GaGen 2007 Fall by Wells-Smith Partners

Generations Georgia

Fall 2007

HEALTH SCREENINGS A Lifesaver for Seniors

Also in This Issue: n Caregiving News & Notes n A Look at Georgia’s AAAs Published quarterly by Georgia’s Area Agencies on Aging

Area Agencies on Aging – Gateways to Community Resources 1

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) were established under the Older Americans Act in 1973 to respond to the needs of older adults age 60 and over in every community. To read more about each of Georgia’s AAAs and the services available, turn to a statewide map and news from each agency, beginning on page 9.

Georgia is divided into 12 AAAs, each serving a different part of the state. They are:

4 7 6

9 12

1 Northwest Georgia 2 Legacy Link 3 Atlanta Regional Commission 4 Southern Crescent 5 Northeast Georgia 6 Lower Chattahoochee 7 Middle Georgia 8 Central Savannah River 9 Heart of Georgia Altamaha 10 Southwest Georgia 11 Southeast Georgia 12 Coastal Georgia

Generations Georgia

FALL 2007 Published quarterly through a cooperative effort of Georgia’s Area Agencies on Aging.

For information contact: Atlanta Regional Commission Aging Services Division 40 Courtland St., NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 404-463-3239 jkauffman@atlantaregional.com

Editorial Project Development: JAM Communications, Atlanta, GA Design and Production: Wells-Smith Partners, Lilburn, GA Georgia Generations is a:

On the Cover: Health screenings and vaccinations are highly effective in disease prevention or early detection. Yet Georgia falls behind the national average in the percentage of older adults who are up to date on these screenings. To read about what screenings you need, plus a handy pull-out guide, turn to page 4.

Fall 2007, Volume 7, #1 © 2007 by the Atlanta Regional Commission. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, the Atlanta Regional Commission and JAM Communications make no warranty to the accuracy or reliability of this information. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission. All rights reserved.

Georgia Generations

CAREGIVING NEWS&NOTES

Watch Out for

When to Head for an ER

Drug Mix-ups

f you sometimes are confused by drug names that sound alike, you are not alone. Up to 25 percent of the reported medication errors are caused by confusing similar drug names. Such potentially dangerous mix-ups can also be caused by poor physician penmanship and poor pronunciation when phoning in drug orders. How to protect yourself? • When your doctor prescribes a drug, ask him or her to print the name and dosage for you. If it’s a brandname drug, make a note of the generic drug as well. • Ask your doctors to brieﬂy note the drug’s purpose on the prescription form. This will serve as an extra checking point for your pharmacist. • Don’t leave the pharmacy until you examine the label on your prescription. If something doesn’t make sense or if a refill seems different from the previous medication, then double-check with the pharmacist.

o you want to know more about the prescription drugs you or your family members are taking? Go to Consumer Reports’ new Web site www.CRBestBuyDrugs.org to learn more about the cost, effectiveness and safety of prescription drugs. This Web site is available at no cost to the consumer.

EducationalSeminarson MEDICARE’S

Hospice BENEFIT

he American Hospice Foundation (AHF) funds educational programs about the hospice beneﬁ t available through Medicare Part A. The funding comes from donations to member hospice organizations across the country. This year AHF awarded grant funds in Georgia through donations from grateful families to Embracing

Hospice of Atlanta, a member of the American Hospice Foundation. To ﬁ nd out more about Embracing Hospice in Georgia, please contact Cindy McCall, Public Relations Specialist at 678-283-0982. For information regarding the Medicare Part A hospice beneﬁ t, call GeorgiaCares at 1-800-669-8387.

Protect Medicare and Medicaid Benefits

eciding whether or not to go to the emergency room is a difficult decision. If you think you’re having a medical emergency, you probably are, experts say. Get to an ER fast if you or a loved one has severe physical trauma, sudden chest pain, serious blood loss, a possible broken bone, a sudden inability to use a limb, loss of vision, difficulty speaking or an “explosive” headache. Conditions that rarely warrant emergency care include mild respiratory infections, minor aches and sprains, scraps and bruises and prescription refills. Keep in mind, your insurer may not pay if the problem isn’t a true emergency.

Generations Wins National Award

eorgia Generations magazine has won Gold and Silver Awards in the prestigious 2007 National Mature Media Awards Program. The program recognizes the nation’s finest educational, marketing and advertising materials designed and produced for older adults. The magazine was honored for two entries: n Gold Award for “A Road Map for Retirement” (Summer 2006) n Silver Award for “The Golden Years of Creativity” (Fall 2006) Nearly 1,000 entries were judged by a panel of experts for overall excellence of design, content, creativity and relevance to the senior market.

surfing the Net Each issue of Georgia Generations offers several Web sites devoted to caregiving information and resources: www.safemedication.com enables you to search for information by drug name. It explains why a drug is prescribed and how it’s used. Also includes a pharmacist Q&A, plus drug tips and tools. www.healthywomen.org provides in-depth information on more than 100 conditions, diseases and health issues just for women.

report suspected fraud and errors. Call your Senior Medicare Fraud Project for details and to request a presentation.

