MARCH / APRIL 2014 Council Communicator

Council

Council for Older Adults www.growingolder.org

COMMUNICATOR Volume 22, Number 2

March/April 2014

Telling It Like It Is It’s Not What It Used to Be Jeff Robinson, Editor Council Communicator

At an event to celebrate National Manufacturing Day last fall, an Ohio career center enlightened students with demonstrations of 3D printing and robotics. The state-of-the-art displays were meant to dispel images that the word “manufacturing” might conjure among teenagers - smokestacks, steel mills, workers with dirty faces and steel lunch pails.

The message? Manufacturing isn’t what it used to be.

And neither is aging.

What thoughts does the word “aging” generate in your mind? A nursing home where a group of residents naps around the television?

A hospital bed? Gray hair and thick glasses?

At the Council for Older Adults Enrichment Center, aging is defined - in part - as a trip to Italy, pool tournaments and a cardio workout in the fitness center. And it’s defined by some of the center’s staff and frequent visitors as “whatever you make it to be” (see accompanying story).

National studies have shown that, even if aging isn’t as good as we think it will be, advances in medicine and more active lifestyles mean that it doesn’t have to be as bad as we may fear. A survey of nearly 3,000 adults conducted by the Pew Research Center found...

AGING continues on page 22...

We provide choices for older people so they can live safely in their own homes and stay healthy as they age.

In an effort to learn more about the myths and realities of aging, the Council Communicator sat down with four COA enrichment center regulars of varying ages and asked them to set the record straight about getting older. Sharing their insights were 62-year-old Joe Pusateri, 66-year-old Trudy Poole, 78-year-old Shirley Maggard and 81-year-old Edie Balser.

Q. Talk about the myths and realities of aging. How many of those stories about aging have come to be true and how many are not what they are cracked up to be?

Trudy - Age is a state of mind and an attitude. You’re as young as you feel...until your body screams something else.

Joe - The first thing is, when you get up as you get older, you’re so stiff and you say, ‘Well, how did I get this way?’ If you don’t keep active, everything falls apart. One of the keys to my physical being is I love to work out. If you don’t do some sort of exercise, your body just doesn’t feel well at all. Personally, I do six days a week, and even God took Sunday off. Start out light and build yourself up to where you can do it all the time.

Trudy - Keeping in contact with those in the community and continually meeting new people keeps...

TELLING continues on page 23...

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Council COMMUNICATOR

In This Issue

Council Special Events Calendar MARCH 2014

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The Council for Older Adults is a nonprofit organization that helps older people in Delaware County live safely in their own homes and stay healthy as they age. Programs and services provided by the Council are supported in part by the local senior services levy, corporate and private donations, and grants. The Council for Older Adults is a United Way agency.

Apr. 8 Apr. 9 Apr. 10 Apr. 10 Apr. 16 Apr. 23 Apr. 24

Unique Spring Boutique Caregiver Workshop Your Investments & the IRS New to Medicare Class Beyond the Podium Irish Buffet Dinner New to Medicare Class

Caregiver Workshop New to Medicare Class Volunteer Recognition Free tax prep ends Mobile Mammography New to Medicare Class ABC’s of Pain Management

Your Favorite Sections Feature Article . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Local Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Financial Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Resource Development . . . . . . . 7 Health & Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Caregiver Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Puzzle Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Bookshelf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Volunteer Visions . . . . . . . . . . 12

COA Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Happenings at the Center . . . .

Personal Reflection . . . . . . . . .

Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Support Groups . . . . . . . . . . . .

Insurance Info . . . . . . . . . . . .

Travel & Outdoors . . . . . . . . . .

Today’s Technology . . . . . . . . .

Ask Bob . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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2014 Board of Directors President: Karen Pillion, Sunbury Vice President: Dwayne Gardner, PhD, Delaware Secretary: Jane Nance, RN, Galena Treasurer: Tansukh J. Salgia, PhD, Galena Past President: Larry Harris, Delaware David Black, Westerville Alice Frazier, MD, Delaware Robert Gaffey, PhD, Delaware Jan Garlock, Westerville Robert Gore, Delaware George Kannapel, Powell Anne Kuntz, MS LSW, Powell Ross Long, JD, Delaware John McDavid, Centerburg Trudy Poole, Lewis Center Anita Reeb, Delaware Alice Solove, Powell Robert Sprengnether, Galena Bill Verhoff, RN, Milford Center John Watkins, Radnor The Council Communicator is published bimonthly by the Council for Older Adults of Delaware County and is made possible through the generosity of advertisers, donations from individuals, and the contributions of volunteers.

About 45,000 copies of each edition are printed and distributed throughout Delaware County in the Delaware Gazette, Sunbury News, and to subscribers of the Sunday Columbus Dispatch. In addition, the Council Communicator is available at social service agencies, healthcare providers, public offices, libraries, and over 50 other locations. To find a nearby pick�up site, please contact the Council at 740�363�6677 or visit www.growingolder.org, where you can also read the the Communicator online via Issuu.

To advertise, submit articles, or request comments, please contact Alison Yeager, Marketing Coordinator, Council for Older Adults at 740�363�6677 or alison@growingolder.org.

The appearance of advertising in this publication does not represent an endorsement of products, services, or political candidates and issues by the Council for Older Adults. We reserve the right to refuse advertising from any entity whose mission may conflict with our own.

The Council Communicator cannot guarantee the return of articles or photographs submitted for publication.

How to Reach Us

Council for Older Adults

800 Cheshire Road

Delaware, Ohio 43015

740�363�6677 www.growingolder.org Follow us on

Council COMMUNICATOR

In This Issue

3

SEASONAL SPOTLIGHT Here’s how the Council for Older Adults can help you this month...

Transportation. Do you need help getting around?

The Council funds two programs through DATA, and also provides volunteer-based transportation to medical appointments and adult day care centers.

DONATE STUFF. Create Jobs.

For your convenience, a Goodwill employee will unload your donations at any of our retail locations and provide you a tax deductible receipt.

Visit www.mariongoodwill.org for locations Corporate Phone: 740-387-7023

Free Tax Preparation. Through April 10, the AARP TaxAide program is available at the Council for Older Adults, where IRS-trained counselors help seniors prepare their income taxes free of charge.

Home Energy Assistance Programs (HEAP). The Council provides applications for four programs designed to help low-income residents pay their utility bills and improve the heating efficiency of their homes.

Quality Services. As always, the Council provides a variety of year-round services that allow older adults to live safely in their own homes and stay healthy as they age.

See our COA Services center spread on pages 14 - 15 for details!

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Council COMMUNICATOR

Local Spotlight

Arlene Lerch: Aging with Grace...and Pies Jeff Robinson, Editor Council Communicator Forget Dr. Oz. Forget Dr. Phil.

They may claim to know the secrets of aging gracefully, but would you rather take advice from someone in their 40s or 50s whose so-called expertise is based largely on alleged research and statistics, or someone who turns 97 in May, has been there, done that, and is still going strong?

Delaware resident Arlene Lerch knows a thing or two about dealing with aging. She’ll tell you that taking care of yourself has to be your first priority, if for no other reason than it helps you with priority number two - helping and taking care of others.

“I’ve been helping other people for as long as I can remember,” Lerch said from the kitchen of her home that she built with her husband more than 67 years ago.

“When I was five years old, I went to my great grandmother’s and helped her wash dishes. She had no sink so we used a dishpan. I had to stand on a stool to use the pan, and I wasn’t allowed to get off the stool until I washed my hands because they had been in the dish water.”

She got the dish water off of her hands, but the feeling of helping others has been with her ever since.

“I’ve always liked to help people.

I still do,” she said. “I still try to do what I can.”

Lerch was born in a small town between Marion and Mount Gilead called Denmark, Ohio.

“I’ve only run into one person who knows where I’m talking about, but I have a good time telling people I was born in Denmark,” she said with a smile. “The town has a church, a hall where they’d have plays, a grocery store...I went to that church, and was baptized there. And my dad was in plays at that hall.”

Her habit of helping others may have started with her dad, a carpenter and mason who often took Lerch with him on jobs.

“He did a little bit of everything, and I used to go with him,” Lerch said. “I was the middle child of five, so I was my dad’s helper.”

Lerch has outlived all of her siblings, as well as two husbands, a son and a daughter. She has a son who still lives in Delaware, and she has two adult grandchildren.

Lerch said her childhood was spent close to Delaware. She started school in Caledonia, and attended there until the middle of the fifth grade. From there, her family moved into the Edison school district. She graduated from Edison High School in 1935,

Arlene Lerch in her kitchen at home in Delaware and already had a few years of work under her belt.

“When I was 12 years old, I was cleaning and doing laundry for other people for $5 a week, which was good money back then,” Lerch said. “I used to say I was doing other people’s dirty work.”

