By Deborah Britt and Jeffrey Smythe
For the second time, Georgia has been ranked among the top 10 states for senior hunger — a dubious distinction for a state that typically considers a top 10 ranking a good thing.
This disturbing news comes from “Senior Hunger in America 2010: An Annual Report,” a research study prepared by respected economists Dr. James P. Ziliak and Dr. Craig Gundersen and issued in May by The Meals On Wheels Research Foundation.
As of 2010 (the latest year for which data is available), more than 17 percent of Georgia’s seniors faced the threat of hunger — an increase from 14.8 percent in 2007 and well above the current national average of 14.85 percent. That put Georgia seventh among the Top 10.
Nationally, 8.3 million seniors were threatened by hunger, an increase of 78 percent from 2001 to 2010. Notably, six of the Top 10 are in the South: Mississippi (No. 1), Tennessee (No. 5), Alabama (No. 6), Georgia (No. 7), South Carolina (No. 8), and Florida (No. 9) — a shocking reality that the entire region needs to recognize.
Georgia’s ranking reflects the increased demand that we are experiencing for services such as Meals On Wheels.
In Atlanta, we’re seeing the largest waiting list we’ve ever experienced, while south of the city, Fayette County is home to one of the fastest-growing senior populations in Atlanta.
There’s no question that we can do better, and we must. Part of the challenge is a refusal to acknowledge that there is a problem.
As a society, we do not like to think about the fact that our parents and grandparents, the very people who raised us, might be going without a meal — much less many meals. But it happens every day, and if programs such as Meals On Wheels were not there to provide seniors with nutritious meals, many of them simply would not eat.
It’s often assumed that hunger is a problem limited to the poor — but that is not the case. This latest research shows that the majority of seniors facing the threat of hunger have incomes one to two times the poverty level. Too many of them are forced to make the choice between buying medications or a meal.
Our own senior nutrition programs are struggling to keep pace with demand, and costs are rising. Food prices have risen 6 percent nationally in the past year, and rising gas prices are an added burden — especially for Meals On Wheels programs that depend on volunteers to deliver the meals.
Given this stark reality, one might reasonably ask how a solution can be found.
Fortunately, the cure for senior hunger exists. In the richest nation on the planet we have an abundance of food. We have an abundance of ingenuity, generosity and compassion. We also have an existing infrastructure for delivering that food.
What we need now is to recognize that the problem is growing and take action.
Georgia owes it to its senior citizens to end senior hunger for good.
Deborah Britt is president and CEO for Fayette Senior Services. Jeffrey Smythe is executive director for Meals On Wheels Atlanta.
This editorial originally appeared in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on July 27, 2012.
Showing posts with label older adults. Show all posts
Showing posts with label older adults. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Friday, June 15, 2012
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
What is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day?
Each year, hundreds of thousands of older persons are abused, neglected, and exploited. In addition, elders throughout the United States lose an estimated $2.6 billion or more annually due to elder financial abuse and exploitation, funds that could have been used to pay for basic needs such as housing, food, and medical care. Unfortunately, no one is immune to abuse, neglect, and exploitation. It occurs in every demographic, and can happen to anyone- a family member, a neighbor, even you. Yet it is estimated that only about one in five of those crimes are ever discovered.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was launched on June 15, 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations. The purpose of WEAAD is to provide an opportunity for communities around the world to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older persons by raising awareness of the cultural, social, economic and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect. In addition, WEAAD is in support of the United Nations International Plan of Action acknowledging the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue. WEAAD serves as a call-to-action for individuals, organizations, and communities to raise awareness about elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
How Can I Be Involved?
Each year on or around June 15th, communities and municipalities around the world plan activities and programs to recognize WEAAD. We encourage you to join others around the nation and world in observing WEAAD by carrying out activities such as:
•Developing an educational program or press conference;
•Volunteering to call or visit an isolated senior; or
•Submitting an editorial or press release to your local newspaper to create awareness of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an excellent opportunity to share information about abuse, neglect, and exploitation in later life. However, raising awareness of mistreatment of older persons is an ongoing effort, not limited to one day. There are many ways to become involved, from the simple yet meaningful, to planning events that require a little more commitment and time. Visit the “Join Us in the Fight Against Elder Abuse” section of the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) website for more information and activity ideas for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Whether the effort is great or small, once a year or throughout, all of these efforts empower us to make long-lasting differences in the lives of vulnerable elders.
More info can be found at: http://www.aoa.gov/AoARoot/AoA_Programs/Elder_Rights/EA_Prevention/weaad.aspx
Each year, hundreds of thousands of older persons are abused, neglected, and exploited. In addition, elders throughout the United States lose an estimated $2.6 billion or more annually due to elder financial abuse and exploitation, funds that could have been used to pay for basic needs such as housing, food, and medical care. Unfortunately, no one is immune to abuse, neglect, and exploitation. It occurs in every demographic, and can happen to anyone- a family member, a neighbor, even you. Yet it is estimated that only about one in five of those crimes are ever discovered.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was launched on June 15, 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations. The purpose of WEAAD is to provide an opportunity for communities around the world to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older persons by raising awareness of the cultural, social, economic and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect. In addition, WEAAD is in support of the United Nations International Plan of Action acknowledging the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue. WEAAD serves as a call-to-action for individuals, organizations, and communities to raise awareness about elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
How Can I Be Involved?
Each year on or around June 15th, communities and municipalities around the world plan activities and programs to recognize WEAAD. We encourage you to join others around the nation and world in observing WEAAD by carrying out activities such as:
•Developing an educational program or press conference;
•Volunteering to call or visit an isolated senior; or
•Submitting an editorial or press release to your local newspaper to create awareness of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an excellent opportunity to share information about abuse, neglect, and exploitation in later life. However, raising awareness of mistreatment of older persons is an ongoing effort, not limited to one day. There are many ways to become involved, from the simple yet meaningful, to planning events that require a little more commitment and time. Visit the “Join Us in the Fight Against Elder Abuse” section of the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) website for more information and activity ideas for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Whether the effort is great or small, once a year or throughout, all of these efforts empower us to make long-lasting differences in the lives of vulnerable elders.
More info can be found at: http://www.aoa.gov/AoARoot/AoA_Programs/Elder_Rights/EA_Prevention/weaad.aspx
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Vote for Meals On Wheels Atlanta to Win a Car!
Vote Here!
Please vote between June 13 and June 30, 2012, for Meals On Wheels Atlanta.
We will use the new vehicle to deliver nutritious meals to more than 300 homebound seniors each day in Atlanta. We currently have more than 150 people on our waitlist in need of meals. Georgia ranks seventh in the nation for senior food insecurity. More than 8,300,000 seniors go hungry in the U.S. each day.
Vote early and vote often.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
When Is a Refund Not a Refund? When It's Phony
From the Wall Street Journal:
The Internal Revenue Service is warning senior citizens and others to beware of come-ons that use the promise of tax refunds to tempt them to file returns. The agency said it has seen a surge of fraudulent claims coming in from across the U.S.
