Georgia
Generations Business Discovers THE
SENIOR Market
Also in This Issue: ■ The Physician-Caregiver Connection ■ A Look at Georgia’s AAAs Published quarterly by Georgia’s Area Agencies on Aging
Summer 2003
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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 aged 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.
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Georgia is divided into 12 AAAs, each serving a different part of the state. They are:
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4 7 6
9 12
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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
Georgia
Generations SUMMER 2003 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
On the Cover: Shirley Ginsburg of Roswell enjoys receiving an Atlanta Journal-Constitution newpaper along with her Meals-OnWheels delivery from volunteer Leslie McKee. The program, called Feed the Body/Feed the Mind, is an example of how Georgia businesses are reaching out to seniors. See story, page 4. Photo by Caroline Joe.
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Summer 2003, Volume 2, #4 © 2003 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
When Summer Appetites Wane t’s not uncommon to experience a loss of appetite during the hot summer months. But when an elderly person starts eating less over a period of time, the results can be serious. It may be just the heat that has caused the problem. Or perhaps the person you are caring for has a loss of appetite simply from not feeling well. The change might also be attributed to medications, cancer treatments, or psychological problems like depression. How can you be assured that your care recipient is eating enough food to supply adequate vitamins and nutrients? Nutritionists suggest that instead of three large meals a day, which can look overwhelming to someone in poor health, you serve six small meals a day. Also, serve soft foods such as pudding, ice cream or fruit smoothies
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because they can be tasty and easy to digest. When possible, give the person you are caring for the decision-making power to decide what they would like to eat; it helps them to feel in control. Also, make the dining experience pleasant for the person you are caring for by playing music or talking to them about the day’s events while they are eating. Keep a food diary and include what they eat every day and what food they have problems or complications digesting. Review it with their doctor or dietician for feedback. Water, Water, Water — Make sure the person you are caring for drinks plenty of water to avoid dehydration, which can lead to appetite suppression.
A Reminder When Visiting Loved Ones THIS SUMMER, ARE YOU TRAVELING to see an elderly relative whom you seldom visit? Take advantage of the face-to-face contact to help him or her put their affairs in order. Take time to review important information and documents, including: 1. All bank accounts, account numbers and the location of banks. 2. Insurance policies, policy numbers, type of insurance (health, life, long term care, automobile, etc.) and beneficiary as stated on the policies. 3. Deed and titles to ALL property. 4. Loan/lien information, who holds them and if there are any death provisions. 5. Social Security and Medicare numbers. 6. Military history, affiliations and papers (including discharge papers). 7. Up-to-date will in a safe place. 8. Living will or other advanced directive. 9. Durable power of attorney. 10. Instructions for funeral services, information about cemetery plots.
Summer 2003
CAREGIVING NEWS&NOTES
What’s New at Elderhostel? ELDERHOSTEL, A NONPROFIT
educational travel organization for seniors, has something new this summer. The group is offering dozens of programs for grandparents and grandchildren, as well as family programs that bring three generations together for shared learning. The intergenerational experiences are part of Elderhostel’s nearly 10,000 different programs, which 200,000 older adults participate in yearly. For more information, check out Elderhostel’s Web site (see Surfing the Net, below).
Elderhostel
Surfing the Net Each issue of Georgia Generations offers several Web sites devoted to caregiving information and resources: www.friendly4seniors.com is comprised of a database of over 2000 senior-related listings. Pick a category and click “Go.” www.aoa.gov keeps you up-to-date on news from the U.S. Administration on Aging. In addition, here’s where to learn more about the Older Americans Act. www.ahca.org, the homepage for the American Health Care Assn., spotlights health news and events, plus staying current on long-term care news. www.elderhostel.org tells everything about this educational/ travel organization for older adults — from frequently asked questions to details on hundreds of programs. Look for more helpful Web sites in the next issue of Georgia Generations.
Protect Medicare and Medicaid Benefits Report suspected fraud and errors. Call your Senior Medicare Patrol Project for details and to request a presentation. Metro Atlanta: 404-463-0763 Outside Metro Atlanta: GeorgiaCares 1-800-669-8387 3
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Business Discovers
hey dine out four to five times a week. They account for nearly 80 percent of all leisure travel spending. They buy more than 40 percent of all new cars purchased. They have a total net worth of $20 trillion. Who are these power consumers? They are seniors. Americans age 50 and older make up the fastest growing and most affluent population segment in the U.S. Little wonder that businesses ranging from mom-and-pop delis to global pharmaceutical giants are wooing this increasingly critical market. In fact, what surprises industry observers is that some businesses still don’t seem to recognize the awesome potential of the senior market. “Twenty years ago, I would have expected that we would have seen more changes in how businesses target seniors,” said Nancy Luttropp, corporate director of learning for Kisco Senior Living in Carlsbad, Calif, and former the manager of Business and Aging Programs for the American Society on Aging. “I’m surprised change isn’t coming more quickly, but it is coming.” The lag can be explained fairly simply — old habits die hard. “For over 40 years, baby boomers and the youth culture ruled the roost,” said Gary Onks, CEO of Sold on Seniors, a senior marketing consultancy in Fredericksburg, Va. “Corporations don’t change quickly. And PR, marketing and advertising departments tend to be staffed by people in their 20s and early 30s. They have no understanding of seniors.” These 20-something marketers might be surprised to discover, for example, that seniors have been the fastest growing segment of Internet users for the past three years. And that seniors are huge purchasers of toys, spending nearly $30 million on Americans age grandchildren last year. And that the top grossing concerts last year were 50 and older make by performers in their late 50s/early 60s who lured audiences of late up the fastest 40s/early 50s — Paul McCartney, the Rolling Stones and Cher. growing and “Seniors buy everything that everyone else buys — and then most affluent some,” said Onks. None of that surprises Larissa population segment Nelson. The market development manager for the Atlanta Journalin the U.S. Constitution launched the “Feed the Body/Feed the Mind” program last May, which delivers free copies of the newspaper to Meals-on-Wheels recipients. “Seniors are a very important market for us,” said Nelson. “This is a group that still reads and values the newspaper.” Currently, Meals-on-Wheels volunteers deliver newspapers along with a meal to 251 seniors in Henry and Fulton Counties. Nelson hopes to implement it in all 10 metro Atlanta counties.