After high school, Lerch either worked, took care of family members, or raised a family of her own, occasionally having to balance all three.

“When I graduated from high

school, I went back and worked in the school office, and then I left there to take care of a family member in Sunbury,” she said. “I did that for a while, then came back to Delaware. I was looking for an office job, and in the meantime got a job cleaning and cooking at the (Delaware County) sheriff’s office. Then I took an office job at a hatchery, which was right in downtown Delaware on Winter Street.”

Lerch said she was an office...

ARLENE LERCH continues...

Traci L. Born  740-657-7872  traci.born@raymondjames.com Raymond Klosz, JD  740-657-7868  raymond.klosz@raymondjames.com Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC, and are: • Not Deposits • Not insured

by FDIC or any other governmental agency • Not guaranteed by The Delaware County Bank and Trust Company• Subject to risk, may lose value. The Delaware County Bank and Trust Company is independent of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.

Council COMMUNICATOR

ARLENE LERCH continued from page 4... ...manager “forever,” working for an appliance store in Delaware, the Delo Screw Products company, and eventually taking the job from which she would retire, at Greif Bros.

“I worked there for 14 years, and spent 11 of those in Navarre, Ohio,” she said. “I went up there because I had remarried, and my husband had a factory job there. But I kept my house here in Delaware.”

The house, where she still resides, started as a two-room house when she and her first husband - to whom she was introduced by a friend - began building it in 1946. In 1947, they moved in and continued to build on the other side. They raised their three children there, and Lerch remained there after her first husband passed away in 1968.

“The first note for this house was $1,600,” she said.

This year marks her 67th in the house (minus the time spent in Navarre), and it’s in nearly as good condition as Lerch is.

“My doctor said to me one time, ‘For your age you’re in pretty good shape.’ I said I can never remember a time when I wasn’t helping someone else, and to do that I had to take care of me first.”

For Lerch, taking care of herself entails taking daily vitamins, eating well (“I eat whatever I want but watch how I fix everything”) and baking things with low cholesterol - specifically pies.

“I use corn oil to bake my pie crust, and I can bake a no-sugar pie,” Lerch said. “I bake pecan pies for the Moose and Eagles each year for charity bake sales. Everybody says, ‘Where are Arlene’s pies?’ so I have to put my name on them so they know which ones are mine. I can put two pecan pies in the oven in 15 minutes, and that includes making the crust.”

In addition to baking for others (“I’ve never charged for one pie”), Lerch sews for others, including making pants for a friend’s paraplegic son-inlaw.

“If you can’t help others, you aren’t much good to yourself,” she said.

She still does her own cleaning and cooking, and even mows the lawn when she can.

“I’m on a riding mower, and to me that isn’t any different from sitting in a rocking chair,” she said. “I like being outside.”

While she admits she can’t do quite as much as she used to do, she said if somebody needs something, she’ll try to find a way to go do it.

“I thank the good Lord for every day that I can get on my feet,” Lerch said. “I see so many people who need taken care of every day who are not as old as I am, and I just can’t see getting like that. I’m just trying to give back to the people that gave to me.”

Local Spotlight Experience More at Delaware Court More Services,

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Admissions & tours are arranged daily, including evenings and weekends.

For more information call (740) 369-6400.

4 New Market Drive, Delaware, Ohio 43015 • (740) 369-6400 www.delawarecourt.com

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Council COMMUNICATOR

Financial Focus

Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage in Retirement?

Roger A. Lossing, CPA, JD, CFP DCB Trust & Wealth Management For many homeowners, paying off a mortgage is a financial milestone.

This is especially true when you are retired. Not having the burden of a monthly mortgage payment during retirement can free up money to help you live the retirement lifestyle you have always wanted.

Some retirees are lucky enough to have paid off their mortgage before they reach retirement. For others, however, that monthly obligation continues. If you are retired, you may be wondering whether you should pay off your mortgage. Unfortunately, there is no one answer that’s right for everyone. Instead, the answer will depend upon a variety of factors and how they relate to your individual situation.

Return on Retirement Investments vs. Mortgage Interest Rate One way many retirees pay off their mortgage is by using funds from their retirement investments. To determine whether this is a good option for you, you’ll need to consider the current and anticipated rate of return on your retirement investments versus your current mortgage interest rate. In other words, do you expect to earn a higher after-tax rate of return on your current retirement investments than the after-tax interest rate you currently pay on your mortgage (i.e., the interest rate that you’re paying, factoring in any mortgage interest deduction to which you’re entitled)?

For example, assume your mortgage interest rate is 5.25%, which, after the benefit of your tax deduction (ie. your after tax rate), is 4%. You are considering withdrawing funds from your retirement investments to pay off your mortgage balance. In general, you would need to earn an after-tax return of greater than 4% on your retirement investments to make keeping your money invested for retirement the smarter choice. On the other hand, if your retirement funds are primarily held in investments that typically offer a lower rate of return than the interest rate you pay on your mortgage, you may be better off withdrawing your retirement funds to pay off your mortgage.

As you weigh your options, you’ll also want to consider these points: • Effect on retirement nest egg – If you rely on your retirement savings for most of your income during retirement, you should generally avoid paying off your mortgage if it will end up depleting a significant portion of your retirement savings. Ideally, you should pay off your mortgage only if you have a small mortgage balance in comparison to your overall retirement nest egg.

• Tax consequences – Keep in mind that if you are going to withdraw funds from a retirement account to pay off your mortgage, there are some potential tax consequences of which you should be aware.

First, if you withdraw pretax funds from a retirement account, the amount you withdraw is generally taxable. As a result, you’ll want to be sure to account for the taxes you’ll have to pay on the amount you withdraw from pretax funds. Depending on your tax bracket, that could be a significant amount. In addition, if you take a large enough distribution from your retirement account, you could end up pushing yourself into a higher income tax bracket. Finally, unless you are 59½ or older, you may pay a penalty for early withdrawal.

• Comfort with mortgage debt – For many retirees, a monthly mortgage obligation can be a heavy burden. If no longer having a mortgage would give you greater peace of mind, give the emotional benefits of paying off your mortgage some extra consideration.

No Time

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We’ll talk about the changes in your life and help you decide whether it makes sense to revise your investments because of them.

A portfolio review will help ensure your investments are keeping pace with your goals. Call your local financial advisor today.

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595 Sunbury Road Delaware, OH 43015 740-363-9200

Bob Hetterscheidt, AAMS® Financial Advisor .

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Member SIPC

Council COMMUNICATOR

Resource Development

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Famous Fundraising Mike Miller, Development Administrator Council for Older Adults This Hall of Fame is Not in Canton What do Benjamin Franklin, Judah Touro and Nicholas Longworth have in common? They are all members of the Philanthropy Hall of Fame, a list of more than 50 great Americans who, according to the Philanthropy Roundtable, have changed our nation and the world through their charitable giving.

These titans of generosity come from all walks of life and are listed at www.philanthropyroundtable.org (in Publications, under Hall of Fame).

You’ll see some familiar names as well as some surprises. The first 10 readers who view the list and identify the name of the man from Cincinnati known as the Father of American Winemaking before 5 p.m. on March 25 will have a chance to win a $20 gift card for Bob Evans Restaurants. The winner will be chosen at random from the qualifying entries. Submit your entry to Mike Miller at mike@growingolder.org or 740-203-2420.

Blue Ribbon Panel Forming - Join Us! Have you been to one of those fun and exciting nonprofit fundraising events that take place throughout the community during the year?

You know the ones. The Bacon Fest. The Relay for Life. The Casino Night.

Have you taken part in a church bazaar or capital campaign? Maybe you have purchased candy or gift wrap from your grandchild to support their school work. It’s now time for the Council for Older Adults to join the mix.

To help with the process, a new brainstorming group is forming at the Council that will explore fundraising ideas to help us fulfill our mission of serving older people in Delaware County. Being active in fundraising efforts is not new to the Council, and your ideas will help us tremendously.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Council must be strategic in its efforts to raise support for its important work and services. As you may know, most of our current revenue comes from the generous support of taxpayers, and is supplemented by grants and fees for services. This fundraising effort will allow us to engage new people in our work.

If you would like to be part of this historic process, please plan to attend one of two Blue Ribbon Panel meetings, on either March 20 from 2 to 3 p.m., or March 25 from 10 to 11 a.m., both taking place at the Council for Older Adults, 800 Cheshire Road, Delaware.

After the initial meeting, panel members will be asked to attend one or two additional meetings in April. Refreshments will be served at each meeting. Please RSVP to mike@growingolder.org or 740-203-2420.

