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Alzheimer’s disease programs and services being offered in Genesee County

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Do you know the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia? Learn the facts during a free educational program in Batavia."Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia" is a free program that will be presented by experts with the Alzheimer’s Association® Western New York Chapter at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 6.

The Genesee County Office of Aging at 2 Bank Street will host the class.

While Alzheimer’s disease currently cannot be prevented or slowed, there are steps to take and recommendations to follow in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise and cognitive activity that promote healthy aging.

Learn more during a free educational program offered by dementia experts at the Chapter in August. "Healthy Living for your Brain and Body" will be presented at 1 p.m. at the New York State Veterans Home at 220 Richmond Ave. in Batavia on Monday, Aug. 12.

Registration is required for both programs by calling the Chapter office during traditional business hours at (716) 626-0600, ext. 313, or 24-hours a day, 7-days a week at 800-272-3900.

Additionally, the Chapter oversees several monthly caregiver support group meetings across the county, which allow caregivers to connect with others facing similar challenges and hear advice for overcoming them:

  • 3rd Wednesday (Aug. 21) at 7 p.m. – Richmond Memorial Library, 19 Ross St. in Batavia
  • 3rd Thursday (Aug. 22) at 1 p.m. – Genesee County Office for the Aging, 12 Bank St. in Batavia
  • 2nd Monday (Aug. 12) at 2 p.m. – The Greens of Le Roy, 1 West Ave. in Le Roy

Community social programs, or respites, are also available every month in Batavia and Corfu. This program provides relief to those who care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia and offers them some time to refresh and recharge, while their loved one is engaged in social activities in a safe environment.

First Presbyterian Church of Batavia offers this free service on the fourth Monday (Aug. 26) from 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. For additional information, please call Mickey Rodak at (585) 455-5940.

Local residents now have a second Batavia location for this service. On the second Monday of each month (Aug. 12) St. James Episcopal Church at 405 E. Main St. will offer a four-hour program, starting at 10:30 a.m. Those interested in this respite should call Barbara King at (585) 343-6802.

Indian Falls United Methodist Church at 7908 Allegany Road offers a respite program on the third Wednesday (Aug. 21) from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more information, call Celinda McQuiston at (585) 762-9105.

To learn more about other Alzheimer’s Association programs and services, contact the WNY Chapter office at 800-272-3900.

You can also access dementia care programs and resources by calling the Genesee County Office for the Aging at (585) 343-1611.

Learn more about Alzheimer's and dementia with free education programs

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Memory loss is not a normal part of aging, and it could be an indication of something more serious such as disease that is causing dementia symptoms. The Alzheimer’s Association® Western New York Chapter offers a free education program that discusses the basics about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, which will be offered in Genesee County in May.

"Know the 10 Warning Signs" will be presented at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 7. Genesee County Aging Services at 2 Bank St. is hosting the presentation. 

On Monday, May 13, Chapter dementia experts will be in Batavia to present "Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors." This program is aimed at helping caregivers decode behavioral messages, identify common behavior triggers and strategize to overcome these challenges. The free class is set for 1 p.m. in the NYS Veterans Home at 220 Richmond Ave. 

Registration is required for both programs by calling the Chapter office during traditional business hours at (716) 626-0600, ext. 313, or 24-hours a day, 7 days a week at 800-272-3900.

A special joint enrichment social program is set for Thursday, May 30 at the Jello-O Gallery Museum in Le Roy. This free activity is for people living with dementia and their care partner and highlights living well with a dementia diagnosis by offering the opportunity to socialize, learn and have fun with others facing similar circumstances. Registration is required by calling Lauren Ashburn or Shelby Edgerly at (716) 626-0600.

Additionally, the Chapter oversees several monthly caregiver support group meetings across the county, which allow caregivers to connect with others facing similar challenges and hear advice for overcoming them:

  • 3rd Wednesday (May 15) at 7 p.m. – Richmond Memorial Library, 19 Ross St. in Batavia
  • 3rd Thursday (May 16) at 1 p.m. – Genesee County Office for the Aging, 12 Bank St. in Batavia
  • 2nd Monday (May 13) at 2 p.m. – The Greens of Le Roy, 1 West Ave. in Le Roy

Community social programs, or respites, are also available every month in Batavia and Corfu. This program provides relief to those who care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia and offers them some time to refresh and recharge, while their loved one is engaged in social activities in a safe environment.

First Presbyterian Church of Batavia offers this free service on the fourth Monday (May 27) from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For additional information, please call Mickey Rodak at (585) 455-5940.

