Active Seniors
The Official monthly publication of the Klamath Basin Senior Citizens’ Center
MARCH • 2013
Contact Information General Information Judy Crist: 541.883.7171
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541.883.7171 ext. 136
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ll content for this publication has been provided by the Klamath Basin Senior Citizens’ Center. For questions, suggestions and general information regarding this publication, please contact the Klamath Basin Senior Center at 541.883.7171. Thank you.
Bulletin
541.883.7171 ext. 129
Medicare Counseling -
Welcome:
Letter from Marc Kane, Executive Director
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Feature:
March Madness: Depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder
Poet’s Corner:
Expressions of Heart and Mind
541.883.7171
Volunteer Opportunities Cheryl Gibbs: 541.883.7171 ext. 128 Executive Director Marc Kane: 541.883.7171 ext. 122
Where are we located?
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Volunteer News Feature:
Home Sweet Accessible Home
Calendar of Events Bulletin:
The Lake County Senior Center Schedule
Bulletin:
Free, Expert, Tax Return Preparation For Seniors And People With Low Income
Donor List
The Klamath Senior Center is located at 2045 Arthur street
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Bulletins:
Tai Chi Coming To The Senior Center 20th Annual Klamath Country Volunteer of the Year Awards & Recognition Event
Donations - Shawn McGahan:
Meals on Wheels Assistance and Bingo Information Linda Breeden:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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6 8
10
Feature:
Communicating using Validation
Bulletins:
Spokes Unlimited February Schedule Klamath Hospice Grief Support Group
Menu
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Produced in conjunction with the Herald and News
MARCH • 2013 | Active Seniors • 3
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Welcome
You may have guessed with a name like Kane that I’m Irish (half Irish, half French actually). So in honor of St. Patrick’s Day I will leave you with this well known farewell and blessing.
We lost a dear friend on the first of the month when Dotte Shaffer passed away. Dotte contributed much to our Center. She was our first poet when we started up the new writer’s page for this publication, Expressions of Heart and Mind.
Back in December she told me that her tombstone should read IT’S OK, SHE’LL BE BACK. She is and you will find one of her poems in this issue.
May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, the rains fall soft upon your fields and, until we meet again may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
See you at the Center for our special St. Patrick’s Day meal on Friday, March 15th. There will be entertainment as well from Kathy Lynn Jones. Marc Kane, Center Director
Dotte was a close personal friend for twenty years and I will miss her. You also may have known her for her many letters to the editor in which she expressed her great sense of compassion for her fellow citizens. She pleaded for common sense among the talk show hosts and politicians which she seemingly found to be rare. She was one of the most caring of characters that I have known and served frequently as an inspiration and mentor. Dotte understood the importance of the Senior Center and our emphasis on the need for personal attachment and community especially for seniors.
What’s new this month? On the 12th there will be a Tai Chi demonstration. If enough interest is expressed then it is expected we will offer a Tai Chi class weekly on Tuesday mornings. Tai Chi has been recognized as a sound practice for improving and maintaining good physical balance. It’s highly recommended in many circles for this reason to the senior population.
We welcome a new collaboration with Cascades East Family Practice this month as you will find an article in this issue from one of their residents as a co-author on the subject of depression. And our friends at Eldorado Heights Assisted Living have contributed an article on communication recommendations when we are relating to persons experiencing dementia and Alzheimer’s. All the assisted living programs in the area provide support of some kind, others by serving dessert at the congregate meal in the Center. I am pleased to announce that the new corporation created by our governing board to oversee our services was granted tax exempt status by the Internal Revenue Service. This paves the way for the long planned separation and distribution of our functions to two separate non profit corporations and responds to a mandate from the State to do so. Its been a difficult process in its execution and in its understanding among the membership. Nevertheless we are moving forward and should have all the issues relating to this separation settled before the end of June.
Join Us! We Celebrate Life!
Marc Kane, Executive Director
Entertainment Klamath Senior Center Presents
The Sweet Country Sounds of
Kathy Lynn Jones
Date: Friday, March 15th Time: 11:30 p.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Come join the fun and sing along!