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Health & Fitness

Council COMMUNICATOR

Team Works to Provide Best Patient Experience Dr. Barbara Evert, Vice President of Medical Affairs OhioHealth Grady Memorial Hospital If you or a loved one is in the hospital, you will find that the care you receive is provided by a team of caregivers. Knowing who the team members are, and what they do, will make you feel more comfortable and involved in the decision-making that guides your care.

At OhioHealth Grady Memorial Hospital and other OhioHealth hospitals, we want patients to be part of our team, not just passive recipients of tests, medication, and procedures. Studies have shown that patients who are involved in their care-making decisions have better outcomes, and stay healthier and more active after they are dismissed.

Toward that goal, we present each patient upon admission with a booklet that defines the roles of different people who may be participating in their care.

We also require color-coded uniforms for our staff to help patients identify them and their duties. For instance, our physicians wear white lab coats or green surgical scrubs. The nurses wear navy blue, the nursing assistants light blue, the respiratory therapists dark green, the x-ray techs dark gray, and the phlebotomists – who draw blood – wear (what else?) red.

The care for the majority of our patients is overseen by one of our hospitalists, board-certified physicians who specialize in the care of hospital patients. Because they work only in the hospital, they are more available to see patients, meet with family members, explain tests and procedures, answer questions, and follow up on tests at various times during the day and night.

Depending on the type and severity of your condition, you may also see a surgeon who will perform your operation or procedure, and an anesthesiologist (or nurse anesthetist) who administers medicine to make sure you are very comfortable before, during, and after your operation or procedure.

Other physicians you may see – depending on your illness or injury – include specialists with extra training in specific areas. Grady has a full array of specialists, including cardiologists, oncologists, neurologists, nephrologists, obstetricians, ophthalmologists, otolaryngologists, orthopedists, and critical care physicians. Grady patients admitted through the emergency room also will see an emergency medicine physician.

One of our staff nurses will be assigned to oversee your nursing care.

This is the individual you probably will see most often and is your primary

point of contact for questions and concerns.

The nurse implements the physician’s orders, and helps coordinate care to make sure all of your needs are met – ranging from tests, medications and procedures to bathing and nutrition.

Here are some other specialists on staff who may be involved in your care: • Nurse practitioners are trained and qualified to assume some of the physician’s responsibilities; they are permitted to prescribe certain medications. They work with the hospitalists and see some of their patients. They also work with some of the surgeons who perform procedures.

• Nursing assistants help with the activities of daily living, such as bathing, toileting, mobility, etc. They take vital signs, check blood sugar, and frequently communicate with the nurse.

• Physical therapists evaluate functional mobility and offers techniques to improve it.

• Respiratory therapists assist with the patient’s need for oxygen therapy, administer breathing treatments and are involved in the care of a patient on a ventilator.

• Social workers focus on the arrangements needed for after-hospital care, working with the patient, family members and other facilities.

• Other specialists you may see include a registered dietitian if you have special dietary needs, and a pharmacist to teach you about your medication.

At Grady Memorial Hospital, patient safety and quality care are top priorities of all of our caregivers, and we are held to the same quality standard of care as every OhioHealth hospital, including Riverside Methodist Hospital, Grant Medical Center, Doctors Hospital and Dublin Methodist Hospital in Columbus. For more information about Grady’s services, call 740-615-1000 or 800-487-1115, or visit www.OhioHealth.com.

Council COMMUNICATOR

Caregiver Workshops The Council for Older Adults provides monthly support opportunities for active caregivers who provide assistance to their family members and friends.

These workshops allow caregivers to learn, grow, and gather support. Presentations are provided by various members of our community and focus on a variety of topics. Workshops are held on the second Tuesday of every month from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Upcoming workshops include: • March 11: “Navigating the Health Care Maze,” presented by Patty Callahan of Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging • April 8: “Is it Alzheimer’s or Just Signs of Aging?” presented by the Alzheimer’s Association of Central Ohio • May 13: “Family Dynamics/Caregiving,” presented by Paula Taliaferro of Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging Workshops are free and are held at the Center for Older Adults. Please feel free to bring a friend! To register, RSVP to Jen Spicer at 740-203-2377.

Caregiver Corner

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Council COMMUNICATOR

Puzzle Page

Crossword Puzzle

Sudoku #1

New England Menu by Ed Canty Solution on page 21

Level of difficulty: Easy Solution on page 21

ACROSS 1. June birthstone 6. Post-diet, ideally 10. Dracula, at times 13. Kukla’s co-star 14. “The Taming of the Shrew” city 16. A pint, maybe 17. Maine menu item 19. Barbie’s beau 20. Atlas features 21. Soft tissue 23. “Cheep” accomodations?

25. Sought damages 26. Hack 29. Kind of center 32. London subway to Brits 34. Frigid finish 36. Sleuth Wolfe 37. Coach’s advice to base runner 39. Hubbubs 40. French monarch 41. “I could _ horse!”

42. Tiny amphibians 44. Photo blowups: abbr.

46. Genetic letters 47. Dirk of yore 48. Systems of waist removal?

50. Main and Wall: abbr.

51. Give a little 53. “Buenos _” 55. Lorax creator 58. Cuisine style 62. Drone, e.g.

63. Cape Cod menu item 65. _ Today 66. Apportion

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48 51

53 56

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67. Munich denials 68. Caesar, for one 69. Line parts: abbr.

70. “Super!”

DOWN 1. _ sci (coll. major) 2. Carolina college 3. Priestly garb 4. Ascended 5. A, B or C 6. Time of yr.

7. Songbird 8. Fan mail recipient 9. Drug smugglers 10. Menu item in colonial Boston, perhaps 11. TV’s Trebek

50 54

58

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64 67 69

68

46 49

52

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38 41

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37 40

39

Complete the grid so that each row, column and each 3x3 square contains every digit from 1 to 9 without repeats or omissions.

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19 21

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Sudoku #2

70

12. Big _ Conference 15. Native Alaskans 18. German coal city 22. Spay 24. In _ (owing) 26. Actor James 27. Gofers 28. Boston menu item 30. Mac follower 31. _ lobster 33. Patronize, as a restaurant 35. Lauder and namesakes 38. Highland miss 43. _ Falls, NY 45. Knit or purl 49. Polynesian wrap 52. Takes the edge off

54. Ratty place 55. TV’s Arnaz 56. Ad headline 57. E.P.A. concern 59. “Garfield” dog 60. Actress Olin 61. At one time, at one time 62. Greyhound, e.g.

64. Pennies: abbr.

Level of difficulty: Medium Solution on page 21

Council COMMUNICATOR

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Quiet by Susan Cain Andrew Mayer, Reference Librarian Delaware County District Library Do you ever feel like the world is full of very social, gregarious people, and you just never quite fit in? Have you ever been pressured to attend the latest social event, even though you would rather spend a quiet evening at home? According to Susan Cain, author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, answering yes to these questions means that you are most likely an introvert, and being one is nothing of which to be ashamed. In Quiet, the author explores the spectrum of introverted and extroverted personalities with surprising conclusions.

Introversion may be not only a preference for the quiet life, but also a very valuable attribute that could lead to success in unlikely places.

Although human social temperament has been analyzed for millennia, Cain traces Americans’ embrace of the extroverted to the beginning of the 20th century. Industrialization produced new factories and big cities.

The influx of people to urban settings forced most to live near and work with unfamiliar faces. In a world full of strangers, sociability and self-promotion have become keys to success. The author explains that “The Extrovert Ideal” defined the last century. Developing an attractive outgoing personality was promoted in the classroom and workplace. Introversion became a stigma, an undesirable trait for the modern era.

Using a wealth of psychological research, historic reflection, and personal anecdotes, Cain challenges “The Extrovert Ideal” and invites readers to rethink their beliefs about introversion. For example, perceived wisdom posits that working in large groups and open office plans improves performance, but studies show that such arrangements can cause high blood pressure and anxiety, and increase the chance of getting sick.

Working alone or in more intimate settings actually boosts productivity.

We learn that Rosa Parks was an introvert and this fact was likely more influential in her decision not to move from her seat than many others. The author visits the Harvard Business School and discovers that students are expected to be highly extroverted at the expense of introspection. Unfortunately, these future leaders may be more successful with the latter.

Although an introverted reader may discover more to love about Quiet, the revelations found in this book appeal to a wide audience. As the author points out, everyone possesses a mixture of extroverted and introverted tendencies, and everyone has to act outside of their natural inclination some of the time. Finding a balance between both ends of the spectrum is the message to be learned here. A worthy undertaking.

The Delaware County District Library provides periodic book reviews for the Communicator. Materials reviewed are available for use at DCDL.

12

Council for Older Adults

Council COMMUNICATOR

VOLUNTEER VISIONS NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK On April 10, the Council for Older Adults will celebrate the achievements of our volunteers with a recognition dinner and ceremony from 6 to 8 p.m. If you are currently a Council volunteer, please contact Sharon Fryer at fryer@growingolder.org or 740203-2368 for more information.