The IRS, which said it has detected and stopped thousands of fraudulent claims, warned that promoters charge large upfront fees to file the claims and then have disappeared by the time taxpayers discover they’ve been scammed.
“This is a disgraceful effort by scam artists to take advantage of people by giving them false hopes of a nonexistent refund,” said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman.
In most of its guises, the scheme promises refunds to people with little or no income who normally don’t need to file a tax return. Promoters promise victims they can obtain a tax refund or other payment based on the American Opportunity Tax Credit - which couples with adjusted gross incomes of less than $160,000 can use to help cover higher-education costs – even if the victim isn’t enrolled in or paying for college.
The agency says that con artists often falsely claim that refunds are available even if the victim went to school decades ago. It added that the victims often include senior citizens, people with low incomes and members of church congregations.
To avoid being entrapped by this scheme, the IRS is warning taxpayers to beware of the following:
March 6, 2012
http://blogs.wsj.com/totalreturn/2012/03/06/when-is-a-refund-not-a-refund-when-its-phony/?mod=google_news_blog
The Internal Revenue Service is warning senior citizens and others to beware of come-ons that use the promise of tax refunds to tempt them to file returns. The agency said it has seen a surge of fraudulent claims coming in from across the U.S.
The IRS, which said it has detected and stopped thousands of fraudulent claims, warned that promoters charge large upfront fees to file the claims and then have disappeared by the time taxpayers discover they’ve been scammed.
“This is a disgraceful effort by scam artists to take advantage of people by giving them false hopes of a nonexistent refund,” said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman.
In most of its guises, the scheme promises refunds to people with little or no income who normally don’t need to file a tax return. Promoters promise victims they can obtain a tax refund or other payment based on the American Opportunity Tax Credit - which couples with adjusted gross incomes of less than $160,000 can use to help cover higher-education costs – even if the victim isn’t enrolled in or paying for college.
The agency says that con artists often falsely claim that refunds are available even if the victim went to school decades ago. It added that the victims often include senior citizens, people with low incomes and members of church congregations.
To avoid being entrapped by this scheme, the IRS is warning taxpayers to beware of the following:
- Fictitious claims for refunds or rebates based on false statements of entitlement to tax credits.
- Unfamiliar for-profit tax services selling refund and credit schemes to the membership of local churches.
- Internet solicitations that direct individuals to toll-free numbers and then solicit Social Security numbers.
- Homemade flyers and brochures implying credits or refunds are available without proof of eligibility.
- Offers of free money with no documentation required.
- Promises of refunds for “Low Income – No Documents Tax Returns.”
- Claims for the expired Economic Recovery Credit Program or for economic-stimulus payments.
- Unsolicited offers to prepare a return and split the refund.
- Unfamiliar return-preparation firms soliciting business from cities outside of the normal business or commuting area.
March 6, 2012
http://blogs.wsj.com/totalreturn/2012/03/06/when-is-a-refund-not-a-refund-when-its-phony/?mod=google_news_blog
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Letters to My Grandchildren
Letters to my grandchildren: Atlanta Senior Citizens Oral History Project
Tuesday, February 28, 201211:00 AM-1:00 PM
Central Library Auditorium1 Margaret Mitchell SquareAtlanta, GA 30303Google Maps - MapQuest
Seniors from Senior Citizen Services of Metro Atlanta will talk about their experiences growing up under segregation and during the Civil Rights Movement.
Cost: Free and open to the public
Tuesday, February 28, 201211:00 AM-1:00 PM
Central Library Auditorium1 Margaret Mitchell SquareAtlanta, GA 30303Google Maps - MapQuest
Seniors from Senior Citizen Services of Metro Atlanta will talk about their experiences growing up under segregation and during the Civil Rights Movement.
Cost: Free and open to the public
Monday, February 20, 2012
Isolation
I met Mr. Roy three months ago when he visited the Northside Shepherd’s Center, which occupies a section of the main Senior Citizen Services building. Roy loves to play Wii Sports, but coming to the Center more often is difficult because Roy is legally blind. When we met, he told me, “I can see you’re there, but I can’t see your face.” He can see the outline of the Wii bowling alley, though, and he will play peers, staff members, volunteers, kids, or anyone who picks up the Wiimote. Roy is a social butterfly who is at ease cracking jokes in groups of strangers. As his ability to see the world around him faded, it quickly became apparent that spending most of his day alone, staring at the blurry walls of his apartment, isn’t his idea of a good time.
Isolation can be a serious problem for seniors and it sometimes leads to depression or substance abuse. Addressing hearing loss early is an easy way to prevent isolation, as seniors who have trouble hearing may be less likely to engage others in conversation. If you or someone you love suffers from hearing loss, a trip to the doctor’s office might solve the problem and open the door to opportunities for interaction. Many seniors benefit from using technology to maintain contact with old friends or to make new ones. Online photo albums and instant messaging services can help keep seniors connected to the outside world. Plus it’s never too late to learn new skills – just ask Roy! You can learn skills like these from classes at neighborhood senior centers.
To make sure seniors like Roy have a place to go, Senior Citizen Services runs seven neighborhood senior centers, in collaboration with Fulton County. Seniors age 55 or older are provided transportation to local centers for activities that strengthen, stimulate, enliven, and empower. Centers provide lunch and create opportunities for developing critical relationships, socializing, health and wellness activities, arts and crafts, field trips, and education.
This is just one way that we make sure that no Atlanta area senior is hungry, cold or forgotten.
For more information, see http://www.myseniorcare.com/health/mental-health/overcoming-senior-isolation-article
Isolation can be a serious problem for seniors and it sometimes leads to depression or substance abuse. Addressing hearing loss early is an easy way to prevent isolation, as seniors who have trouble hearing may be less likely to engage others in conversation. If you or someone you love suffers from hearing loss, a trip to the doctor’s office might solve the problem and open the door to opportunities for interaction. Many seniors benefit from using technology to maintain contact with old friends or to make new ones. Online photo albums and instant messaging services can help keep seniors connected to the outside world. Plus it’s never too late to learn new skills – just ask Roy! You can learn skills like these from classes at neighborhood senior centers.
To make sure seniors like Roy have a place to go, Senior Citizen Services runs seven neighborhood senior centers, in collaboration with Fulton County. Seniors age 55 or older are provided transportation to local centers for activities that strengthen, stimulate, enliven, and empower. Centers provide lunch and create opportunities for developing critical relationships, socializing, health and wellness activities, arts and crafts, field trips, and education.
This is just one way that we make sure that no Atlanta area senior is hungry, cold or forgotten.
For more information, see http://www.myseniorcare.com/health/mental-health/overcoming-senior-isolation-article
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Senior Citizen Services Wish List
Can you donate any of the following items? Call 404-351-3889 or email shargrove@scsatl.org.