Indian Falls United Methodist Church at 7908 Alleghany Road, Corfu, offers a respite program on the third Wednesday (May 15) from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more information, call Celinda McQuiston at (585) 762-9105. 

To learn more about other Alzheimer’s Association programs and services, contact the WNY Chapter office at 800-272-3900.

You can also access dementia care programs and resources by calling the Genesee County Office for the Aging at (585) 343-1611.

Holiday visits can spur concerns about memory in older loved ones

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Holiday visits to older loved ones may raise questions about a person’s physical and cognitive health, especially if it’s been a while since the last visit. Although some change in cognitive ability can occur with age, memory problems that impact daily living are not a part of typical aging.

Recognizing the difference between typical aging and potentially more serious problems can help identify when it may be time to see a doctor.

The Alzheimer’s Association® Western New York Chapter is an excellent resource for those with questions about typical age-related memory lapses and indications of more serious cognitive impairment.

The Chapter offers free educational programs that include a discussion of the 10 Warning Signs:

  • memory loss that disrupts daily life -- forgetting recently learned information, important dates or events;
  • challenges in planning or solving problems, such as trouble following a familiar recipe; 
  • difficulty completing familiar tasks, such as a budget or playing a favorite game;
  • confusion with time or place, including losing track of the seasons;
  • trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships, including trouble reading or recognizing the face in the mirror;
  • new problems with words in speaking or writing, including repetitive conversations;
  • misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps, or accusing others of stealing items they can’t find;
  • decreased or poor judgment, such as giving large amounts of money to telemarketers;
  • withdrawal from work or social activities, or lack of interest in sports;
  • changes in mood and personality that can include confusion, suspicion, depression, fear or anxiety.

Every year around the 2017 Thanksgiving holiday, the Alzheimer’s Association sees increases in calls to its 24-hour Helpline (800.272.3900), as people visit with friends and family they may not see as frequently during the year. That phone line is always staffed by trained experts, who provide confidential consultations around-the-clock, andthis holiday season will be no different.

Those with questions or concerns about memory lapses or behavioral changes in their loved ones will find compassionate people who can answer questions or listen to concerns at any time of the day or night through the long holiday weekend. Information can also be found online at www.alz.org/wny.

Experts from the WNY Chapter are also available to arrange private, in-person consultations via that same toll-free number: 800.272.3900.

About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

About the Western New York Chapter
The local Chapter provides programs, services and other resources for those living with dementia, their care partners, healthcare professionals and the public across eight counties: Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans and Wyoming. You can learn more by calling (716) 626.0600 during traditional business hours or 24/7 at 1.800.272.3900 or visiting online at alz.org/WNY

'Memory Loss, Dementia and Alzheimer's disease' -- free class April 4 at Haxton library in Oakfield

By Billie Owens

Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging. It is a progressive and fatal brain disease that is the most common form of dementia.

“The Basics: Memory Loss, Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease” is a free class presented by the Alzheimer’s Association Western New York Chapter for anyone who would like to know more about the disease and related dementias. In Genesee County, the program will be offered in April in Oakfield.

  • April 4 at 5:30 p.m. at Haxton Memorial Library, 3 N. Pearl St., Oakfield

Attendees will learn:  

  • Symptoms and effects of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia;
  • How Alzheimer’s affects the brain;
  • Causes and risk factors;
  • How to find out if it’s Alzheimer’s disease;
  • The benefits of early detection;
  • Treatment;
  • Resources in your community, including the Alzheimer’s Association WNY Chapter.  

There is no cost to attend this public presentation, but registration is encouraged by calling 1.800.272.3900.

'Growing Old Gracefully' is topic of free Ladies Night program and pasta dinner at Senior Center

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Pasta with a purpose! The Suicide Prevention Coalition of Genesee County presents a free Ladies Night program on Tuesday, Aug. 29: "Growing Old Gracefully -- Spirit, Mind & Body." 

It will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the GC Senior Center, 2 Bank St., Batavia. A pasta dinner will be served at 5:30; program begins at 6.

Guest speakers are Amber Haag (LCSW, CASAC) whose topic is "Spirituality through the lifespan to help navigate the aging process," and Miranda Zagorski, health coach, of Blue Cross / Blue Shield of WNY. Zagorski will explore the basic functions and structure of the human brain and discuss lifestyle changes that can improve and maintain a healthy brain.