National Volunteer Week is April 6-12 and is about inspiring, recognizing, and encouraging people to seek out imaginative ways to engage in their communities. It’s about demonstrating to the nation that by working together, we have the fortitude to meet our challenges and accomplish our goals.

National Volunteer Week, a program of Points of Light and sponsored by Advil as part of the Advil Relief in Action campaign, was established in 1974 and has grown exponentially each year, with thousands of volunteer projects and special events scheduled.

This marks the 40th anniversary of National Volunteer Week, demonstrating the enduring importance of recognizing our country’s volunteers for their vital contributions. With the fifth anniversary of the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, the creation of the Volunteer Generation Fund, and President

Obama’s resonant call to serve, this year’s celebration promises to be even more inspiring. For more information regarding National Volunteer Week, please visit www.growingolder.org or www.pointsoflight.org.

WE’RE RECRUITING! The Council for Older Adults is currently looking for volunteers.

We have a number of positions available, including Meals On Wheels kitchen assistants, transportation service drivers, and home chore volunteers. If you are interested, please contact Sharon Fryer at 740-203-2368.

Make a difference in your own life and other lives in your community: VOLUNTEER!

NEW VOLUNTEERS Betty Blair, Mary Cellura, Maria Corfias, Brittany Cowgill, Mike Custer, Sharon Custer, Monique Durst, Patrick Finneran, Sue Frederick, Hershell Glenn, Merri Hickey, David Martin, Diane Milhoan, Scott Miller, Irene Ng, Dave Novotney, Tim Reardon, James Smith, Candy Troyer, Riya Vyas, Tim Walker and Stephen Wallace.

CORRECTION A caption in January’s issue misidentified David Hardcastle. The Communicator apologizes for the error.

Clockwise from top left: David Hardcastle; Debbie Martin, Bob Horrocks & Carroll Yarnell; Marilyn Mansell & Rose Swisher; Bob H. & Shirley Philpott

Council COMMUNICATOR

Council for Older Adults

13

VOLUNTEER VISIONS VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT Our home chores volunteers perform a variety of tasks for older adults in the community, including hanging pictures, mowing lawns, washing windows, installing electronics, cleaning gutters, moving furniture, and more. Our spotlight features not one, but three volunteers who help with home chores: Mary Lou Bailey, Denny Brown and Richer Malboeuf.

Mary Lou Bailey Mary Lou Bailey has been with the Council for more than four years, volunteering in a number of positions. She has earned four Star Awards for going above and beyond, earned her 100-hour Hat Award, and attended Breakfast with Bob where her exemplary efforts were recognized.

Mary Lou has been the head cook at Buckeye Valley East Elementary School for 26 years, has a German Shepherd named Gabe, and enjoys sports such as

softball, volleyball, and golf. She also volunteers with both People in Need (PIN) and the Drugbusters Club.

Mary Lou is very close to her two sons, Bryan and Shawn. Bryan lives in Dover, Delaware and is in the Air Force. Shawn lives in central Ohio and often volunteers with his mother. “We really like helping people and we know the clients appreciate all the work we do for them,” Mary Lou said. She said she believes her greatest accomplishment in life is her sons.

Mary Lou and Shawn have served one client regularly over the years and have become close as a result. Mary Lou enjoys this friendship and fondly recalls organizing the client’s yard sales, helping her downsize and running the sale herself to make life a little easier for the client.

Denny Brown has been with the Council for almost four years, and has received four Star Awards and earned the Going the Extra Mile award in 2013.

Denny has worked for Honeywell International for almost 37 years. He has degrees in both mechanical engineering and marketing, and loves motorcycles, photography, fishing, and traveling.

Denny Brown Denny has been married to Joan for 37 years and has three sons.

Denny said that helping older adults with repairs is a simple way to show kindness to others.

He said it feels good to help others and is very rewarding to get to know the people he serves. One of his regular clients agrees that it’s a heartwarming relationship; she said she is always impressed

by Denny’s positive demeanor and strong work ethic.

Richer Malboeuf has been with the Council for more than five years. Richer has received four Star Awards and is praised by his supervisor as being attentive and thorough.

Richer has been married to Cara for more than 14 years, and is employed as a technical services manager for Micro Industries in Lewis Center. He designs computer products and provides tech support for digital signage and computer kiosks. He enjoys working out and lifting weights. Rich-

er ran the Columbus Marathon three years ago.

Richer recently volunteered to help a client clean her basement. While Richer was cleaning, the client kept him company, sharing stories about her recently deceased husband. As she spoke, Richer realized he was doing much more than simply cleaning a basement; he was providing a shoulder on which a grieving widow could lean. He ended his chore that day by offering words of comfort and a hug.

Would you like to make a difference in the life of an older adult in your community? Take the first step and contact Sharon Fryer at fryer@growingolder.org or 740-203-2368.

Richer Malboeuf

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Council COMMUNICATOR

Council for Older Adults

COA SERVICES BUS BUCKS PROGRAM

The Council for Older Adults of Delaware County and Delaware Area Transit Agency (DATA) have a plan in place to address the 2014 fare increases on DATA bus service. The Council for Older Adults currently funds two programs at DATA, providing Delaware County residents age 60 and older with two options for affordable transportation throughout the county.

Thanks to a grant awarded to DATA by the Council Board of Directors, the first option takes advantage of DATA’s fixed route transportation, the most efficient and cost-effective way to travel on the bus service. Local seniors can travel on fixed routes for just $0.50 per one-way trip.

The second option involves an agreement between the Council and DATA, in which the Council will subsidize DATA’s demand response program by providing a monthly stipend to Delaware County residents age 60 and older. The rider is responsible for a $4 co-payment per one-way trip and the Council will cover

the rest up to $50.

As part of the continued effort to provide affordable transportation options to senior citizens in Delaware County, DATA also helps educate riders on other, less expensive means of transportation. One such resource is already in place at the Council for Older Adults and is designed to take clients to and from medical and social service appointments. The Council is expanding this volunteer transportation program in anticipation of the growing need in the community.

The Bus Bucks program is currently in effect. Delaware County residents age 60 and older should call DATA at 740-363-3355 to take advantage of the program.

FREE TAX PREP FOR SENIORS Through April 10, an AARP TaxAide Coordinator and IRS-trained tax counselors will prepare taxes for those individuals who need assistance with income taxes. AARP’s Tax-Aide is a free annual program, brought to you by your local AARP chapter and the Council for Older Adults. The program makes tax assistance available to older adults in Delaware County.

There are four locations this year: • Council for Older Adults, 800 Cheshire Road, Delaware, on Wednesdays 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. and Thursdays 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Make an appointment

for this location by calling 740-363-6677.

• Westerville Senior Center, 310 W. Main St., Westerville. For information, call 614-901-6560.

• Dublin Community Center, 5600 Post Road, Dublin. For information, call 614-4104550.

• Andrews House, 39 W. Winter St., Delaware, on Mondays 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Make an appointment for this location by calling 740-369-4520.

Please do not schedule your appointment until you have received all of your paperwork. On the day of your appointment you MUST bring: • Social Security card/1099 SA & photo ID • 2013 tax return • W-2s • 1099s • Billing statements for new windows, doors, insulation, etc. purchased in 2013 • Any other tax-related materials such as itemized deductions, etc.

This service is by appointment only. In the event of inclement weather, please contact your location to verify that appointments are still being held.

HOME ENERGY HELP The Ohio Department of Development offers several programs

to help low-income residents pay their utility bills and improve the heating efficiency of their homes, including: • Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Assistance usually consists of a credit on the heating bill account each year.

• Winter Crisis Program (E-HEAP). This program assists households where the source of energy has been disconnected or threatened with disconnection, or where there is less than a 10-day supply of bulk fuel.

• Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPPPLUS). A special payment plan that requires eligible customers to pay a portion of their household income each month to maintain utility service.

• Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP).

Assistance comes in the form of reducing energy use by providing insulation, air leakage reduction, heating system repairs, health and safety inspections and testing, as well as other services.

Applications for the 2013 - 2014 season are available at the Council for Older Adults office at 800 Cheshire Road, Delaware.

Council COMMUNICATOR

Council for Older Adults

15

COA SERVICES OUR SERVICES

You are invited to the

Grand Opening/Reopening of the

Expanded Assisted Living Center and the

Unveiling of the

Transitional Living Apartments Willow Brook at Delaware Run 100 Delaware Crossing West north side of West William Street

Thursday, April 17, 2014 5:00 - 7:00 pm Visit Café 100 Tour model transitional living apartments Enjoy refreshments from Willow Brook chefs Hobnob with members of the Delaware Area Chamber of Commerce Meet our welcoming residents and staff RSVP to 740-201-5687

by April 13

Making the Willow Brook decision brings you peace of mind.