metro Atlanta: 404-463-0763 Outside metro Atlanta: GeorgiaCares 1-800-669-8387

HEALTH SCREENINGS A Lifesaver for Seniors

By Martha Nolan McKenzie

he healthcare spotlight is on prevention, and here’s why: Routine health screenings and vaccinations can prevent diseases, improve quality of life and save lives. Immunizations for flu and pneumonia, in particular, prevent potentially deadly diseases. Routine screenings for cancers, heart disease and diabetes raise awareness of risks for certain diseases, allowing people to make lifestyle adjustments, such as diet and physical activity, to prevent them. More importantly, screenings help catch diseases at their earliest — and most treatable — stages. Indeed, the American Cancer Society estimates that at least half of all cancer deaths could be prevented if people adopted healthier lifestyles and made better use of available screening tests. An annual flu shot is about 50% effective in preventing hospitalization from the flu complications and 80% effective in preventing death from the disease in the 65-plus population, according to the CDC. “There are a handful of routinely recommended services that are highly effective in disease prevention or early detection,” says Dr. Doug Shenson, president of SPARC (Sickness Prevention Achieved Through Regional Cooperation), a Massachusetts-based organization with pilot programs in Georgia. “Those are: cancer screening for breast, colorectal and cervical cancers; vaccination against

influenza and pneumococcal virus, and screenings for high blood pressure and cholesterol. Yet, no more than 25% of adults aged 50 to 64 are up to date with those services, and fewer than 40% of people age 65 and older are. And that is despite the fact these services are paid for by virtually all insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.” Georgia falls behind the national average in the percentage of older adults who are up to date on preventative screenings. In 2004, the last year for which statistics are available, 33% of men age 65 and older in the state were up to date on select preventative screens, compared to 38% for the nation, according to the CDC’s State of Aging and Health in America Report. Georgia women fared worse, with just under 28% up to date on screenings, compared to almost 32% nationally. Given the effectiveness of available screenings and vaccinations, why don’t more seniors take advantage of them? One likely reason is that many people are not aware that Medicare covers many preventative screenings. Seniors tend to associate Medicare with hospitalization and acute medical care, and indeed, it has only been in the past 15 years or so that Medicare has added prevention services to what it will cover. Today, however, Medicare will cover flu and pneumococcal shots, cardiovascular screenings and many cancer screenings (For more information on Medicare preventative coverage, visit www.medicare.gov/health/ overview.asp or call 800-633-4227 and ask for a free copy of the “Guide to Medicare’s Preventive Services”.) Georgia Generations

Medicare even offers a one-time physical within six months of your sixty-fifth birthday at a discounted price. The Welcome to Medicare physical includes a thorough review of your health, education and counseling about the preventive services you need, like certain screenings and shots, and referrals for other care. Your sixty-fifth birthday should not be the only time you get a physical, however. “The best advice I can give to anyone who is getting older would be to see your doctor at least once a year,” says Dr. Lois Ricci, a geriatric nurse practitioner in Tucker. “At that visit, you should have a physical, review your medications and get blood work. Don’t assume changes you’ve experienced are just a normal part of aging — they could be symptomatic of a problem. You need to report any changes or problems to your doctor.” That points to another reason seniors under-utilize preventative screenings and vaccinations. Many people do not see their doctor regularly, instead going only when they are sick. “If you only see a doctor when you are sick, then you and the doctor are both focused on what brought you there that day,” says Andree Harris, a public health analyst with the CDC. “The physician may not think to ask you when the last time was that you had a mammogram, or if you had your flu shot this year. These things tend to get lost in the shuffle of more pressing matters.” That’s why senior agencies throughout the state are working to bring screenings and vaccinations to where the seniors are. Here’s a look at some of those initiatives:

“We provided about 690 flu shots in one day, and the vast majority of the people who got them were seniors.” Berger hopes eventually to roll out SPARC to the entire 10-county metro area. “We feel a tremendous urgency to get these kinds of preventative services out to the people,” says Berger. “This program really works, and it is vitally important.” LOWER CHATTAHOOCHEE RDC AAA OFFERS a variety of health screenings at area senior centers, but it has placed a special emphasis on osteoporosis. “We targeted osteoporosis because it is very much a silent disease,” says Ilona Preattle, wellness coordinator at the AAA. “You don’t see it, don’t feel it and don’t know you have it until you fall and break a bone. And a broken bone, especially a hip bone, can land a senior in a nursing home.” So the Lower Chattahoochee RDC AAA began partnering with the Columbus Health Department in 2002 to offer annual bone density screenings at senior centers. Seniors are given the results the same day and referred to a physician if they are at high risk for having the disease. “We cannot diagnose,” says Preattle, “but we have good indicators. We also offer an education program that discusses who is at risk and prevention. At this point, 150

It has only been in the past 15 years or so that Medicare has added prevention services to what it will cover.

DR. SHENSON ORIGINALLY LAUNCHED SPARC in New England in 1995. His concept was to develop a coalition of local health departments, visiting nurse agencies, physicians offices and senior agencies to bring vaccinations and screenings out into the communities. Shenson’s approach was very effective, resulting in a doubling in the rates of pneumococcal vaccines and mammograms. The CDC was so impressed with SPARC’s results that it asked Shenson to team up with the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) to replicate the program in the Atlanta area. Last year the ARC launched two SPARC programs — one in Fulton County and one in Fayette. In Fulton, SPARC offered services in three low-income housing facilities, a middle school and a fire station. “We bundled the services, so if someone came in to get a flu shot, we also offered a pneumonia shot, tetanus shot, blood pressure check and bone density check,” says Cathie Berger, director of the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) at the ARC. “We’d also ask about their cancer screenings and call to make an appointment for a mammogram and Pap smear, if they wanted us to.” In Fayette County, SPARC set up screenings in local churches and held a “vote and vacs” campaign. “Seniors tend to come out to vote, so we offered flu and pneumonia shots at 10 polling places during an election,” says Berger. Fall 2007

