never imagined I’d be divorced and didn’t have a clue what I was doing. But, Ann, she had a job. She had three kids and was just chugging right along. I leaned on her a lot to learn how to be a single parent in the beginning. I think that really encouraged our friendship,” said Granrose.

When Granrose moved out of state to pursue a new career opportunity, she kept up with Darby through her annual Christmas card.

“I’m a veteran Christmas card writer. If you come in contact with me, you get a Christmas card and you stay on my list for years. That’s how I stayed connected with Ann,” said Granrose.

While away, Granrose earned her PhD in Adult Development at Kansas State. She then had a successful career earning tenure at two universities, but moved on to pursue her passion of teaching women, specifically single mothers, how to have a career. This pursuit, along with family ties, brought Granrose back to Georgia, this time to Rome. She worked at Berry College until retiring in 2014 and moving back to Athens.

“When I was married, I was very active in the community. But when I got divorced, I got my PhD and I raised my kids – I didn’t have time to volunteer. When I retired, I really wanted to give back to my community again. So, I went to my best friend Ann and said, ‘Where should we volunteer?’ and she told me about ACCA and Meals on Wheels,” said Granrose.

And that question – and the answer to it – has made a far bigger impact than they intended.

Darby retired in 1996, looked for something to do and found yoga classes at the Center for Active Living. Through yoga, she saw the impact ACCA made on older adults in the Athens community and wanted to get involved herself.

“I’ve always loved the people at ACCA. They just draw you in and their work is very compelling,” said Darby. “Older people have also always been a part of my life. My parents took care of their parents when I was growing up and then as an adult I took care of my parents. I’m very familiar with older people, and I love them. I saw what they do at ACCA and was attracted to it. I wanted to do it myself,” said Darby.

Initially, Darby and Granrose volunteered for Meals on Wheels separately. They covered individual routes on different days, but three years ago when Darby couldn’t drive anymore due to a car accident, Granrose took on Darby’s route in addition to her own.

“No one else has done for me what Cherry does. I get to keep my route and still have connections with my Meals on Wheels clients. She is a very special person,” said Darby.

As a team, Darby and Granrose each bring their own traits and skills.

“Ann is much better at Meals on Wheels than I am,” said Granrose, “I am very goal oriented. Ann on the other hand, cannot walk into a room without talking to everyone in that room and asking about them. I became a casual friend with a few of the clients, but Ann is very good friends with many of her clients.”

“It’s just natural for me. I am very curious about people. Building relationships is in my nature. She is much better at getting the job done. She does the driving, and I do the talking,” laughed Darby.

Volunteering together through Meals on Wheels has only brought Darby and Granrose closer.

“Cherry will deny herself and do whatever it takes to help other people, especially me. I have never seen anyone who sticks to their friends more than her. Even with my car accident, she has never given up on me,” said Darby.

“I’ve always loved the people at ACCA. They just draw you in.”

Find your volunteer spot!

The Fix-It Shop

Are you handy and older than 55?

The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is seeking older adults to help develop and lead a DIY home repair group. Volunteers from across the Athens area will be able to come and fnd fellowship through providing small DIY improvements to clients’ homes, as well as learn new skills and trades from other members. If you have a knack for creating a dove-tail joint or know how to unclog a J-bend like a pro, this is the group for you!

State Health Insurance Program Benefts Counselors (SHIP)

Enrolling in Medicare can be a confusing and frightening time, but by becoming a SHIP volunteer you can gain the knowledge to navigate this complex healthcare system. This program provides counselors all the training they need to help benefciaries navigate Medicare enrollment, ensuring they fnd the plan that works best for their unique situation. Volunteer counselors provide both phone and in-person counseling in our ofces, and have the option of doing of-site counseling to help reach benefciaries across our 12-county service area.

Buddy Volunteers

Buddy volunteers are matched with an older adult based on shared interests and hobbies, or a desire to learn a new skill from a new friend. Whether you like movies, music or working on your next masterpiece painting, we’ll get you matched with a Buddy who would enjoy your company!

AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparents

Are you older than 55 and looking for a way to make a positive impact in your community? Whether you’re looking to serve fve hours or 40 hours each week, the AmeriCorps Senior Foster Grandparent Program is a great way for low-income older adults to engage with the community while enriching the lives of others. These volunteers will be matched with elementary-aged children where they will provide tutoring, mentorship and one-on-one support in a school or childcare setting.

Meals On Wheels Volunteers

We are in urgent need of delivery volunteers! Our drivers deliver prepared meals and other necessities to vulnerable residents of our community every week day at 10:30 a.m. These deliveries include older adults and people with disabilities who are homebound and unable to leave their homes due to health, mobility or transportation issues. Our volunteers provide not just a meal, but also someone to check in on our clients and make sure every person MOW serves sees a friendly face each day.

If you are interested in volunteering with any of these programs, please visit www.accaging.org/ volunteers for more information.

Aging Well, Eating Well Made Easy at CAL

We love continuing education at CAL! And we most definitely love good food. Next time you’re looking for tips for healthy eating or ways to perk up your plate, pop into one of our fun, online “Pop Up” nutrition classes.

Rachel Berton, RDN LD, Community Dietician Nutritionist from Open Hand Atlanta, leads this 30-minute virtual class on the fourth Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. Log in from anywhere to gain new skills and inspiration to empower your health goals! (If you prefer in-person, we also live-stream from the Hudson Room.)

Open Hand not only delivers fresh content each month -- they also happen to provide our hot lunches at the Center. Vetted by nutritionists, prepared in their Atlanta kitchen, and delivered daily, our menu is packed with flavor, variety and a pinch of the unexpected.

Did you know? Daily meals are included for members 60+ who enroll in our Congregate option. Or, if you prefer to pay as you go, lunches are available to all members at an affordable cost (be sure to call the CAL office to RSVP)!

By Allyn Rippin and Rachel Berton, RDN LD

At our Café and Coffee Bar, you’ll find healthy and tasty treats, grab-n-go breakfast and lunch items, quick protein snacks and a bevy of drinks (including 1000 Faces Coffee).

Hours: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Mon.-Fri.

Scan the code to join Open Hand’s Pop Up Nutrition class virtually

EXPLORECArTErsvILLE A Real Georgia Gem

Col. Farish Carter

By Kellye Morgan

Located about 45 miles outside of Atlanta, Cartersville, Georgia is packed with renowned museums, a state park and popular lake, historic downtown shopping and dining, and local vineyards. It may be one of the most interesting places you never thought to visit!

This city of just over 20,000 citizens houses rich history in its multitude of museums and historic sites. Cartersville can date its history back to the prehistoric Leake Mounds and Etowah Indian Mounds built by Native Americans of the Mississippian Culture. The area was also once home to Creeks and Cherokee natives. Etowah Mounds is a 54-acre site that protects six mounds, a plaza, village site, borrow pits and defensive ditch. This site is the most intact Mississippian Culture site in the Southeast. The museum at Etowah Mounds showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of these indigenous people and highlights how they hunted, farmed, fshed and controlled trade along the Etowah River.

The Bartow History Museum also digs into the later history of Cartersville and surrounding areas.

Located in the downtown Cartersville Courthouse, built in 1869, museum visitors can view artifacts, archives and oral histories from pioneer settlements to the early 20th century. Visitors to the city can expand their learning experience by touring the Booth Western Art Museum - yes, Western art in Northwest Georgia. Booth is the largest museum of its kind in the Southeast. Even the architecture of the museum itself is a sight to behold, resembling a modern Southwestern pueblo and constructed from Bulgarian limestone. In addition to Western works by artists such as Charles Russell and Frederic Remington, Booth showcases Presidential portraits and letters, Civil War art, and pieces by Andy Warhol. If science is more your thing, then you do not want to skip the Tellus Museum. Here you’ll learn about minerals, rocks, gems, fossils, dinosaurs (including a 40-foot Tyrannosaurus

The Booth Museum

Lake Allatoona

rex named Stan), astronomy and transportation technology.