Not for Profit • Church of Christ • www.willow-brook.org

The Council’s goal is to provide you with the highest quality services available to help you remain living safely in your own home.

Call us for a professional in-home consultation with one of our experienced Care Consultants, who can work with you to customize a service plan designed just for you.

You’ll receive only the services you need and want from our comprehensive list of offerings, which includes: • Adult Day Care. Helps people with some level of impairment engage in fun, social activity in a safe, supervised setting.

• Chore Services. We can help with minor chores such as changing light bulbs, shoveling snow, painting and more.

• Counseling. In-home counseling is available for you and your family to address grief, depression, anxiety, alcohol and drug use, and more.

• Emergency Response System. A small help button worn around the neck or wrist linked to 24-hour emergency assistance.

• Homemaker Services. We can help with light house cleaning, cooking, laundry, errands and grocery shopping.

• Home Delivered Meals. Meals On Wheels provides hot, nutritious meals every weekday.

• Minor Home Repair. We can assist with handicap accessibility, plumbing, flooring repair, electrical repairs, bathroom access, smoke detectors, furnace service and address other safety concerns.

• Medical Transportation. Transportation to medical appointments, social service agencies and adult day care centers.

• Nursing Services. RN nursing services can help you achieve optimal health and well-being through health screenings and medication monitoring.

• Personal Care. Personal care assistants provide help with bathing and dressing.

• Respite. Designed to provide relief and rest for caregivers and can be provided in the home or at a local facility.

The Council can handle all these arrangements and our services are available on a sliding fee scale. Call 740-363-6677 today!

16

Council COMMUNICATOR

Council for Older Adults

HAPPENINGS AT THE CENTER The Council’s Enrichment Center provides a variety of activities to help active older adults remain a vital part of their community. For more information, please call 740-369-5133 or visit www.growingolder.org.

COMPUTER ACTIVITIES Computer Class TH, 1 - 3 p.m. & 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Computer Help & Support “Geek Squad” TH, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

CREATIVE ARTS Chime Choir “Del Chimers” TU, 2 - 3 p.m.

Creative Expressions – Art Collage Mar. 19 & 26, 1 - 3:30 p.m.

Creative Expressions – Open Studio Mar. 5, 21 & 28, 1 - 3:30 p.m.

Creative Writing Mar. 31 & Apr. 28, 2 p.m.

Do for Others I MO, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Do For Others II WE, 9 - 10:30 a.m.

The Golden Notes FR, 1:15 p.m.

Hand Work with Friends (Knitting & Crochet) TH, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Life’s a Stitch TH, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Liquid Stained Glass FR, 1 - 3:30 p.m.

Painting Group MO, 1 - 3 p.m.

Photography Group Mar. 27 & Apr. 24, 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Quilters Rule TU, 3 - 5 p.m.

Reminiscence Theatre TH, 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Scrappy Crafters TU, 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Wood Carving TU, 9 - 11 a.m.

NEWS & VIEWS Mind Aerobics FR, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Stock Market Discussion WE, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

We Be Jammin’ Mar. 11 & Apr. 8, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

SOCIAL SCENE ACBL Sanctioned Bridge Play 1st & 3rd TH, 12:30 - 4 p.m.

Bingo WE & FR, 1 - 3 p.m.

Bridge MO, 1 - 3 p.m.

Bridge Lessons MO, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Coffee and Conversation WE, 9 - 10 a.m.

Darts TU & TH, 1 p.m.

Dominoes TU & TH, 1 - 3 p.m.

Duplicate Bridge TU, 12:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Evening Euchre Club WE, 5 - 7:30 p.m.

Euchre MO, 1 p.m.

Mah Jongg WE, 1 - 3:30 p.m.

The Music Gathering WE, 10 a.m.

New Member Party Last WE, 10 - 11 a.m.

Open Play Bridge MO & FR, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Senior Center Dining Group 3rd TH, 5:30 p.m.

SPECIAL INTEREST & WELLNESS Book Club 3rd MO, 12 p.m.

Delaware County District Library on Wheels Mar. 19 & Apr. 9, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Delaware General Health District Clinic 4th WE, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Foot Care TU, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Call for appt.)

Good Food for Dummies – OSU Extension Office 2nd MO & 4th FR, 9 a.m.

Health & Wellness Seminars by Wexner Heritage Village Apr. 9, 10 - 11 a.m.

Health Screenings by Wexner Heritage Village Mar. 10 & 24; Apr. 14 & 28; 10 - 11:30 a.m.

How Does Your Garden Grow WE, 10 - 11 a.m.

Massage Therapy WE, 9:15 a.m. - 1 p.m. (Call) MediGold 1st WE, 9:30 - 11 a.m.

Parkinson’s Support Group – Speech Therapy 2nd & 4th WE, 2:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Seniors Anonymous (Support Group) 1st & 3rd MO, 1 - 2 p.m.

Think Positive: A Little Bit of Inspiration Mar. 21 & Apr. 11, 10 - 11 a.m.

Weight Watchers Meeting TH, 5 p.m.

SPORTS & FITNESS Advanced Line Dancing TH, 10 - 10:45 a.m.

Aquatic Low Impact Aerobics Class TU & TH, 5:30 - 6:45 p.m.

Basic Line Dance TH, 9 - 10 a.m. & 1 - 2 p.m.

Chair Yoga MO, 11 a.m.

Full-Body Workout MO & WE, 8 - 9 a.m.

Golf Meeting Mar. 18, 10 a.m.

Hiking Club MO, 1:30 - 3:30p.m.

Intermediate Line Dancing TH, 11 a.m.

Mat Yoga MO, 12 p.m.

Open Line Dance TU, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

PACE TU & FR, 10 - 11 a.m.

Pool Walking TU & TH, 4:30 & 6:30 p.m.

Table Tennis MO, 9 a.m. & WE, 1 p.m.

Tai Chi – Introduction MO, 5 - 6 p.m. & TH, 4 - 5 p.m.

Tai Chi Beginner TH, 5 - 6 p.m.

Vinyasa Yoga WE, 12 p.m.

Water Volleyball TU & TH, 11 - 11:45 a.m. & 2 - 2:45 p.m.

Zumba Basic MO & WE, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.; TU & TH, 9 - 10 a.m.

Zumba Gold MO & WE, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.

TRIPS & SKIPS Golden Marathon – Camp Lazarus Mar. 1, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Red Hat Society “Delaware Dollies” Mar. 13, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Romeo Club (Retired Old Men Eating Out) Mar. 4 & Apr. 1, 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Council COMMUNICATOR

Council for Older Adults

WORRIED ABOUT FALLS? Medical Alert Service

Provides peace of mind for you and your family.

Press your pendant.

Speak with a caring professional who will contact someone to assist you.

Your CareLink Attendant will remain on the line with you until help arrives.

17

HAPPENINGS Spotlight Activities AARP Tax Assistance WE, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and TH, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Ends Apr. 10. (Please call the center to make an appointment.)

The ABC’s of Pain Management Apr. 24, 12 - 1 p.m.

Ballroom Dance Lessons with Fred Astaire TU, 4 - 4:45 p.m.

No phone line...NO PROBLEM

Beyond the Podium Mar. 12, 9:30 - 10 a.m.

1-800-525-6237

Continuing Education: “Military Issues & Battles of WWII” Mar. 21, 2 - 3:30 p.m.

Cellular Options Available Order today for a risk free trial.*

*Applies to private pay customers.

TEAM ohio We’Ve gOt yOur CLIents COVereD!

• Family-Owned, Nationwide Company • Local Installers • Providing emergency home response and medication management • Ohio Passport and Waiver Certified Provider • Approved Vendor for Delaware County Council for Older Adults

Continuing Education: “Results & Consequences of WWII” Mar. 28, 2 - 3:30 p.m.

Energy Choices - Ohio Consumer Council Apr. 9, 10 - 11 a.m.

The James Mobile Mammography Unit Apr. 16, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

(Please call 614-293-4455 to make an appointment.)

A Matter of Balance - Delaware General Health District MO & TH (Please call 740-203-2054 to reserve your class.)

www.healthcominc.com

Ping Pong Tournament Mar. 27, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Unique Spring Boutique Mar. 8, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

A MATTER OF BALANCE

Your Investments and the IRS Mar. 11, 10 - 11 a.m. & Mar. 25, 6 - 7 p.m.