- Microwave ovens for seniors to warm their meals
- Reliable truck for Home Repair program
- Any painting items: paint, brushes, rollers, pans, etc.
- Power tools: drills, pressure washers, paint sprayers, etc.
- Lawn mowers
- Ceiling fans
- Digital cameras
- Energy efficient light bulbs - 60 watt
- Exercise bikes and/or treadmills for Neighborhood Senior Centers
- Large plastic storage containers
- Ten sets of 2 lb. dumbbells
- Defibrillator
- Exercise mats for Senior Centers
- Kiln supplies for Senior Centers
- Permanent markers (bold point)
- Pens
- Dry-erase board
- Small filing cabinet
- 1, 1.5, and 2 inch binders
- Printers
- Paper shredder
Thanks so much.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Paper Clip Becomes Charity Auction Item
How did a paper clip become a valuable, $1660 antique French footstool? And how did that footstool turn into a life-saving charitable gift? Through kindness, of course!
Here’s how it all started… The Networks of 11 Alive employ an outside sales training organization to help the sales people become confident and brave. The trainer gave each team of sales people a simple challenge as he handed them a small paper clip. The challenge? Go outside the station and meet with people you don’t know. Try to trade the paper clip for something of greater value, then take that item, go somewhere else, and trade it for something greater, and so on.
Two and a half hours later, one team came back with an amazing story.
The team consisted of Steve Pumillo, Amber Guyton, and Cindy Setlock. They started out in the drizzling rain at 10 am and headed just down the street from the station. From there, it was a whirlwind of meeting one truly good person after another. Although none of these shop owner knew why they were doing it, they knew the reputation of 11 Alive, where we make “kindness cool” and they were willing to play the game.
Here’s how it happened:
1. The paper clip was exchanged at The Gables Midtown Apartment complex for a pencil.
2. The pencil was exchanged at the American Red Cross for a personal safety/first aid kit.
3. The Personal Safety/First Aid Kit was traded at Atlanta Water Gardens for a Christine Sibley ceramic sculpture entitled “Fire” with a retail value of $99.
4. The ceramic sculpture was traded at Lisa Thompson & Associates for a Waterford Crystal Lamp valued at $395.
5. The Waterford Crystal Lamp was traded at the Lamp Shoppe for an intricately carved Piano Leg Lamp valued at $495.
6. The carved Piano Leg Lamp was traded Edgar Reeves (correction) for an antique French pastel portrait valued at $1200.
7. The antique French Pastel portrait was traded at Roebuck & Company for the $1660 antique footstool.
The outside sales trainer from Indianapolis was shocked by the kindness of these Atlanta shop owners! Of course, here at 11 Alive, we immediately started thinking about how we could continue the chain of kindness. We want to do something really cool with the footstool.
The beautiful footstool will be auctioned off for charity to benefit Senior Citizens Services of Metropolitan Atlanta for their Meals On Wheels Atlanta program at their A Meal to Remember Event for 2011 to be held on Friday, November 4th, 2011 at The St. Regis Atlanta. For more information on the event or specifically the auction, contact Steve Hargrove, shargrove@scsatl.org.
Here are the details on the Bench/Footstool:
The Bench is a French Faux Bamboo Walnut Bench in the Empire Style with a saddle shaped seat with a turned stretcher and having elaborately turned finials – with upwardly turned bamboo feet. France. 1st Half 20th Century. Height: 14 Inches; Width: 19 ½ Inches; Depth 14 Inches. Retail Value: $1,660
Here’s how it all started… The Networks of 11 Alive employ an outside sales training organization to help the sales people become confident and brave. The trainer gave each team of sales people a simple challenge as he handed them a small paper clip. The challenge? Go outside the station and meet with people you don’t know. Try to trade the paper clip for something of greater value, then take that item, go somewhere else, and trade it for something greater, and so on.
Two and a half hours later, one team came back with an amazing story.
The team consisted of Steve Pumillo, Amber Guyton, and Cindy Setlock. They started out in the drizzling rain at 10 am and headed just down the street from the station. From there, it was a whirlwind of meeting one truly good person after another. Although none of these shop owner knew why they were doing it, they knew the reputation of 11 Alive, where we make “kindness cool” and they were willing to play the game.
Here’s how it happened:
1. The paper clip was exchanged at The Gables Midtown Apartment complex for a pencil.
2. The pencil was exchanged at the American Red Cross for a personal safety/first aid kit.
3. The Personal Safety/First Aid Kit was traded at Atlanta Water Gardens for a Christine Sibley ceramic sculpture entitled “Fire” with a retail value of $99.
4. The ceramic sculpture was traded at Lisa Thompson & Associates for a Waterford Crystal Lamp valued at $395.
5. The Waterford Crystal Lamp was traded at the Lamp Shoppe for an intricately carved Piano Leg Lamp valued at $495.
6. The carved Piano Leg Lamp was traded Edgar Reeves (correction) for an antique French pastel portrait valued at $1200.
7. The antique French Pastel portrait was traded at Roebuck & Company for the $1660 antique footstool.
The outside sales trainer from Indianapolis was shocked by the kindness of these Atlanta shop owners! Of course, here at 11 Alive, we immediately started thinking about how we could continue the chain of kindness. We want to do something really cool with the footstool.
The beautiful footstool will be auctioned off for charity to benefit Senior Citizens Services of Metropolitan Atlanta for their Meals On Wheels Atlanta program at their A Meal to Remember Event for 2011 to be held on Friday, November 4th, 2011 at The St. Regis Atlanta. For more information on the event or specifically the auction, contact Steve Hargrove, shargrove@scsatl.org.
Here are the details on the Bench/Footstool:
The Bench is a French Faux Bamboo Walnut Bench in the Empire Style with a saddle shaped seat with a turned stretcher and having elaborately turned finials – with upwardly turned bamboo feet. France. 1st Half 20th Century. Height: 14 Inches; Width: 19 ½ Inches; Depth 14 Inches. Retail Value: $1,660
Thursday, October 6, 2011
24th Annual A Meal to Remember Benefits Meals On Wheels Atlanta
This year marks the 24th anniversary of “A Meal to Remember” when it returns to Atlanta this fall to raise money for Meals On Wheels Atlanta, a program of Senior Citizen Services, that has been delivering daily meals to homebound seniors in the metro area since 1970. Joanne and Charles Ackerman will be honored this year for their commitment to Senior Citizen Services and Meals On Wheels Atlanta.
This year’s elegant black-tie reception is being chaired by Marjorie Harvey, Harrison Rohr, and Jack Sawyer. This year’s theme will be “Un Repas Mémorable” exploring the tastes France. The event will be held at the St. Regis Atlanta on Friday, November r. All the guest chefs hold the Master Chef of France distinction and are Chef Jean-Louis Dumonet, Chef Marc Ehrler, Chef Pascal Tingaud, Chef Nico Romo, and Chef Andre Renard. The dinner will be coordinated by Master Chef of France, Jonathan Jerusalmy, Executive Chef at the St. Regis Atlanta.