SENIOR
THE
Market By Martha Nolan McKenzie
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Georgia Generations
The newspaper was recognized for its efforts by the Metropolitan Partnership in Aging at its fifth annual Business and Aging Awards Breakfast last December. “While it is important to feed the body, experts on aging know its equally important to feed the mind,” said Maureen Kelly, community liaison for the Aging Division of the Atlanta Regional Commission, which is a member of the MPIA. “Many of those receiving homedelivered meals are unable to pay for the daily newspaper as they live on extremely limited budgets. The daily newspaper provides up-to-date information to keep these citizens mentally agile and aware of what is going on in the world around them.” Shirley Ginsburg of Roswell looks forward to the daily visit from a volunteer who brings her a meal and newspaper. “One day they just gave me the newspaper, and it was free,” she said. “It was a wonderful gift.” Her favorite sections: home and garden and politics. “I may not agree with all the politics,” she commented, “but I enjoy reading the columns.”
Real Estate One industry that has been out front in recognizing the changing needs of an aging population is real estate. Assisted living facilities and retirement communities have proliferated over the past decade, and single-family homebuilders are incorporating new designs to allow residents to age in place. Four years ago, the Homebuilders Association of Georgia teamed up with Concrete Change and a host of partners, including the Atlanta Regional Commission, Statewide Independent Living Council of Georgia, AARP Georgia and the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, to create EasyLiving Home, a certification program for builders. To qualify for certification the homes must include three basic features that are conveniences for all residents regardless of age or ability. However, the features make it a visitable home and allow people to age in place as well. The three features include a bedroom and full bath on the main floor, wide interior doorways and entrances with no steps. “We have 13 builders on board right now and we’ve certified about 18 houses,” said Bonnie Bonham, program director of EasyLiving Home. “We expect it to really snowball next year — we think we’ll see 400 to 500 homes being built. They’ll be in Savannah, Valdosta, Snellville, Powder Springs, Alpharetta and Woodstock.” Roy Wendt was one of the first builders to get the EasyLiving certification, and he has built 20 EasyLiving homes to date. “Just about everything we do now is EasyLiving,” said Wendt, owner of Wendt Builders in Snellville. Wendt’s homes meet the program requirements — and then some. For example, appliances and electrical outlets are raised so residents don’t have to bend over as much. Each house features a 911 light switch that makes the garage lights strobe, enabling paramedics to readily find the home in case of an emergency. Garages are equipped with a stoplight, which turns red when the car gets within six inches of the wall. To help seniors find elder-friendly homes, many realtors have started training programs for their agents. Century 21 and Re/Max offer such training, as does the Senior Advantage Summer 2003
Real Estate Council. From the latter, Realtors can earn a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) certification. Traci Amick got her SRES certification two years ago. The realtor for Southbridge Realty in Savannah wanted to understand the special needs of her senior customers. “My senior customers are very active,” said Amick. “They want singlestory homes. They want less square footage than they used to have, but they still want nice amenities. And perhaps the main thing they want is a service that takes care of the exterior landscaping so they don’t have to bother with it. They want to spend their time traveling, golfing or walking. These types of homes are selling like wildfire here.”
Retailing Retailers, too, have discovered the enormous buying potential of seniors. In an effort to attract this market, many retailers offer the most popular of lures — the senior discount. From cruise lines to movie theaters, from restaurants to groceries, retailers routinely give seniors a break in the price in return for patronage. “Discounts are a very effective marketing tool,” said Onks. “Seniors are a frugal bunch. They have to make sure their money is going to last their lifetime. And AARP has drilled into seniors that getting a discount is their right of passage — they are entitled to it.” Many retailers, however, go beyond offering discounts. Kroger, for example, offers a five percent discount to seniors every Wednesday. But many stores offer free coffee and danish on senior days, and some even host bingo games. The Kroger in Waycross has had a bingo game every Wednesday morning for the past six years. On a good day, 60 to 75 seniors turn out to socialize, sip coffee and cover their Bingo cards with tokens. Winners get assorted prizes from the store — a plant, a toiletry item, a gift certificate — and everyone gets a chance to catch up with old friends. “They always come up and hug my neck and say thank you for having the bingo game,” said Cindy Hughes, the store manager. “I love it. It’s like having 60 grandparents.” For Kroger, those grandparents mean good business. “They are a very valuable part of our customer base,” said Susie Brower, manager of consumer affairs for Kroger. “They are some of our most loyal customers, and some of the most vocal. If they are unhappy with something, they let you know it. That’s much better than not saying anything and switching stores.” Up the Creek restaurants in Atlanta keep their senior diners happy with a special Seniors’ Catch Menu. In response to comments from seniors that many restaurants serve too much food at prices higher than they want to pay, the restaurant began to offer patrons age 65 and older smaller servings at reduced prices. The menu is printed in large type and is available between 3 and 6 p.m. Senior customers receive a membership card, which they present each time they visit the restaurant. “We started the program about a year ago, and it has been very well received,” said Stan Klaus, executive vice president of operations for AppleCreek Management, which manages four Up the Creek restaurants and 36 Applebees in the Atlanta area.
