Please Have Heart YES, I Want To Help ... - Isabella County€¦ · alternative options such as Adult Day Programming, Private Duty Home Care, or other in-home help. A case manager

Volume 120 Issue 1

JANUARY 2020

Published monthly by the Friends of Isabella Seniors for the Isabella County Commission on Aging Friends of Isabella Seniors - 2200 S Lincoln Rd., Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 - (989) 772-0748 - isabellacounty.org/active living-newspaper

Please Have-A-Heart

The Commission on Aging and Friends of

Isabella Seniors are asking you to “Have-a-Heart”

and make a donation to support the 2020 Have-A-

Heart Project.

The “Have a Heart” project depends solely

on the generosity of Isabella County residents.

There are no federal, state or local funds used for

this program. As in the past, the COA expects to

assist between 75 to 100 older adult residents in

Isabella County with the high costs of

prescription medications, warm winter clothing,

and food. If you have questions or would like

more information, please contact the Commission

on Aging at (989) 772-0748.

Please fill out and return the form at right.

Every dollar helps us reach our goal. Thank You in

advance for your willingness to help our friends

and neighbors.

GOAL

$7,500

YES, I Want To Help Have a Heart

Name: ______________________________________

Address: ______________________________________

City: ________________ State: __________ Zip: __________ I would like to donate the amount of $________

My donation is in memory of:

in honor of:

__________________________________________

Please keep my donation anonymous.

Make checks payable to: FOIS - Have-a-Heart Mail to:

Friends of Isabella Seniors Attn: Have-A-Heart 2200 S. Lincoln Rd. Mt. Pleasant, MI. 48858

There is Still Time to Join a Great Program and Make a Difference!

Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion Programs

Your Benefits are: $2.65 an hour non-tax stipend (will not affect social

security, subsidized housing etc.), Mileage reimbursement and a meal during

service hours, Training, PTO, and Holiday Pay.

You Must be: 55 and older, meet income guidelines, available to volunteer

15 to 20 hours, and pass background checks. Serving: Clare, Gratiot and

Isabella Counties.

Please contact: Brandi Knivila, Jodi Onstott, or Anne Acles at

(989)772-0748 for more information.

Page 2 Active LIVING Volume 120 Issue 1 – JANUARY 2020

Question: I am the caregiver for my mother and am

looking for additional help in the home. My mother

cannot be left alone and I am concerned when I need to

run to the store, or have other appointments that I must

keep. Is there any help available?

Answer: The Commission on Aging does offer a

Respite Care program that can give caregivers some time

away, while their loved one is being taken care of.

Typically, a respite care aide is scheduled to come out on

the same day each week for a duration of 2-4 hours each

visit. During that time, the aide can assist with activities

of daily living and offer socialization, while the caregiver

is away. If interested, a person would want to contact a

case manager, or the Caregiver Support Specialist, for

additional information. Case managers can also discuss

alternative options such as Adult Day Programming,

Private Duty Home Care, or other in-home help. A case

manager can be reached by calling the Commission on

Aging at (989)772-0748.

You can mail your questions to:

Ask a COA Specialist

Isabella County Commission on Aging

2200 S. Lincoln Rd., Mt Pleasant, MI 48858

or

Call: (989)772-0748 ext. 236 or Fax: (989)773-0514

Happy New Year! It just does not

seem possible that the year 2020 could be

upon us already, but here it is. For me and

my family, 2020 is a big year that will be

filled with many emotions. Our oldest son

will be graduating from high school this

spring and going off to college this fall. We

often heard just how quickly time would pass,

and that could not be more accurate. I am not

quite sure that my heart is prepared for all of

this, but it certainly is bursting with pride and

excitement.

While we look at all that is to come in the New Year, I hope that

you take some time to reflect on the past year. When you do, I hope that

you can look back upon 2019 and smile. I am sure that we can all say that

the year was filled with ups and downs, some harder than others, but no

matter what storms you weathered, you made it through and are stronger

as a result, whether it be physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually, or

all of the above. My wish for you in this New Year is that you experience

more ups than downs, appreciating everything that brings you joy. My

challenge for you in this New Year is that you make an effort to bring that

joy to others, helping them to experience more positivity in the New Year

as well.

On behalf of our Isabella County Commission on Aging Family, I

extend to you a heartfelt thank you for allowing us to serve you in 2019.

We look forward to continuing that service in the New Year and wish you

a very Happy and Healthy 2020!

This page is sponsored by: Crestwood Village Assisted Living

Gold Key Volunteer

Opportunities

Jennifer A. Crawford, M.S.A., COA Executive Director

COA Executive Director’s Comments

• Live safer, healthier and longer

• In-home health assessment

• Follow-up with Central Michigan University doctors

• Help train doctors of the future

• Free weekly workout program

• Reduce risk of falling by improving

health and balance

• Transportation available

Ask a COA Specialist

The Commission on Aging prepares over 1,000

meals per week on average. We need YOU to help us

package meals for delivery and be a friendly face while

serving meals at COA! We are looking for Kitchen

Assistant Volunteers for the kitchen at COA.

Volunteers help with congregate and home delivered

meals. Time frame is Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. –

12:15 p.m. Days Needed: Monday & Thursday.

Any Interested individuals should contact Kelly

Herrmann, Gold Key Volunteer Program Coordinator, at

COA: (989) 772-0748.