Please contribute to our senior programs All donations accepted and appreciated. Many of Klamath’s seniors need your help. Please mail your donation to: Klamath Basin Senior Citizens’ Center P.O. Box JE, Klamath Falls, OR 97602 Name: Address: City: State: Zip: Donation: Check Cash KBSCC is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit corporation
4 • Active Seniors MARCH • 2013
Bulletin
Tai Chi
Coming To The Senior Center Free Presentation, Demonstration Class & Enrollment Opportunity
Tuesday - March 12th – 9:30 A.M. Local Tai Chi instructor, Mel Murakami, will be coming to the Senior Center on March 12th to make a presentation on Tai Chi. In addition he will bring present students for a demonstration and will provide an opportunity for enrollment in a Tai Chi Class proposed to be held at the Senior Center weekly on Tuesdays at 9:30 A.M. The class will only be scheduled if sufficient enrollment is achieved. The size of the class will be limited so those with an interest should enroll as early as possible to secure a place in this class. Dr. Murakami will relate his experience as a practitioner of Yang style, Long Form Tai Chi and explain what he refers to as both “meditation in motion” and “balance in motion”. Relative to the later he relates that “through the slowness of Tai Chi movement, you develop greater proficiency in centering your body for enhanced balance, a balance less supported by your life-long reliance upon quick, unconscious shifts of your body. You begin to appreciate the importance of your core—the trunk of your body—in providing balance in everyday movement.”
Home of the All Day Quail Park OFFERS MORE Signature Dining 1000 Town Center Drive • Klamath Falls, OR 97601 Program (541) 885-7250 • Fax (541) 882-8882
BINGO! Every Thursday & Saturday OPEN at 4:30pm & CALLING at 6pm Casual meals & snacks available! Thursday blackout pays $700! Saturday blackout pays $1,000!
1ST TIME PLAYERS Bring This Ad in for a FREE Odd or Even Blackout This fund-raising event depends on volunteers. We need callers and floor help! Call us!
Klamath Basin Senior Center
2045 Arthur Street 541-883-7171
Bulletin
20th Annual Klamath Country Volunteer of the Year Awards & Recognition Event
Tuesday, April 23, 2013 (12 noon to 1:30 p.m.) Held at the Senior Center 2045 Arthur Street VOLUNTEERS making a difference in the lives of others Please take a few minutes to honor these special people and organizations for their service by completing a nomination entry form today. Everyone nominated receives an award. To receive this entry form electronically contact UnitedWay at 882-5558, or uwkb@unitedwayoftheklamathbasin.org, or it can be downloaded at www.unitedwayoftheklamathbasin.org. Deadline for nominations is April 8, 2013. Presented by United Way of the Klamath Basin in partnership with the Klamath County Commissioners
MARCH • 2013 | Active Seniors • 5
Feature
March Madness: Depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder By Holly Montjoy, MD & Brittany Thoma
This month may be an emotional roller-coaster for basketball fans as the NCAA tournament begins and collegiate teams across the country compete in what is known as March Madness. However, March Madness may refer to a whole new set of issues for those among us dealing with a mood disorder such as Depression or its counterpart, Seasonal Affective Disorder. Depression is a tough nut to crack and unfortunately is a huge issue for senior citizens. According to the National Institute of Mental Health our likelihood of being depressed increases as our independence decreases. It is especially higher for those requiring home healthcare or living in a care facility. Symptoms of depression may include but are not limited to: increased fatigue, decreased mood, decreased energy, difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, etc. It can even cause you to have mild memory loss, a phenomenon known as pseudodementia. Depression can have a negative influence on your quality of life and the lives of others around you. This is why it is very important to recognize symptoms early in yourself or in someone you love. This time of year some folks will also experience a depressive syndrome known as Seasonal Affective Disorder. This disorder can cause mild depressive symptoms or can sometimes even trigger a full blown depression
The American Geriatrics Society has a terrific section on their website called “Healthy Aging Tips” which includes advice for leading healthier and more meaningful lives as we age. The following advice for avoiding depression this time of year is from the “tips sheet” entitled “Tips for Avoiding the Holiday Blues” but rings true at any time of year:
Way (it’s listed in the phone book or check www.unitedway.org); or call local schools, churches, synagogues or mosques and ask about volunteer opportunities in your neighborhood. 3. Drink Responsibly - Excessive drinking will only make you feel more depressed. One drink = 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or one ounce of hard liquor. The recommended limit for older men is 14 drinks per week and for older women, 7 per week. 4. Accept Your Feelings - There’s nothing “wrong” with not feeling jolly; many people experience sadness and feelings of loss during the holidays. Be kind to yourself, seek support, and even laugh at yourself every now and then. 5. Talk to Someone - Don’t underestimate the power of friends, family, mentors, and neighbors. Talk about your feelings; it can help you understand why you feel the way you do. Something as simple as a phone call, a chat over coffee, or a nice e-mail or letter can brighten your mood.