A live and silent auction featuring food and wine, trips, fine art, and more will be held in conjunction with the dinner. The event organizers hope to raise more than $400,000 which will provide more than 61,500 nutritious meals for homebound seniors.
Proceeds generated by “A Meal to Remember” benefit Meals On Wheels Atlanta, a program of Senior Citizen Services. To allocate every dollar possible to direct meal provision, organizers of the event require every expense associated with the dinner, reception and pre-event festivities be donated or underwritten by sponsorships or auction proceeds. Since the first “A Meal to Remember” in 1988, more than $4 million has been raised to support Meals On Wheels Atlanta.
Sponsorship packages range from $35,000 to $2,500. Patron tickets are $1,500 per. Tickets may be obtained by phoning 404-605-8450 or visiting www.scsatl.org.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Report: Atlanta region ranked as the worst metro area for seniors’ access to transit
September 14, 2011
By Maria Saporta for www.saportareport.com
The Transportation for America, a coalition that promotes smarter transportation investment, has ranked Atlanta as the worst metro area in providing seniors access to mass transit.
Such a ranking is especially devastating for metro Atlanta — a region that is projecting a dramatic increase in senior citizens.
The report — “Aging in Place, Stuck without Options” — determined that the majority of the nation’s metro areas with a population of more than 1 million people provided seniors with poor access to transit.
The number of senior citizens with poor access to transit will continue to grow as the baby boom generation continues to get older.
“While some aging baby boomers and empty nesters have been moving from suburbs to downtowns, the vast majority of older Americans continue to reside in car-dependent suburban and rural communities,” the report stated.
“Inevitably, their ability to navigate these communities by vehicle will diminish or disappear over time, and millions of older adults will need transportation alternatives in order to maintain their independence,” the report continued.
The Urban Land Institute, in its Urban Land publication, reported on the
Transportation for America’s ranking and determined that was a wide variation of metro areas providing seniors with access to transit.
The study defined seniors as people aged 65 to 79. And poor access was defined people having fewer than two bus, rail or ferry routes within walking distance of their home.
“Not surprisingly, the metros offering the best transit access for seniors are typically larger, coastal metropolises with larger transit systems, such as New York, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.,” the report stated.
“The worst metropolitan areas for seniors’ transit mobility tend to be more inland, with stagnant or shrinking bus systems,” the report continued. “Interestingly, the 11 worst metros include several places with rail systems, such as Atlanta, Charlotte, and Nashville, suggesting their systems may be too small.”
The finding of this report comes at a particularly significant time for metro Atlanta. Currently, the Atlanta Regional Transportation Roundtable is considering a draft list of transportation projects that would be implemented if voters approve a one-cent regional sales tax next year.
The draft project list would invest 55 percent of the revenue in transit projects and 45 percent in road projects.
The Urban Land Institute said that the metro areas that rank the worst for seniors’ access to transit offers an opportunity for its members and real estate professionals. It stated that those metro areas could be “ripe” for senior housing projects that are part of a transit-oriented development with bus or rail stops.
The 11 worst metro areas for seniors’ having access to transit are:
1. Atlanta. In 2015, it is projected that the region will have 503,543 people between the ages of 65 to 79. Ninety percent of that population would have “poor transit access” in 2015.
2. Kansas City. Senior population in 2015: 230,023 with 88 percent with poor transit access.
3. Oklahoma City. senior population: 136,571; poor transit access: 86 percent.
4. Nashville. senior population: 151,995; poor transit access: 85 percent.
5. Raleigh-Durham. senior population: 127,931; poor transit access: 80 percent.
6. Indianapolis. 181,073; 79 percent.
7. Charlotte. 170,815; 79 percent (a tie).
8. Jacksonville. 127,958; 77 percent.
9. Virginia Beach-Norfolk. 147,285; 69 percent.
10. Rochester. 116,565; 69 percent (a tie).
11. Riverside-San Bernardino. 278,305; 69 percent (a tie)
By Maria Saporta for www.saportareport.com
The Transportation for America, a coalition that promotes smarter transportation investment, has ranked Atlanta as the worst metro area in providing seniors access to mass transit.
Such a ranking is especially devastating for metro Atlanta — a region that is projecting a dramatic increase in senior citizens.
The report — “Aging in Place, Stuck without Options” — determined that the majority of the nation’s metro areas with a population of more than 1 million people provided seniors with poor access to transit.
The number of senior citizens with poor access to transit will continue to grow as the baby boom generation continues to get older.
“While some aging baby boomers and empty nesters have been moving from suburbs to downtowns, the vast majority of older Americans continue to reside in car-dependent suburban and rural communities,” the report stated.
“Inevitably, their ability to navigate these communities by vehicle will diminish or disappear over time, and millions of older adults will need transportation alternatives in order to maintain their independence,” the report continued.
The Urban Land Institute, in its Urban Land publication, reported on the
Transportation for America’s ranking and determined that was a wide variation of metro areas providing seniors with access to transit.
The study defined seniors as people aged 65 to 79. And poor access was defined people having fewer than two bus, rail or ferry routes within walking distance of their home.
“Not surprisingly, the metros offering the best transit access for seniors are typically larger, coastal metropolises with larger transit systems, such as New York, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.,” the report stated.
“The worst metropolitan areas for seniors’ transit mobility tend to be more inland, with stagnant or shrinking bus systems,” the report continued. “Interestingly, the 11 worst metros include several places with rail systems, such as Atlanta, Charlotte, and Nashville, suggesting their systems may be too small.”
The finding of this report comes at a particularly significant time for metro Atlanta. Currently, the Atlanta Regional Transportation Roundtable is considering a draft list of transportation projects that would be implemented if voters approve a one-cent regional sales tax next year.
The draft project list would invest 55 percent of the revenue in transit projects and 45 percent in road projects.
The Urban Land Institute said that the metro areas that rank the worst for seniors’ access to transit offers an opportunity for its members and real estate professionals. It stated that those metro areas could be “ripe” for senior housing projects that are part of a transit-oriented development with bus or rail stops.
The 11 worst metro areas for seniors’ having access to transit are:
1. Atlanta. In 2015, it is projected that the region will have 503,543 people between the ages of 65 to 79. Ninety percent of that population would have “poor transit access” in 2015.