There are also plenty of things to enjoy outdoors in Cartersville. Lake Allatoona is a popular spot for fshing, boating and mountain biking. Beautiful Red Top Mountain State Park is located on the lake. Here people can enjoy hiking trails, swimming spots, miniature golf and tennis courts. Also situated on Lake Allatoona, George Washington Carver Park was the First Georgia State Park for African Americans built in 1950. Old Car City USA is an outdoor museum of sorts. The world’s largest known classic car junkyard includes six miles of walking trails through more than 4,000 cars on display, including Elvis Presley’s last automobile, as well as an extensive Styrofoam cup folk art collection.

Join the Center for Active Living as we uncover the rich history and culture found in Cartersville on October 25. Reserve your spot by contacting Kellye at kmorgan@accaging.org or 706-549-4850.

fun facts

• Cartersville was originally known as Birmingham. It was renamed in 1854 after Col. Farish Carter who frequently visited the area.

• The world’s frst outdoor Coca-Cola sign, painted in 1894, is located in downtown Cartersville on Young Brothers Pharmacy’s wall.

• The museum at Rose Lawn is the former home of evangelist Samuel Porter Jones, for whom the Union Gospel Tabernacle (Ryman Auditorium) in Nashville was built. This later became the Grand Ole Opry.

• Cartersville is the site of two Smithsonian Afliate museums: the Booth Western Art Museum and the Tellus Science Museum.

• NASA has installed a camera that tracks meteors at the Tellus Science Museum.

• Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence was quarterback at Cartersville High School (class of 2018) before playing at Clemson University.

• Georgia food enthusiasts have annually selected at least one favorite Cartersville bite for the statewide review, “100 Plates Locals Love.”

We ofer both virtual and in-person classes that follow safety precautions and procedures. Classes are subject to change or cancellation.

Dance, Fitness and Movement Classes

Chair Yoga

Designed to be accessible to all, most poses will take place seated, and any standing poses will use the chair for support. Expect a gentle class sequence with the opportunity to stretch muscles and invigorate the mind through breath work. This class is in the format of pre-recorded instructor videos; attend in person or virtually. Contact the CAL ofce for the Zoom link.

When: Mondays at 10 a.m. *New day*

Where: ACCA Harris Room (with option to join via Zoom)

Cost: Free for members, $5 drop-in for non-members

Tai Chi with Michele

Tai Chi, which means balance and harmony in Chinese, has often been described as “moving meditation” because of the fowing motions accompanied by breathwork. In addition to an improved sense of calm and clarity, participants in the class will improve their balance, leg strength, range of motion, and energy levels. Instructor Michele guides the class through low-impact, easy-to-learn movements that can be incorporated into any daily routine.

When: Mondays at 1 p.m. Where: ACCA Harris Room or Pavilion (weather permitting) Cost: Free for members, $5 drop-in for non-members

Get Fit!

ACCA’s community partner, Athens Clarke County Leisure Services, is back with this popular ftness class for seniors 55+. Get Fit! ofers a combination of fexibility, strength training, and aerobic ftness for seniors who prefer a workout without impact to their joints. Participants will use resistance bands, small weights and body weight to improve strength and balance. To join, contact ACC Leisure Services at 706-613-3596 or visit www.accgov.com.

When: Mondays from 1-2 p.m. (from October 23rd - November 28th, join any time)

Where: Lay Park

Cost: Free for members and non-members

Tuesday Walking Group

Meet up for a walk with friends at the ACCA Greenway and various parks and trails around Athens. Enjoy some light exercise while gaining the restorative benefts of time spent in nature. We will meet at ACCA every Tuesday at 11 a.m. EXCEPT the 3rd Tuesday of the month: When: November 15th, Oconee Veterans Park Cost: Free for members and non-members; Register for of-site walks with Kellye at kmorgan@accaging.org or call 706-549-4850.

Beginner Line Dancing

New to line dancing? Immediately following our Intermediate class, Linda leads an introductory class to help new dancers learn the steps.

