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Newsletter Tip:Like all of the Endless Possibilities issues, this one is jam-packed with great information and opportunities. Be sure to read all the way to the bottom so that you don't miss anything. If your email provider clips the newsletter and you cannot see everything through Section #13, "Get Connected," look for a link near the bottom of your email that says something like, "Message clipped," or "View entire message.
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May is Older American Month and
Mental Health Awareness Month
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The month of May is Older Americans Month and Mental Health Awareness Month! What a perfect time to think about mental wellness in the context of aging. So often we talk about these issues separately, but the impacts of mental health affect everyone at every age. The American Psychological Association predicts that the number of older Americans with mental and behavioral health concerns will quadruple, from 4 million in 1970 to about 15 million in 2030. What a huge increase! So, what can we do to help?
The theme for Older Americans Month this year is Connect, Create, Contribute. This is a great way to begin thinking about how we can help influence mental wellness within our community. - Connect! An increase in mental and behavioral health concerns, like depression, is not a normal part of aging. If you believe that you are exhibiting differences in mood or behavior, get connected with your doctor. They can also get you connected to the right resources for you.
- Create! Studies show that we are healthier when we are participating actively in our communities. Life is full of ups and downs. But creating a community of friends who understand and support you can provide you with people to celebrate successes with as well as share disappointments with. Good friendships make the world a brighter, happier place.
- Contribute! Talk about the ways mental health affects the older adult population. The more we talk about it, the more we contribute to a culture where mental health awareness is a normal part of life. The more we share our stories, the more we can help others do the same.
Don’t go through mental health challenges alone. Ask a Senior Center staff member how you can get involved in social groups, social activities, and other community resources. If you feel that you may be experiencing a mental health crisis, please call Cardinal Innovations 24 Hour Crisis and Referral Line at 1-800-939-5911 or call 911.
For more information, check out these resources:
Free and anonymous mental health screening through Cardinal Innovations.
Mental health supports for yourself or for someone your're caring for from the The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Orange County Mental Wellness Senior Resource Team (SRT)
The mission of the team is 'to support the mental health of seniors and their families through training and other initiatives provided for Project EngAGE SRTs, volunteers, and the community to increase their understanding of the symptoms and treatments of mental illness while helping to alleviate the associated stigmas.'
The group created a Resource Guide and is also planning a panel discussion about happiness later this month.
Adult Mental Health First Aid TrainingAdult Mental Health First Aid USA is an 8 hour public education program which introduces participants to the unique risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adults, builds understanding of the importance of early intervention, and teaches individuals how to help an adult in crisis or experiencing a mental health challenge. Mental Health First Aid uses role-playing and simulations to demonstrate how to assess a mental health crisis; select interventions and provide initial help; and connect people to professional, peer, social, and self-help care.
Participants will learn the core five-step action plan: - Assess for risk of suicide or harm
- Listen non-judgmentally
- Give reassurance and information
- Encourage appropriate professional help
- Encourage self-help and other support strategies
Register by May 27: Call 919-245-2015, or stop by one of the senior centers to register Fee: FREE / Lunch Provided / Earn CEU's.Passmore CenterFri., May 31 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Mental Health & Aging Panel DiscussionIn recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Project EngAGE Mental Wellness & Aging Senior Resource Team proudly hosts a facilitated discussion about mental health in the context of aging. Join us as a panel of experts share their knowledge and experiences on how mental health changes as we age, as well as strategies for maintaining our mental wellness.
Register by: Tue, May 28, call 919-968-2070.
Fee: FREE
Seymour Center 2551 Homestead Rd., Chapel Hill, NC
Date/Time: Thu, May 30; 5 - 7 pm
Connect, Create, Contribute ContestConnect, Create, Contribute is the 2019 theme for Older American’s Month. Throughout the month of May, there will be many ways to connect, create, and contribute right here at the Seymour Center. Look for contest materials and instructions at the “4 C” station in the lobby. Select gift cards will be rewarded to persons with the most entries in each contest category. Join us on Thu, Jun 6 to find out if you are one of our winners. Here’s to “4-C”able success!
