50+ Club 02.24.2023

How to make new friends after age 50

The early years of midlife are a hectic time for many people. Around the time many people reach their late 30s and early 40s, they’re balancing the responsibilities of a career and a family. But as people enter their 50s or later, some of those responsibilities tend to be less significant, leaving more time for recreational pursuits.

Hobbies and other pursuits outside of work are often more fun when enjoyed with friends. People older than 50 undoubtedly recognize that it’s not always so easy to make new friends, even though it’s undeniably beneficial to have supportive relationships into your golden years. A 2017 study from researchers at Michigan State University found that valuing friendships was a stronger predictor of health and happiness among older adults than valuing family. Those results align with an earlier Australian study that found Australians aged 70 or older tended to live significantly longer if they had more strong friendships.

Making friends after 50 might not be as simple as it was during your school days,

but these strategies can help men and women in midlife build new friendships.

Identify your interests.

Fifty-somethings who have spent the last couple of decades building a career and raising a family can give some serious thought to their interests outside of work or passions they hope to pursue now that they have more time to commit to such

pursuits. The more interested you are in a given activity, the more likely you are to stick with it. And the longer you stick with something, the more likely you are to meet like-minded individuals (e.g., future friends) willing to make similar commitments.

Use social media.

In years past, men and women over 50 may not have had any readily available tools

to connect with new people. Social media has made it much easier to build such connections. Even the most obscure passions likely have a social media group of locals devoted to them, and these groups can be great ways to meet new people. A local runners’ club may have its own social media accounts, and local governments and community groups often share information about sports leagues and other groups via social media.

Sign up for group outings.

Communities often sponsor group outings to museums, the theater, sporting events, and other day trips. Signing up for a bus trip to a local museum presents a great opportunity to meet people who share your interests, providing the potential to build lasting friendships built on a foundation of shared interests.

Broaden your horizons.

Just because you’re in your 50s or older doesn’t mean your friends have to be. Don’t hesitate to invite younger or older acquaintances and colleagues over for dinner or on weekend excursions. Friends come in all shapes, sizes and ages, so you could be missing out if you’re not willing to extend a hand in friendship to people of different ages and backgrounds.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Making friends after 50 can be challenging. However, various strategies can help men and women over 50 connect with new people.

Help at Home - A Proper Assessment is the key to an effective Care Plan

y name is Jenny Lind and, I’ve been working in the home care industry for 14 years.  We’ve recently implemented the Senior Helpers Life Profile assessment tool in partnership with Performance Based Healthcare Solutions (PBHS) out of Galveston, Texas.  I’m excited to share our new approach to home care and how it can reduce the risk of hospitalization.

We can now categorize and quantify the 13 key areas in which a person must have their needs met in order to successfully age in place. Using our Autonomy Profile Score, we can help reduce the risk of a senior going to the hospital in the next six months from 80% to less than 10%.

We have found that over 3.5 million potentially preventable adult hospitalizations occur each year in the United States.

This study was verified by AHRQthe Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ.gov).  In this statistic, hospitalizations are three-night stays where the person is admitted, and does not include short trips to the ER, which is significantly more often.

Let’s take for example, a senior who has a fall in the shower. This senior has arthritis and has difficulty standing for long periods of time. The fall could have been easily prevented with the addition of a tub bench. EMS takes the senior to the hospital where they are diagnosed with a hip fracture. The hospital does a hip replacement and discharges this senior to skilled nursing where they receive therapy. The skilled nursing then discharges them home with home health where they complete therapy and then are discharged from therapy. No one ever identifies the root cause of the fall, missing a tub bench. We now have a senior who is weaker after going through the healthcare continuum and the root cause of their fall was never addressed, or maybe it was - after the incident occurred!

communities, hospices, and physicians, and with over 75,000 participants.

Results of the study showed:

1. Improved outcomes - reduced hospitalizations and increased ability to age in place

2. Improved care modelsbetter support across the healthcare continuum

Life Profile gives us the ability to “scan” a senior’s living situation and determine their risk of hospitalization in the next six months.

We assess 144 safety risks around the home including medication management and with a focus and priority on quality of life, including leisure interests and social interactions in terms of weekly and monthly activity plans.

These are the 13 key areas that a senior must have their needs met, in order to be able to age in place successfully. The first 10 include:

1. Hydration/nutrition

2. Bills paid

3. Getting groceries/supplies

4. Getting help

5. Laundry

6. Garbage removed

why seniors fail and go to the hospital. Because of this, Medical Condition Management is triple weighted on the scoring system.

After the assessment and scoring is completed, we immediately work on ways to reduce the score, which will result in a lower likelihood of hospitalization.

Once the Life Profile assessment is complete, we can suggest improvements for their living situation; and a care plan can be put together. A care plan that will lead to better outcomes.

We want to work toward having the senior person safe, confident, supported, and enjoying a fulfilled life with the maximum independence possible.