When: Tuesdays at 1 p.m.

Where: ACCA Harris Room

Cost: Free for members, $5 drop-in for non-members

Dance Fitness

Let the music move you in this fun and energizing class. Improve your core, coordination, stamina and balance. Chairs will be set up for those who prefer seating.

When: Wednesdays at 2 p.m.

Where: ACCA Harris Room

Cost: Free for members, $5 drop-in for non-members

Intermediate Line Dancing

Led by CAL instructor Linda “Boots” Barnes, this class uses an eclectic mix of music to keep dancers moving from beginning to end. You will be guided step-by-step through the dances with seasoned classmates who will help keep you on track. Grab your dancing shoes and join the fun!

When: Tuesdays at 12 p.m.

Where: ACCA Harris Room Cost: Free for members, $5 drop-in for non-members

Yoga with Bill

This Integral Hatha Yoga class consists of bodily postures, deep relaxation and breath control. The yoga poses are not exercises. The word exercise tends to give one the impression of quick movements which involve strain. Instead, the yoga asanas, or postures, that Bill teaches are meant to bring steadiness, comfort and ease to the body and mind. Classes are meant to be easy for beginners yet challenging for those with more experience.

When: Wednesdays at 3 p.m.

Where: ACCA Harris Room

Cost: Free for members, $5 drop-in for non-members

KEEP MOVING

Chair Tai Chi with Katie Join Piedmont Athens Regional’s Katie Calkin, MPH, MCHES for this gentle, 30-minute class followed by an optional blood pressure check. No elaborate clothing is required, and its gentle movements allow for easy modifcations. Much of the class will be seated or standing using a chair for balance. When: November 10th and December 1st at 10:00 a.m. Where: ACCA Harris Room Free for members and for non-members

Smart Moves with Becky Smart Moves is a low-impact class that can be performed seated or standing and is appropriate for all ftness levels. This 60-minute class mixes the use of elastic bands, free weights, and medicine balls to work your entire body and improve balance, fexibility and strength. When: Thursdays at 2 p.m. Where: ACCA Harris Room Cost: Free for members, $5 drop-in for non-members

CAL Trips

To join in person or virtually, please contact kmorgan@accaging.org or call the CAL ofce at 706-549-4850. Links for virtual trips are also provided in our e-newsletter.

Trip to Cartersville, GA

Tucked in between Atlanta and Chattanooga lies a city flled with Smithsonian-afliate museums, beautiful parks and a sparkling lake, and plenty of shopping in its historic downtown. Travel with us as we visit the world’s largest permanent exhibition space for Western art at the Booth Western Art Museum and the popular Tellus Science Museum which boasts a digital planetarium and observatory with a state-of-the-art 20-inch telescope. If time permits, we will also explore the Etowah Mounds State Historic Site and learn about what drew Native Americans of the Mississippian

Culture to this site.

When: Tuesday, October 25th

Where: Depart CAL at 9:00 a.m.; return appx 6:00 p.m. Cost: $45 for members, $55 for non-members (includes entrance fees)

Register with Kellye at kmorgan@accaging. org or 706-549-4850. Pay in full at time of registration to reserve your spot.

Athens Haunted History Walking Tour

For those interested in local lore, Athens is a city of spirits and legendary stories. From Colonial Georgia, the Civil War, Prohibition era, The Great Depression and beyond, there are many tales of hauntings in and around the Athens area. For this spooky season, join us as we share the history and haunts of the Classic City. This tour lasts approximately two hours and participants should be able to complete a moderately strenuous 1.8-mile route on foot.

Trip to Poland

Poland is considered one of the most underrated destinations in the EU.

Anywhere with CAL

Register with Kellye at kmorgan@ accaging.org or call 706-5494850. Free for members and non-members.