8 Week course at the Center for Older Adults for Delaware County Citizens 60+

2014 CLASS SCHEDULE Class 1: Mondays 3-5 PM March 3, 10,17, 24, 31 April 7,14, 21

Class 2: Thursdays 9:30-11:30 AM March 6, 13, 20, 27 April 3, 10, 17, 24

Class 3: Mondays 3-5 PM May 5, 12, 19 June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Class 4: Wednesdays 3-5 PM August 6, 13, 20, 27 September 3, 10, 17, 24

Class 5: Thursdays 9:30-11:30 AM August 7, 14, 21, 28 September 4, 11, 18, 25

Class 6: Wednesdays 9:30-11:30 AM October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 November 5, 12, 19

Contact: Mitchell Briant, 740-203-2054, mbriant@delawarehealth.org Improve balance, reduce fear of falling & receive a free grocery card!

Save the date! Senior Prom is on Saturday, May 10.

Tickets are on sale March 12, March 25 and April 9.

18

Personal Reflection

Council COMMUNICATOR

Tap into Your Creativity!

Joan Pearse, Arts & Education Manager Council for Older Adults “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” – Pablo Picasso I have worked with art students of all ages and have found that everyone has creativity. Many students who participate in creative classes at the Council for Older Adults are not aware of their capabilities until given the opportunity to shine. Creative classes allow you to express yourself, boost your self-confidence, and bond with your peers.

When asked about their experiences, art students at the Council praised the benefits of the arts: “Creativity is the feel of fabric, the play of colors and shapes and letting my mind be free of rules. It is the joy of seeing a special piece of fabric, then designing a quilt from that fabric. Surprisingly, it’s finding out just how much one has learned from watching and listening to others along our journey.” – Sandy Must, quilter “It really has helped me. I hadn’t done any crafts for more than 20 years.

Getting involved helped me after my husband died. I really look forward to coming in two or three times a week. I enjoy working and being creative with the others in the group.” – Nancy McMains, member of the Scrappy Crafters group “Woodcarving, regardless of your experience or expertise, is relaxing, enjoyable, and a lot of fun. This hobby allows you to create items that are handmade, beautiful and can, at times, also be useful. It allows a carver to get a feeling of accomplishment and pride.” – John Beach, woodcarver Judy Allen, member of the monthly Creative Writing group, said when she writes, “I go into another place and time and enter the world of my characters. They become my friends and neighbors and their lives take over. I know more about them than I know myself sometimes…perhaps I become my main character.” That character does not “have a bum knee or migraine headache. She doesn’t worry about the national debt or the funny noise in the car…and neither do I when her words are appearing on the screen. I find that I like who I am as a writer and that helps me like who I am as a person.”

Carol Rohde recently decided to try an art class: “Believing I had no artistic talent, I chose to try a liquid stained glass class. I figured, if my piece came out horribly, I would at least know I had tried. What a surprise! I walked out of that class with a painting on glass that I was proud of. With help from people who care and the willingness to try, well, I guess I can do most anything. How cool is that?”

Clockwise from top: Sandy Must in Quilters Rule; Nancy McMains in Scrappy Crafters; a liquid stained glass piece by Carol Rohde; John Beach in Wood Carving; a liquid stained glass piece by Nancy McMains There are many creative opportunities available at the Council for Older Adults. Check out the “Happenings at the Center” spread on page 16 for many of our offerings. What are you waiting for? Let your creative juices flow! If you are interested in learning more about the creative classes available at our enrichment center, please contact Joan Pearse at 740203-2410 or joan@growingolder.org for more information.

Council COMMUNICATOR

Club News

19

Clubs in Your Community ASHLEY SENIOR CITIZENS

GENOA TWP. SENIOR CITIZENS

OSTRANDER SENIOR CITIZENS

Ashley Villa, 240 S. Main St., Ashley Meeting: 3rd MO, 12 p.m.

Contact: 740-747-2658

Genoa Community Building 5111 S. Old 3C Hwy., Westerville Meeting: 2nd TH, 12 p.m.

Contact: Beulah Fritsche at 740-965-2640

Ostrander Community Center 3737 Ostrander Road, Ostrander Meeting: 4th TH Contact: Wilma Rolfe at 740-363-0948

HYATTS AREA SENIOR GROUP

PROSPECT SENIOR CITIZENS

Center for Older Adults, Fireside Room 800 Cheshire Road, Delaware Meeting: 2nd TU Contact: Barb Spellman at 740-369-3500

Prospect Senior Citizens Building 318 N. Elm St., Prospect Meeting: Every TH, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Contact: Marjorie Fox at 740-360-8639

BELLPOINT SENIOR CITIZENS Buehler’s Community Room 800 W. Central Ave., Delaware Meeting: Every MO, 1 - 4 p.m.

Contact: Bob Burr at 740-369-0652

BIG WALNUT SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB PJ’s Pizza, 571 W. Cherry St., Sunbury Meeting: 1st TH, 11:30 a.m.

Contact: Jane Cook at 740-936-5109 or Sharon Souder at 614-855-9243

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS

WESTERVILLE AAUW

www.lwvdelawarecountyohio.com Contact: Celia Vail at 740-369-4376 or lwvdelawarecountyohio@gmail.com

DELAWARE AAUW

OLENTANGY AREA SENIORS, INC.

Westerville Area Resource Ministry 175 E. Broadway Ave., Westerville Meeting: 2nd TH, 7 p.m.

Contact: Jerri Furniss at 614-937-4427 or jfurniss@culterhomes.com

www.delohioaauw.wordpress.com Contact: Roberta Clark at 740-363-3965

Orange Township Hall, 1680 E. Orange Road, Lewis Center Meeting: 1st WE, 11:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Contact: Mary K Thompson at 614-846-3854

DUBLIN COMMUNITY SENIOR CITIZENS Dublin Community Recreation Center 5600 Post Road, Dublin Meeting: 2nd MO, 11:15 a.m.

Contact: Wanda Kamler at 614-410-4550

IS YOUR CLUB MISSING FROM THE LIST? Send the club information, including meeting time and place, to alison@growingolder.org

Upcoming Buffet Dinners COA Event Services will continue to serve buffet dinners in the Radebaugh Room at the Center for Older Adults. Proceeds from these dinners benefit the Council’s Meals On Wheels program and other senior services in Delaware County.

Join us Wednesday, March 12 for a St. Patrick’s Day feast that includes salad, Guinness-glazed ham, corned beef, sauerkraut, braised cabbage, red skin potatoes, vegetable medley, Irish beer brownies and cheesecake with Irish cream sauce.

There will be no buffet dinner in April, but save the date on Wednesday, May 7 for the popular Mother’s Day dinner. The menu includes shrimp cocktail, herb-crusted roast beef, chicken piccata, scalloped potatoes, couscous, roasted asparagus, mini cheesecakes and mango mousse tarte.

The cost is $13.95 for adults, $6.95 for children ages 6-12, and free for children under 6. Gift certificates are available for purchase. Reservations are required; please call 740-203-2356.

20

Council COMMUNICATOR

Support Groups

Find Comfort and Strength in Local Support Groups ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION Meeting: 2nd TH, 10 - 11:30 a.m. at Willow Brook Delaware Run, 100 Delaware Crossing; 3rd TU, 1 - 2:30 p.m. at Asbury UM Church, 55 W. Lincoln Ave., Delaware Contact: Bernie Sanders at 740-363-1365 or bsanders@alz.org

DELAWARE MIGHTY SOULS (MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS) Meeting: 1st TH, 6 - 8 p.m. at Willow Brook Delaware Run, 100 Delaware Crossing Contact: Thom at 740-815-5809 or Ron at 740-815-3837

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION CENTRAL OHIO Meeting: Warm-water exercise and Tai Chi classes are available throughout the County Contact: 614-876-8200 or Morgan Patten at mpatten@arthritis.org

CANDID CAREGIVER WORKSHOPS Meeting: 2nd TU, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. at the Council for Older Adults, 800 Cheshire Road, Delaware Contact: Jen Spicer at 740-203-2377

Meeting: 3rd WE at 1:30 p.m. at Delaware Township Hall, 2590 Liberty Road, Delaware; speech classes on 2nd and 4th WE at 2:30 p.m. at the Center for Older Adults, 800 Cheshire Road, Delaware; exercise classes on TU at 11 a.m. at Willow Brook Christian Village, 100 Willow Brook Way South, Delaware Contact: John Latiolais at 614-530-5028

SENIORS ANONYMOUS Meeting: 1st and 3rd MO, 1 - 2 p.m. at the Center for Older Adults, 800 Cheshire Road, Delaware Contact: The Council at 740-369-5133

SUNBURY DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP Meeting: Sunbury United Methodist Church Contact: 614-443-2584

THURSDAY NIGHT TOPS (TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY) Meeting: TH, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at William Street United Methodist Church, 28 W. William St., Delaware Contact: Georgeanna Mills at 740-881-4497

IS THERE ANOTHER SUPPORT GROUP THAT SHOULD BE ON OUR LIST? Send the group information, including meeting time and place, to alison@growingolder.org

Council COMMUNICATOR

New to Medicare Classes

Insurance Info

Puzzle Solutions

The Council for Older Adults offers a FREE “New to Medicare” class for individuals who will be eligible for Medicare due to either age or disability, and want to learn about their options. The session will provide an overview of the many components of Medicare: Part A (inpatient hospitalization/skilled nursing), Part B (Outpatient hospital/doctors/labs/radiology), Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans), Part D (Prescription Drugs), as well as how to cover the gaps in Medicare benefits through Medicare Supplement Plans.