Registration not required.
Fee: FREE
Seymour Center
Thu, Jun 6 10 - 11 am
OutLoud Flash Mob Seeks Places to Perform Schedule a free surprise Flash Mob performance at your business or special event. Our OutLoud Flash Mob can also provide a short pre-routine lesson and then “call” the routine moves so that your employees can participate. To schedule, call 919-280-2161.
Our OutLoud Flash Mob began spring 2017 aiming to add more activity to our lives and to bring smiles to the community with pop-up performances.
What is a Flash Mob? Flash mobs take place all over the world in public places at locations known only to the performers. Participants actually look like everyone else -- food servers, shoppers, tourists. When the music starts, they come together from many directions to perform a dance routine they learned in class. As the dance progresses, some performers wait and add themselves to the group so they look like they were only “observers” who decided to join in.
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Aging Transitions Services
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Care Partner CollaborativeJoin us as we come together weekly to co-create a space that welcomes and supports people experiencing early-stage memory loss. In a warm and relaxed setting, we’ll share conversation, have lunch, and enjoy movement and other activities of our own design.
This gathering, which takes place at the Seymour Center in Chapel Hill, is part of a collaborative project that relies on the input of care partners, who are invited to participate on a limited basis. Through their involvement in various aspects of the collaborative, care partners gain connection, community, comfort and confidence for their journey ahead.
Participation is free and registration is required. Please email Lisa Meinert or call 919-245-4251 to discuss eligibility details and whether this is a good fit for you and the person you are caring for.
Caregivers’ Support GroupsMeet with other caregivers to share experiences, learn new skills, and get answers to questions about dementia and other long-term disabilities. Group is open, friendly and informal. To register and to get more information about the group and caregiving in general
call 919-968-2087.
Register by: 1 week prior to meeting date for either center
Passmore Center *Note the new date & time for the Passmore group
*2nd & 4th Thursday: May 23; 1 pm - 2:30 pm
Seymour Center
2nd & 4th Friday: May 10, 24; 10:30 am – 12 noon
Dementia Basics The Dementia Education Collaborative is designed to provide basic information about dementia to individuals with memory concerns, caregivers, family members, friends, and interested community members. ‘What Can We Expect? Dementia Basics’ is a four-part series with topics regarding brain health, types and stages of dementia, communication, and preparation for the journey ahead. Download and share the Dementia Basics flyer.
Register by: Fri, May 31 with Marie Dagger at 919-245-4279 or MDagger@orangecountync.gov.
Instructors: Aging Transitions Team and Experienced Community Members
Fee: FREE
UNC Wellness Center at Meadowmont
Mon, Jun 3-24; 5:50-7:30 pm
Jun 3: Brain Health Basics
Jun 10: Types and Stages of Dementia
Jun 17: Communication
Jun 24: Planning for the Journey Ahead
Memory CaféA social outlet for people with dementia, and their care partners. Meets second Monday of each month at Bruegger’s Bagels (1800 E Franklin, Chapel Hill). For more information, contact Kim Lamon-Loperfido, 919-245-4253, or kloperfido@orangecountync.govBruegger’s Bagels, 1800 East Franklin St., Chapel Hill2nd Mon., May 13; 2 – 3:15 pm
Memory Café on the MoveA social outlet for people with dementia, and their care partners. Come out for fun activities in the community. For more information contact Kim Lamon-Loperfido, 919-245- 4253, or kloperfido@orangecountync.gov Counter Culture Coffee Roaster Tour, 812 Mallard Ave, Durham Fri., May 17; 10 am
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Call the Aging Helpline at 919-968-2087 Talk to trained staff about any aging-related issue. You may also email Aging Services. We try to find answers to your age-related questions and link you to the services that you need. Helpline hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Chinese & Spanish Language Helpline
Call 919-245-4275 to speak to our staff in Mandarin.