1. Get Out and About - Ask family and friends for help traveling to parties and events. Invite family and friends over. Taking a brisk walk in the morning before you begin the day or in the evening to wind down your day is a great way to beat the blues. 2. Volunteer - Helping others is a great mood lifter. To volunteer contact your local United
Finally, remember that there are several medical options for helping with Depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder including counseling, medications, and in some cases UV light therapy. When you are having any of the symptoms above please schedule a visit to see your primary care doctor for a more lengthy discussion of treatment options.
episode. Seasonal Affective Disorder, also called “winter depression” or SAD, typically presents in the late fall-early winter months and may persist until summer. Many people believe that it is the crazy Klamath weather that causes this illness; however, researchers agree that it probably has more to do with our levels of a brain chemical known as serotonin. SAD is more common in women and tends to fluctuate with the time of year. According to Up-to-Date. com symptoms of SAD can be very similar to those mentioned above but may also vary and can include: increased amount of time sleeping, irritability, and leaden paralysis (when your arms and legs feel very heavy).
Holly Montjoy received a Biology B.S. and M.D. degree from East Carolina University. She’s conducted and published research on Aging at the University of Hawaii Manoa. At Johns Hopkins University, she researched dementia. Holly is currently a resident at Cascades East Family Practice. Brittany Thoma has a Public Relations B.A. from Kent State University in Ohio. She currently instructs fitness classes at Harbor Isles Tennis and Fitness Center.
Scott Stevens, M.D. Physician/ Surgeon of the Eye
Mark Fay, M.D. Physician/ Surgeon of the Eye
Jennifer Springstead, O.D. Optometrist
New Patients Welcome
2640 Biehn St. • 541.884.3148 • www.klamatheyecenter.com
6 • Active Seniors MARCH • 2013
Poet ’s Corner The Senior Center thanks the 13 poets and writers who have stepped up over the last year to submit their work for this page. They are Beverly Aper, Toni Bailie, Robert G. Black, Audrey Davis, Fred Dean, Elizabethe Clark Hardy, K.L. Kay, Charlotte Mosley, Teresa Rainford, Gordon Ross, Dotte Shaffer, Robert R. Sherman and MikalAnn Southby. This issue celebrates the first anniversary of Expressions of Heart and Mind and we celebrate all those who have made a contribution. You have made our lives, our newsletter and our community better.
The Border by Gordon Ross
Expressions of Heart and Mind
Please submit something for us to consider printing in our next issue. Submittals should be sent to the attention of Marc Kane, Executive Director, Klamath Basin Senior Citizens Center.
It’s Hard Sometimes (do you ever ask “why”?) By Audrey Davis
Lord, why is it so hard to be a little child? I’m bad sometimes, when I want to be good. I want to be loved, and I try so hard... And I would be better - if I could!
Lord, why is it so hard to be old? It seems like people do not care anymore... What we need are useful things to do, And told we are loved as before.