These classes are offered on the second Wednesday of each month from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and on the fourth Wednesday of each month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Council for Older Adults on 800 Cheshire Road in Delaware.

Seating is limited and pre-registration is required. Please call our registration hotline directly at 740-203-2382, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You may also call the Council’s main number during normal business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 740-363-6677.

Sudoku #1 Solution

Board Announces 2014 Grant Awards

Sudoku #2 Solution

The Council for Older Adults Board of Directors has approved grants for 16 programs serving older adults in Delaware County. The Council helps fund existing programs in the county as a cost-effective and efficient way to address the various needs of senior citizens. Each year the board of directors and other members of the community review grant applications and award funding to those organizations that provide the most effectual services.

The programs, managed by various nonprofit organizations in Delaware County, will receive a total of $531,242.60. Funding for these grants is provided by the Delaware County senior services levy. Those organizations receiving grants are: • AARP Tax-Aide • Alzheimer’s Association of Central Ohio • Catholic Social Services • Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA) • Community Action Organization of Delaware, Madison, and Union Counties • Delaware Area Transit Association (DATA) • Delaware County Juvenile Court • Delaware General Health District • Delaware Speech and Hearing Center • Employment for Seniors • HelpLine of Delaware and Morrow Counties • National Church Residences Center for Senior Health • The OhioHealth Foundation • People in Need For more information, please visit www.growingolder.org and click on “Latest News.”

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New England Menu Solution

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Council COMMUNICATOR

Feature Article

AGING continued from page 1... ...“a sizable gap between the expectations that young- and middle-aged adults have about old age and the actual experiences reported by older adults themselves.”

The study showed some of the biggest discrepancies when respondents were asked about the negative traits related to aging, including illness, memory loss, loneliness, depression, and an inability to drive, among others.

Survey results showed that, in each case, older adults reported experiencing the traits at lower (or far lower) levels than younger respondents expected to experience them as they aged.

On the flip side, older adults also reported experiencing fewer opportunities for travel, less time for hobbies, and no second career, some of the positive traits that younger respondents thought would come with aging.

As young as you feel So when does old age officially begin? As the adage goes, you’re as young as you feel, and according to the Pew survey, there is no right answer. Of the adults who completed the survey, those in the 18 to 29 age range thought the average person became old upon turning 60. Middle-age respondents pushed the figure closer to age 70, while those already in their 60s (65 and older, to be specific) agreed that old age begins at 74.

Physical well-being is a key trait associated with old age. While it’s

Reality: Relief from the responsibility of daily child rearing, greater opportunities to indulge personal interests, and increased freedom most often lead to improved personal well-being.

Myth: Most parents age 65 and older are neglected by their adult children who never visit them, or who place them in nursing homes. Reality: Approximately 80 percent of parents over age 65 see at least one of their adult children every one to two weeks. Most families place elderly parents in nursing homes only as a last resort, and with utmost reluctance.

Myth: Most older people suffer from severe memory impairments and cannot remember such basic information as the names of their loved ones and Telling It Like It Is: Joe Pusateri, Shirley Maggard, Trudy Poole & Edie Balser. where they live. Reality: Memobig impact on whether or not we realities. Information gathered by ry declines in healthy middle-aged feel our age, the survey also shows the Aging Institute of the Univer- and elderly adults are likely to take that the “how old we feel” gap sity of Pittsburgh Medical Center the form of absent-mindedness.

Myth: Most adults past age 65 widens the older we get. Almost and the University of Pittsburgh half of those survey respondents contrasts many of the myths asso- are so physically incapacitated 50 and older said they felt at least ciated with aging with those cur- that they must depend to a great 10 years younger, while one-third rent views found by university re- extent on other people. Reality: of respondents between 65 and searchers. All of the comparisons Helplessness and dependency 74 felt 10 to 19 years younger. can be found online, but a few of are not characteristic of old age.

About 87 percent of adults over the highlights include: Messages from the media Myth: Most elderly Americans 65 are able to cope more than adIn Delaware County, the populalive in the southern sunbelt states. equately with the demands of evtion is growing at a fast rate. A reReality: While Florida has the eryday living.

So while we can share the steport from the Scripps Gerontology highest concentration of the elCenter at Miami University shows derly, most of the states that com- reotypical aging jokes with friends that, from 2000 to 2010, Delaware plete the top 20 are in the North – “I started walking a few miles a day when I was 65. I’m 70 now, County had an 83 percent increase and Midwest. in the number of people age 65 Myth: Becoming “empty nesters” and I have no idea where I am...” and older, the biggest increase in (when the last child leaves home) – we can take solace knowing the the state by far. Bob Horrocks, exis a time of considerable emo- laughs often come more from ficecutive director of the Council for tional pain, especially for women. tion than from fact. mainly the younger respondents who agree that forgetting someone’s name constitutes being old, the survey shows that all generations readily associate other characteristics - including failing health, inability to drive and difficulty on stairs - with reaching old age.

While individual traits can have a

Older Adults, said he expects that growth to continue for the rest of this decade. But the fact that more of us will grow older together simply means that we are living longer.

The messages spread in society - and the media - about aging are rarely a true reflection of aging

Council COMMUNICATOR TELLING continued from page 1... ...you on your toes. You get sedentary being around the same people all the time, but when you’re around new people it keeps the mind going. Mental activities, and even just singing a song sometimes is very therapeutic.

Edie - For me, I enjoy working and besides that I still do some volunteering. I work once a week, I volunteer at the hospital. Keeping your mind occupied is one of the most important things when you get to be in your 80s, and to be around people. To me that is the one thing that keeps you young.

Shirley - I have to be out. I have to volunteer.

I’ve got to get out of the apartment and meet people and work with people. I came out here to (the enrichment center) where I could help and just volunteer and they put me to work, and I’ve enjoyed that. The people here at night are my people. Their day is done and they can have fun and I can have fun with them.

Joe - My wife and I retired early, and the biggest question was ‘What are you going to do?” (We were told) if you don’t find something to do, it is very boring. But there is plenty to do. Just get out and socialize and find something you like to do. My wife was a nurse for 37 years and she is now volunteering at the (Columbus) zoo.

We’re constantly staying busy.

Q. What about diet. Do you have to watch what you eat? Should you?

Joe - The older you get, the more doctor visits you make. There is always something wrong.

The last visit I made, I was borderline diabetic.

Now I have to watch what I eat. It’s an ongoing battle.

Q. What about wine or beer?

Joe - I saw an article about a woman who was 106 and her diet was six Miller Lites a day.

Trudy - I have a neighbor who is 84. She drinks a cold beer every night before she goes to bed.

She swears by that cold beer, and says it calms her down before bed so she can rest and relax.

Feature Article The thing of it is, too much of anything is not good, but a little bit of this, a little of that (is fine). I haven’t stopped living.

Q. What do you allow yourself to do in moderation?

Trudy - I’ll have two margaritas instead of one, and mostly because of my medication. I was a perfectly normal human being until three years ago, then the body “blew up” and nothing has been the same since.

Edie - We allow ourselves to go out to eat, sometimes two or three times a week. I don’t always get home in time to cook. We eat what we would like.

Trudy - Just because we’re getting older doesn’t mean we stop living. We have to pace ourselves, but we are still alive and ticking.

Q. Does everybody have family in the area?

You often hear that spending time with grandkids can keep you young.

Trudy - That’s why I moved here. I moved here from Atlanta four years ago. My grandchildren and daughter were here, and got to see my grandchildren grow up. I’ve really gotten to enjoy that aspect of it. That is why I’m here in Ohio. I count my gratitudes on a daily basis.

Edie - I have children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren in Delaware. I’ve been in Delaware since 1949.

Joe - Both my mom and dad are still alive. They are 88 years old apiece. I wish they did live in Delaware County. I would love my parents to be involved in the center and all it offers.

Edie - It’s wonderful what all we offer here.

Q. What things about aging have you found to be as described?

Trudy - (It seems like salespeople/telemarketers) try to take advantage of us because of our age. They think our brain got turned off. You

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have to be cautious of things you participate in because of those issues.