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Seni
ng at Colonial ors enjoy walki
Lakeshore Mal
l in Gainesville
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Like the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Up the Creek’s efforts were honored by the MPIA at its Business and Aging Awards Breakfast. “Aging advocates believe this is a better approach than other senior discounts, which generally include only one or two discounted menu items, because it offers appropriate portions at lower prices,” said ARC’s Kelly. Other examples of senior-conscious retailers abound. Colonial Lakeshore Mall in Gainesville offers complimentary wheelchairs. It leases space to Legacy Link, the Area Agency on Aging, at a substantially reduced rate. The Legacy Link space provides a spot for seniors to relax, have coffee and attend seminars or pick up materials on services available to them. The mall opens four hours earlier than the stores — at 6 a.m. — so seniors can walk the corridors. “We have close to 200 seniors who walk every morning,” said Donna Montgomery, marketing director of the mall. “We map out the mileage for them, so they know how far they are
Americans age 50 and older: Spend over $29 Billion yearly on grandchildren’s gifts Own 79% of America’s financial assets walking. Once a month we host a meeting for the walkers with a free breakfast and talks on various health topics.” Crossroads Deli owner Jean Cornett uses love and attention to keep her senior customers coming back. “We don’t offer any discounts, but we always go over and speak to them and catch up — just give them some attention,” said Cornett, who is also in Gainesville. “They love it!” Crossroads Deli is also a certified Elder Friendly business. The certification is awarded by Legacy Link, which sends
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trained volunteers to area businesses to determine if an establishment is elder friendly. “We have a lot of criteria we look at,” said Roger Ray, community education director for Legacy Link. “For example, we start by looking up the business in the yellow pages to see how easy it is to locate. Then we call and ask for directions to see how they respond to an older person on the phone. We look at the ease of entry. Are aisles wide enough for wheelchairs? Are there benches to rest on? Are signs and menus readable? How friendly are the workers to elderly customers? “Then we score the business, and if they score high enough, they get an Elder Friendly business decal to display in their window,” continued Ray. The Coastal Georgia AAA in Brunswick is launching a similar certification program. “We are just beginning to recruit volunteers,” said Grace Owens, aging services coordinator for the agency. “We hope to have it up and running by July. We plan to create a booklet listing all businesses in the area that are Elder Friendly certified.”
Pharmaceuticals and Drugstores Pharmaceutical companies and drugstores are keenly interested in the senior market — and with good reason. Seniors consume one-third of all prescription drugs. In Atlanta, the Atlanta Regional Commission has formed a partnership with CVS Pharmacy to develop and implement a “Vial of Life” program in the 10-county metro area. The “Vial of Life” program is a medical emergency information program, which also includes medication education and medication reviews. The project will target seniors who attend the multipurpose senior centers, neighborhood senior centers, senior community groups and seniors receiving in-home services. Each senior participant will receive a medication kit, review of their medications by a registered pharmacist, assistance with completing a medication summary sheet and a brief overview of the program. Next the seniors will be invited to attend a medication management class, which will be taught by a pharmacist. If a pharmacist encounters a medication problem, the participant’s doctor will be notified. In May, Pfizer Inc, along with the Fulton County Office of Aging, the Atlanta Regional Commission and area health professionals, launched a program to help older adults manage cholesterol. “Taking Health to Heart” goes beyond screening, enrolling interested seniors in a two-year, multi-pronged cholesterol management program. During the two years, they will receive educational materials, including tips on managing cholesterol through diet and exercise. “We want to be recognized as a company that addresses health solutions, and we want to react to the needs of specific geographies,” said Jill Williams, managed market manager for Pfizer. “Because the senior population in Atlanta is growing so significantly, we want to make sure that seniors are aware of Georgia Generations
the importance of managing cholesterol and are able to get more actively involved in the management of their own care.” Merck & Co.’s plant in Albany worked with the Southwest Georgia Area Agency on Aging as well as local pharmacy tech and nursing colleges to host a “brown bag” seminar last May. Rather than tuna sandwiches and chips, seniors filled their brown bags with the medications they take on a regular basis and a pharmacist went through the bag with them. “A lot of elderly people have multiple doctors, and every doctor does not necessarily know what every other doctor is prescribing,” said Eamon Fitzmaurice, plant controller for Merck. Fitzmaurice said Merck plans to host another brown bag seminar in Thomasville sometime this year. Merck also partnered with the Southwest Georgia AAA to offer free osteoporosis screening in January. “We made the machines available and funded it,” said Fitzmaurice. “In 10 days, we screened about 600 people.”
The Media One industry that has been criticized for its treatment of seniors is the media. But even this industry is garnering some praise for improved portrayal of seniors — again, an acknowledgement of the growing importance of this demographic audience. “In the world of comedy, seniors are still almost always portrayed for laughs,” said Barbara Corday, chair of the production division of the Cinema-Television School at the University of Southern California. “But in drama, there has been quite a bit of change. A lot of movies and TV shows are featuring older actors in poignant and interesting roles.” Seniors will even get their slice of the reality TV pie this season. NBC, which has prided itself on targeting the 18-to-49year-old audience, will air “Second Chance: America’s Most Talented Senior” later this year. Similar to America’s Most Talented Kid, American Idol or Star Search, the program, which will air in two one-hour episodes, will highlight talented
Pfizer draws crowds to its cholesterol management program. Summer 2003
seniors. The network has already done casting calls in 10 cities, but it has not yet released the air date.