My agency, Senior Helpers, provides licensed non-medical home care and is proud to be working out of Brentwood, Oakley, Antioch and Discovery Bay for 15 years.  If you are interested in finding out more, please call me at my office at 925-240-0001.

These occurrences are most often related to medical condition management. How often are these hospitalizations related to someone not properly managing their hypertension or diabetes and they get dizzy and have a fall because their medical condition was not being managed?

In the healthcare continuum, rarely is there someone assigned the responsibility to look for the root cause of what led a senior to the hospital.

Life Profile gives Senior Helpers the ability to identify these risk factors and reduce the risk factors for going to the hospital.

Life Profile

Life Profile is built from a national research collaborative, which has assembled over 20 years of research, 300 organizations across the healthcare continuum including: private duty, hospitals, skilled nursing, senior living

7. Cleaning and managing their house

8. Transportation and using the phone.

9. Mobility (walking, transferring)

10. Activities of daily living (dressing, hygiene, etc.) present a higher risk of going to the hospital and are double weighted.

Not having their medical condition managed is the number one reason

Hope Hospice offers classes and support

Hike for Hospice fundraiser on May 6 in Livermore at Del Valle Regional Park

DAWNMARIE FEHR

Dealing with the loss of a loved one can cause overwhelming grief to those left behind.

Hope Hospice and Health Services has opened its virtual doors to anyone in need of grief support, including those who do not have someone in the organization’s hospice services.

In addition to grief support, Hope Hospice is also offering its virtual family caregiver classes to anyone who needs them. These classes and support groups are all free and open to the public, thanks to grants and donations made to the organization.

One way they raise money to operate is through events such as the upcoming Hike for Hope on May 6 at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore.

“Many family caregivers find themselves in the role unexpectedly, and they feel overwhelmed, unprepared, and at a loss of what to do,” said Debbie Emerson, Community Health Educator. “Our education

series provides a wealth of resources and tips to help such individuals navigate a sensitive time and to feel empowered to care for their loved ones.”

Live Family Caregiver classes are offered via Zoom once monthly, year-round. Recorded versions are available online, but attending live classes offer the opportunity to ask questions. The Family Caregiver Education Series, which includes several classes on dementia-related topics, is overseen by

Emerson. She invites guest speakers to accompany Hope’s certified educators in senior care and dementia.

Hope also offers support groups for individuals who care for a loved one living with dementia. These are offered in 10-week sessions, and dates are determined by sign-ups. Sessions offer a combination of dementia education and support.

Grief support groups are offered once per quarter over Zoom for individuals who

have lost someone.

“Hope’s bereavement program has been an important community resource since our founding in 1980,” said Arlene Baldwin, director of Grief Support Services . “We are here to support people grieving the loss of a dear one, to help them process their feelings and to learn how to move forward while still honoring their connection to those who have passed on.”

Hope Hospice spokesperson Kendra Strey said Hope’s grief team helps adults and youth learn to process feelings and find ways to move forward in a positive direction. She noted many people find it helpful to meet others with a shared experience, and Hope offers different groups to help people connect with others who have the same type of loss, whether of a spouse, a child or a general loss.

“We also offer a single-day workshop in the fall called Handling the Holidays to help the bereaved prepare for the approaching holiday season,” said Strey.

While classes and support groups are currently conducted over Zoom, small groups or clubs can request a private, in-person seminar for their group. Strey said while dementia is the most commonly requested topic, other topics related to senior care and

see HOPE page 6B

Photo courtesy of Hope Hospice

The Hike for Hope is an annual memorial hike and fundraiser that generates support for Hope Hospice.

hospice education are available.

Hope Hospice was founded in 1980 by a group of concerned local residents who wanted to help families care for their dying loved ones in the comfort of home with as little financial worry as possible. Initially, Hope operated with an all-volunteer workforce, from the nurses to the office team. Though the nonprofit has grown in numbers and service area, its commitment to care has never wavered.

Hope Hospice and Health Services is located in Dublin, but serves both Alameda and Contra Costa counties. Those interested in grief support groups must call to register. Caregiver classes require online registration.

To register, donate, or for more information, call 925-829-8770 or visit https://www. hopehospice.com/

Upcoming support groups

♦ General Grief

May 8-June 26, Mondays, 6-7:30 p.m.

♦ Loss of A Child

May 8-June 26, Mondays, 6-7:30 p.m

♦ Teens group (call 925-829-8770 for dates)

♦ Spousal/Partner loss (Option 1)

May 9-June 27, Tuesdays 6-7:30 p.m.

♦ Option 2

May 17-July 5, Wednesdays, 1:30- 3 p.m.

HOPE from page 4B

Why it pays for seniors to maintain good credit

The importance of a strong credit rating is often emphasized to young people. However, a strong credit rating can be equally beneficial for seniors.