Call 919-245-4279 ext. 1 to leave a message in Spanish.
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We offer a variety of programs including classes, educational opportunities, trips, and much more.
Travel with Seniors on the Road for fun day and overnight trips!
View our current classes, trips and more!
CLASSES
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
TRIPS
"Membership" to our senior centers is free, just complete the Senior Centers Registration Form (PDF) and return it to either of our senior centers to get started.
Browse the Senior Times to see all that we offer.
Bus Riding 101Find out where the public buses go, where to get schedules and what the buses cost to ride. Discover how easy it is to map out a bus trip. Learn about door to door transportation, eligibility, and how to sign up for services. Uber and Lyft information will be available as well. Registration preferred. Please call Lisa Berley to sign up: 919. 717.1853 Fee: FREE Seymour Center (324061-06) Tue, May 14 1:30 - 3 pm
Bus Travel TrainingEver wonder where the bus goes that stops near your home? How about the buses that you see when you are out and about at the senior center or at the super market? With the help of Transportation Specialist, Lisa Berley, not only will you learn the bus route first hand but you will also become familiar with bus riding in general. Registration is preferred. Please call her at 919.717.1853.
These bus rides are fare free.
Tue, May 21 "A" Bus: Meet at Seymour Center at 10
Wed, May 22 Hillsborough Circulator: Meet at Passmore Center at 10:30 am
Flash Mob Dance Group – Give it a Try!Ready to try something new? Try our OutLoud Flash Mob. Learn simple dance routines from a patient instructor, then take them into the community to delight “random” audiences with a surprise performance, seated, standing, or dancing.
We welcome new members of all abilities whether you want to give it a try one or more times. May classes will be Saturdays, May 18 and 25, 1:00 to 3:00 pm at the Seymour Center, 2551 Homestead Rd., Chapel Hill. The Saturday, May 11 class has been changed to a free practice from 1:00 to 3:00 pm.
Yes, you can start anytime. Going forward, new members automatically may join the group, as they wish, to provide free local performances. Class min. 5.
Fee: $20 for all 4 classes (or $5 per hour drop in). To register, call 919-968-2070. Other information: 919-280-2161.
To see past performances, check out https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0f2dgYvrT4
TED Talks at Passmore and SeymourTechnology, Entertainment and Design (TED) is owned by a non-profit, non-partisan foundation. Its agenda is to make great ideas accessible and spark conversations. Join us as we dive into TED Talks at the Passmore and Seymour centers. Includes a 15 - 30 minute video/talk and follow-up discussion.
TED Talk - Passmore Center
When Technology Can Read Minds, How Will We Protect Our Privacy?– Nita Farahany Tech that can decode your brain activity and reveal what you're thinking and feeling is on the horizon, says legal scholar and ethicist Nita Farahany. What will it mean for our already violated sense of privacy? In a cautionary talk, Farahany warns of a society where people are arrested for merely thinking about committing a crime (like in "Minority Report") and private interests sell our brain data -- and makes the case for a right to cognitive liberty that protects our freedom of thought and self-determination.
Register by: May 14, call 919-245-2015
Fee: FREE
Passmore Center
Tue., May 21 2 - 3 pm
TED Talk - Seymour Center
How to Get Empowered, Not Overpowered, by Artificial Intelligence – Max Tegmark, Scientist, Author Many artificial intelligence researchers expect AI to outsmart humans at all tasks and jobs within decades, enabling a future where we're restricted only by the laws of physics, not the limits of our intelligence. MIT physicist and AI researcher Max Tegmark separates the real opportunities and threats from the myths, describing the concrete steps we should take today to ensure that AI ends up being the best -- rather than worst -- thing to ever happen to humanity.