There is limited seating. Please register by Aug. 25 by calling the Care and Crisis Helpline at (585) 344-4400 or email hbaxter@ywcagenesee.org

Ladies Night is provided free of charge through the support of the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Genesee County and Zonta Club of Batavia-Genesee County.

'Aging with Options' forum at Manor House in Batavia on Friday

By Billie Owens

The Manor House is hosting a forum called "Aging with Options" from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 21. It's is free and open to the public intended to help the 50+ folks better understand options for the aging.

There will be workshops, vendors and mini clinics offering vision tests, blood pressure checks and hearing tests, and more. UMMC is sponsoring the event.

To register or for more information call 344-2345.

The Manor House is located at 427 E. Main St.

Dementia Care Conference for families and loved ones is Oct. 27 at Terry Hills, it's free but registration is required

By Billie Owens

A Dementia Care Conference for families and loved ones will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 27, at Terry Hills Restaurant & Banquet Facility in Batavia.

It is free and open to the public but registration is required. Call 1-800-272-3900 to register.

Terry Hills is located at 5122 Clinton Street Road.

The event is offered by the WNY Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association and it is sponsored, in part, by a grant from the New York State Department of Health.

Vendor tables and sponsorship opportunities are available.

There are three areas of focus:

  1. The Basics of Alzheimer's Disease & Dementia
  2. Legal & Financial Planning for Dementia
  3. Caregiver Resources

Conversations with Calliope- The Old Gray Mare

By Joseph Langen

 

 (New Orleans Moss)

 

It's no wonder that truth is stranger than fiction. Fiction has to make sense.~ Mark Twain

JOE: Good afternoon Calliope.
CALLIOPE: Good afternoon Joe. Out of bed a bit late aren't we?
JOE: I've been up but not functioning on all cylinders.
CALLIOPE: Are you ailing?
JOE: I don't think so. Perhaps it is the change in my routine. I got back to the gym on a regular basis this week and worked three days in a row.
CALLIOPE: So you are still adjusting to being back in the real world?
JOE: I suppose I am. I didn't think it would be that much of a change.
CALLIOPE: You're not getting any younger.
JOE: The old gray mare and all that.
CALLIOPE: Well said.
JOE: I also have my column, blogs and a new writing project to fit in. Maybe it's time to consolidate.
CALLIOPE: Perhaps so.
JOE: Talk with you tomorrow.

 

Conversations with Calliope- The Old Gray Mare

By Joseph Langen

 

 (New Orleans Moss)

 

It's no wonder that truth is stranger than fiction. Fiction has to make sense.~ Mark Twain

JOE: Good afternoon Calliope.
CALLIOPE: Good afternoon Joe. Out of bed a bit late aren't we?
JOE: I've been up but not functioning on all cylinders.
CALLIOPE: Are you ailing?
JOE: I don't think so. Perhaps it is the change in my routine. I got back to the gym on a regular basis this week and worked three days in a row.
CALLIOPE: So you are still adjusting to being back in the real world?
JOE: I suppose I am. I didn't think it would be that much of a change.
CALLIOPE: You're not getting any younger.
JOE: The old gray mare and all that.
CALLIOPE: Well said.
JOE: I also have my column, blogs and a new writing project to fit in. Maybe it's time to consolidate.
CALLIOPE: Perhaps so.
JOE: Talk with you tomorrow.

 

Conversations with Calliope- Long in the Tooth

By Joseph Langen


 

(Preservation Hall)

It is sad to grow old, but nice to ripen.~Brigitte Bardot

JOE: Good morning Calliope.
CALLIOPE: Good morning Joe. How are you today?
JOE: Not bad. I had my annual physical yesterday and found that I had few signs of aging.
CALLIOPE: I suppose that's not surprising.
JOE: It's better than the alternative.
CALLIOPE: Anything serious?
JOE: No. Just little things that most people face as they grow older.
CALLIOPE: How do you compare with others?
JOE: I don't have any life threatening or debilitating conditions. I did have a bout with rheumatoid arthritis but now that's under control.
CALLIOPE: Sounds like you're doing better than most people.
JOE: I think so. I count myself fortunate to be in such good health.
CALLIOPE: Do you need to make any adjustments?
JOE: I will have my vision checked to make sure nothing serious is going on. I also need to get back on the track with my nutrition since I have put back on some of the weight I lost.
CALLIOPE: In other words, you just have to be a little more careful.
JOE: Correct. I can't just take my body for granted. Talk with you tomorrow.