With its incredible history and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, world-class museums, and plentiful nature, there is much to enjoy here. We will visit Krakow, Poland’s historic capital with Medieval roots, then make a pilgrimage to the sobering site of Auschwitz. We will also pay a visit to the modern capital of Warsaw, which only decades after it was destroyed during World War II, has become a lively, thriving capital once again. When: Thursday, October 20th at 1 p.m. Where: Zoom (with option to view in Hudson Room)

When: Tuesday, November 1st at 6:45 p.m.

Where: Meet us there! Tours begin and end at The Graduate Hotel (295 Dougherty St., Athens, GA).

Cost: $15/person; register with Kellye at kmorgan@accaging.org or 706-549-4850

Morning Brew Crew at Cafe Racer

Mornings are made for cofee and donuts! Start your day with us at one of the area’s best kept secrets, Cafe Racer Cofee + Donuts, at their quaint location in Crawford, GA. The cafe turns out delicious homemade donuts as well as breakfast biscuits, cofee and tea.

When: Friday, November 11th. Limited transportation available or meet us there at 10:30 a.m.

Where: Cafe Racer Cofee + Donuts (3 Arnoldsville Rd., Crawford, GA 30630)

Cost: Self-pay for members; Register with Kellye at kmorgan@accaging.org or call 706-549-4850.

Pottery Class with Twisted Moon Studios

Learn from a ceramist about the basics of clay construction and working with clay, including hand building and wheel work. This will be a fun way to get creative with friends as you create your own unique piece of pottery to take home! Limited transportation provided, or meet us there!

When: Thursday, November 10th at 2 p.m.

Where: 2971 Monroe Hwy Bogart, GA

Cost: $25/person or $30/person with transportation; sign-up with Kellye at kmorgan@accaging.org or call 706-549-4850.

Trip to joshua tree national park

Travel west with us to Joshua Tree in southern California, where two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado, come together. The landscape is home to a variety of plants and animals in a land sculpted by the elements. Take in the dark night skies, its rich cultural history, and surreal geologic features that add to the wonder of this vast wilderness. The park’s famous Joshua trees have also been used in numerous fashion and flm sets and the park has become a popular destination for travelers seeking spiritual connection and creative inspiration.

When: Thursday, November 17th at 1 p.m. Where: Zoom (with option to view in Hudson Room)

Soweto Gospel Choir presents

Hope: It’s Been A Long Time Coming

The spectacular and vibrant three-time Grammy Award-winning Soweto Gospel Choir presents a special program celebrating South African and American artists associated with the struggle for civil rights and social justice. Expect to hear South African freedom songs as well as music by Aretha Franklin, Harry Belafonte and Mahalia Jackson, in addition to traditional African gospel music and spirituals.

When: Tuesday, November 15th at 7:30 p.m. Depart CAL at 6:45 p.m.

Where: Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall at UGA Cost: $30 including transportation; limited tickets available, register with Kellye at kmorgan@accaging.org or 706-549-4850. Pay in full at time of registration to reserve your spot.

Overnight Trip: Christmas at the Biltmore

Enjoy this two day, one-night stay in beautiful Asheville to see the famous Biltmore mansion

decked out in its fnest for the holiday season. Price includes overnight hotel, breakfast, lunch at the Biltmore, admission to the estate and gardens, a wine tasting, guided tour of Asheville, and motor coach transportation.

When: December 1-2, 2022 Where: Asheville, NC

Cost: Double room: $350.00/person. Single room: $395.00/person Deposit due at time of signup ($50/person); full amount due by 11/1. For individual cancellations, refunds may be made up to 46 days prior to trip (10/17), but we are unable to guarantee. No refunds from 45 days prior to trip (10/18). Service charges will be assessed for any cancellations. Trip insurance is extra and upon request.

Seminars, Classes & Events

Medicare Open Enrollment with SHIP

It’s that time of year! Formerly GeorgiaCares, the SHIP program ofers seniors unbiased assistance navigating medicare and the enrollment period.

ACCA’s SHIP Program Coordinator will be here to share information.

When: Wednesday, October 26th at 10:30 a.m. Where: ACCA Hudson Room (with option to join via Zoom)

Cost: Free for members & nonmembers; Register with Kellye at kmorgan@accaging.org or call 706-549-4850.