2. Kansas City. Senior population in 2015: 230,023 with 88 percent with poor transit access.
3. Oklahoma City. senior population: 136,571; poor transit access: 86 percent.
4. Nashville. senior population: 151,995; poor transit access: 85 percent.
5. Raleigh-Durham. senior population: 127,931; poor transit access: 80 percent.
6. Indianapolis. 181,073; 79 percent.
7. Charlotte. 170,815; 79 percent (a tie).
8. Jacksonville. 127,958; 77 percent.
9. Virginia Beach-Norfolk. 147,285; 69 percent.
10. Rochester. 116,565; 69 percent (a tie).
11. Riverside-San Bernardino. 278,305; 69 percent (a tie)
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
11th Annual Meals On Wheels Atlanta Golf Tournament
Monday, September 12th, 2011
Capital City Club at Brookhaven
http://www.scsatl.org/
12:00 PM Lunch and Registration, Practice Range Opens, Mulligans Available
1:00 PM Shotgun Start, Four Person Shamble
After Play Cocktail Reception, Awards Presentation, (light hors d’oeuvres
Monday, September 12th, 2011
Capital City Club at Brookhaven
http://www.scsatl.org/
12:00 PM Lunch and Registration, Practice Range Opens, Mulligans Available
1:00 PM Shotgun Start, Four Person Shamble
After Play Cocktail Reception, Awards Presentation, (light hors d’oeuvres
$10,000 Corporate Sponsorship
$4000 per foursome
$1200 individual players
Last year’s tournament raised nearly $88,000 that directly translated into 13,500 meals for homebound and frail seniors in Atlanta. Your support via a foursome or through your company as a corporate sponsor was invaluable in our efforts to raise funds for vital nutrition and services.
Capital City Club at Brookhaven (new location). The Brookhaven Country Club site was leased in 1913 and purchased in 1915. At that time, the golf course was increased from nine to eighteen holes. The present Brookhaven clubhouse was erected in 1928. In 2009, the course was redesigned by architect Bob Cupp.
For more information, please contact Steve Hargrove at shargrove@scsatl.org or 404-605-8450.
$1200 individual players
Last year’s tournament raised nearly $88,000 that directly translated into 13,500 meals for homebound and frail seniors in Atlanta. Your support via a foursome or through your company as a corporate sponsor was invaluable in our efforts to raise funds for vital nutrition and services.
Capital City Club at Brookhaven (new location). The Brookhaven Country Club site was leased in 1913 and purchased in 1915. At that time, the golf course was increased from nine to eighteen holes. The present Brookhaven clubhouse was erected in 1928. In 2009, the course was redesigned by architect Bob Cupp.
For more information, please contact Steve Hargrove at shargrove@scsatl.org or 404-605-8450.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Senior Citizen Services Offers Gas Cards to Recruit Meals On Wheels Atlanta Drivers
With gas prices approaching $4 per gallon, Meals On Wheels Atlanta volunteers are not only giving up their time to deliver meals to seniors, but they are also taking a hit in their wallet when they fill up their car with gas.
That’s where Jerry Lowry, Chairman of D.A.T. Broadband, Inc. stepped in. D.A.T. Broadband donated 100 gas cards to be given to new Meals On Wheels Atlanta volunteers during the month of May, which is also nationally recognized as Older Americans Month. Each card will roughly cover the gas that it takes to deliver a Meals On Wheels Atlanta route. Eligible recipients will be any driver who has not delivered for Meals On Wheels Atlanta before.
“D.A.T. Broadband should be recognized for this creative and practical solution to rising gas prices,” stated Jeffrey Smythe, Executive Director of Senior Citizen Services. “With more seniors in need, this gives volunteers an extra boost to deliver meals.”
Meals On Wheels Atlanta, one of Senior Citizen Services of Metropolitan Atlanta’s programs designed to enable seniors to support senior independence through meals, shelter, education and community was created to meet the nutrition and human contact needs of homebound seniors in the metropolitan area in 1970. Last year, nearly 95,000 meals were delivered to hundreds of homebound seniors. Recipients receive a visit with their meals by a volunteer or staff person, assuring that they receive more than just nutrition. To serve each senior better, Meals On Wheels Atlanta has entered into formal collaborations with multiple service providers across the metro area, thereby minimizing duplication and maximizing the benefit of each charitable donation.
Interested volunteers may contact Senior Citizen Services at 404-351-6194 or volunteercoordinator@scsatl.org to schedule a delivery route. Turn-by-turn directions are provided and routes can be completed in less than two hours.
Meals On Wheels Atlanta is inviting additional $10 gas cards donations to promote volunteerism. Call 404-351-3889 if you would like to donate gas cards.
# # #
About Senior Citizen Services: Senior Citizen Services of Metropolitan Atlanta, Inc. (SCS), a nonprofit, community-based organization, has been providing services since 1965 and is designed to support senior independence through meals, shelter, education and community. Their programs include Meals On Wheels Atlanta, Home Repair Services, Vivian T. Minor Adult Day Care for Alzheimer’s/Dementia, and Fulton County Neighborhood Senior Centers. For more information on programs, please visit www.scsatl.org.
That’s where Jerry Lowry, Chairman of D.A.T. Broadband, Inc. stepped in. D.A.T. Broadband donated 100 gas cards to be given to new Meals On Wheels Atlanta volunteers during the month of May, which is also nationally recognized as Older Americans Month. Each card will roughly cover the gas that it takes to deliver a Meals On Wheels Atlanta route. Eligible recipients will be any driver who has not delivered for Meals On Wheels Atlanta before.
“D.A.T. Broadband should be recognized for this creative and practical solution to rising gas prices,” stated Jeffrey Smythe, Executive Director of Senior Citizen Services. “With more seniors in need, this gives volunteers an extra boost to deliver meals.”
Meals On Wheels Atlanta, one of Senior Citizen Services of Metropolitan Atlanta’s programs designed to enable seniors to support senior independence through meals, shelter, education and community was created to meet the nutrition and human contact needs of homebound seniors in the metropolitan area in 1970. Last year, nearly 95,000 meals were delivered to hundreds of homebound seniors. Recipients receive a visit with their meals by a volunteer or staff person, assuring that they receive more than just nutrition. To serve each senior better, Meals On Wheels Atlanta has entered into formal collaborations with multiple service providers across the metro area, thereby minimizing duplication and maximizing the benefit of each charitable donation.
Interested volunteers may contact Senior Citizen Services at 404-351-6194 or volunteercoordinator@scsatl.org to schedule a delivery route. Turn-by-turn directions are provided and routes can be completed in less than two hours.
Meals On Wheels Atlanta is inviting additional $10 gas cards donations to promote volunteerism. Call 404-351-3889 if you would like to donate gas cards.
