How “old” are we going to get….
That’s the big news! Pretty old….people are living longer due to great medicine, healthier lifestyle, hobbies and social interaction, according to the presenters at the workshop on Aging Population held recently at Mitchell Tech. Presenters Jim Seeber ( NSU Regional Aging Council), Renee Oscarson ( SDSU Extention Specialist Gerentology) and Linda Nussbaumer (SDSU Professor of Interior Design-effects of baby boomers on housing) relayed current statistics on the aging population, the importance for social support for the aging generation ( we need our Senior Centers!!!), transportation issues for elderly in getting to medical appointments or for shopping, and the various Social Services programs that are available to the people of retirement age. They said the key to support of the aged is to provide ACCESS - be that with more handicap parking, better access to shopping and restaurants, and education about the various programs available such as tax preparation help, food assistance, and help with insurance ( Medicare Part D for one….), creating social activities and getting them there, and encouraging healthy diets and exercise.
Renee’s substitute, Sandra Aamlid, recounted great experiences in helping the attendees at the senior center in S.F.( called The Center for Active Generations) and how important the social aspects of participating at the center was in the health and mental welfare of the people. She talked about how a church in the region built an exercise center onto the church campus and that it was used alot.
The biggest thing that I learned was to include the aging population in town activities and projects, as they have experience and multiple talents to share. When the baby boomers turn 65, there is still lots of living to do.
April 27th, 2008 at 11:39 pm
Another area we need to work on in Tyndall is getting more participation in the Dakota Senior Meals program. In the past year several of the regular participants have had to make major changes in their living, such as moving to a nursing home or assisted living, so they are no longer available to participate in the Dakota meal program. Their places need to be filled by some of us who are now over 60 to keep this program going. If we don’t have higher participation to make the program financially solvent, we’ll run a risk of loosing the funding and support from our region! This is a valuable resource. Where else could you get a full balanced meal for only $3 PLUS the benefit of friendly companions to each dinner with!