Edie - Security companies are the ones that call a lot. When I get home the phone rings and it is someone who wants to sell you something because of the age you are. I’ve heard enough to know that it is not always true.

Trudy - It takes a lot for me to trust a salesman anymore.

Q. What advice would you have for somebody dealing with the aging process?

Edie - Keep involved in everyday life. Don’t sit back.

Trudy - Don’t wait on someone to reach out to you; you reach out (to them).

Edie - If I weren’t working here (at the center), I’d be here participating.

Shirley - I would too.

Edie - You’ve got to be with people. When I take people on a tour here, they are so excited when they get finished. They are surprised by what we have here.

Trudy - They feel like this is a comfortable place.

Q. At what age did you think, ‘Okay, I might have to give in. I am getting older.’?

Shirley - I say I’m not old, but I’m older, so I’ll see what is going on (at the center). You have to put yourself out there to see what makes this place tick.

Trudy - There is not an older mentality here. You aren’t sitting in the rocking chair. When I was 63 and diagnosed with a neuromuscular condition, it took everything in me to walk through that door because I am not a senior citizen. But here I am at 63 and barely moving. Older people are running circles around me. I’ve learned to live by the two A’s: Learn to accept and then adapt to it. And you finally get to a comfortable place.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON AGING AND THE REALITY VS. THE MYTH? Send your thoughts to alison@growingolder.org

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Council COMMUNICATOR

Travel & Outdoors

It’s No Myth: Volunteering in Parks Keeps You Young Sue Hagan, Marketing & Communications Manager Preservation Parks of Delaware County I love that this edition focuses on the “myths about aging.” Being smack dab in middle age, I think my children are convinced that decrepitude is right around the corner. I know that is not true – not for me, not for my husband and friends, and not for the dozens of older adults who volunteer for Preservation Parks.

I talked to a couple of them the other day, and I can tell you that they are about as far from being “over the hill” as anyone could be.

Bob Brenner, for example, is not content to walk the concourse at Polaris Fashion Place during the winter Golden Marathon hikes (our Monday walking program for older adults). Instead, he leads an alternative hike in the parks, even on cold, snowy days.

Bob, who has volunteered for Preservation Parks for about a decade, hikes park trails and serves as an unofficial monitor, among other things.

“Sometimes debris washes up against (a bridge), blocking the flow of water, and I try to let someone in the parks know about it,” he said, giving an example of what he looks for. He said getting out in nature – and into Preservation Parks preserves, in particular – keeps him healthy.

“That – staying healthy – is the biggest battle when you get older,” he said.

Joe and Nancy Dwenger were both teachers, and have transferred their energies to Preservation Parks since retirement.

“When you are a ‘people person’ it’s hard not to be involved,” said Joe, speaking for the two of them. “I kind of missed that impact on people, I guess.”

He and his wife are certainly having an impact on the park system: they work the Thursday Concerts in the Park and at the Trick or Treat Trail event, and assist at the Preservation Parks booth at the Delaware County Fair and other community events.

And since Gallant Farm Preserve opened in late 2012, they have been fixtures there, helping with a number of programs. Among other things, Joe worked the cider press during a program, and Nancy has made pies and cookies in the farm house’s wood stove.

“The nice thing about being retired,” said Joe, “is that you can choose your interests.” We at Preservation Parks are thrilled that Joe, Nancy, Bob and so many others have chosen us.

Would you like to volunteer in the parks? Besides the opportunities mentioned above, volunteers staff nature centers, monitor American Bluebird boxes, help remove invasive plants, and help with a variety of special events.

If you are interested in being a part of Delaware County’s natural parks systems, you can contact Volunteer Coordinator Saundra McBrearty, at 740-524-8600, ext. 6, or visit the volunteer page on our website at www. preservationparks.com. Click on “Opportunities.”

Above all, come hike the trails and enjoy the picnic shelters! And keep busting those myths about growing older.

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A C C E P T I N G

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Council COMMUNICATOR

Travel & Outdoors

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Trips from the Center COUNCIL FOR OLDER ADULTS 2014 trips begin in May. Look for details in the next issue of the Council Communicator, and remember to reserve your spot up to two months in advance! For more information, call 740-369-5133, stop by the Council for Older Adults Enrichment Center at 800 Cheshire Road, Delaware, or visit our website at www.growingolder.org.

OLENTANGY AREA SENIOR CITIZENS You are invited to travel, at your own expense, with the Olentangy Area Seniors on escorted package tours. All motor coach tours depart from convenient locations in Delaware and Worthington. For more details, call 614-882-6822.

MEMBERS, SEND US YOUR TRIP PICS! Send your high-resolution photographs to alison@growingolder.org

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Today’s Technology

Today’s Best Apps Travis Fordham, Digital Media Specialist Council for Older Adults Digital devices are fast becoming a part of everyday life for many seniors. Many friends, family members and caregivers have helped equip their older loved ones with digital devices, including iPads, smartphones, and tablets. There are countless other seniors who are buying these devices for themselves. These devices help us all stay connected to friends and family, and the seemingly infinite number of apps can have an impact on healthy aging and caregiving. Here are a few apps that are worth a download: HEALTH MedWatcher. Created by the FDA’s Center for Devices, this program is perfect for seniors who take several medications. It provides reminders and email/push notifications so that users can take their prescriptions at the correct times. It also offers the chance to report any side effects directly to the FDA. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among older Americans (age 60 and over), more than 37% take five or more prescription drugs, so this app is particularly helpful.

My Pain Diary. This top 10 Best App Ever award winner was developed to eliminate some of the overhead in keeping a pain diary and communicating the information to healthcare professionals. By tracking and learning more about your pain, this app helps manage the pain and decrease anxiety.

Blood Pressure Monitor. Helps users track vital health information; includes an email import/export feature that helps users send data directly to healthcare providers.

EDUCATION & DAILY LIVING Lumosity. This program is promoted as a “gym for your brain” and is ranked as the top brain training program available online. Developed by a team of neuroscientists and cognitive psychologists, Lumosity customizes a brain-training schedule for users in five categories: Memory, Attention, Speed, Flexibility, and Problem Solving. It’s available as a desktop, iPad or iPhone app.

Find My Phone. This app is something I wish I had known about a long time ago because from time to time, we all misplace our smartphones or tablets (or worse, they get stolen). Use this app to locate your phone or tablet device via GPS. Silver Surf. This free web browsing app features large navigation buttons, text zoom and high-contrast page viewing.

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Council COMMUNICATOR

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And so much more! Offered year-round. Opt-in at any time.

Humana is a Coordinated Care plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in this Humana plan depends on contract renewal. This plan is available to individuals with certain chronic diseases. To qualify for a Chronic Disease Special Needs Plan, physician diagnosis of the disease must be verified. Enrollees who do not have the condition will be disenrolled. The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefits. For more information, contact the plan. Limitations, co-payments and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premium and/or co-payments/co-insurance may change on January 1 of each year. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. A salesperson will be present with information and applications. For accommodations of people with special needs at sales meetings, call Humana sales at 1-877-713-6174 (TTY: 711), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week. Applicable to Humana Gold Plus® HMO SNP-CVD/CHF/DM H8953-012 (HMO SNP) plan.

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Ask Bob

Council COMMUNICATOR

Do You Need Help Getting Around Town?

Robert Horrocks, Executive Director Council for Older Adults Welcome to “Ask Bob,” where Bob Horrocks and his staff answer your questions about senior health, caregiving, services, and more.

Q: I can’t use the fixed routes on DATA’s bus service, but I don’t know what other options I can afford. Can you help?

A: The Council for Older Adults has two programs in place with DATA to help lower their fees for Delaware County residents age 60 and older. Fixed routes are available for just $0.50 per one-way trip. In your case, when the fixed routes are not an option, you can use DATA’s demand response system. Thanks to our Bus Bucks program, county residents age 60 and up pay just $4 per one-way trip, and the Council provides a monthly stipend that covers the rest of the cost up to $50.

Riders will pay any additional costs above $50 in a given month. However, if you only spend part of that $50, your balance will carry over into the next month.

The Council also has its own transportation services in place to take

you to medical appointments, including dialysis, as well as social service agencies and adult day care centers. For more information about our programs, call the Council at 740-363-6677.

Q: Is the Council for Older Adults currently seeking volunteers?

A: The Council for Older Adults was founded by volunteers, and they continue to remain a vital key to our success. We welcome one and all to get involved, whether for just a day or an ongoing experience.

Our available opportunities include Meals On Wheels kitchen assistants, transportation service drivers, dining room assistants, office assistants and many more. For more information, call the Council at 740-363-6677 or visit our website at www.growingolder.org and click on “Volunteer” to fill out an online application.

Do you have a question for the Council for Older Adults? E-mail your question to info@growingolder.org with the subject line “Ask Bob.”