# # #
About Senior Citizen Services: Senior Citizen Services of Metropolitan Atlanta, Inc. (SCS), a nonprofit, community-based organization, has been providing services since 1965 and is designed to support senior independence through meals, shelter, education and community. Their programs include Meals On Wheels Atlanta, Home Repair Services, Vivian T. Minor Adult Day Care for Alzheimer’s/Dementia, and Fulton County Neighborhood Senior Centers. For more information on programs, please visit www.scsatl.org.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Senior Citizen Services Announces Older Americans Month Activities
Each May, Senior Citizen Services of Metropolitan Atlanta participates in Older Americans Month as part of the annual nationwide celebration that commemorates the signing of the Older Americans Act. Older Americans Month is an occasion to show appreciation and support for our seniors as they continue to enrich and strengthen our communities. This year’s national theme -- Older Americans: Connecting the Community -- pays homage to the many ways in which older adults bring inspiration and continuity to the fabric of our communities, and highlights how technology is helping older Americans live longer, healthier, and more engaged lives. Thursday, May 5, 10 am—4 pm Neighborhood Senior Centers Open House Fulton County/SCS Senior Centers will be open for seniors to drop by and tour each center. Food and drinks, games, Wii, music, aerobics/exercise, arts & crafts, and much more will be offered. Saturday, May 7, 8:00 am SWEEP! Day—New Horizons Neighborhood Senior Center SWEEP! is a focused, high-impact event where hundreds of volunteers perform home maintenance and enhancement projects for seniors. Get out your paint brush and yard gloves for a special day of service in Atlanta! Thursday, May 12, 10 am—4 pm SPARC Health Fair—Senior Citizen Services Health screenings, referrals, memory screenings, dental exams, blood pressure checks, etc. Tuesday, May 17, 10 am—2 pm Senior Talent Show—Senior Citizen Services Seniors from the Neighborhood Senior Centers will sing, dance, perform dramatic readings, etc. Thursday, May 19, 10 am—2 pm Taste of SCS—Senior Citizen Services Seniors from the Neighborhood Senior Centers will cook up their best dish to share with friends. Saturday, May 21, 8:15 am geneRACEtion 10K and 2K Fun Run— Grant Park Proceeds raised from geneRACEtion will benefit two worthy organizations: Kate’s Club, a non-profit organization that empowers children and teens facing life after the death of a parent or sibling (www.katesclub.org) and Senior Citizen Services of Metropolitan Atlanta, Inc., a nonprofit, community-based organization, has been providing services since 1965 (www.scsatl.org). Register to participate at www.geneRACEtion.org! Wednesday, June 8, 12 noon Open House and Annual Meeting—Senior Citizen Services Senior Citizen Services will open its doors to community and corporate partners to celebrate 46 years of continuous service for older adults in Atlanta.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Why Give to Seniors?
Every charity is a worthy cause. So why should you choose older adults as the beneficiaries of your holiday giving? Because your grandmother would tell you to donate to the babies, or donate for the puppies.
Our grandparents, whatever their age, grew up in a different world than we did. They worked hard and raised their children to have greater horizons than they did, and many raise their grandchildren as well. My grandparents were the first generation of our family to be born in the United States. My grandmother is the mother of three, grandmother of five, and great-grandmother of five. She has always considered it her duty to take care of all of us, from combing a newborn’s hair to worrying about my mother’s health over her own.
Studies show that the next generation of seniors will be even more hesitant to ask for help. As Baby Boomers edge into their senior years, many are sandwiched between their parents and their children, taking care of one and still supporting the other. More than any other generation, they want to be independent.
I am lucky to be the daughter of a straight-shooter. My mother knows what she needs, when she needs it, and how to get it. I worry about when the day will come that she is no longer able to be so clear about these things, when I need to be the one taking care of her and giving her confidence that things will be all right. Watching her care for my grandmother has given me a good example, but I know it won’t be enough.
I support Senior Citizen Services because I know my mother will always worry more about me than herself.
-- by Jaclyn Barbarow
Grants & Gifts Manager
Our grandparents, whatever their age, grew up in a different world than we did. They worked hard and raised their children to have greater horizons than they did, and many raise their grandchildren as well. My grandparents were the first generation of our family to be born in the United States. My grandmother is the mother of three, grandmother of five, and great-grandmother of five. She has always considered it her duty to take care of all of us, from combing a newborn’s hair to worrying about my mother’s health over her own.
Studies show that the next generation of seniors will be even more hesitant to ask for help. As Baby Boomers edge into their senior years, many are sandwiched between their parents and their children, taking care of one and still supporting the other. More than any other generation, they want to be independent.
I am lucky to be the daughter of a straight-shooter. My mother knows what she needs, when she needs it, and how to get it. I worry about when the day will come that she is no longer able to be so clear about these things, when I need to be the one taking care of her and giving her confidence that things will be all right. Watching her care for my grandmother has given me a good example, but I know it won’t be enough.
I support Senior Citizen Services because I know my mother will always worry more about me than herself.
-- by Jaclyn Barbarow
Grants & Gifts Manager
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Going for Gold
You're only as old as you feel. As a testament to the notion that you can be physically fit--and even athletically competitive--at any age, the 2010 Georgia Golden Olympics will be held Sept. 22-25 in Warner Robins, GA. The competition serves as a qualifying event for the 2011 National Competition scheduled for June, 2011, in Houston.
The Georgia Golden Olympics is for adults 50 years of age or older, and provides an opportunity for seniors to participate in an amateur sports competition, learn new leisure skills, discover that physical activity is for all ages, meet new friends, and share good times. It is an opportunity to have fun!
A variety of activities are held to make it possible for participation regardless of an individual's age or physical ability. Different age divisions and several levels of ability spread the competition out, so there is something for everyone. Athletic competitions range from the traditional, such as swimming and track and field, to those commonly associated with the over-50 set including golf, horseshoe toss, and shuffleboard. There are several dozen events in all including competitions in checkers, Frisbee throwing, racquetball and badminton. And to accommodate those confined to a wheelchair, several of the events allow participants who cannot stand the option of sitting.
Medals will be awarded for first, second, and third place in each event and age category, and participants will receive lunch, dinner, a certificate and a Golden Olympics t-shirt.
For more information, visit http://www.georgiagoldenolympics.org/.
The Georgia Golden Olympics is for adults 50 years of age or older, and provides an opportunity for seniors to participate in an amateur sports competition, learn new leisure skills, discover that physical activity is for all ages, meet new friends, and share good times. It is an opportunity to have fun!
A variety of activities are held to make it possible for participation regardless of an individual's age or physical ability. Different age divisions and several levels of ability spread the competition out, so there is something for everyone. Athletic competitions range from the traditional, such as swimming and track and field, to those commonly associated with the over-50 set including golf, horseshoe toss, and shuffleboard. There are several dozen events in all including competitions in checkers, Frisbee throwing, racquetball and badminton. And to accommodate those confined to a wheelchair, several of the events allow participants who cannot stand the option of sitting.
Medals will be awarded for first, second, and third place in each event and age category, and participants will receive lunch, dinner, a certificate and a Golden Olympics t-shirt.
For more information, visit http://www.georgiagoldenolympics.org/.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Heat Stroke Can Occur Indoors
Staying inside is no guarantee of avoiding heat-related dangers. That's especially true if the house is overheated. Many seniors try to cut electric bills by not using air conditioning, but that's not a good idea. Trapped hot air can cause the body to overheat, just like working or exercising outdoors.
At the very least, install a few battery-operated fans in separate rooms and utilize the one in the room that's occupied at any one time. Consider closing drapes and blinds to keep out the sun and rooms cool. Also see if local Department of Aging has options for energy payment or assistance programs for older adults on tight budgets.