The benefits of maintaining good credit include looking more reliable in the eyes of prospective employers and securing lower mortgage interest rates when buying a home. Those rewards can benefit anyone, but they’re especially enticing to young people. But what about seniors? Do individuals stand to benefit significantly from maintaining good credit into their golden years?

According to the credit reporting agency Experian, senior citizens tend to have the best credit scores of any consumer demographic. That could be a byproduct of years of financial discipline, and there are many benefits to maintaining that discipline into retirement.

♦ Home buying and borrowing: Buying a home is often considered a big financial step forward for young people, but that doesn’t mean aging men and women are completely out of the real estate market.

In its 2020 “State of the Nation’s Housing” report, the Joint Center for Housing Studies (JCHS) of Harvard University reported

that the share of homeowners age 65 and over with housing debt doubled to 42 percent between 1989 and 2019. In addition, 27 percent of homeowners age 80 and over were carrying mortgage debt in 2019. Maintaining strong credit after retire-

ment can help homeowners who still have mortgage debt get better terms if they choose to refinance their mortgages. Even seniors who have paid off their mortgages can benefit from maintaining good credit if they decide to switch to a smaller home

but cannot afford to simply buy the new home outright.

♦ Rewards: Retirement is often associated with travel, recreation and leisure. Such pursuits can be more affordable when seniors utilize rewards-based credit cards that help them finance vacations, weekend getaways and other expenses associated with traveling. Seniors who maintain strong credit ratings into their golden years may have more access to the best travelbased rewards cards than those whose credit scores dip in retirement.

♦ Unforeseen expenses: No one knows what’s around the corner, but savvy seniors recognize the importance of planning for the unknown. The COVID-19 pandemic seemingly came out of nowhere, and among its many ripple effects was the sudden job loss by seniors. The JCHS report found that 21 percent of homeowners age 65 and over had reported loss of employment income related to the pandemic. Unforeseen medical expenses also can compromise seniors’ financial freedom. Maintaining a strong credit rating into older adulthood can help seniors navigate such financial uncertainty more smoothly. Such a strategy can help seniors secure low-interest loans or credit cards that can help them pay down sudden, unforeseen expenses without getting into significant debt.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

There are many benefits to maintaining good credit into retirement.

A guide to where seniors can go and play

Older people called ‘an underserved group’; centers offer various services

SEAN TONGSON

With people caught up in their everyday lives of work, school and raising families, the unintentional result could lead to the senior population feeling like they are a burden or a hindrance due to physical limitations or increasing needs for basic care and help.

Many people may not be ready to face the thought of an aging family member or friend, but the Brentwood/Oakley/Antioch area has a few senior centers. Below is what they offer.

“The senior population is an underserved group,” said Alberto Maldonado, Executive Director of TreVista Antioch, an assisted living and memory care facility. “Senior Living facilities play a major role in the continuum of life for seniors. Oftentimes, our senior population does not get the respect and reward they deserve. Senior living facilities allow for our seniors to have a place they can call home. It allows them to once again engage in a meaningful life.”

According to the National Council on Aging, senior centers are vital in assisting America’s older adults, helping to connect 1 million older adults to vital community services, with more than 10,000 senior centers working in partnership with community agencies, organizations, and businesses to help

This new year, live

older adults stay healthy, active and independent. Many senior centers today offer a variety of activities, from nutrition and wellness programs to social and recreational activities.

“Our activities range from musical presentations, arts and crafts, games, social discussions, and much more,” added Maldonado.

“Many of our programs are geared toward bringing residents together as a family.”

TreVista Antioch

At TreVista Antioch, services and amenities include professional staff on hand 24/7 with nurse oversight, healthcare supervision and medication administration, bathing and dressing assistance, chef-prepared meals and restaurant-style dining, and family events and support programs. Community amenities include multiple dining options, a coffee bar, theater room, salon, and spa, in addition to van and Towncar shuttles allowing for residents with wheelchair needs. Additionally, TreVista in Antioch was named Agemark’s “Rising Star Community” in 2021 and 2022.

“The team here in Antioch really works hard to ensure a family-like environment and serve as an extension of a resident’s already-established family,” said Agemark Senior Living Vice President of Marketing and Communications Ashley GloysteinKlatt. “There are several things that really make TreVista in Antioch special. The first is our overall Wellness philosophy. We really work to focus on ensuring great physical, social, intellectual and spiritual health for all

see Facilities page 12B

Photo by Jeff Weisinger

The Brentwood senior center is just one of many resources available to the local population of senior citizens.

residents. A great way to address this is our Life Enrichment offerings. Our “Seasons” curriculum includes both group and individual activities that address all areas of wellness. Our entire staff contributes to life enrichment and treating residents like family – this is huge for Agemark communities.”

Antioch Senior Center

The Antioch Senior Center provides many activities, including a lunch program, physical fitness and dance classes, specialinterest classes like ukulele, knitting, and resources for seniors who need assistance with Medicare information and legal services.