Financial Institutions The aging population has given rise to a new specialty within the financial industry — financial gerontology. In January, the American Society on Aging and Widener University established the American Institute of Financial Gerontology (www.aifg.org), a financial services education program, to help meet the specific financial needs of seniors. Financial advisers can earn a Certified Financial Gerontologist (CFG) designation from the Institute. “The issue of retirement planning is coming into the forefront because boomers now have it on their radar screen,” said John Migliaccio, president of the Institute. “What the financial institutions have been very good at is helping customers collect their money. They haven’t been very good at helping them disperse their money over a longer lifespan. Financial institutions need to be more proactive in helping people finance their longevity, and to do that they need knowledge of the aging process and the issues that come along with that. With financial
Americans age 50 and older: Shop online (92%) and make purchases online (78%) Account for over 40% of total consumer demand gerontology, we have formalized the intersection of health, wealth and aging for the first time.” Financial institutions are also the No. 2 users — behind the health care industry — of a program designed to increase sensitivity to the needs of seniors. The Secure Project for Sensitivity Training was developed by Lee Memorial Health System in Ft. Myers, Fla. Clients receive a training kit that includes glasses to simulate common eye problems of older adults, gloves to simulate arthritis, an audio tape to simulate degrees of hearing loss, and color slides to illustrate functional and organic brain disorders. “It’s a very hands-on program,” said Teresa Frank, program manager of the Older Adult Service Department at Lee Memorial. “Financial firms are our second largest users. The better their brokers understand seniors, which is their exact market, the better they can provide customer care.” All businesses would do well to adopt that marketing strategy. “Every seven seconds, someone in America turns 50,” said Onks. “It’s a hugely important market, and no business can afford to ignore it.” GG
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GUEST CLOSE-UP
Making
theLINK
By Adrienne Dern and Angela Heath
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any Georgians are feeling stressed because they provide assistance to an older relative or friend — stress that can lead to depression and even cause them to get sick. These Georgians are “family caregivers,” but like many caregivers across the country, many do not identify themselves as such. According to AARP, in 2001, 15 percent of actual caregivers did not consider themselves caregivers, even though they provided the kind of help typically described as “caregiving.” What does that mean for Georgia caregivers? It means that many who could benefit from help are not seeking the services that could relieve some of their physical and emotional stress. Making the Link: Connecting Caregivers with Services through Physicians is a program developed by the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, funded in part by the U.S. Administration on Aging. The program is designed to identify caregivers through physicians who will refer them to services provided by Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). Why are we targeting physicians to reach caregivers? Because most caregivers make frequent doctor visits —either with elders or to address their own health needs. In addition, there are several reasons why physicians have an interest in identifying and supporting caregivers. First, major physician organizations acknowledge that caregiving is a potentially serious health risk. Caregivers need to take care of themselves, but too often they don’t. Second, caregivers are often involved in — but unprepared for — the medical care of older adults and unwittingly compromise the care they provide. By helping caregivers, doctors can increase the medical compliance of their older patients. Finally, physician practices
Connecting Caregivers with Services through Physicians
can benefit as well, by decreasing staff time devoted to responding to caregivers’ concerns. Through Making the Link, physicians can refer caregiving patients to experts in the local community who can offer counseling, services and other resources. To involve more physicians in the care of caregivers, Making the Link includes a national/local public awareness campaign. On the national level, the program is working with a number of physician and caregiver organizations to raise awareness of caregiver issues. At the local level, it is working with 150 AAAs and Title VI–Native American aging programs to involve local physicians in identifying caregivers and referring them to services. In Georgia, Georgia Generations magazine is being sent to doctors’ offices quarterly to provide information on caregiver resources. How can Georgia caregivers play a role in the physician–caregiver connection? ■ First and foremost, contact your local AAA to find out about the resources available to help you in your community. ■ Ask your local AAA if you can distribute a few copies of its brochure to physicians that you visit. ■ Tell your doctor that you are a caregiver. ■ Let your doctor know how important it is for caregivers to take care of themselves and to be connected with community services. ■ Tell your doctor that the local AAA is a great referral for his/her caregiving patients. Celebrate! You have just made it easier for the next caregiver who visits your physician. GG
Physicians can refer caregiving patients to experts in the local community who can offer help.
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Adrienne Dern is the deputy director, National Association of Area Agencies on Aging. Angela Heath is a consultant and author of a book on long distance caregiving. Georgia Generations
A Look at Area Agencies on Aging Around Georgia In communities across the country, Area
Northwest Georgia
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. On
Legacy Link
Central Savannah River Middle Georgia
Lower Chattahoochee
Heart of Georgia Altamaha
Southwest Georgia
Southeast Georgia
Coastal Georgia
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
Promoting healthy lifestyles for seniors One of the biggest problems facing seniors today is paying for expensive prescription medicines. Many of these medications treat diseases that are the result of lifestyle choices, such as improper diet, lack of exercise, lack of socialization and others. Studies support this with evidence that many chronic diseases could be prevented or delayed by proper diet and exercise. As a result, Area Agencies on Aging throughout Georgia have implemented wellness programs to prevent and/or delay the onset of many chronic life-threatening conditions and thus reduce the need for expensive prescription medicines. The nutrition centers in Northwest Georgia have active wellness programs Summer 2003
Cathy Colston (left), certified fitness instructor, weight trains with 93-year-old Frances Keith of Rome, a ‘sittercize’ leader.