Anyone who has older loved ones who mostly stay indoors should check in on them frequently during the summer, even if it's just a phone call. That's especially true for caregivers who knows their loved one tends to keep their air conditioning off.
Defining Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke
Heat exhaustion is the stage in which the body puts out symptoms that it's getting overheated. Unfortunately, many of these signals are rather mild, and therefore most people find them easy to ignore. Among heat exhaustion's symptoms:
Dry mouth and thirst
Feeling nauseous, sometimes even vomiting
Muscle cramps
Sweating
Headache
Fatigue, perhaps feeling dizzy
Heat stroke is more serious. Among the symptoms of heat stroke:
Deep breathing and fast pulse
Hot, red, skin, but no sweating
Confusion, perhaps even hallucinations
Convulsions
Read more at Suite101: Senior Safety – Avoiding Heat Stroke: Advice Specific to Seniors During Hot Weather http://seniors-health-medicare.suite101.com/article.cfm/watch_out_for_heat_stroke#ixzz0sLEBxKEt
-- by Steve Hargrove, Director of Events and Marketing
At the very least, install a few battery-operated fans in separate rooms and utilize the one in the room that's occupied at any one time. Consider closing drapes and blinds to keep out the sun and rooms cool. Also see if local Department of Aging has options for energy payment or assistance programs for older adults on tight budgets.
Anyone who has older loved ones who mostly stay indoors should check in on them frequently during the summer, even if it's just a phone call. That's especially true for caregivers who knows their loved one tends to keep their air conditioning off.
Defining Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke
Heat exhaustion is the stage in which the body puts out symptoms that it's getting overheated. Unfortunately, many of these signals are rather mild, and therefore most people find them easy to ignore. Among heat exhaustion's symptoms:
Dry mouth and thirst
Feeling nauseous, sometimes even vomiting
Muscle cramps
Sweating
Headache
Fatigue, perhaps feeling dizzy
Heat stroke is more serious. Among the symptoms of heat stroke:
Deep breathing and fast pulse
Hot, red, skin, but no sweating
Confusion, perhaps even hallucinations
Convulsions
Read more at Suite101: Senior Safety – Avoiding Heat Stroke: Advice Specific to Seniors During Hot Weather http://seniors-health-medicare.suite101.com/article.cfm/watch_out_for_heat_stroke#ixzz0sLEBxKEt
-- by Steve Hargrove, Director of Events and Marketing
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Caring for Caregivers
If you or someone you know is caring for an aging parent or a friend who is chronically ill, you are one of 22 million people doing so – according to www.senior.com sources. Caregivers provide 80% of all in-home care, yet are unpaid for their volunteer activities. Here are some tips for caregivers to take care of themselves and others:
Don’t wait until it’s too late to ask for professional help from nurses, etc.
Discuss long-term solutions, such as transportation, with a parent before the need arises.
Take care of yourself, mentally and physically, so you can be the best possible caregiver.
Stay informed about medications and treatments.
The web site www.senior.com also provides information about personal finances, Medicare, nutrition, travel, recreation, and other valuable resources for independent living.
-- by Brad Catherman, Vice President for Gift Planning
Don’t wait until it’s too late to ask for professional help from nurses, etc.
Discuss long-term solutions, such as transportation, with a parent before the need arises.
Take care of yourself, mentally and physically, so you can be the best possible caregiver.
Stay informed about medications and treatments.
The web site www.senior.com also provides information about personal finances, Medicare, nutrition, travel, recreation, and other valuable resources for independent living.
-- by Brad Catherman, Vice President for Gift Planning
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Volunteer for SWEEP! Keep a Senior in Her Home!
Mrs. Nash moved into her home in 1988 with her husband, two boys, and two girls. They were attracted to the northwest Atlanta neighborhood because it was mostly older people. She has lived in Atlanta for 42 years after moving from Griffin, GA. Elizabeth worked as a maid for the Georgia Building Authority until she retired in 1997.
She enjoys going to her church’s senior program and was formerly a client at Dogwood Neighborhood Senior Center.
Mrs. Nash is one of ten older home owners who will receive needed home repairs on Saturday, May 1st. Senior Citizen Services will hold its annual SWEEP! Day for their HOMES Program (Home Owner Maintenance and Enhancement for Seniors). The event will take place from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. SWEEP! is a focused, high-impact event celebrating Older Americans Month. On the morning of May 1st, a volunteer team will “sweep” through each sponsored home and perform improvements inside and out. Improvements will include painting (inside and out), yard maintenance, gutter cleaning, and minor carpentry. SWEEP! will target ten homes in this event and will host an after-party for volunteers, homeowners, their guests, and donors.
She enjoys going to her church’s senior program and was formerly a client at Dogwood Neighborhood Senior Center.
Mrs. Nash is one of ten older home owners who will receive needed home repairs on Saturday, May 1st. Senior Citizen Services will hold its annual SWEEP! Day for their HOMES Program (Home Owner Maintenance and Enhancement for Seniors). The event will take place from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. SWEEP! is a focused, high-impact event celebrating Older Americans Month. On the morning of May 1st, a volunteer team will “sweep” through each sponsored home and perform improvements inside and out. Improvements will include painting (inside and out), yard maintenance, gutter cleaning, and minor carpentry. SWEEP! will target ten homes in this event and will host an after-party for volunteers, homeowners, their guests, and donors.
-- by Steve Hargrove, Director of Events and Marketing
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Older Americans Month 2010 - Age Strong! Live Long!
May is Older Americans Month—a tradition dating back to 1963 to honor the legacies and ongoing contributions of older Americans and support them as they enter the next stage in life. Senior Citizen Services of Metropolitan Atlanta (SCS) is joining communities nationwide in celebrating this month with special activities and events.
Sunday, April 25, 2:00 – 5:00 pm
Friends & Family Day at Neighborhood Senior Centers
Saturday, May 1, 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
SWEEP! Day, Home Repairs for ten Atlanta seniors
Volunteer Here!
Sunday, April 25, 2:00 – 5:00 pm
Friends & Family Day at Neighborhood Senior Centers
Saturday, May 1, 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
SWEEP! Day, Home Repairs for ten Atlanta seniors
Volunteer Here!
Saturday, May 22, 8:15 am, Grant Park
geneRACEtion 10K and 2K Fun Run benefitting SCS and Kate’s Club
Register to participate here!
This year’s Older Americans Month theme—Age Strong! Live Long!—recognizes the diversity and vitality of today’s older Americans who span three generations. They have lived through wars and hard times, as well as periods of unprecedented prosperity. They pioneered new technologies in medicine, communications, and industry while spearheading a cultural revolution that won equal rights for minorities, women, and disabled Americans.
These remarkable achievements demonstrate the strength and character of older Americans, and underscore the debt of gratitude we owe to the generations that have given our society so much. But the contributions of older Americans are not only in the past.