seniors have been screened only one time. But of the 110 people who have been received multiple times, 17 actually gained bone density, 80 showed no change — which is good news, since they are maintaining what they have — and 13 showed decreased bone density. Overall, I would say those are good results.” Preattle also noticed that high blood pressure was a big problem for many seniors in her area, so the AAA installed blood pressure machines in every senior center and taught someone on the staff how to operate it. Now seniors are urged to check their blood pressure at least twice a month. SOUTHERN CRESCENT AAA OFFERS AT LEAST two health screening events each year at all area senior centers. These events screen for diabetes and check blood pressure, cholesterol and triglicerides. However, some centers go well above and beyond. Troup County Senior Center, for example, offers blood pressure checks twice a week. It also partners with local medical groups to offer a quarterly mini-health fair, which offers screenings for cholesterol, blood sugar, osteoporosis, body fat index, hearing, diabetic foot problems, glaucoma and skin cancer. “A very large number of our seniors take advantage of these screenings,” says Dan Wooten, director of the center. “They really like having them here.”

THE NORTHEAST GEORGIA AAA PARTNERS with University of Georgia and Athens Regional Medical Center to offer bone density, foot and vision screenings at area senior centers. “Athens Regional lent us the machine to measure bone density,” says Tiffany Lommel, research and wellness coordinator at UGA. “We have used it to do screenings in two counties.” While screenings for cancers and heart disease are undeniably critical, don’t forget basic checkups for dental, vision and hearing. “Older adults may need to go in for additional cleanings to make sure they don’t lose their teeth,” says Maggie Moore, a public health advisor for the Healthy Aging Program at the CDC. “Losing teeth can not only affect nutrition, it can also harm self-esteem, which hampers social engagement, which, in turn, can impact mental health. Poor vision may be linked to falls, and a decrease in hearing may lead to accidents — not hearing a car approaching, for example — and social isolation.” IN SOUTHEAST GEORGIA, THE LOCAL AAA teamed up with Prevent Blindness Georgia to offer free screenings for vision, glaucoma, macular degeneration and cataracts at local senior centers. If a senior needed a new pair of glasses, they were provided for free. If a problem was discovered, the senior was referred to a doctor for follow up. “We had a married couple come in, neither of whom had seen the eye doctor in 18 years,” says Lisa Whitley, wellness coordinator for the Southeast Georgia AAA. “It turns out the wife had macular degeneration and glaucoma, and the husband had cataracts and glaucoma. They were slowly going blind and didn’t know it.” Whitley’s AAA also offered foot care screenings, primarily for diabetics, who can suffer foot problems due to poor circulation. It turned out, however, than non-diabetic seniors had worse foot problems than diabetics. “It was really surprising at first,” says Whitley. “But when you think about it, diabetics are educated about foot care as part of taking care of their disease. Non-diabetic seniors are not, and they may not be able to reach their feet very well. We found one gentleman who was wearing shoes one size larger than what he needed because his toenails were so long. He couldn’t reach his toes to cut them.” Chronic diseases — heart disease, cancer, stroke and diabetes — are the leading causes of death for older adults. To a large degree, these are all lifestyle diseases — risks for getting them can be greatly reduced by staying physically active, getting good nutrition and not smoking. Screenings also play an important role. “We have very good treatments for chronic disease, especially when they are identified in the early stages,” says CDC’s Harris. “We could prevent an untold number of deaths in this country if more seniors got regular health screenings and immunizations.” GG

screening recommen ANNUAL PHYSICAL EXAM Screenings n May include weight, blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, vision and hearing screenings, as determined by your physician. When to have them Annually. Current guidelines suggest healthy blood pressure levels are at or below 120/80; LDL (“bad”) cholesterol below 100; and HDL (“good”) cholesterol above 45.

DIABETES Screening n Fasting blood sugar test When to have them Every three years if you are at high risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. You may be at high risk if you have a family history of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, have a personal history of gestational diabetes, are obese, are inactive, have delivered a baby weighing more than nine pounds (diabetics often give birth to heavier babies), have high blood pressure or are of African, Hispanic, Native American, or Pacific Island descent.

EYE, EAR, ORAL HEALTH Screening n Dental checkup, eye exam, hearing exam A dental checkup is recommended at least once a year. Risk for hearing loss increases after 50, so have hearing checked if you notice any change. An eye exam is recommended every one to two years to check for common vision problems associated with aging, including glaucoma, macular degeneration and cataracts.

IMMUNIZATIONS Inﬂuenza — ﬂu shot recommended every year. Pneumococcal vaccine recommended for people 65 and older. Most people only need a single dose. However, people 65 and older should have a second dose if they received the shot more than 5 years previously and were younger than 65 when they were vaccinated the first time. n Tetanus-Diphtheria Booster — a booster is needed every 10 years throughout life. n n

STROKE Screenings Carotid scan (a type of ultrasound scan and a blood pressure check), aortic scan, PAD scan (a Doppler exam that tests for circulation impairment in limbs). When to have them A doctor may recommend one for people at high risk. Risk factors include: age, diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, high blood cholesterol, family history of atherosclerotic problems and circulatory problems. Georgia Generations

dations for adults age 50 and older BREAST CANCER Screenings n Breast self-exam n Clinical breast exam by a health care provider n Mammography (x-ray of the breast) When to have them Every 1 to 2 years, depending on your medical history. Women with a personal history of breast cancer or who are at high risk of developing the disease should talk to their doctor about screening more often.

CERVICAL CANCER Screenings n Pap test When to have them Every 1 to 3 years. Women at 70 who have had three or more recent consecutive normal tests and no abnormal tests in the past 10 years can discuss the need for continued screening with their doctor. Women with a history of cervical cancer should continue annual screenings.