Lord, why is it so hard to be a teenager? I want to be like my friends say they are, to me. But Lord, sometimes there are alcohol and drugs... And sometimes I have to turn my back, you see.
Lord, why is it so hard for some to accept You as Saviour? We think we are so bad, You would never forgive. But Lord, You know, if we wait till we are good enough... We will never be - as long as we live!
Lord why is it so hard to be a wife? I try to please my husband, and do the best I can. I only want what is best for the both of us, But lord...I too have plans.
Lord, why is it so hard to be a Christian? We want and try to be more like You, But Lord, sometimes it’s hard to live your kind of life... Even when we say we do!
Lord, why is it sometimes hard to be a mother? We love our children, and try to raise them right. But Lord, sometimes the nights are long... When our children are far from our sight.
So Lord we know, that ALL of life is hard... But it’s so much easier with You, And we know we can be what we all should be... When we have the faith to live life through.
For my new Granddaughter
It’s said all must cross the border Each in his and her own time.
Come with me to the border where now only I cross.
And how each gets to their border Is not the purpose of this rhyme.
Walk with me to the border Where unfelt breezes blow.
There’s help to cross the border. Forget the sadness, do not mourn.
What fate awaits at the border No traveler like me can know.
I look forward to crossing the border, For today’s when I get born!
That’s not my face Not my Laughing eyes Not the lips of one Who kissed frogs...
My Heart Remembers By Dotte Shaffer I look in the mirror And wonder what happened To the woman Who kissed frogs...
I turn away, not sad For my heart remembers When frogs lined up To be kissed...
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MARCH • 2013 | Active Seniors • 7
Volunteer News Wow- Its March already. Is anyone ready for SPRING? I know most of us at KBSCC are more than ready. We have received many complimentary comments and a few suggestions to work on this spring. The first one is a new group I would like to call AMBASSADORS. These representatives would be our “ welcome wagon” at KBSCC. There is nothing more daunting than visiting a new place, not knowing anyone or very few people, and trying to figure out where to sit, how to start the activity or just ask questions and see what KBSCC is all about. Our ambassadors would be called upon to greet and help these people find a place and maybe make a new friend. Regular attendees at various functions at KBSCC are encouraged to join. If you are familiar with activities of KBSCC, I encourage you to volunteer. It will take all of us to make KBSCC a “FRIENDLY AND WELCOMING PLACE” When you think of the Senior Center—what comes to mind? BINGOyes; but did you know we have BINGO on Thursday and Saturday evenings starting at 6 pm as well as Saturday afternoons from 1-4 pm? Volunteers to help with BINGO are always needed-so come and join us! The Golden Age Club also has BINGO on Monday and Thursdays from 1 to 3 pm. WHOA! Golden Age Club-what’s that? It is a non-profit social club organized in 1959, meeting every Monday and Thursday at KBSCC. A lifetime membership fee is $5 and you must be 50 years old to join. If your spouse is not 50, you both can join as long as one is 50 years old. Activities include Nickel BINGO from 1-3 pm on Mondays and Thursdays as well as Pinochle from 12:30 to 3pm on those days. Golden Age Club has a sign up area just inside of the eastside double doors of KBSCC. They invite everyone to come for a good lunch (only $5.00 or a lesser donation is recommended for seniors 60 and over) and then BINGO or cards. NOW-what else goes on in that building by the fairgrounds? We have Meals on Wheels where our volunteers deliver warm meals to peoples’ homes. These folks are unable to leave their home for shopping etc. Frozen meals are also available so the weekends are covered. We always need volunteer drivers (mileage reimbursed) and runners for these programs. But hold on: What about activities where you do some moving not just sitting? We have Ballroom Dancing every Wednesday afternoon from 1-4 pm. Come by and watch and get in step. Body Recall is a low impact exercise group that meets Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays with beginners class from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. Great for those with breathing problems or heart issues.