Open since 1988, the Antioch Senior Center was built as an addition to the Nick Rodriguez Community Center, and through a partnership with Tri-Delta and Contra Costa County, provides transportation to and from the senior center if one participates in the daily lunch program.

“Our senior center is an important asset to the Antioch community because it provides a space and opportunities for seniors to connect with others, get physical exercise and opportunities to learn new things,” said Hilda Pacheco, Recreation Programs Coordinator for the Antioch Senior Center. “These opportunities are beneficial to seniors because it gets them involved in the community and adds to their longevity of life and improves their quality of life. We also do our best to connect our seniors to the resources that help them with what they need.”

Merrill Gardens

Merrill Gardens in Brentwood offers many amenities, including a library, theater, heated swimming pool, beauty salon, restaurant-style dining, as well as in-house home care with nurses 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Merrill Gardens also provides transportation for weekly shopping, happy hour, and special occasions like ice cream socials for Valentine’s Day and veterans group dinners, where other veterans from Antioch and Oakley are also invited to attend.

“It’s easy for seniors to become isolated, and that’s dangerous not only from a social and emotional standpoint but also from a safety standpoint,” said Jennifer Birkland, Community Relations Director at Merrill Gardens. “Senior living communities, like Merrill Gardens at Brentwood, offer a vibrant social program for residents to connect with peers and to get back in touch with hobbies and activities they once enjoyed. It’s also a great opportunity to develop new skills and interests. When seniors no longer need to cook, clean or maintain their home and property, it gives them so much more time and energy to do the things they love and live a more fulfilling life.”

Oakley Senior Center

In nearby Oakley, in addition to senior citizens, their senior center also has served anyone in town who is in need for the past seven years.

“Anyone in need is given resources to help or suggestions of where to get help,” said Oakley Senior Citizen Group Member

Donna Baker. “We have developed strong connections with each other and the community. We have become an extended family that looks out for each other; for better or worse.”

Every Thursday from 1-2:30 p.m. since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, fresh, canned and frozen food from the Food Bank, White Pony Express, McDonald’s, Safeway, WinCo, and Raley’s are handed out to anyone in need. Volunteers pick up most of the food and distribute it at the center, according to Baker.

“Our numbers have been slowly dropping as we now feed only about 150 families weekly,” said Baker. “We maintain a food pantry for anyone in need. “

Meals on Wheels has an office in the building and distributes their meals Wednesdays and Fridays. Costa Cafe serves lunches every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. at a coast of $6 for those younger than 60 years old and $3 for those older than 60, or $15 for a five-day frozen meal plan. Lunch must be ordered in advance.

Additionally, the center offers exercise classes on Tuesday and Fridays from 9:1510 a.m., a fiber arts class including sewing, quilting and all crafts on Wednesdays from 10 a.m-3 p.m., and a Cane Defense and Square Dancing for a fee to instructors. Both the exercise classes and fiber arts classes are free with membership. Additional activities also include a monthly potluck luncheon and meeting for our membership, a monthly flea market the first Saturday of every month from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., as well as birthday cards,

sympathy cards, and get-well cards for each member. Since Oakley’s Senior Center is not part of the city and is a nonprofit club, they must pay for all of their own expenses and utilities. As a result, Baker says that they are requesting help and donations.

“We need all the help with the following; advertising for upcoming fundraisers, tax-deductible monetary donations, flooring for a small kitchen without seams, donations for our upcoming spaghetti feed on March 25, including frozen meatballs, pasta, salad, salad dressing, bread, beverages, items and gift cards to raffle, and sewing and fabric supplies, and a defibrillator-with training.”

Birkland meanwhile, reiterated the importance of creating an environment and community for seniors to where they can feel safe and live their happiest life possible.

“Senior living isn’t a fountain of youth,” said Birkland. “Our goal is to provide seniors with a more fulfilling life to where they can live their best life possible, and provide a sense of security for their families, and have peace of mind knowing that they are taken care of 24/7.”

Further information on the senior centers for respective cities can be found at the following links:

♦ Antioch https://bit.ly/3XHYROp

♦ Brentwood https://bit.ly/3InjmdQ

♦ Oakley https://bit.ly/3KvzvAe

♦ Information for Merrill Gardens can be found here https://bit.ly/3kb7p2z

♦ TreVista Antioch can be found here https:// bit.ly/41bKUer

Considerations for seniors looking to go back to school

The picture of a traditional college student is one in his or her late teens or early 20s. However, a deeper look may reveal that college student demographics are more diverse than one might imagine. In fact, senior citizens can rest assured that if they plan to return to the classroom, they’re likely to find students around their age.

According to the senior citizen resource Elder Guru, about 0.3 percent of university students are older than 65. Even though that is a low number in the grand scheme of things, it is an indication that seniors have a presence on college campuses. And that number is expected to rise, experts say. Universities are increasing efforts to include seniors as important parts of their student bodies. Here are some things seniors considering going back to school may want to know.