COLON CANCER Screenings n Fecal occult blood test. This test detects blood in the stool using a chemical process. n Digital rectal exam. n Sigmoidoscopy. A slender lighted tube is inserted through the rectum into the lower part of the colon, allowing the doctor to see abnormalities. n Double contrast barium enema. The colon is partially filled with barium sulfate, and an X-ray is taken to see the lining. n Colonoscopy. A ﬂexible slender tube is inserted through the rectum to give a complete view of the colon. When to have them Beginning at age 50, men and women at average risk should have a yearly fecal blood test, either a sigmoidoscopy or a double-contrast barium enema every five years and a colonoscopy every 10 years. People at high risk for colon cancer should start screenings at an earlier age and perhaps have them on a more frequent schedule, as determined by their doctor. People

at high risk include those with: — a history of ademonatous polyps or colorectal cancer — a family history of colorectal cancer or ademonatous polyps in a close relative before age 60 — a personal history of inﬂammatory bowel disease (Chron’s or ulcerative colitis)

PROSTATE CANCER Screenings n Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test n Digital rectal exam (DRE) When to have them Beginning at age 50, men should discuss with their physician whether to start having annual PSAs and DREs. African-American men and men with a close relative diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65 should consider testing at 45. Men with more than one close relative diagnosed before age 65 should consider testing at 40.

SKIN CANCER Screenings n Full-body skin exam When to have them Frequency of screenings depends on family history, lifestyle and complexion. People at high risk for developing skin cancer include those with fair complexions and blue, green or hazel eyes. A personal or family history of skin cancer also elevates your risk, as does a lot of time spent in the sun.

UTERINE CANCER Screenings n Uterine biopsy When to have it This test is only recommended for women at high risk, Women who have or who are at risk for hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer are at significantly greater risk and should start testing at age 35. Other women who may be at greater risk include those who have had breast or ovarian cancer. The risk of uterine cancer goes up at menopause.

HEART DISEASE

OSTEOPOROSIS

Screenings n Blood pressure test n Cholesterol test n Cardiac stress test n EKG (electrocardiogram)

Screening n Bone mineral density test

When to have them Have your cholesterol checked every 5 years and a blood pressure reading at least every two years, unless your doctor advises you otherwise. Your doctor may recommend a cardiac stress test or an EKG if you are experiencing any symptoms of cardiac disease, such as shortness of breath or chest pain.

Fall 2007

When to have it All women 40 years old or older who have sustained a fracture should have a screening. All women beyond 65 years of age should have the test. The test is also recommended for women who are at increased risk due to certain medications, and for patients with diseases or nutritional conditions that are known to be associated with bone loss.

GUEST CLOSE-UP

Special License Plate Benefits Older Adults

By Maureen Kelly President, Thanks Mom & Dad Fund®

eorgia drivers can now get a new specialty license plate that will benefi t aging programs and services throughout the state. The new “Thanks Mom & Dad” license plate will directly benefi t programs through grants from the Thanks Mom & Dad Fund®. It costs a little more but helps in so many ways! Before the new tags can be placed on vehicles, 1,000 tags must fi rst be prepurchased. How does that work? A $25 one-time manufacturing fee is paid on deposit until 1,000 people apply for the specialty tag. Thereafter, the cost is $45 annually, which includes the $25 specialty tag fee and the regular annual tag fee. If the required number of “paid” requests (1,000) is not received by the 2008 deadline, then these tags will not be manufactured and the manufacturing fees will be refunded. You may visit your county registration offi ce to sign up, or visit the Web site below and download the application to mail to your county tag offi ce along with the $25 fee. The purchase of a “Thanks Mom & Dad” license plate is a win-win partnership that benefi ts older adults and the state of Georgia. Proceeds are divided between general revenues and the Thanks Mom & Dad Fund®. It also promotes the Fund and engages people in the support of programs for older adults. The logo is quite attractive and promises to appeal to a broad range

of people, including parents who are providing their child’s ﬁ rst car! The Thanks Mom & Dad Fund® honors parents, grandparents and mentors by raising money to make grants to programs throughout the state — such as Meals on Wheels, transportation and adult day care, just to name a few. Current demographics demonstrate the need for such support. While aging programs throughout the state prepare to serve the largest population of older adults in history, waiting lists for services keep getting longer. As the unmet needs of older

The Thanks Mom & Dad Fund® honors parents, grandparents and mentors by raising money to make grants to programs throughout the state – such as Meals on Wheels, transportation and adult day care.

adults continue to mount, we are faced with the fastest-growing, yet quietest, crisis in recent history. Purchase of the Thanks Mom & Dad Fund® license plate is one way that the public can help to meet those demands, reduce waiting lists for services and honor older Georgians. We hope to see cars proudly displaying the license plate throughout the state in order to get more and more folks behind efforts to increase and improve services for older adults and to salute the people who Visit this Web site for a specialty tag application: inspired our lives. http://motor.etax.dor.ga.gov/forms/pdf/motor/MV_Special_Interest_License_Plate_ For additional information, you can Application.pdf call 404-463-3222 or visit the Web site at www.thanksmomanddadfund.org GG

Georgia Generations

Northwest Georgia

A Look at Area Agencies on Aging Around Georgia In communities across the country, Area

Northeast Atlanta regional Georgia commission southern crescent

Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serve as gateways to local resources, planning efforts and services that help older adults remain independent.

legacy link

central savannah river middle Georgia

lower chattahoochee

heart of Georgia Altamaha

southwest Georgia

southeast Georgia

coastal Georgia

On the following pages are the programs and services offered by Georgia’s AAAs.