Feature
Home Sweet Accessible Home
Article provided by SPOKES Most people say they want to live in their homes “forever.” However, most homes are not built to meet the needs of seniors and people with disabilities. Luckily, there are a number of modifications which can be made that will enable people to remain in their homes for a long, long time. Some items to consider: • Installing grab bars by the toilet (make sure the area behind those bars is reinforced) • Replacing doorknob with lever handle hardware • Widening doorways- wheelchairs need a minimum of 32 inches of clear space to go through. If there is 30 inches of clear space, use off-set or swing-away hinges to add about 1 ½ inches of space. Other changes include: • Removing throw rugs • Using night lights • Place often used items in easy to reach cabinets • Rearrange furniture to avoid obstacles • Adding more light by the addition of lamp, or repainting with a lighter color • Using a toilet seat riser • Using a shower bench More complicated projects include: • Having a ramp built (handrails are needed if the ramp is longer than 6 feet) • Replacing the tub with a walk-in (or roll-in) shower • Installation of an elevator or stair lift • Changing faucets with knob controls to ones with lever controls. Many of these items may be purchased at hardware, home supply or plumbing stores. Others may be ordered from catalogs. Many items are available in colors and a variety of finishes to match or blend with your décor. Always keep emergency numbers near each phone and on speed dial if you have it. At some point you may need to consider hiring help to cook meals, clean house, or help with personal care; getting an emergency alarm; or carrying a cell phone. ON THE DRAWING BOARD: Tai Chi exercise class Better Breathers
(Demonstration) March 12, 2013 @ 9:30 am Will keep you informed!
Guess that enough for now- get out and get some sunshine and fresh air as weather improves. Sunshine or not there is always something here. JOIN us at KBSCC for fun and companionship. See you next month! Cheryl Gibbs, Volunteer Coordinator • 541-883-7171 Ext. 128
8 • Active Seniors MARCH • 2013
Calendar of Events All activities are at the Senior Center, 2045 Arthur Street, Klamath Falls, unless otherwise stated.
Wills, Power of Attorney, or Medical Directives: Call for Appointments
(541 883-7171). Appointments are not held at the Senior Center.
Body Recall Exercise Classes: Every
Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Thursday from 10:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
KBSCC Board of Directors: Tuesday, March 26th, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
KBSCC Members’ Council: Tuesday, March 19th, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
AAA Advisory Council: Thursday, March 21st, 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at 700 Main St. Suite 107.
Hearing Aid Checks: Third Thursday from 10:15 a.m. to 12 noon of each month.
Blood Pressure Checks: KBSCC now has a Blood Pressure Machine in the LOBBY for checking your pressure from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Ask for assistance if you need. MS Support Group: Thursday, March 14th, 1:30 p.m. Community Lounge, Pine St.
Parkinson’s Support Group: Tuesday, March
19th, Elmer’s Restaurant at 1:00 p.m.
Senior Veterans Social Club: Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Golden Age Club Bingo & Card Playing:
Tap Dancing: Every Friday
Every Monday and Thursday afternoon from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
KBSCC Bingo: Every Thursday and Saturday, doors open at 4:00 p.m. Games start at 6:00 p.m.
Family Bingo: Sunday, March 17th. Open at
Oil Painting & Ceramics Class:
12:00 p.m., call at 1:30 p.m.
Weekly by appointment with Shirley Chapman 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Nickel Bingo: Every Saturday from 12:00 p.m.
NEW! Tai Chi Class:
to 3:30 p.m.
SHIBA Medicare Counseling (Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance Program): By Appointment Only. Call 541-883-7171 to arrange an appointment.
Free Presentation, demonstration & enrollment March 12th at 9:30 a.m.
NEW! Computer Classes w/ Boy Scout Instructors: Saturdays Beginning April 6th 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Hot meals are served Monday through Friday at Movies: Tuesdays March 19th and April 2nd at the Senior Center (2045 Arthur Street). Serving 12:30 p.m. starts at 11:30 a.m. and is over at 12:30 p.m. Open Pool Playing: Monday thru Thursday Transportation: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Friday 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Medical appointments have priority. Open to the general public as space is available. For more Klamath County Library Services Branch: information regarding the transportation program Mondays and Fridays, 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. call Cindy at 541-850-7315. Thursdays 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Gift Shop: Inside the lobby of the Senior Center, 2045 Arthur Street, Klamath Falls. It’s open Monday Computers are available for senior use upon request through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. AARP FREE TAX SERVICE: Tuesdays Fridays 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and Thursdays thru April 11th. Call for Senior Dance Day: In the Ballroom,
appointment.
Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
SPECIAL EVENTS: Special St Patrick’s Day Meal with Kathy Lynn Jones. March 15th. Singing during lunch hour.
Craft Group: Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 am
Legal Aid - call KBSCC for referral: 541 883-7171
15% OFF SALON SERVICES
With this coupon Expires 3/29/13 All work completed by students under licensed instructor supervision
Old Time Fiddlers: Tuesday March 12th & 26th from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
357 East Main 541.882.6644
TRIPS: Kla-Mo-Ya, Mondays 10:15 a.m. and Sundays 3:00 p.m.
When Caring, Quality & Commitment make a Difference Also Call Today for Your FREE Assessment, Providing Personalized In-Home Care 24/7
www.aqhcinc.com 905 Main Street, Suite 512 Klamath Falls, OR 97601 (541) 880-5594 • Fax: (541) 273-0156
• Personal Care • Groceries • Housekeeping • Blood Pressure Checks • Appointments • Meal Preparation • Bathing • Laundry • Companionship • Home Care • Respite Care • Grooming • Errands • Medication Assistance • Memory Care • Insurance Billing • Cognition • Insured, Bonded, Licensed • OPI, SPD and PD Certified
MARCH • 2013 | Active Seniors • 9
Lake Health District
Long Term Care
Bulletin
The Lake County Senior Center 11 North G Street – Lakeview, OR 97630
• Medicare Skilled Care • Physical Therapy • Rehabilitation Happy St. Patrick’s Day
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Some things we have coming up in March are: Every Monday from 11:00 AM to Noon - Blood Pressure checks Monday, Wednesday and Friday from Noon to 1:00 PM Hot Meals at the Senior Center (11 North G Street) Every Tuesday from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM - Senior “Game Day” Tuesday, January 8th 8:00 AM - Klamath Falls trip (Weather permitting) Friday, March 8th - Birthday Lunch Tuesday, March 12th 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM - Energy Education Class – Limited to 25 (Low Income Energy Assistance Clients)
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Tuesday, March 12th 8:00 AM - Klamath Falls trip (Weather permitting) Monday, March 18th 10:00 AM - Board of Directors Meeting Wednesday, March 20th 9:00 AM to Noon - Hearing Specialist (Weather permitting) Wednesday, March 27th “Better Breathers” Meeting 11:00 AM 1st & 3rd Wednesday’s 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM - Duplicate Bridge 1st Saturday 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM - Old Time Fiddler’s 3rd Thursday’s 7:00 PM - Lake County Horseman’s Association Thrift Shop (behind Senior Center) open Monday through Friday 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM If you have questions, concerns or want to make a suggestion, please don’t hesitate to call me at 541-947-4966. - Connie Steward, Director
10 • Active Seniors MARCH • 2013
Donor List
Bulletin Free, Expert, Tax Return Preparation For Seniors And People With Low Income Starting Feb 5th AARP will again partnership with the IRS to provide high quality tax preparation at the Klamath Senior Center. The AARP tax representatives have the expertise to help you through many aspects of the tax preparation process. AARP tax representatives will be at the Klamath Senior Center Tuesdays and Thursdays Feb 5th thru April 11th between 8:30 am and 2 pm. Please call for an appointment 541 883-7171.
Closest to home.