offered on a regular basis. The exercises that are part of these programs are low impact and aid in the prevention of osteoporosis. Some of the exercises are done while seated, and others are done with
small weights. Individuals work out as they are able to, with no pressure to go beyond what they feel they can handle. To learn if there is a program in your area, call the Area Agency on Aging that serves your county. For information, contact AAA of Northwest Georgia, P.O. Box 1793, Rome, GA 30162-1793; 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
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Legacy Link Covers a 13-county area surrounding Gainesville, Cumming, Clarkesville, Toccoa, Hiawassee
Let’s go to the mall! f you’re a parent or grandparent, you’ve heard that before. But in Gainesville, Georgia, we hope to hear mature people say, “Let’s go to the mall” to learn more about services for older people, opportunities for volunteering in local communities and other information. Legacy Link, Inc. has opened a shop at the Colonial Lakeshore Mall in Gainesville to make information available in a new way to citizens of the area. Mall management is very cooperative in taking a chance with Legacy that a new kind of shop will meet the needs of many
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people in the community and the surrounding area. Want to fill out an application for the new pharmacy cards? Come to the Legacy Shoppe. Need a list of licensed personal care homes
Legacy Link has opened a shop for seniors at the Colonial Lakeshore Mall in Gainesville. and assisted living residences? Need information about health care services in the region? Where are the camping areas and RV parks in the area? How do I find out about volunteer opportunities? Come to the Legacy Shoppe!
Some of the area senior center programs and AARP chapters will be having “their days” at the shop to promote their activities and programs. Let’s go to the mall! This is just a taste of what will be going on at the Colonial Lakeshore Mall. So, please drop by and see us! For further information, contact Legacy Link, P.O. Box 2534, Gainesville, GA 305032534; 770-538-2650 or toll-free 1-800-845-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
Caregiver conferences offer training n partnership with the Rosalynn Carter Institute (RCI) for Human Development, Southern Crescent formed a CARE-NET in 2003, giving staff an additional tool for carrying out the caregiving mission of the AAA. CARE-NETS assist communities in the expansion of the caregiving capacity by bringing family and professional caregivers together to address caregiving strengths and needs in that community. As part of the CARENET, an education subcommittee was formed. The subcommittee planned and implemented a “Caring for the Caregiver” conference, which was held in February at Heritage Ridge Retirement Community, Newnan, Georgia. The leader of the
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workshop was Dr. David Haigler, deputy director of RCI. The training was a great success, with 52 persons in attendance Generously donatDr. David Haigler, of the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Human ing meals and snacks, Development, leads workshop at the “Caring for the Caregiver” Conference. Wal-Mart, Subway and Atlanta Bread Comupcoming caregiver training, call any of pany partnered with Southern Crescent to the numbers listed below. keep the cost of the program low for attendees. For further information, contact Southern The subcommittee is planning a second Crescent AAA, P.O. Box 1600, Franklin, GA caregiver conference, called “Train the 30217-1600; 706-675-6721, 770-854-6026, Trainer,” to be held in early summer. This or toll-free 1-866-854-5652. program will train interested persons on SOUTHERN CRESCENT how to take caregiver support program ENCOMPASSES THESE COUNTIES: skills and information into individual comButts, Carroll, Coweta, Heard, Lamar, munities to assist with caregiver needs. Meriwether, Pike, Spalding, Troup, Upson If you are interested in attending the Georgia Generations
Atlanta Regional Commission Covers a 10-county area surrounding Atlanta
Gala event honoring Jocelyn Dorsey benefits Thanks Mom & Dad Fund ®
he 2nd Annual Thanks Mom & Dad Celebration saluted Jocelyn Dorsey for her 30 years of service at WSB-TV, Channel 2 and honored her parents, Robert and Helena Dorsey, for their inspiration. Fourhundred people filled the ballroom at the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel on May 8 to celebrate Ms. Dorsey’s anniversary and proceeds benefited the Thanks Mom & Dad Fund ® which supports programs and services for the elderly. Major sponsors included WSB-TV, UPS, The Coca-Cola Company,The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Ensure®, AARP, Pfizer, Inc., and The Kroger Co. Other supporters included Kaiser Permanente, Georgia Power, Blue Choice Platinum, Sunrise Assisted Living, Atlanta Gas Light Company, and Piedmont Hospital, Sixty Plus Program. All were acknowledged for their generosity. Guests mingled at a reception in the garden pool area and the mood was set by jazz violinist, Ken Ford, and pianist, John Knapp, as they bid on beautiful, unique silent auction items. Masters of Ceremony, John Pruitt and Jovita Moore,WSB-TV, Channel 2 Action
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News Anchors, introduced Atlanta’s Mayor, the Honorable Shirley Franklin, who welcomed everyone. Letters were read from Rep. John Lewis, Governor Sonny Perdue and Mrs. Coretta Scott King.
Guests of honor Robert, Helena and Jocelyn Dorsey with ARC’s Maureen Kelly at the Thanks Mom & Dad Celebration.