Northwest Georgia

Covers a 15-county area surrounding Rome, Dallas, Dalton, Cartersville

Home services add to quality of life for all

inda Morgan of Ellijay is responsible for two disabled loved ones, and she is very grateful for services that they receive in their home through the Community Cares Services Program. Without this extra help, she would face the possibility of placing one or both of them in a nursing home. Linda’s daughter, Angela, age 37, was diagnosed with spina bifida at birth. She has had limited schooling due to numerous childhood hospitalizations. Although Angela has a good mind and can do some things for herself, her wheelchair dependence and other disabilities limit the scope of her independence. Mickie Morgan, age 46, is the brother of Linda’s late husband, Bill, who died Fall 2007

Mickie Morgan and Angela Adams (front) with their caregivers, Linda Morgan (Angela’s mother) and Amanda Brown, CNA from home health agency.

two years ago. Mickie has had strokes that have left him paralyzed and affected other functions. He was initially placed in a nursing home, but then his late brother took him out so that Mickie

could live at their home. Linda continues to care for him. “Angela and Mickie are my life,” says Linda. “They are my reason to get up in the morning. I am so glad for the help which makes it possible for me to keep them at home with me.” For information on in-home help for disabled or elderly individuals, call the AAA below. For information, contact the AAA of Northwest Georgia, P.O. Box 1798, Rome, GA 30162-1798; 706-802-5506 or toll-free 1-800-759-2963.

Northwest Georgia encompasses these counties: Bartow, Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, Fannin, Floyd, Gilmer, Gordon, Haralson, Murray, Paulding, Pickens, Polk, Walker, Whitfield

Atlanta Regional Commission Covers a 10-county area surrounding Atlanta

Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving to host national summit in October

port caregivers don’t have ready access to the research or the effective interventions. At the summit, the RCI will bring together our nation’s most respected caregiving remerica is in the midst of a caregiving searchers, practitioners, crisis as the number of individuals advocates, agencies, who need care due to aging and illness supporters and caregivers escalates, while the number of availto strategize how to best able caregivers does not keep pace with get effective intervendemand. The Rosalynn Carter Institute tions into practice in our for Caregiving (RCI), at Georgia Southcommunities. The summit western State University in Americus, is will also launch the RCI’s celebrating its 20th anniversary this year National Quality Care with a national summit. “Moving Science Network. to Practice in Caregiver Support: A NationLaura Bauer, MPA, al Summit” will be held October 25 & 26 Johnson & Johnson / Russell Glasgow, PhD, and Laura Gitlin, PhD, are two of the in Americus on the campus of GSW. The RCI program director, confirmed presenters for the Rosalynn Carter Institute for summit has one specific purpose — getting Caregiving National Summit in October. explains the purpose of information about effective support out to the National Quality Care caregivers and agencies that serve them. workforce shortage in caregiving professions, Network: “The NQCN will provide national “We know that family caregivers, who and this will become an even bigger problem leadership and a structure for the developprovide the vast majority of care, are a as baby boomers retire.” ment and dissemination of evidence-based vulnerable population who are at risk for a On a positive note, a great deal of ongoing interventions for caregivers. Evidence-based number of health, interventions are strategies with proven posimental health, tive outcomes for caregivers. The NQCN “We know that family caregivers are at risk for financial, employwill assist in getting those strategies adopted ment and retirea number of health, mental health, financial, and implemented in the community.” ment problems,” In addition to the launch of the NQCN, employment and retirement problems.” says Dr. Rick the conference will be celebrating a special Birkel, executive milestone — the 20th anniversary of the director of the RCI. “We also know that proresearch has determined specific strategies RCI. All conference participants are invited fessional caregivers work under difficult conand programs that can help caregivers. Unto attend the Rosalynn Carter Institute for ditions and are susceptible to burnout.” Birkel fortunately, that research is not being put into Caregiving’s 20th Anniversary Gala on the continues, “In addition, there’s a tremendous practice in ways that really aid the caregivers. evening of October 25. During the Gala, the Organizations across the country that supRosalynn Carter Caregiving Award will be presented to an exemplary partnership of caregiving researchers and practitioners. The ™ Atlanta Regional Commission, 404-463-3333 RCI will also recognize Georgia’s Caregivwww.agewiseconnection.com ers of the Year during this occasion. These awards honor our state’s outstanding family, If you need caregiving information, contact an AgeWise Connection partner: volunteer and professional caregivers. Cherokee County Cherokee County Senior Fayette County Fayette Senior Services, Register for all segments of the conferServices, 770-345-5312 770-461-0813 ence, including the Gala, at the RCI Web site: Clayton County Clayton County Aging Fulton County Fulton County Aging www.rosalynncarter.org. Program, 770-603-4050 Program, 404-730-6000

Cobb County Cobb Senior Services, 770-528-5364 DeKalb County Office of Senior Affairs, 770-322-2950 Douglas County Douglas Senior Services, 770-489-3100 10

Gwinnett County Gwinnett County Senior Services, 678-377-4150 Henry County Henry County Senior Services, 770-288-7001 Rockdale County Rockdale County Senior Services, 770-922-4633

Atlanta Regional Commission encompasses these counties: Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Rockdale