The Death Cafe MovementTea & Mortality

At a Death Cafe, strangers gather to eat cake, drink tea and discuss death. That’s right - death. This special kind of cafe is a discussion group around death with no agenda, objectives or themes. We all have mortality in common. So why is it so often difcult to talk about? Join Danielle Amarant, graduate student with the University of Georgia Institute of Gerontology, as she walks us through that question and reviews the history and importance of Death Cafes, including one she helped develop here in Athens, GA. In keeping with the tradition of these gatherings, tea and cake will be served!

When: November 7th at 10:30 a.m. Where: ACCA Harris Room

Cost: Free for members & non-members; to RSVP, email kmorgan@accaging.org or call 706-549-4850.

The Local Library Reimagined with AthensClarke County Library

Our local library system ofers services and support to the community well beyond books! Join social worker Elise Stangle and colleagues from the Athens-Clarke County Library for an informative session on the library’s many benefts, including computer classes, genealogy classes, the Heritage Room, art and literary happenings, and more. Discover how the library’s “trauma-informed” approach helps support community resiliency through Elise’s unique role helping library visitors fnd local community resources and applying for housing, food and other kinds of assistance.

When: Wednesday, November 9th at 10:30 a.m. Where: ACCA Harris Room

Cost: Free for members & non-members; Register with Kellye at kmorgan@accaging.org or call 706-549-4850.

Holistic Wellness Lecture Series

Join Dr. Lesley Clack, ScD, CPH, from Northeast Georgia HealthMatters, for this popular, virtual wellness series that addresses wellness from a holistic, whole person perspective. The seminar meets once a month and covers a range of topics, including Alzheimer’s Disease (November 1st) and Mental Health (December 6th).

When: 1st Tuesday of every month at 10 a.m. (November 1st and December 6th)

Where: ACCA Hudson Room (with option to join via Zoom)

Cost: Free for members and non-members

Stroke Awareness Seminar with St. Mary’s

The CDC has stated that every 40 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke. This means many of us will be afected by a stroke at some point in our lifetime. Hear from Whitney Bar feld, RN at St. Mary’s Hospital, about causes of strokes, prevention measures, warning signs, and how to help loved ones after a stroke. When: Monday, November 14th at 10:30 a.m. Where: ACCA Harris Room

Cost: Free for members & non-members; to RSVP, email kmorgan@accaging.org or call 706-549-4850.

Pop-Up Nutrition Class

Pop in for this 30-minute virtual nutrition class each month. Receive healthy tips and recipes from a Registered Dietician at Open Hand, an Atlantabased non-proft that delivers healthful meals to seniors. Get inspired and informed with new topics each month. Participants are entered to win a gift card!

When: 4th Thursday of every month at 10 a.m. (October 27th, November 17th)

Where: ACCA Hudson Room (with option to join via Zoom)

Cost: Free for members

Digital Skills Ready@50+ Computer Classes

ACCA is partnering with Senior Planet from AARP to help people over 50 learn new online skills. When you sign up for the Digital Skills Ready@50+ program, you’ll gain the essential skills you need to navigate an increasingly digital world. Whether you’re looking for a job, exploring entrepreneurship, or hoping to stay connected with family and friends, Digital Skills Ready@50+ classes and workshops ofer trainings on a wide range of technologies, from video conferencing to online job search tools to ofce productivity software.

When: Monday, November 8th at 11am (Connecting to the Internet) and Thursday, December 8th at 11am (Cloud Storage) Where: ACCA Hudson Room Cost: Free for members and non-members; Register with Kellye at kmorgan@accaging.org or call 706-549-4850.

Outsmart Your Smartphone

Do you need help getting plugged into the digital world? Want to gain confdence in using your smartphone, tablet or laptop? Need help getting on Zoom, social media or managing your email and photos? Our Tech Volunteer can answer your questions. By appointment only. Available for members only (in person, by phone, or virtual). Please call the CAL ofce to make an appointment.

Social Programs and Events Halloween

Dance Party and Costume Contest!