♦ Incentives are available. Many schools are looking to expand their elder student body populations by making it easier for them to go to school. That means seniors may be able to attend for little to no cost through tuition

waivers and discounts. Speak with an admissions officer about your options.

♦ Lay the foundation for a new career.

A survey from the Rand Corporation found that 39 percent of workers age 65 and older who were currently employed had previously retired at some point. Going back to school may provide a foundation for new skills that can make it easier to advance in a second career. Heading back to classes also can help people stay competitive in a current job.

♦ Engage and socialize. Going back to school provides seniors with an opportunity to engage with their peers and younger students. Returning to school may expose older adults to new experiences, technologies and customs they may otherwise never have enjoyed.

♦ Embrace the excitement of a new environment and its challenges. Heading back to college can be challenging, which is something seniors looking for mental stimulation may enjoy. Senior Finance Advisor reports that heading back to school and lifelong learning has been linked to better health, improved financial situations and even a reduced risk of dementia.

♦ Staying informed. Going back to school can enable seniors to stay technologically informed and learn about movements and other factors that are helping to shape the modern world.

– Courtesy of Metro Cretive

Diet can combat age-related bodily changes

The human body is a marvel. How the body transforms over the course of an individual’s life is one of its more remarkable qualities, and those changes never cease, even as individuals near retirement age.

The changes associated with aging include physical transformations but also more subtle shifts the naked eye cannot see. For example, metabolism slows as individuals grow older, and aging also can lead to a decrease in bone density and muscle mass. These changes affect how men and women at or nearing retirement age should approach their diets in recognition of the various ways their nutritional needs change at this point in their lives. Any modifications to a diet should first be discussed with a physician, but the following are some ways aging adults can use diet to combat agerelated changes to their bodies.

Prioritize protein

The authors of a 2010 study published in the journal Current Opinion in Nutrition and Metabolic Care recommended that older adults consume between 25 and 30 grams of protein with each meal. The research-

ers behind the study concluded that such consumption could limit inactivity-mediated losses of muscle mass and function.

Overcome reduced production of vitamin D

WebMD notes that people over 65 typically experience a decrease in natural production of vitamin D. Vitamin D is not naturally found in many foods, so aging men and women may need to rely on

supplementation to ensure their bodies get enough of it. Vitamin D helps with antiinflammation, immune system support and muscle function, among other benefits. So it’s vital that aging men and women find ways to get sufficient vitamin D.

Consume ample dietary fiber for healthy digestion

The National Resource Center on Nutrition & Aging notes that fiber plays

an important role in the health of older adults. Fiber has been linked with heart health, healthy digestion, feeling full, and preventing constipation, which the online medical resource Healthline notes is a common health problem among the elderly. Though the NRCNA notes that older adults need slightly less fiber than their younger counterparts, it’s still a vital component of a nutritious diet. The feeling of fullness that fiber consumption can provide also is significant, as it can ensure adults who aren’t burning as many calories as they used to aren’t overeating in order to feel satisfied. That can make it easier for such adults to maintain a healthy weight.

Monitor intake of vitamin B12

The National Resource Center on Nutrition & Aging notes that vitamin B12 is involved in a host of important functions in the body, including nerve function and the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B12 is most easily found in animal products, which many aging men and women must largely avoid due to other health concerns. In such instances, men and women can discuss supplementation with their physicians as well as alternative food sources of B12, such as fortified cereals, salmon and other items. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative Bodily changes related to aging increase the likelihood that men and women will need to alter their diets in order to maintain their overall health.

5 ways to show seniors they’re appreciated

People are living longer than ever. And as individuals age, the demand for senior services continues to grow – as does the need to be patient and respect the elderly. There are many ways to show seniors just how much they’re appreciated.

1. Help with chores.

Lend a hand with chores around the house that may have grown difficult for seniors. This can include mowing the lawn, weeding garden beds, shoveling snow, raking leaves, or even taking the garbage pails in and out on collection days.

2. Visit more often.

Frequent visits are one of the simplest ways to show seniors you care. Whether seniors live in a private home or managed care facility, visitors brighten their days, especially if they no longer get out and about as frequently as they once did. Spending time together and sharing stories can bring smiles to the faces of older adults.

3. Plan activities with seniors in mind.

When organizing parties and special events, consider the needs of seniors on the guest list. Add music from their era to playlists or DJ requests. Seat seniors with mobility issues near exits and restrooms. Make sure to arrange for photos with the guest of honor to keep family history alive.

4. Thank seniors.

Find any reason to thank a senior. Perhaps someone served in the military or volunteered their time with children. Celebrate accomplishments big and small with a simple “thank you.”

5.

Prepare a meal.