Georgia Generations

Northeast Georgia

Covers a 12-county area surrounding Athens, Winder, Monroe, Covington, Madison

2007 Outstanding Senior Center Manager of the Year

hough Josephine Brown was surprised when she discovered she had been awarded the 2007 Outstanding Senior Center Manager of the Year Award, her staff, along with the Northeast Georgia Regional Development Center, surely wasn’t. She was selected from nominees representing each of the planning and service areas in the state of Georgia. Brown has served as executive director of Newton County Senior Services, Inc. for over 37 years — since the program’s inception. She says that she couldn’t have succeeded without the hard work and support of her staff, family, friends, volunteers and community. She has worked diligently developing quality programs for the seniors of Newton County. Brown moved the senior center from a one-room

for a more active group of seniors are being developed — such as more overnight trips, tennis, golf and bowling, as well as a partnership with activity center to Georgia Perimeter College a state-of-the-art for college courses for facility that offers seniors. She is preparing congregate and for the baby boomers by home-delivered developing plans for muchmeals, health and needed expansion, since wellness programs, the number of participants nutrition workhas almost outgrown the shops, arts and current facility. crafts, ceramics, For information, contact computer classes, Award winner Josephine Brown (left) the Northwest Georgia dance classes, trips, and Sudah Reddy, state nutritionist. AAA, 305 Research Drive, kinship programs Athens, GA 30605; 706-583-2546 or for grandparents raising grandchildren, 1-800-474-7540. Red Hat Society activities, and many more educational and recreational programs. Northeast Georgia encompasses these counties: Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Greene, Jackson, Jasper, Madison, Brown states, “The challenge of the Morgan, Newton, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Walton senior center will be to meet the needs of the baby boomers.” New programs

Lower Chattahoochee

Covers a 16-county area surrounding Columbus, Americus, Butler, Montezuma, Cuthbert

Celebrating May as Older Americans Month

he Lower Chattahoochee Area sional and family caregivers in the area Agency on Aging honored the seniors were invited for this morning of humor of its community during Older Americans and insight about the joys and challenges Month in May by of caregiving. “Although organizing two special it can be very stressful, events: a caregivers caregiving can also be one conference and a wellof the most rewarding exness walk. periences of your life,” says On May 22, the JoAnn Mosley, the Lower Area Agency on Aging Chattahoochee AAA’s hosted a caregivers caregiver specialist. “I hope conference featurthis conference showed our ing a presentation by caregivers how much they motivational speaker are appreciated.” and geriatric specialist The other special event, P. K. Beville on “Getthe “Answers on Aging” LCAAA GeorgiaCares Coordinator ting Through the Day Wellness Walk, took place Tracey Watts and Meddi Carrie, Without Sucking Your the GeorgiaCares mascot, enjoy the on May 24 at the Peachtree Thumb.” All profesMall in Columbus. Seniors Wellness Walk. Fall 2007

were treated to healthy snacks, goodie bags, t-shirts, door prizes and information from many wellness-oriented organizations — in addition to their morning exercise! Co-sponsors included the Aging and Disability Resource Connection, Care Improvement Plus, Publix and Columbus Water Works. Whether it’s Older Americans Month or any other month, the Lower Chattahoochee Area Agency on Aging (LCAAA) is excited about its programs that promote the physical and mental health of seniors! For more information, contact the Lower Chattahoochee AAA, P.O. Box 1908, Columbus, GA 31902-1908; 706-256-2910 or 1-800-615-4379. LOWER CHATTAHOOCHEE encompasses these counties: Chattahoochee, Clay, Crisp, Dooly, Harris, Macon, Marion, Muscogee, Quitman, Randolph, Schley, Stewart, Sumter, Talbot, Taylor, Webster

Heart of Georgia Altamaha

Covers a 17-county area surrounding Baxley, Dublin, Vidalia, Jesup, Swainsboro

Aging and Disabilities Resource Connection

he Heart of Georgia Altamaha Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is taking a proactive approach to developing an Aging and Disabilities Resource Connection (ADRC). “Understanding the importance of this project to the aging and developmental disabilities population and families in our 17-county region, we are moving forward to develop infrastructure that will support full implementation of the ADRC initiative,” explains Gail Thompson, AAA director. An ADRC Coalition Summit was recently held at Little Ocmulgee State Park in McRae. Allan Goldman, Georgia Division of Aging Services, and Robyn Berger, Greater Atlanta Aging and Developmental Disabilities Coalition, shared expertise in coalition building with

stakeholders: state agencies, local health and human services authorities, private partners and service providers. Building approximately 40 effective strategies family and profesfor coordinating sional caregivers, LTC supports and aging staff and services is critical Coalition memto caregivers and bers. Stakeholders families making easily understood choices that affect why an investquality of life. Lisa Matthews leads the discussion at her ment of time For further table during the ADRC Coalition Summit. and resources in information, collaboration with contact Heart of the ADRC project is valuable to them, to Georgia Altamaha RDC, 331 W. Parker consumers and to the greater community. St., Baxley, GA 31513; 912-367-3648 or “Facilitating change that provides an toll-free 1-888-367-9913. easily accessible, comprehensive system heart of georgia encompasses these counties: of long-term care (LTC) that is visible Appling, Bleckley, Candler, Dodge, Emanuel, Evans, Jeff Davis, Johnson, Laurens, Montgomery, Tattnall, Telfair, and trusted by the public is our goal,” Toombs, Treutlen, Wayne, Wheeler, Wilcox continues Thompson. Success of ADRC Coalitions will ensure input from key

Southeast Georgia

Covers an 18-county area surrounding Waycross, Valdosta, Tifton, Douglas, Folkston