A Congressional Commendation from Rep. Lewis acknowedged Ms. Dorsey’s contributions to the community. WSB had fun with a video of Jocelyn’s
Atlanta Regional Commission
404-463-3333 If you need caregiving information, contact: Cherokee County Cherokee County Senior Services; 770-345-5312 Clayton County Clayton County Aging Program; 770-603-4050 Cobb County Cobb Senior Services, 770-528-5364 DeKalb County Senior Connections, 770-455-7602 Douglas County Douglas Senior Services, 770-489-3100
Summer 2003
years with the station and a number of video tributes. Jocelyn produced a glimpse into the lives of Helena and Robert who are her inspiration and another video showed donors the importance of contributions to the Thanks Mom & Dad Fund.® There was hardly a dry eye when Jocelyn spoke of the tragedy of this year and the strength she drew from her beloved community friends and her continued com-
Fayette County Fayette Senior Services, 770-461-0813 Fulton County Fulton County Aging Program, 404-730-6000 Gwinnett County Gwinnett County Senior Services, 770-822-8850 Henry County Henry County Senior Services, 770-898-7670 Rockdale County Rockdale County Senior Services, 770-922-4633
mitment to the Thanks Mom & Dad Fund.® She was especially pleased to say Thank You to her parents while they are still with her and able to share in her joy. On behalf of the Thanks Mom & Dad Fund,® Maureen Kelly presented beautiful sculptures by Master Glassblower, Don Lillie, symbolizing the spirit of the Thanks Mom & Dad Fund® logo. Mr. and Mrs. Dorsey were thanked for giving our community their gift, Jocelyn, and Jocelyn was thanked for exemplifying community service. Proceeds over $75,000 will benefit many, many older adults as a result of the generosity of sponsors and donors who attended this grand affair.
ATLANTA REGIONAL COMMISSION ENCOMPASSES THESE COUNTIES: Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Gwinnett, Fulton, Henry, Rockdale
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Northeast Georgia Covers a 12-county area surrounding Athens, Winder, Monroe, Covington, Madison
‘Five to Nine’ and feeling fine ortheast Georgia’s wellness coordinator, Nikki Hawthorne, along with other University of Georgia colleagues are busy promoting the consumption of fruits and vegetables. In support of this effort, the “Fruits and Vegetables for Better Health” program became a reality last fall. The program includes 10 fun-filled lessons focusing on different fruit and vegetable groups, including berries and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower. Each lesson ends with the opportunity to taste the fruits and vegetables. The purpose of this project is to increase awareness of the health benefits of fruits and vegetables and
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encourage everyone to eat between five and nine servings daily. Heart disease and cancer are the number one and number two leading causes of death respectively, accounting for 50 percent of all deaths. Many epidemiologist studies suggest high fruit and vegetable consumption Nikki Hawthorne, along with Neville and Helen Farmer of Jackson protects against both of County, enjoy a fruit and vegetable lesson. these diseases. For further information, contact Northeast Many Northeast Georgians report they “enjoy feeling fine” as they eat Georgia RDC, 305 Research Drive, Athens, GA “five to nine” every day, filling their meals 30610-2795; 706-583-2547 or toll-free with plenty of leafy greens, cruciferous 1-800-474-7540. vegetables, stewed tomatoes, sweet NORTHEAST GEORGIA potatoes and berries. To view more ENCOMPASSES THESE COUNTIES: health information and other topics Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Greene, for older adults, log on to our Web site Jackson, Jasper, Madison, Morgan, Newton, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Walton www.arches.uga.edu/noahnet/.
Lower Chattahoochee Covers a 16-county area surrounding Columbus, Americus, Butler, Montezuma, Cuthbert response vehicle. The Pfizer mobile response vehicle, which is fitted with state-of-the-art equipment, is used to conduct health screenhe Lower Chattahoochee Area ings as well as to respond to Agency on Aging (AAA) recently held emergency situations and pera health screening day in Americus, with form minor surgical treatments. the assistance of the Pfizer mobile As part of the AAA’s health screening day, over 75 seniors participated in comprehensive cholesterol screenings measuring HDL, LDL and triglyceride levels. Other screenings included blood pressure and blood sugar to check for hypo and hyper glycemia. The Middle Flint Council on Aging, Inc. provided hotPfizer’s mobile response vehicle (pictured above right) was a key dogs, drinks and other part of the health screening day in Americus. Hotdogs, drinks and refreshments in a picnic lots of sunshine added to the picnic setting.
It was a picnic of a day!
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setting to all participants.Thanks to wonderful weather and the partnering of several agencies, this was truly a “picnic of a day.” For further information, contact Lower Chattahoochee AAA, P.O. Box 1908, Columbus, GA 31902-1908; 706-256-2900 or toll-free 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
Georgia Generations
Middle Georgia Covers an 11-county area surrounding Macon, Warner Robins, Milledgeville
Advocacy for Middle Georgians
chairperson, approximately 80 Middle Georgia seniors spent their day meeting with influential members of the legislature
hat’s the best way to be heard? Be seen! That is what two busloads of seniors from the Middle Georgia area learned while attending Senior Day at the Capitol on March 4. Led by Grady Clemonts, Aging Advisory Committee
Every senior citizen needs to contact their state legislators about issues that concern them.