Invite a special senior over for a homecooked meal with the family. Make it a regular occurrence on the calendar. If he or she cannot get out easily, bring a hot meal over to his or her place, instead.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Dog Boarding & Day Camp

How to avoid growing bored in retirement

From the moment young men and women first walk into the office for their first day as a working professional until the day they officially retire, the notion of planning for retirement is never far from their minds. But when the day to hang up the briefcase and donate all those business suits arrives, some retirees wonder what to do next. Some retirees know exactly how they will spend their days when they no longer have to work, while others who decide to play it by ear may find themselves battling boredom.

For those among the latter group, it’s important to understand that many retirees find themselves bored once they no longer have to focus on a career. Jobs keep men and women busy and provide a sense of purpose in their lives, so it’s understandable that retirees feel bored once those jobs are no longer a part of their lives. But just because you no longer have an office to go to every day does not mean life cannot be as fulfilling or even more fulfilling than it was when you were still working. You just need to find something to avoid succumbing to retirement boredom.

♦ Work part-time. Though it might seem odd to start working right after you retire, a part-time job can provide the type of structure you have grown accustomed to without all of the responsibility that comes with a full-time career. Part-time jobs can range from consultancy work that makes use of your professional experience to something entirely different like landscape maintenance at a nearby golf course that gets you out of the house and enjoying the warmer seasons. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s something you find fun and interesting.

♦ Embrace a new hobby. Working professionals often say they wish they had time to pursue a hobby. Now that you are retired, you have all the time in the world to do just that. Wheth- er it’s perfecting your golf game, writing that novel, learning to cook like a gourmet chef or whatever else you might have always wanted to do, retirement is a great time to do it.

♦ Get in shape. If retirement boredom has started to negatively affect your mood, one great way to conquer your boredom and improve your mood at the same time is to start exercising. Exercise is a natural mood enhancer. When the body exercises, it releases chemicals knowns as endorphins, which trigger positive feelings in the body. In addition, regular exercise has been shown to reduce stress, boost self-esteem and improve sleep. Working out at a gym also is a great way to meet fellow retirees in your community, and the energy you have after exercising may give you the boost you need to pursue other hobbies.

♦ Volunteer. If a part-time job is not up your alley, then consider volunteering in your community. Volunteers are always in demand, and volunteering with a local charity can provide a sense of purpose and provide opportunities to meet likeminded fellow retirees, all while helping to quell your boredom. Retirees who love to travel can combine their passion for volunteering with their love of travel by signing up to work with an international relief organization that travels abroad to help the less fortunate.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Effort to save Oakley Senior Center

The city could soon be losing one of its vital services aimed at assisting senior citizens and other local residents in need.

The Oakley Senior Center, located off of Second Street near downtown, is in danger of closing permanently due to financial problems. In addition to serving and assisting seniors, the Oakley Senior Center also helps other local residents, providing and distributing food to anyone in need as well as providing other services.

City Manager Josh McMurray told the City Council on Feb. 14 that the center “is in dire straits and in need of financial help.” He added that without more money, the center may be forced to close in two months. Vice Mayor Anissa Williams asked McMurray for a staff report to outline what options the city could find to help the center.

Donna Baker, the Oakley Senior Center’s first vice president, said she is asking for a one-time grant of $20,000: $1,700 average monthly expenses for 12 months, except for summer months when water bill increases from $100 month to about $400 because the center pays for watering the park as it’s on the center’s water main.

“For 7 years, we were able to handle bills and do all maintenance on the property,” she said. After closing because of COVID-19 and increased expenses, “we just couldn’t keep up,” she said. “We hope to use the funds as a backup for expenses and continue.”

Baker also said she will try to get the center on the City Council agenda for its meeting on March 14 for more discussion, adding that most cities have senior centers on their park and recreation budgets. Oakley is one of the few cities in the Bay Area where its senior center is not part of the city, she said.

“For the better part of four years, the

Oakley Senior Center has been the go-to place to get free groceries of all categories; produce, fruits, dairy, bakery, and meats,” said Allan Perry, president of the Oakley Senior Center. “We serve everyone of any age or residence. The hundreds of local residents have been dependent on every Thursday from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. to get their weekly grocery needs. The closing of the center will halt this valuable service we provide and cause untold financial hardship to the public that rely on this service, not to mention all the other services the center provides.”

The Oakley Senior Center has paid 242 members. Eighteen of them are “golden”

members (ages 90 or above), and thus have free membership, which otherwise costs $15 for annual memberships. Prior to signing a lease with the city to rent the former fire house on 215 Second St. seven years ago, a group of seniors who met on a regular basis called themselves “Oakley Seniors” for several years according to board member Judy Holt.

Per the agreement and rent with the city, the Oakley Senior Center would pay for watering the adjacent park and improve and maintain the building and grounds.