Ask the Experts Eldorado Heights, an Emeritus Senior Living community, is here to answer your questions about assisted living. Today’s question of the day is,
How do I financially prepare for assisted living? There are several ways you can help alleviate the costs of assisted living. One of the best ways is to get a long-term care insurance policy – and it’s best to get this while you’re still young, to reduce the cost of premiums. Selling the home of the person moving into assisted living can also help alleviate much of the burden. If you’re trying to pay for assisted living for a spouse while you’re still at home, look into a reverse mortgage, which lets you convert some of the equity in your home into cash. Some states provide subsidies for assisted living for eligible seniors. Finally, Medicaid may be able to help defray the cost of assisted living.
Our Family is Committed to Yours.
®
(541) 205-0013 2130 Eldorado Blvd., Klamath Falls • www.Emeritus.com
January 2013 Donations of $ 1799 were received from the following individuals: Troy Parrish Caroline Marshall Albert Wedam Mary Lou Beynon Barbara Carlson Kathryn Badorek In the name of Pat Bowers Jahala Shaffer Paul Hanson Faith Tabernacle Earnest Hollis and Lois Kiger Rose Kreuzer Fermin & Susan Melgares Elvin & Sue Middleton
Billie Lesueur Constance Schuetze Guy & Grace Turnage Mr. & Mrs. Charles Harris Dorothy Winters Phyllis Sagers Beverly Cada Mary Sutton La Vera Petersteiner Ada Bearden Jonny Jones Dorothy Rowland Bill Watson, Jr. Joyce Moore Louise Williams
Unidentified contributions in January for Congregate Meals and Transportation Services amounted to $ 6395. The Center, its patrons and staff all thank our contributors for their support. Without contributions the Center would be unable to operate. Contributions and the services of volunteers make the Center what it is – a community collaboration in strong support of a worthy community program. We thank the individuals named above for their assistance and hope that more of our readers will recognize the value of our services with a contribution. Please note the contributions coupon on page 3. We have many uses for donations and look forward to your support.
February is American Heart Month encouraging Cardiovascular Health Awareness
Basin Immediate Care reminds you to join the battle against heart disease.
Open mOn-Fri 8-7, Sat 9-6, Sun & hOlidayS 9-3 3737 ShaSta Way, Suite a • Klamath FallS (541) 883-2337 • Fax: (541) 883-2504
MARCH • 2013 | Active Seniors • 11
Feature
Communicating using Validation
Communication tips for caregivers with a loved one facing Alzheimer’s or Dementia diagnoses.
Communication is one of the first casualties of dementia. Because dementia affects memory, people with dementia have difficulty following the thread of a conversation, because they often don’t remember what was said just minutes before. They may think they’re living in a different time or place and speak from this new reality. The best thing you can do is to validate their new reality. For example, if they say, “President Eisenhower is doing a great job,” you’re response could be “I like Ike too.” By using validation and entering into their reality, you will help them feel safe. If you try to correct the person to bring them back to the present, it can cause them frustration, shock and disbelief, which can lead to behavior problems. Validation is most successful when you: • Enter their reality and reminisce with them. • Make sure your verbal and nonverbal messages are the same. • Ask open-ended questions such as “Who was your favorite childhood teacher?” or “How did you meet your husband?” • Match their motions and emotions. If someone is upset, telling them that everything is okay is not going to make it better. In fact, it may cause more agitation. Instead, enter their reality. Any communication you have with someone who has dementia will be enhanced by following these simple • Identify yourself as you approach and get their attention before you touch them. • Use your loved one’s preferred name. • Make eye contact. • Use encouragement and reassurance. • Speak slowly. The best advice when talking with someone who has dementia is to be patient and supportive – not only with the person with dementia, but with yourself. It’s not easy to know how to respond or what to do. Keep an open mind and an open heart – compassion goes a long way in helping both of you have more meaningful interaction. Article submitted by Megan Titus, the Community Relations Director at Eldorado Heights Assisted Living. Emeritus Senior Living, the parent company, has provided several caregiver tips, specifically for caregivers with a loved one facing Alzheimer’s or Dementia diagnoses. The article above provides one of those tips about communicating with such a loved one.