 

Conversations with Calliope- The Aging Purple Cow

By Joseph Langen

(Original Wall- Tower of London)

JOE: Good morning Calliope.
CALLIOPE: Good morning Joe. How are you today?
JOE: I'm fine other than being a little sore from shoveling mounds of snow.
CALLIOPE: That's what you get for living in Western New York. You have a rather intriguing title for our discussion today.
JOE: You noticed. I suppose you would like an explanation.
CALLIOPE: Indeed I would.
JOE: Okay. I have been reading two books recently, Seth Godin's Purple Cow and Joan Chittister's The Gift of Years.
CALLIOPE: What do the two have in common?
JOE: Not much on the surface. Godin's book is about marketing and how what works is being unique and appealing to those who appreciate your uniqueness. Chittister's book is about reevaluating aging, looking at as the freedom to be creative after the demands of earlier life are relaxed.
CALLIOPE: Got it. So what's the connection?
JOE: I'm working on marketing for my writing and also not getting any younger. Aging is an opportunity to let my uniqueness shine without worrying so much about what people will think about it. It's a freeing idea.
CALLIOPE: What do you plan to do about it?
JOE: Stop censoring my ideas so much and start making better use of the unique insights I have gained over the years.
CALLIOPE: Sounds good.
JOE: Stay tuned. Talk with you tomorrow.

Conversations with Calliope- Writing and Life Priorities

By Joseph Langen

(Oatka Geese)

JOE: Good morning Calliope.
CALLIOPE: Good morning Joe. You mentioned Joan Chittister's book yesterday. Any further thoughts about what she has to say?
JOE: I haven't finished reading The Gift of Years yet but so far I have read about her thoughts on the challenges and fears of growing old and look forward to reading her thoughts about the opportunities.
CALLIOPE: What do you think got you interested in this topic?
JOE: I just celebrated ( I was going to say "had") my sixty-sixth birthday. It seems like it crept up on me. Joan would say that people perceive us as old even if we don't feel old.
CALLIOPE: Do you feel old?
JOE: Not really. I have some difficulty with arthritis which I never had when I was younger.
CALLIOPE: So you're doing okay physically?
JOE: I can't complain.
CALLIOPE: What about psychologically?
JOE: I feel released from family and work responsibilities and able to set my own direction without anyone else getting upset about it. That's a freeing feeling.
CALLIOPE: What are you going to do with it?
JOE: I was thinking this morning that none of us knows how much life remains. There's no point fretting about it. Many people don't live as long as I have already.
CALLIOPE: So what challenge remains for you?
JOE: Right now, to use my writing to continue unfolding life's mysteries for myself and helping readers make the best of their lives for their benefit and that of others they encounter. Talk with you tomorrow.

Conversations with Calliope- Golden Sexuality

By Joseph Langen

Key West Sunset

JOE: Good morning Calliope.
CALLIOPE: I thought you took the day off.
JOE: Actually I was up before five, read the paper and went back to bed. I got back up and went shopping. Now I'm here.
CALLIOPE: Okay. I'll let it slide for today. Catchy title for today's blog. Care to explain it?
JOE: Okay. In my travels yesterday, I ended up at Preferred Care (health insurance) in Rochester yesterday afternoon for a presentation on the topic.
CALLIOPE: Tell me about it.
JOE: Eileen Merges, a psychologist from St. John Fisher College presided over a presentation and discussion of myths, perceptions and enhancements regarding sex for seniors.
CALLIOPE: Did you learn anything new?
JOE: I mostly confirmed what I had already learned in my psychology practice with couples, some of them older. We discussed the importance of communication critical to the success of any sexual relationship and expanding our definition of what constitutes sexual activity as well as hindrances and enhancements of senior sexuality.
CALLIOPE: What else?
JOE: I was surprised to see the rate of sexually transmitted diseases among seniors. Current patterns suggest that two and a half million people over 40 will contract an STD.
CALLIOPE: Sounds like a worthwhile presentation. Have you been concerned about aging lately?
JOE: Of course. I'm not getting any younger.
CALLIOPE: Have you run across any good books on the topic.
JOE: I have found some not so good. One I thought was excellent was Joan Chittister's book, The Gift of Years: Growing Old Gracefully. She stresses the wisdom, freedom and prosperity of old age. She also sees this as "the time in which a whole new life is in the making again. The gift of these years is not merely being alive, it is the gift of becoming more fully alive than ever." I would recommend it to anyone facing older age or who has older relatives facing it. Talk with you tomorrow.

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