Unlike senior centers in nearby Antioch and Brentwood, Oakley’s Senior Center operates as a non-profit “club,” and therefore is not funded by or owned by the city. As a result, the Oakley Senior Center has been forced to pay for all of their own expenses and utilities to remain operational, including building improvements, which has been paid for in part by membership, grants, and other non-profits.

According to Baker, impact from the COVID-19 pandemic, including reduced membership amongst seniors still not willing or able to be around large gatherings or attend meetings, less participation in classes and activities, and mounting costs have caused the Oakley Senior Center to lose money, and struggling to stay open.

see Center page 18B

SEAN TONGSON

Photo by Chris Campos

City Manager Josh McMurray told the City Council that the center needs financial help. Without more money, he said the center may be forced to close in two months.

“We don’t just serve the needs of our seniors, but the entire community,” Baker said. “Anyone in need is given resources to help or suggestions of where to get help. In order to help our community, we opened our doors once a week to distribute food from the Food Bank, White Pony Express, McDonald’s and several grocery stores to feed anyone in need. According to our treasurer, Barbara Sparks, this program alone costs more than $6,000 a year to run the freezers. We had individuals and families that stood in line around the building and down the block waiting their turn to get food. Now, we are down to only about 150 families every Thursday. We still are a food pantry to help anyone who comes to our doors. As a result, our expenses went up due to operational expenses.”

Baker added, “In the past, our largest income was casino trips, which we were not able to continue. The casinos would help pay for the bus, but that is no longer the case.”

Additionally, in the last few months, the center has had a new roof installed paid for by the city, removal and replacement of old kitchen cabinets after receiving a grant from the food bank for new appliances, as well as repair work on the heater and swamp cooler, which was also paid for by the city. To reduce costs and to generate money, three domestic freezers have been sold, and items such as an antique desk, metal cabinet, and massage chair have been donated or put up for sale. Still, according to Baker, more improvements are needed.

“It is my belief that the City of Oakley did not realize what was going on at our center, which was our fault as we tried to take care of everything ourselves,” said Baker. “However, we know the city plans to tear the building down in the next few years. All of us are grateful because when the city became aware of our building needs they listened and gave us help. We believe that the city understands how hard we are working to continue to contribute to seniors and the entire community. In my heart, I know the City of Oakley does not want us to close or go bankrupt.”

According to Baker, all services, classes and support for seniors and the community will stop with the senior center closing and going bankrupt. Costa Café, which provides hot meals and/or a weekly supply of frozen meals, will no longer be able to provide those meals every Wednesday to those in need.

The Oakley Veterans, Lions Club, 4-H, and Meals on Wheels will all have to find a new home, as the senior center offers use of the building free of charge. The Food Bank would have to find another group of volunteers and location, and the front yard from the Rotary Club of Oakley will no longer be maintained by the Oakley Garden Club. Classes and programs such as cane defense, exercise, and fiber arts would also come to a close, as well as the monthly flea market. The adjacent park and grass will be neglected unless the City of Oakley agrees to pay for the watering.

And a receptionist and custodian whose salary is from the Senior Community

Service Employment Program (SCSEP) would also be out of work. In the meantime, Baker and Perry have been continually meeting with city officials to discuss ideas to generate funds or solutions going forward, including asking if the Oakley Senior Center can be part of the city. Fundraising efforts have been put forth in the coming weeks and months to generate funds aimed at keeping the senior center open, as well as requesting assistance and advertising from the city.

Upcoming fundraising events for the Oakley Senior Center include:

♦ A spaghetti feed on Saturday, March 25, featuring pasta, salad, bread, and nonalcoholic beverage for $20. Guests may pre-order eat-in or take-out. According to Baker, a request has been put to the city to allow free use of the Recreational Building on O’Hara Avenue with the added bonus of seating for more people and parking. The Fiber Arts group is making 50 placemats with donated fabric for the first 50 people who attend the spaghetti feed to take home as a ‘thank you’. Individuals and businesses are asked to sponsor a placemat for $20 each. Their name or business card will be attached to every placemat.

♦ A flea market will be held on every first Saturday of every month for $10 a table.

♦ A bus trip to Sky River Casino with Bingo in route on will run Wednesday March 22, for $40 per person paid in advance with the casino giving back $20 to each person on the bus and another $20 for first-time visitors.

♦ A car show on Saturday, May 6, for $20

per car entry.

Residents are encouraged to sign up for their annual membership for $15. Individuals younger than 60 years old are welcome, but will not be able to vote. Residents 90 years old and over are admitted free.

According to Baker, there are enough funds to keep their doors open until May or June, so any or all help is appreciated and welcome. Meanwhile, concerned residents are additionally encouraged to help prevent the Oakley Senior Center from closing by going online and writing in the “Area of Concern” category, or by attending City Council meetings, most notably during the next council meeting on Feb. 28 at 6:30 p.m.

Residents are also strongly encouraged to write letters expressing their concern, as Baker noted that written letters are “taken to heart.” The mailing address is P.O. Box 268, Oakley, CA, 94561. The street address: 215 Second St.. The phone number is 925-626-7223.