Wildfires emphasize the importance of emergency preparedness

hen a spark from a downed power Staff and service providers of the line ignited a fire near Waycross Southeast Georgia Area Agency on Aging on an April afternoon, few guessed that (AAA) found themselves on a fast learning the incident would mark the beginning of curve. They worked feverishly to provide the largest wildfire uninterrupted serin Georgia’s history. vices and protection The fire eventually for elderly residents, consumed 580,000 who were especially acres of Southeast vulnerable to the Georgia and North hazards of smoke Florida. As fire and inhalation. smoke spread, resiClaire Larson, the dents were literally AAA’s emergency at the mercy of the preparedness planPhoto courtesy of www.satilla.org wind. Roads were ner, states, “At one closed and traffic was rerouted, sometimes point, our central kitchen was in danger of without warning, and entire neighborhoods evacuation, and plans to ensure uninterwere evacuated, some more than once. rupted meal service for approximately 12

1,000 seniors were necessary. Nursing and personal care homes faced the threat of evacuation, and staff became adept at limiting smoke infiltration at their facilities. With major thoroughfares closed, everyone learned innovative ways to get from Point A to Point B to deliver a meal. Provider staff members, some of whom were challenged by evacuation and the threat of personal loss, continued to serve their clients. Their efforts are commendable. Indeed, lessons were learned that will serve in preparing for future disasters.” For more information, call the Southeast Georgia AAA at 1725 South Georgia Parkway West, Waycross, GA 31503; 912-285-6097 or toll-free 1-888-732-4464. Southeast Georgia encompasses these counties: Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Charlton, Clinch, Coffee, Cook, Echols, Irwin, Lanier, Lowndes, Pierce, Tift, Turner, Ware

Georgia Generations

Legacy Link

Covers a 13-county area surrounding Gainesville, Cumming, Clarkesville, Toccoa, Hiawassee

Elder abuse, neglect and exploitation seminar

recent seminar sponsored by Legacy Link and its Long-Term Care Ombudsman team, led by Dianne Brookins, attracted personnel from law enforcement and the courts as well as attorneys, RNs, social workers from Legacy Link, and others associated with the elder community. Featured speakers included Pat King, Forensic Nurse Specialist, and Kim Grier — both Aging Services Specialists for the Department of Human Resources/ Division of Aging Services. Other speakers were Evelyn A. Burton-Kelly, Bank of America Investigative Services, and Bari

Sabo, Special Agent, Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Elder abuse occurs when someone intentionally causes harm to a vulnerable adult or intentionally puts the individual at risk for harm. A vulnerable adult is someone age 18 or older who is mentally or physically incapacitated or is over the age of 65. Types of abuse include physical, emotional and sexual abuse or neglect by a caregiver, selfneglect and exploitation.

The goal of the seminar was to foster interdisciplinary collaboration among agencies and to develop consistency in agency responses. Coordination between agencies to provide appropriate and efficient “one-stop shop” availability of resources was also addressed, as well as improved communication and removal of barriers to better serve the needs of victims. A call to Legacy Link, Area Agency on Aging, at the number below will connect you with the appropriate person to initiate a complaint or ask a question. Don’t permit a vulnerable adult to suffer. For information, contact Legacy Link, P.O. Box 2534, Gainesville, GA 305032534; 770-538-2650 or toll-free 1-800845-LINK. Legacy Link encompasses these counties: Banks, Dawson, Forsyth, Franklin, Habersham, Hall, Hart, Lumpkin, Rabun, Stephens, Towns, Union, White

Southern Crescent

Covers a 10-county area surrounding Franklin, Newnan, LaGrange, Griffin, Carrollton

Southern Crescent hosts Senior Picnic

he Southern Crescent Area Agency on Aging (SCAAA) hosted its annual Senior Picnic at the Coweta County Fairgrounds on May 23. The beach party decorations and hundreds of balloons that filled the room created a very festive atmosphere. A record 575 seniors and disabled adults from the 10-county area were in attendance. Participants came from the senior centers and the disabled community. They were joined by 50 representatives composed of area providers and SCAAA staff. The providers filled the entrance hall with their exhibit booths. This gave participants the opportunity to learn about the variety of services that are available to them. SCAAA Director Joy Shirley was the emcee for the event. The participants Fall 2007

enjoyed musical entertainment by John Lott throughout the day, and some even danced to his music. District IV Nutritionist Lisa Hale agreed to join Lott in serenading the crowd. Comedian A record 575 seniors filled the room at SCAAA’s annual Senior Picnic. Ken Bell performed and was a hit with For additional information, contact the crowd. Everyone the Southern Crescent AAA, P.O. Box ate a healthy, balanced meal, and the 1600, Franklin, GA 30217-1600; day wrapped up with the presentation 706-675-6721, 770-854-6026 or tollof door prizes. Many providers had free 1-866-854-5652. donated items that lucky participants happily took home with them. This was Southern Crescent encompasses these counties: Butts, Carroll, Coweta, Heard, Lamar, Meriwether, Pike, the most successful senior picnic to Spalding, Troup, Upson date for the area. 13

Middle Georgia

Covers an 11-county area surrounding Macon, Warner Robins, Milledgeville

Caregiver forum held in Houston County

he Middle Georgia RDC/Area Agency Street United Methodist Church in Macon on Aging, in partnership with the on April 24. Methodist Home for Children and Youth, The forum provided helpful inforMiddle Georgia CARE-NET, Rosalynn mation for families and professional Carter Institute for Caregiving, and caregivers who care for a child or adult Aging and Disability with a disability. PresentaResource Center, tions included two panels recently sponsored of parents and professionals a forum for caregivfocusing on: n Preparation for transiers. The forum, which drew 80 tion from childhood to adultattendees, was enhood through the eyes of a titled “The Amazing person with a disability. n Future planning to Pace: Help for the Daily Challenges of include guardianship and wills, Natalie Brown, caregiver Caring for Persons legal implications of destrucspecialist for the Middle Georgia with Disabilities.” tive behaviors, and benefits Regional Development Center/ This forum was held programs such as SSI. Area Agency on Aging, speaks to a group at the caregiver forum. at the Mulberry The main speaker,

