Calling All Caregivers………………….

Just as kids unwind and engage in fun activities, so should caregivers. Caregivers are oftentimes too busy to really involve themselves in any activity other than caregiving. Caregivers have a life, too. May we help you? 

The CSRA Area Agency on Aging (AAA) invites you to the Annual Caregivers Resource Expo to be held on Thursday, July 23, 2015 at Warren Baptist Church, 3203 Washington Road, Augusta. This event lends an opportunity for family caregivers, certified nursing assistants and home health aides to interact and obtain valuable information. It is free and requires no registration.  Sessions, which will be held between 9:00AM and 12:00PM in Simmons Hall, will offer a host of vendors providing information for successful aging, medical supplies, medication safety, long-term care facility resident rights, dementia, in-home care and much more. For more information, contact Janice Adams, Caregiver Program Manager, at 706.210.2000 or [email protected].

Get a generous serving of power, food and fun as the AAA hosts the 12^th Annual Faith & Aging Conference on Thursday, September, 24^th, 2015 at the Doubletree Hotel, 2651 Perimeter Parkway, Augusta, from 8:30AM to 3:00PM.  It is the event that brings faith communities, caregivers and community resources together. This year’s theme is…..

“Georgia’s Community Faith Alliance” and will feature speaker Reverend Dr. Willie Myles, Georgia Department of Human Resources Statewide Coordinator for the Faith Alliance. The registration fee for professionals is $50.00 and $30.00 for retired persons, caregivers, students and grandparents raising grandchildren. Checks should be made payable to the CSRA Regional Commission and mailed to: 

Attn: Dina Conklin

CSRA Regional Commission

3626 Walton Way Extension, Suite 300

Augusta, GA 30909 

CSRA AAA Launches Centenarian Club

 The CSRA AAA is proud to announce its launching of the CSRA Centenarian Club, a club dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals age 100 years and older. Activities will include friendly visits to their homes, hospitals, assisted living communities and nursing homes. Centenarians will be recognized by Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Aging services with the receipt of a certificate and a lapel pin.  The AAA will honor them with birthday cards and an annual celebratory event. About 30 Centenarians were honored during this year’s annual volunteer recognition luncheon.  Each received a gift and a beautiful bouquet of flowers. To learn more about the Centenarian Club or to recognize someone you know who is 100 years or older or turning 100, please contact Joyce Tutt-Cherry, Community Resource Program Manager, at 706.210.2079. E-mail at [email protected]. 

A Job Well Done………………… 

The AAA recently completed a session of the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) Living Well Workshop. The CDSMP, developed by prestigious Stanford University, is an evidenced-based program offered for two and a half hours, once a week, for six weeks.  People with various health problems attend in community settings such as senior and community centers, churches, libraries, senior housing complexes, retirement communities and physician offices. The program provides an opportunity for participants to discuss topics such as pain management and fatigue, dealing with emotions, problem solving and navigation of the healthcare system.  

On May 14, 11 participants graduated to become lay leaders for the CDSMP. The class was facilitated by A'Keti Mayweather and Jackie Sparks. The new leaders have committed to host sites and are excited about the opportunity to partner with local businesses to increase the number of individuals served. To participate in or host a session, contact Betsy Teasley, Health and Wellness Coordinator, at 706.650.5637 or e-mail [email protected].

Beating the Summer Heat…….

The beaming sun not only brightens the day, it enlightens the spirit. Many seniors look forward to the long days of summer as the sun shines longer and the outside is somewhat more appealing.  Some see it as the perfect time to enjoy nature – the birds, the trees and all of the other wonderful beings. Others prefer to stay inside.  Regardless, it is important to be cognizant of the effects of heat.  Outlined below are 10 ways seniors may beat the sweltering heat: 

1). Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

2). Take part in activities that are appropriate for the weather and encourage socialization. Many community centers offer activities in air conditioned facilities. For a list of sites, contact your local parks and recreation department.

3). Avoid activities that require prolonged exposure to heat.

4). If without an air conditioner or fan, open windows to circulate fresh air.

5). Maintain a suitable temperature in vehicles as seniors are at risk of overheating.

6). Wear sunscreen and bug repellent as deemed appropriate to avoid the damage of sun rays and stings.

7). Over exposure to the sun or heat can lead to side effects with medications.  Check with your physician if you suspect heat may be the cause of a new health condition.

8). Initiate a buddy system where family, friends, volunteers, etc. may check on seniors to ensure they are not affected by the heat. This is especially important for those with cognitive impairments like Alzheimer’s or dementia as they may be confused about their body temperature and unable to communicate their discomfort.

9). Be mindful of the signs of heat exhaustion like frequent headaches, unusual fatigue, dizziness and nausea. 

10). Last but not least, do not be afraid to ask for help. In extreme cases, call 9-1-1.

Resource: Visiting Angels Resource Library

Otherwise…..Enjoy the Summer Season!!!