Older Americans are living longer and are more active than ever before. And with the aging of the baby boomer generation—the largest in our nation’s history—America’s senior population is expected to number 71.5 million by 2030.
While keeping the growing population of older Americans healthy and active will increase the demand for senior services, what is remarkable is the extent to which older Americans themselves are supporting each other. As the new generations of seniors become better educated and more financially secure than their predecessors, they are spending more time making significant contributions in their communities through civic and volunteer opportunities.
In fact, older Americans are a core component of service delivery to seniors—embodying and modeling the drive to Age Strong! Live Long! They volunteer at group meal sites and deliver food to homebound seniors; they act as escorts and provide transportation for older adults who cannot drive; they help seniors with home repair, shopping and errands; and they provide vital counseling, information and referral services. Their energy and commitment reminds all Americans—not just senior citizens and their caregivers—to do their part to enhance the quality of life for older generations.
The annual commemoration of Older Americans Month is our opportunity to recognize the contributions of older citizens and join them in providing services and support that empower the elderly. Americans of all ages and backgrounds can volunteer with programs that improve health literacy, increase access to quality health services, offer food and nutrition services, provide financial and housing counseling, sponsor social activities and community engagement, and more. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging by visiting http://www.eldercare.gov or calling 1-800-677-1116 to find out what you can do to strengthen services for older Americans, this month and all year round.
This year’s Older Americans Month theme—Age Strong! Live Long!—recognizes the diversity and vitality of today’s older Americans who span three generations. They have lived through wars and hard times, as well as periods of unprecedented prosperity. They pioneered new technologies in medicine, communications, and industry while spearheading a cultural revolution that won equal rights for minorities, women, and disabled Americans.
These remarkable achievements demonstrate the strength and character of older Americans, and underscore the debt of gratitude we owe to the generations that have given our society so much. But the contributions of older Americans are not only in the past.
Older Americans are living longer and are more active than ever before. And with the aging of the baby boomer generation—the largest in our nation’s history—America’s senior population is expected to number 71.5 million by 2030.
While keeping the growing population of older Americans healthy and active will increase the demand for senior services, what is remarkable is the extent to which older Americans themselves are supporting each other. As the new generations of seniors become better educated and more financially secure than their predecessors, they are spending more time making significant contributions in their communities through civic and volunteer opportunities.
In fact, older Americans are a core component of service delivery to seniors—embodying and modeling the drive to Age Strong! Live Long! They volunteer at group meal sites and deliver food to homebound seniors; they act as escorts and provide transportation for older adults who cannot drive; they help seniors with home repair, shopping and errands; and they provide vital counseling, information and referral services. Their energy and commitment reminds all Americans—not just senior citizens and their caregivers—to do their part to enhance the quality of life for older generations.
The annual commemoration of Older Americans Month is our opportunity to recognize the contributions of older citizens and join them in providing services and support that empower the elderly. Americans of all ages and backgrounds can volunteer with programs that improve health literacy, increase access to quality health services, offer food and nutrition services, provide financial and housing counseling, sponsor social activities and community engagement, and more. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging by visiting http://www.eldercare.gov or calling 1-800-677-1116 to find out what you can do to strengthen services for older Americans, this month and all year round.
-- by Steve Hargrove, Director of Events and Marketing
Monday, October 5, 2009
City of Atlanta cuts 100% of Senior Citizen Services funding
My first job out of college was managing the Meals On Wheels Atlanta program, one of the programs that has lost the $30,000 it was granted last year from the City of Atlanta. Our Adult Day Care Center lost just as much. First, let me be clear: SCS has been very well managed financially and otherwise, and the base of funding is both broad and deep. Though the City of Atlanta is choosing not to support its senior citizens, we will not let them go. SCS will continue to be their safety net.
The reasoning for this decision is simply baffling to me. Is it possible that City staffers and elected officials are not as in touch with the dire needs of our neighbors? I lived in Atlanta for just seven years, four of those while in “the Emory bubble,” but the poverty that necessitates life-sustaining services is not foreign to me. I have walked up pathways to two-room homes housing eight people, wondering how the rundown shack was still considered safe to live in. I have delivered to apartment buildings where half of the roof had fallen in, resulting in an official condemnation. A few seniors were still living in the apartments that had most of their ceilings, because they had nowhere else to go. When I had trouble finding the building, I called the woman whose meal I was delivering. "You probably just passed it by," she said. "It doesn't look like anyone could live here, but we do."
Nearly 45 years ago, Mrs. S helped to found Senior Citizen Services. She has been coming to Adult Day Care every day for many years.
Our seniors have been good stewards of our communities, from raising families to building skyscrapers, and now is not the time to let them go. If the requested funding cut is approved
54 seniors will not receive Meals On Wheels Atlanta services next year
More than 9,300 meals will have to be cut from the program next year
28 seniors who receive critical Alzheimer’s support will be affected by the cuts
Seniors will lose more than 3,100 individual hours of support
20 memory-challenged seniors will lose financial assistance for their daily care
The cost burden will force many families to leave the program and deal with Alzheimer’s alone; families will be unable to maintain steady employment due to the added time required for elder care
Both programs serve seniors who are very low income and without adequate support systems to remain in their living situations without services. This will force these senior clients and their families into homelessness and/or institutionalization.
- by Jaclyn Barbarow
Grants and Database Manager
The reasoning for this decision is simply baffling to me. Is it possible that City staffers and elected officials are not as in touch with the dire needs of our neighbors? I lived in Atlanta for just seven years, four of those while in “the Emory bubble,” but the poverty that necessitates life-sustaining services is not foreign to me. I have walked up pathways to two-room homes housing eight people, wondering how the rundown shack was still considered safe to live in. I have delivered to apartment buildings where half of the roof had fallen in, resulting in an official condemnation. A few seniors were still living in the apartments that had most of their ceilings, because they had nowhere else to go. When I had trouble finding the building, I called the woman whose meal I was delivering. "You probably just passed it by," she said. "It doesn't look like anyone could live here, but we do."
Nearly 45 years ago, Mrs. S helped to found Senior Citizen Services. She has been coming to Adult Day Care every day for many years.
Our seniors have been good stewards of our communities, from raising families to building skyscrapers, and now is not the time to let them go. If the requested funding cut is approved
54 seniors will not receive Meals On Wheels Atlanta services next year
More than 9,300 meals will have to be cut from the program next year
28 seniors who receive critical Alzheimer’s support will be affected by the cuts
Seniors will lose more than 3,100 individual hours of support
20 memory-challenged seniors will lose financial assistance for their daily care
The cost burden will force many families to leave the program and deal with Alzheimer’s alone; families will be unable to maintain steady employment due to the added time required for elder care
Both programs serve seniors who are very low income and without adequate support systems to remain in their living situations without services. This will force these senior clients and their families into homelessness and/or institutionalization.
- by Jaclyn Barbarow
Grants and Database Manager
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