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who affect the monies allotted for senior services. The most important thing the group learned was that every senior citizen needs to contact their state legislators about issues that concern them. Mr. Clemonts advised, “Call or write your legislators and tell them how important funding is for senior programs. If all the seniors in Georgia contacted their legislators, it would have a great impact on their voting. Seniors help put our
legislators in office, and we must remind them of their responsibilities to their constituents. Senior programs need money, and the only way we are going to ensure funding is to talk to our legislators.” For information concerning senior services potentially affected by state funding, contact your state legislators — and be heard! For further information, contact Middle Georgia RDC, 175-C Emery Highway, Macon, GA 31217; 478-751-6466 or toll-free 1-888-548-1456. 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
Help for visually impaired seniors
down a voice synthesizer or teach basic computer skills so that they can take advany clients don’t want to tage of the depend on somebody newest assistive else,” says Ann Woodward, devices.” Older Blind Program coordinaWoodward tor at Augusta’s Walton and Jones suggest Options for Independent several actions to Living. “They want to fix a cup help seniors live of coffee, write letters, get more fully with dressed, and take care of basic vision loss: Give needs on their own.” WoodWillie Jones shows his colleague, Ann them the opporward works closely with WalWoodward, how to use a personal tunity to be as ton Options peer supporter, organizer designed for blind and partially self-sufficient as Willie Jones, to help older sighted individuals. Jones’ guide dog, possible; make adults develop strategies for Chase, rests nearby. vision exams a adjusting to vision loss. priority; and stay connected with an inde“I modify our solutions to meet senpendent living center such as Walton iors’ needs,” says Jones. “You can slow
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Options to get updates on the latest in assistive devices and advocacy issues. Community groups can help by contributing to Walton Options’ eyeglass voucher program; calling, visiting, or reading to older adults with vision loss, and advocating for vital services such as assisted transportation to help seniors with low vision achieve maximum independence and quality of life. For more ideas, call Ann Woodward at 706-724-6262. For further information, contact Central Savannah River AAA, 3023 River Watch Pkwy., Suite A, Augusta, GA 30907-2800; 706-210-2018 or toll-free 1-888-922-4464. CENTRAL SAVANNAH RIVER ENCOMPASSES THESE COUNTIES: Burke, Columbia, Glascock, Hancock, Jefferson, Jenkins, Lincoln, McDuffie, Richmond, Screven, Taliaferro, Warren, Washington, Wilkes
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Heart of Georgia Altamaha Covers a 17-county area surrounding Baxley, Dublin, Vidalia, Jesup, Swainsboro
From caregiving to computers at Senior Citizens Expo eart of Georgia Altamaha AAA and Altamaha Technical College partnered
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to sponsor the “Senior Citizens Expo” on March 25 in Baxley, Georgia. More than 120 seniors from Appling, Jeff Davis and Wayne counties attended various workshops, took advantage of free health screenings and enjoyed lunch. Workshop topics covered living wills/durable power of attorney, low cost medications through GeorgiaCares, exercise for seniors, elder abuse, caregiving, introduction to computers, Alzheimer’s and hospice. Evelyn Gay, of Georgia Legal An instructor of Introduction to Computers for Seniors helps guide a senior student at the recent Senior Citizens Expo.
Services, prepared living wills, durable powers of attorney for health care and financial powers of attorney on site without charge. Mrs. Gay said she was glad to be able to reach seniors whom she would not see at the local senior centers. The AAA and ATC plan to make this expo an annual event so more seniors can learn about available resources, programs and information designed to help them. For further information, contact Heart of Georgia Altamaha RDC; 331 West Parker Street, Baxley, GA 31513; 912-367-3648 or toll-free 1-888-367-9913. HEART OF GEORGIA ALTAMAHA ENCOMPASSES THESE COUNTIES: Appling, Bleckley, Candler, Dodge, Emanuel, Evans, Jeff Davis, Johnson, Laurens, Montgomery, Tattnall, Telfair, Toombs, Treutlen, Wayne, Wheeler, Wilcox
Southwest Georgia Covers a 14-county area surrounding Albany, Bainbridge, Moultrie, Thomasville
Communicating about financial matters f your spouse suddenly were to be unable to speak or write, or if he/she were to die, would you know how to take over the business affairs of your family? Amazingly, many couples do not communicate about these things. Too often only one spouse has all the knowledge concerning assets, debts, monthly obligations and other financial matters, while the other spouse is totally in the dark. When something happens to the person managing all the responsibilities, the other person can become panic-stricken. Don’t let that happen to you! Be informed and be prepared. • Insist that the uninformed spouse learn about the family financial matters or that the information be shared with
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another family member. Make sure both spouses know how to write a check, balance a bank statement and read financial statements. • Know where important papers are kept, and get legal advice about wills, powers of attorney and financial arrangements to protect the surviving spouse. • Communicate facts about your financial status with each other or with other family members, and work together to stay on a good financial footing. If necessary, seek debt counseling to prevent future problems.
Making sure that a spouse will be able to manage, when the partner usually handling finances can’t help, is a wonderful gift of love and caring. Help each other and be informed. For further information, contact Southwest Georgia COA, 1105 Palmyra Road, Albany, GA 31701-2508; 229-432-1124 or toll-free 1-800-282-6612.