To register, call 919-968-2070
Fee: FREE
Seymour Center
Mon., May 20 2 - 3 pm
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Employment Services for Older Adults
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 Mike Komives
Employment Specialist
Orange Co. Dept. on Aging
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If you’re searching for a job or exploring a new career, you need to know what business leaders and hiring managers seek in candidates, in-person and in their resumes. Mike Komives, Employment Specialist for Orange County Department On Aging, can help you.
Mike is available for individual meetings – Mondays and Fridays, 9 AM to 5 PM at the Seymour Center, and Wednesdays, 9 AM to 1 PM at the Passmore Center. Schedule an appointment by calling 919-616-8778, or email: skomives@orangecountync.gov
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We offer an array of services, ranging from massages to free blood pressure screenings. In addition, we offer many fitness classes like yoga, aerobics, tai chi, and much more.
VIEW OUR WELLNESS SPECIAL EVENTS
Be sure to check out the Senior Times to find out more about what we offer, including class schedules and locations. Everyone is welcome and the first class is FREE!
For more information on these and other Wellness programs contact
Latonya Brown at 919-245-4270.
Notice: To provide presentations on different topics, the Wellness Program hosts a variety of professionals. This does not mean an endorsement of providers, services, or method of treatment.
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Smoke Cessation Program – FreshstartFreshstart is a group based tobacco cessation support program to help individuals plan a successful quit smoking attempt using information for dealing with cravings. In each support session, participants will learn concise materials to help them make choices on which techniques are best for them. During the second and fourth sessions, participants will choose and receive FREE nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). The goal is to increase participants’ successful completion to quit smoking, and to stay that way.
To register for this Freshstart program call 919-245-2480 or email us at smokefreeoc@orangecountync.gov
Provider: Orange County Health Dept
Fee: FREE
Seymour Center
Wednesdays, May 8, 15, 22, 29; 12 noon – 1 pm
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Volunteers NeededHelp prepare and serve lunch from 11:30 - 1:00 pm at the Seymour Center. Interested? Please call Isabel Jackson, 919-245-4256.
SENOR LUNCH PROGRAM
The Senior Lunch Program offers hot, nutritious meals at the Orange County Senior Centers each Monday through Friday at noon. Meals are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Orange County residents 60 years and older are invited to participate. For people under age 60, a meal costs $6. Voluntary and confidential donations for lunch are a very important part of the Program's budget which includes funding from the Older Americans Act, Orange County Government, and the Towns of Carrboro, Chapel Hill, and Hillsborough.
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Medicare Tip of the Month:
Annual Wellness Visit vs Annual Physical ExamOriginal Medicare covers an Annual Wellness Visit which is primarily a discussion with your physician about your health needs and wellness screening tests that are beneficial for your situation. It does NOT cover a typical Annual Physical which will include a comprehensive physical examination. When making an appointment, be sure to use the right words to avoid being charged for your visit - ask for an Annual Wellness Visit.
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you may be covered for the more extensive Annual Physical. You'll need to check your benefit booklet or call your insurance company to check.
Welcome to MedicareAre you turning 65, and eligible for Medicare? Do you feel overwhelmed by all the information “bombarding” you? Learn about Medicare - and all its parts. Whether you are retiring soon, already retired or continuing to work, you’ll get valuable information including how and when to enroll, potential penalties for late enrollment, Medicare’s costs, benefits and options.
Fee: FREE
Orange County Public Library - Hillsborough
137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough NC
To register, call 919-245-2015
Wed., May 22 2019, 4:30-6 p.m.
Chapel Hill Public Library
100 Library Drive, Chapel Hill NC
To register, call 919-968-2070
Mon., May 13 2019, 12-1:30 p.m.
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Enroll at the Seymour Center. For class list see below or call Seymour Front Desk at 919-968-2070. If you have questions or need assistance with class choices, please call Mike Gilliom at 919-636-0993.