We’re doing the mash - the monster mash, that is! Join us at CAL for a halloween-themed dance party. We’ll have catchy tunes, frighteningly delicious refreshments, and scary good prizes for those who dress up.

When: Monday, October 31st at 11 a.m.

Where: ACCA Harris Room

Cost: $5 for members and non-members. No cost if you show up in costume! RSVP to Kellye at kmorgan@accaging.org or 706-549-4850

Ballroom Social Dance

Have you ever wanted to try ballroom dance? This is the perfect opportunity! Social dances are intended for participation rather than performance and can be followed with relative ease. You’ll begin with a lesson and then show of your new dancing skills during the social dance portion. No partner necessary. Join swing dance pros Melissa Gogo and Geof Newell as they take us through the steps.

When: 2nd Monday of the month (November 14 and December 12) from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Where: ACCA Harris Room Cost: $8 for members and $10 for non-members; RSVP to Kellye at kmorgan@accaging.org or call 706-549-4850

Friendsgiving Lunch

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks for good friends like you, our CAL members! Join us for a festive meal together while we enjoy music, fellowship and the favors of the season.

When: Tuesday, November 22nd at 12:00pm

Where: ACCA Harris Room Cost: $9/person (cost is included in Congregate membership). RSVP by November 15th.

Beginner Mah Jongg

Mah Jongg is a Chinese tile game that is becoming more and more popular in the United States. Similar to the western card game rummy, Mah Jongg is a game of skill, strategy, calculation and involves a degree of chance. RSVP required;

space is limited. Please contact the CAL ofce.

When: Wednesdays from 1:30 p.m. -3:30 p.m.

Where: ACCA Hudson Room

Cost: Free for members and non-members

Athens Symphony Christmas Concert

Get in the Christmas spirit as the Athens Symphony Orchestra brings us some holiday cheer at their annual Christmas concert at The Classic Center. The popular community orchestra will perform classics such as “Frosty the Snowman” and “O Holy Night” at this free event. A limited number of tickets are available, so reserve your spot ASAP!

When: Sunday, December 11 at 3 p.m. Where: Limited transportation provided from CAL or meet us at The Classic Center! Cost: Free for members & non-members. $10/ person with transportation

The Nutcracker with The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine

Join CAL as we watch this treasured holiday fairytale set to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score and performed by the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine. A limited number of tickets are available, so call the CAL ofce today and see all your favorite moments in this fantasy world: “Waltz of the Flowers,” “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” “Waltz of the Snowfakes,” and more!

When: Thursday, December 22 at 7 p.m.

Where: Limited transportation provided from CAL or meet us at The Classic Center!

Cost: $35/person or $40/person with transportation

Suppor t Groups

Grief & Loss Support Group

Whether you are grieving a loved one, working through a life transition, or just feeling a sense of loss in a post-pandemic world, our new support group will help you along your healing journey. This open group will be facilitated by Allison Lamb, LMSW of Revolution Therapy and Yoga, who specializes in grief and loss, and will bring you together with others in the community experiencing similar situations.

When: 1st Wednesday of every month at 10:30 a.m. Where: ACCA Hudson Room Free for members and non-members

Caregiver Support Group

Join other caregivers for support, participate in educational programs, and gain knowledge from health care professionals. For more information contact Catherine Singleton at 706-549-4850.

When: 3rd Tuesday each month at 12 p.m. Where: ACCA Bentley ADH Center (135 Hoyt Street, Athens, GA, 30601) Free for members and non-members

Creative Aging with the Georgia Museum of Art

These events are free for CAL members. Limited transportation is available, or meet us there. Please call the CAL ofce at 706-549-4850 to register.

Seated Yoga in the Gallery

Join us for a special seated yoga class in the museum’s gallery space. All abilities welcome.

When: Thursday, October 20th from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Creative Aging Art Workshop

The museum hosts a gallery conversation, followed by studio art making with teaching artist Toni Carlucci.

When: Tuesday, November 15th from 10-11:30 a.m.