Bulletin
Spokes Unlimited March Schedule
SPOKES Unlimited • 1006 Main Street, Klamath Falls, OR 97601• 541-883-7547 v/tty
March
6th Oregon Commission for the Blind Vision Class 1:00-3:00 pm SPOKES office 12th Traumatic Brain Injury/Illness Support Group 1:00-2:00 pm SPOKES office 14th Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group 1:30-3:00 pm Community Lounge, 200 N 7th Street 23rd Recreation Group Bowling at Epicenter, 3901 Brooke Dr Call SPOKES for information 25th SPOKES Board of Directors Meeting 4:00-6:00 pm, SPOKES Office
April
3rd Oregon Commission for the Blind Vision Class 1:00-3:00 p.m. SPOKES office All meetings/events listed are held in a wheelchair accessible location. Please notify SPOKES 48 hours in advance if you need an assistive listening system, sign language interpreter or materials in an alternate format. Call 541-883-7547 v/tty.
Bulletin Grief Support Group
April 1 – May 13 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. At Klamath Hospice, 4745 South 6th Street 541-882-2902
Sessions are free to the community Provides opportunities for learning and coping with the loss of a loved one, and are facilitated by qualified and caring professionals.
A Clean Carpet is a Healthy Carpet Your house has been closed up all winter long. It’s time to get your carpet cleaned. Regular vacuuming and cleaning prolong the life of your carpet.
Using our hot water extraction system we haul the germs and soil away!
541-883-2306
www.aetnacarpetcleaning.com
12 • Active Seniors MARCH • 2013
Menu March 6, Wednesday: Lamb
March 21, Thursday: Baked Pork
Stew with Dinner Rolls, Veggies, Salad Bar
Chops, Stuffing, Veggies, Salad Bar Crystal Terrace & Atrio Health Plans
March 7, Thursday: Meat Loaf, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Veggies, Salad Bar, Dessert from Crystal Terrace & Atrio Health Plans March 8, Friday: Chicken Fried Steak, Roasted Potatoes, Veggies, Salad Bar
March 11, Monday: Cheeseburger, French Fries, Veggies
March 12, Tuesday: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Chicken & Noodles, Veggies, Salad Bar, Dessert from Shasta View Retirement
March 22, Friday: Chili Dogs, Tater Tots, Veggies, Salad Bar
March 25, Monday: Macaroni & Cheese with Ham, Veggie, Salad Bar
March 26, Tuesday: Savory Baked Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Veggies, Salad Bar, Dessert from Shasta View Retirement
March 27, Wednesday: Baked Ham, Candied Yams, Veggie, Salad Bar, Dessert from Pelican Pointe
March 13, Wednesday: Salisbury March 28, Thursday: Swedish Steak, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Veggies, Salad Bar, Dessert from Pelican Pointe
Meatballs over Buttered Noodles, Veggies, Salad Bar, Dessert from Eldorado Heights
March 14, Thursday: Ham & Au
March 29, Friday: Spaghetti,
Gratin, Potatoes, Veggies, Salad Bar, Dessert from Eldorado Heights
Veggies, Salad Bar
March 15, Friday: ST. PATRICK’S DAY DINNER, Corned Beef & Cabbage, Veggies, Dinner Rolls
March 18, Monday: Swedish Meatballs over Buttered Noodles, Veggies, Salad Bar
March 19, Tuesday: Creamed Tuna over Biscuit, Veggie, Salad Bar
March 20, Wednesday: Lasagna, French Bread, Veggies, Salad Bar
All Days, All Ways, we are here for you
April 1, Monday: Beef Tips Over Noodles, Vegetables, Salad Bar
April 2, Tuesday: Pinto Beans With Diced Ham, Cornbread, Salad Bar, Dessert from Shasta View & Linkville House
April 3, Wednesday: Baked Chicken, Mashed Potatoes And Gravy, Salad Bar NOTE: The menu is subject to change, depending upon availability of supplies. Tea, coffee, milk & juice are available at each meal. Sugar free desserts and salads available for diabetics.
2680 Memorial Drive • Klamath Memorial Park
541-883-3458
Family owned & operated, faithfully serving your funeral needs since 1978