To check our class schedule & course descriptions, or sign up for our upcoming class announcements, go to our website:
SEYMOUR TECH CENTER
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A Spring Recital with Ertz and Okada’s Violin and Viola StudentsWelcome the beauty of spring with violin and viola students of Nonoko Okada and Simon Ertz. Okada is an avid chamber musician who has performed at Carnegie Hall and is a graduate of the Juilliard School. Ertz is principal violist of the Winston-Salem Symphony and a member of the Greensboro Symphony's viola section. Their students’ evening performances will include a selection of solos and ensemble works. Min: 30/ Max: 80
Register by: Tue, May 14
Fee: FREE
Seymour Center
Tue, May 21 6 – 8 pm
Art Opening - Anshu Gupta Expressions of IndiaAnshu, a native of India, graduated from NC State Univ with a MBA. She has been very interested in different forms of arts and crafts. Recently she started painting with acrylics and has found it a very satisfying medium. Her paintings cover a wide range of landscapes, landmarks and pieces inspired by Indian culture. An opening reception will be held on Mon, May 20. Please join us for a reception, including live music, refreshments and an opportunity to meet the artist. Her paintings will be on display from Mon, May 20 – Thu, Jul 11.
Seymour Center
Mon, May 20 3 – 4 pm
DATE CHANGE! Art Opening – Luna Lee Ray and Students Luna Lee Ray is an accomplished artist and teacher. She has been teaching at the Passmore Center for 15+ years. This exhibit will highlight not only her work, but those of her students. Art will be on display Mon, May 13 - Thu, Jun 20. Please join us for an afternoon reception and an opportunity to meet the artists.
Fee: FREE
Passmore Center
Mon, May 6 Mon, May 13 3 pm
Downsizing, Organizing, and DeclutteringDo you find that you just have too much stuff? Want to keep everything, but need to get it organized? Maybe you are thinking about downsizing and moving to a smaller home. A few modifications to your current home may make it possible for you to age in place. No matter what your situation is during this class you will learn about the many options open to you. Min: 5 /Max: 30 Register by: Wed May 22 Instructor: Suzanne Harp, Moving Seniors with Style Fee: FREE Passmore CenterWed, May 29 2 pm
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Where’s My Tax Refund?The best way for taxpayers to check the status of their refund is to use the Where's My Refund? tool on IRS.gov. You’ll need your social security number, filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.) and the exact whole dollar amount of your refund. For a return filed electronically, it will take about 21 days for the refund to be processed; for a paper return expect 6 weeks.
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Calling Volunteers of All Ages!We are seeking volunteers of all ages to join the VC55+ family of over 400 volunteers! The right volunteer match can be infinitely meaningful and fun – let us help you find your ideal volunteer match!
Opportunities Include: - Seymour & Passmore Center Greeter Team
- Bi-Lingual (Karen/Burmese/Spanish/English) Volunteer Team
- Long-term Care Volunteer Program with Signature HealthCARE
- Handy Helpers Team
- Friend to Friend Team
- Community Visitation/SALT Team
- Volunteer Drivers Team
To become a volunteer, please contact Shenae McPherson,VC55+ Administrator,
at 919-245-4243, or shmcpherson@orangecountync.gov.
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Sign Up to Receive Notifications About Upcoming EventsSubscribe to the Notify Me system to receive emails or text messages about upcoming Department on Aging special events and programs, Orange County Alerts & News, and more! You select what you are interested in and can "unsubscribe" at any time.
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103 Meadowlands Dr. (PO Box 8181)
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: 919-245-2015
Hours:
Monday - Thursday, 8 am - 8 pm
Fridays, 8 am - 5 pm
Saturdays, 9 am - 11 am
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2551 Homestead Road
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Phone:919-968-2070
Hours:
Monday - Thursday, 8 am - 9 pm
Fridays, 8 am - 5 pm
Saturdays, 8:30 am - 5:30 pm . |
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