Renee Feldman, spoke on “Hopes and Dreams.” Feldman is a parent of an adult son with disabilities. Approximately 20 vendors displayed their services that are available to the disabilities community. The Middle Georgia CARE-NET, along with its partners, is in the planning phases of sponsoring a second caregiver forum in the Houston County area. This forum is scheduled for October 30 at the Trinity United Methodist Church. For further information, call Natalie Brown at 478-751-6509. The Middle Georgia Regional Development Center Area Agency on Aging is located at 175-C Emery Highway in Macon. For more information on services, call 478-751-6466. Middle Georgia encompasses these counties: Baldwin, Bibb, Crawford, Houston, Jones, Monroe, Peach, Pulaski, Putnam, Twiggs, Wilkinson

Central Savannah River

Covers a 14-county area surrounding Augusta, Thomson, Martinez/Evans, Waynesboro, Sandersville

Exercise: If you don’t move it, you may lose it

he United States Surgeon General recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise nearly every day. So, what are the real benefits of exercise? n Increasing strength and endurance n Decreasing body fat n Improving movement in joints and muscles n Enhancing oxygen Chair exercises at the HH Brigham Senior Center in Augusta. delivery and metabolic processes person couldn’t move quickly and wasn’t n Improving sense of well-being strong, he or she died. Those who were fit In fact, some research is suggesting that survived to reproduce and pass on these our genes were designed for exercise. In “fitter” genes. Some researchers believe other words, during prehistoric times, if a that with the current sedentary culture, 14

these genes have become maladaptive and produce a number of adverse effects, possibly leading to many chronic illnesses. So, what can YOU do to not “lose it?” Get a checkup. Meet with your health care provider to see whether you will need to consider any special modifications before starting an exercise program. Start slowly and don’t overdo it. Set short- and longterm goals and make your goals specific. Reward yourself. Once you’ve reached your goal, treat yourself to something that reminds you what a good job you’ve done and provides encouragement to continue. For more information, contact the Area Agency on Aging at 706-210-2000, 1-888-922-4464 or www.areaagencyonaging.com. Central Savannah River encompasses these counties: Burke, Columbia, Glascock, Hancock, Jefferson, Jenkins, Lincoln, McDuffie, Richmond, Screven, Taliaferro, Warren, Washington, Wilkes

Georgia Generations

Southwest Georgia

Covers a 14-county area surrounding Albany, Bainbridge, Moultrie, Thomasville

Life enrichment through summer camp

he Southwest Georgia (SOWEGA) Kinship Care Program has 33 children involved in a fantastic summertime experience offered by its partner, Greater Cutliffe Grove Baptist Church. A seven-week day camp is held at the church Monday through Friday from 7:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., offering a non-stop assortment of activities to challenge and enrich the lives of these children who are being raised by their grandparents. The campers’ academic skills are honed with reading, writing and computer activities. Crafts, music, sports, gardening, Spanish and sign language, as well as field trips, are part of the seven-week program staffed mostly by volunteers. Additionally, the University

for the grandparent caregivers. Donations from churches, individuals, neighborhood organizations and community agencies, along with some grandparent contributions, paid for the 33 campers’ scholarships. Several grandparents also volunteered to help with camp activities. And to express appreciation for the gift of summer camp, the grandchildren are encouraged to Many activities, from crafts to music, are offered at reach out and do something to summer camp. help another. For further information, conof Georgia’s Extension Service is providtact the Southwest Georgia Area Agency ing a weekly cooking and nutrition on Aging at 1105 Palmyra Road, Albany, class for grandparents and their older GA 31701-2508; 229-432-1124 or tollgrandchildren. free 1-800-282-6612. This wonderful day camp not only Southwest Georgia encompasses these counties: provides constructive activities for the Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas, Worth grandchildren but also provides respite

Coastal Georgia

Covers a 9-county area surrounding Brunswick and Savannah

Coastal citizens learn about elder abuse at Awareness Day intergenerational event

ccording to estimates, between one and two million Americans age 65 or older have been injured, exploited or mistreated by someone they depended on for care or protection. In response to this growing epidemic among older adults, Mayor Bryan Thompson issued a proclamation recognizing June 15 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Brunswick. Coastal Georgia’s Area Agency on Aging staff and providers organized an intergenerational event, which included a children’s art and essay contest at the Brunswick Multipurpose Senior Center. Other presenters included local law enforcement, a Savannah Special Elder Abuse Prosecutor, a Gullah storyteller, Coastal Elder Rights Fall 2007

providers and a special guest speaker from a nearby Jacksonville domestic violence shelter. Assistant District Attorney Meg Heap, who prosecutes elder abuse cases, delivered the key message: “With our population aging, there will be more people to victimize and greater opportunities to abuse, neglect and financially exploit our elderly citizens.” Heap said that elder abuse impacts an older person much more deeply. “Many are afraid or don’t want to implicate a son or a daughter.” Everyone is encouraged to report elder abuse crimes by contacting Adult Protective Services at 1-888-774-0152 or calling 911 for life-threatening situations.

Assistant District Attorney Meg Heap speaks about the forms and prevalence of elder abuse to participants attending the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event in Brunswick.

For further information, contact the Coastal Georgia Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-580-6860. Coastal Georgia encompasses these counties: Bryan, Bulloch, Camden, Chatham, Effingham, Glynn, Liberty, Long, McIntosh