“Please let the City of Oakley know that you want Oakley Senior Center to survive by either writing the City Council or attending the next council meeting,” she added. “Over the last seven years, we have developed strong connections with each other and the community. We have become an extended family that looks out for each other; for better or worse. I cannot say enough about all of these wonderful people who look out for each other. We must save our senior center.”

For more information, visit https://bit. ly/3KnSGfj

How to protect your cognitive health

MIKE’S ESTATE PLANNING MINUTE 20 2021 1 BRENTWOOD

By Michael J. Amthor, Esq.

Cognitive

health is not something to take for granted.

Although a certain level of memory loss can be expected as people age, when the ability to clearly think, learn and remember is compromised, those changes can affect an individual’s ability to perform daily activities and should serve as a cause for concern.

Brain health should be a priority for everyone. The National Institute on Aging says brain health is an umbrella term that encompasses a host of factors, including:

♦ cognitive health, which is how well you think, learn and remember

♦ motor function, or how you make and control movements

♦ tactile function, which is how you feel sensations; and

♦ emotional function, or how emotions are interpreted and responded to.

Individuals can safeguard brain health - particularly cognitive health - by taking these steps.

Be more health-conscious

Working with doctors, individuals can put their health first. This includes getting routine screenings, managing chronic health problems, limiting or avoiding alcohol and nicotine products, and getting the recommended amount of sleep each night.

Manage high blood pressure

All chronic conditions cause longterm repercussions, but the NIA indicates that observational studies show having

high blood pressure in mid-life increases the risk of cognitive decline later in life. Lowering blood pressure lowers the risk for mild cognitive impairment and possibly dementia.

Challenge your brain

Harvard Medical School says nurturing social contacts, engaging in stimulating mental activities like reading and doing puzzles, seeing new places, and learning new things can help keep the brain in top form.

Manage stress

Stress can take its toll on the body, and there is reason to believe that it may adversely affect cognitive health as well. Make every stride to reduce stress, whether that involves taking vacations, meditating, laughing with friends and family, or engaging in relaxing activities that relieve stress.

Get enough vitamin D

Vitamin D is linked to a host health benefits, including its potential to promote a healthy brain. Individuals can get more time outdoors to get vitamin D naturally from the sun and eat foods rich in vitamin D. If doctors find that vitamin D levels are exceptionally low, supplementation can help. Pay attention to hearing loss

Certain hearing loss has been linked to cognitive decline, says Healthline. Researchers in Italy concluded that people with central hearing loss had a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment than those with no hearing loss or peripheral hearing loss. Individuals with central hearing loss are urged to speak to their physicians to determine if they can take preventive action to stave off further decline.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Law Office of Ruth N. Buzzard

Your Local Attorney & Counselor at Law

WE CAN HELP!

Our office takes a comprehensive approach to Estate Planning. If you pass away intestate (without a will/ trust) the State of California has statutory provisions that will divide your estate, often these provisions are not aligned with your wishes. As you mature and acquire assets, don’t forget to plan for how those assets will be managed and divided upon your departure from this world.

Trust Administration: After your loved one has passed and you have been left in charge of handling their affairs, the task can be daunting. Let our office guide you through this process effectively and minimize the stress you are already going through due to your loss. 729 First Street, Suite D Brentwood • 925-516-7459

Estate planning documents cover the distribution of assets after death but do not always provide the details you may want those you leave behind to have. This is partly because these types of details and information typically change often. Changes to a will or trust require certain formalities (i.e. must be in writing, signed by you, etc.) This is where a letter instruction can be helpful.

Although the letter is not binding, it can be very helpful in identifying final wishes you may have, such as social media posts, financial information, a list of assets and even desired distributions of personal property to assist those appointed to make those distributions. The letter can include account numbers, location of important documents, a list of professionals you use, website passwords, etc. Obviously, it is important to make sure the letter is updated on a regular basis to make sure the information is current.

On the issue of personal property, another option is the use of a separate letter to make a binding distribution of personal property items such as vehicles, jewelry,

furniture, family heirlooms, etc. To use a letter in this context, your will must state that you are authorizing the distribution of personal property in a separate writing, the separate writing must be dated and be either in your handwriting or signed by you. The benefit here is that you can change this letter at any time and add and subtract property as you see fit. Changes do not require you to amend your will or even contact an attorney, etc.

In short, this method provides you flexibility in the distribution of personal property. If your will does not already include a reference to the use of such a letter, make sure you revise your will ASAP and have the necessary language added.

We can certainly assist you with this and all other estate planning needs you may have. Every person is different, and we have many suggestions and options available to address your unique situation.

If you have questions on this or any other estate planning topic, call me at (925) 5164888. East County Family Law Group, 1181 Central Blvd., Brentwood www.eastcountyfamilylaw.com – Advertisement