SOUTHWEST GEORGIA ENCOMPASSES THESE COUNTIES: Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas, Worth, Mitchell
Georgia Generations
Southeast Georgia Covers an 18-county area surrounding Waycross, Valdosta, Tifton, Douglas, Folkston
Program recognizes ombudsmen’s service wo Southeast Georgia professionals in the aging network were recently recognized by the State Ombudsman Program for their many years of service to older and disabled Georgians. Karla Ward was acknowledged as the first Certified LongTerm Care Ombudsman (LTCO) in Georgia to serve for 20 years. Frances Guice was recognized for 10 years of service. Ombudsmen work to increase the responsiveness of organizations by investigating and working to resolve complaints and advocating for change. Long-Term Care Ombudsmen focus on improving the quality of life of people who live in longterm care facilities. Ms.Ward serves as LTCO coordinator and
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Honorees Frances Guice and Karla Ward.
directs Ward Management Services, which operates the Southeast Georgia Ombudsman Program through a contractual arrangement with the Southeast Georgia AAA. Ms.Ward states that residents say they feel more empowered as a result of ombudsman services. “Being an ombudsman has been the most rewarding work that I could have chosen,” she said. “I’ve learned a lot from the residents over the years . . . from their vast, rich
histories and experiences.” Ms. Guice is coordinator at the program’s Valdosta office. In 2000, she was awarded the Ombudsman Service Award. Wanda Taft, AAA director, recently commented, “Karla and Frances consistently and compassionately address the needs and concerns of each and every resident with whom they come in contact.” Ward Management Services can be reached at 912-496-3948 or 229-241-1017. For information, contact Southeast Georgia RDC, 1725 South Georgia Parkway West, Waycross, GA, 31503; 912-285-6097 or tollfree 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
Coastal Georgia Covers a 9-county area surrounding Brunswick and Savannah
Senior Medicare Patrol fights fraud and abuse s a part of the GeorgiaCares program, retired area professionals educate and assist other seniors in the community in fighting Medicare and Medicaid fraud.These “senior fraud patrols” are comprised of seniors who have been trained in ways to detect and report fraud and abuse.They help empower other seniors to report activities that might be costing the health insurance programs unnecessary dollars. Most Medicare payment errors are simple mistakes and are not the result of physicians, providers or suppliers trying to take advantage of the Medicare system. Only one percent bill fraudulently; however, this translates into billions of dollars. Fraud and abuse affects everyone
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including those with Medicare and Medicaid, as well as those with private insurance. Ways to join the fight against fraud and abuse include: ■ Review Medicare Summary Notices to insure services billed were provided. ■ Review itemized statements to insure that the patient has not been charged for items not provided. ■ Treat your Medicare card in the same way you treat your credit cards. ■ Never give your Medicare or Medicaid number over the telephone or to people you do not know. ■ Beware of health care providers and suppliers who use telephone calls or doorto-door selling. If you suspect fraud, call your service provider or the Fraud Squad Hotline
at 1-800-669-8387 or the Office of the Inspector General Hotline at 1-800-447-8477. If you would like a presentation on this topic for your group, or if you are interested in serving on a fraud patrol, contact Georgia Legal Services at 1-912-651-2180. For further information on caregiver resources, contact Coastal Georgia RDC; P.O. Box 1917, Brunswick, GA 31521; 912-264-7363 ext. 226 or toll-free 1-800-590-6860. COASTAL GEORGIA ENCOMPASSES THESE COUNTIES: Bryan, Bulloch, Camden, Chatham, Effingham, Glynn, Liberty, Long, McIntosh
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Sponsors Thanks to these Georgia companies and organizations for their generous support
AARP Assuming responsibility for the home care of loved ones can involve assisting with daily activities, managing high-tech medical treatments and dealing with issues around dying. AARP’s “Life Answers” program can help you meet these critical responsibilities. Find out more at www.aarp.org/lifeanswers
Rosalynn Carter Institute for Human Development Its mission is to promote mental health well-being of individuals, families and professional caregivers. For more information, please visit our website at www.rosalynncarter.org
Pfizer The “Health, Medicines & Lifestyles” icon on Pfizer’s Web site, will lead you to topics that include “Profile of Caregiving,” “Exploring Your Health On Line” and many more. www.pfizer.com
Sixty Plus, Piedmont Hospital Georgia Council on Aging The Georgia Council on Aging advocates on behalf of older Georgians and their families. For more information, please visit the Web site at www.gcoa.org
A program to enhance the well-being of older adults and their families by providing services, education and support. 1968 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta 30309; 404-605-3867.
Hapeville 30354; 404-765-4300.
Grady Gold
Southern Home Care Services
Georgia Alliance for Staffing Solutions
Grady Senior Services was created with the special care needs of older adults in mind! People over 60 can receive comprehensive evaluations and care for common problems seen in older adults. 404-616-0800.
Bridgebuilders, Inc. Personal care in the comfort and privacy of your own home. Customized services delivered with compassion, integrity and professionalism. 600 S. Central Ave., Bridgebuilders, Inc.
Grady Health System
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An alliance that promotes quality long-term care for seniors and persons with disabilities by seeking innovative solutions to improve staffing and support caregivers. www.agingatlanta.com
Northwestern Mutual Financial Network An hour invested in long-term care planning today can make thinking about tomorrow much more comfortable. Contact 770-612-4687 or maureen.fiacco@nmfn.com
Nursing and personal care services tailored to your needs, Southern Home Care Services serves all ages with compassion, skill and respect. Licensed and accredited. www.shcs-eldercare.com Home. There’s no place like it.
Georgia Generations is published and supported by Georgia’s Area Agencies on Aging. Additional circulation support is provided by the generous sponsors listed here. For more information on becoming a sponsor of Georgia Generations please call 404-463-3222.
Many people ask...
How can I help?
OLDER ADULTS AND CAREGIVERS across Georgia can now be recognized in a unique way. The Thanks Mom and Dad Fund® has been established to honor someone special in your life or to honor the memory of someone who was an inspiration to you. ■ With each contribution, those honored receive a certificate recognizing the role they played in the donor’s life. Your contributions are tax-deductible and provide support for many of the programs described in this issue. If you would like more information about the Thanks Mom & Dad Fund,® please call 1-800-676-2433.
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Georgia Generations