COA Book Clubs Both Book Clubs at COA are full at this time. If

interested in joining a waiting list contact Marcy Jerome

at 989-772-0748. If there is enough interest a new Book

Club could be started in the new year.

Active LIVING Page 3

This page is sponsored by: McLaren Central Michigan Hospital

Mission Moments

Caregiver Support Group “Peer support provides caregivers

dedicated time and space to be with other

caregivers dealing with similar issues -- a

place to receive and give support and a

safe place to vent.. Support groups allow

caregivers to focus on their needs, not just

the needs of the care recipient. It aligns

with the philosophy when the oxygen

mask drops in an airplane cabin. We

always put on our own mask first before

helping the person who needs us.” (Family

Caregivers of British Columbia)

All caregivers are welcome. If you

have questions, call Mary Ellen Walsh,

Caregiver Support Specialist, at 989-953-

4449. This monthly support group meets

in the Craft/Art Room at the COA on

Tuesday, January 21 from 12:30 p.m.

to 2:00 p.m.

The dates for our next Caregiver

Trainings will be April 16 and October 1.

Topics and presenter’s information will be

published as we get closer to these dates.

Mark your calendars now for these

offerings in 2020!

A Fond Farewell Open

House for Sue Germain

After 20 years of service, the

Commission on Aging is preparing to say

goodbye to Sue Germain. Sue has provided

personal care assistance to many older

adults living in the county. She provided

very competent service with great

compassion, a caring spirit and with a

smile.

Sue has always been willing to

assist other In-Home workers and has been

a valued staff member of the agency.

Please help us thank Sue and

say goodbye by attending an

Open House in her honor on

Friday, January 10 from 2:00

p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the

Commission on Aging in

Activity Room A.

“I want to say how much I have

enjoyed working for the Commission on

Aging for the last 20 years. It has been a

very rewarding experience. I have met

many wonderful people from my co-

worker’s past and present, to my clients and

their families, also past and present. I have

made lasting friendships with those I have

worked with and the families of the clients I

have had the privilege to care for. Thank

you for making my job with this great

institution fun, interesting, stressful at times

but always rewarding.” Sue Germain

Medicare Seminar Beginning January 27, the

Commission on Aging will offer a

seminar covering the basics of Medicare.

The seminars will be offered on the last

Monday of each month at 1:00 p.m. in

the COA Craft Room. The seminars are

intended for those that are new to

Medicare, who may be looking at retiring,

or for those needing more information on

how their current plan works. If you plan

to attend, please call the COA at (989) 772

-0748 and register for the seminar, as there

is limited seating. There is no cost for the

seminar.

Sue Germain

It’s the beginning of a new year. The holidays are over and New Year’s

resolutions have been made. One of my New Year’s resolutions will be accomplished

through this article----one of my New Year’s resolutions was to thank all those who

worked so hard on the Medicare D enrollment last December. Medicare D enrollment

runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. Agency staff encourages people to

make an appointment during this time, to be sure they are on the best Medicare Drug

Plan for their prescription medications. Each appointment takes between 30 – 45

minutes to complete and it assures participants that they will have the best plan to use at

their pharmacy.

The Commission on Aging social workers, and many trained volunteers, worked

very hard to give enrollees access to the process. The social workers and all of our

returning volunteers, participated in a day long training, to learn the Medicare Drug

website and how to help enrollees. The volunteers worked mornings and afternoons to

assist people in the enrollment process. Not only did the social workers and volunteers

become very efficient with the process but they did it with a cheerfulness and kindness

that put enrollees at ease.

Thanks to all of the hard work of our volunteers and trained staff, the

Commission on Aging was able to see approximately 550 Medicare Beneficiaries and

help save over $322,720 in overall prescription drug costs. So again, a great, big

THANK YOU to our wonderful volunteers and social workers for all that was

accomplished for the older adults of our community.

Jenn Martin, In Home Services Program Coordinator

Reminder:

COA Holiday Closings

~No Meals Served~

Wednesday, January 1 &

Monday, January 20


This page is sponsored by: Kerr Trust & Estate, Elder Law Firm, PLLC

Events and Classes

Questions about Your Adaptive Equipment? The Laurels of Mt. Pleasant would like to invite you to a FREE

informative, yet casual, session about adaptive equipment. Does your

wheelchair fit you properly? Is your walker the correct height? How do you

know when you need a walker instead of a cane? Please bring questions you

have regarding these topics, or other adaptive equipment related issues, to the

Commission on Aging on January 16 from 11:00 a.m. to noon in Room A.

iPad and iPhone Class Tuesday, January 21, at 2:00 p.m. in COA Room B

This month will be an open discussion/question and answer session.

Bring any computer or device questions with you as well as future topic

suggestions! Sponsored by Veterans Memorial Library

Telling My Story Sheila Carroll, Instructor, will provide Six

1 hour sessions on Thursdays, February 20 to

March 26, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the

Craft Room. The course will teach participants to

recall and tell important life events in order for

them to pass on the legacy of their life to their

children and grandchildren. As they develop their

stories, participants will have an opportunity to

reflect on the lesson learned and share that as part

of the story. A culminating experience would be

to create one’s story in a tangible way--recording,

written story, letter, re-enactment, scrap book

page--and share it in a presentation at the end

where all are welcome to attend.

Cost for the six week session will be $25

per participant/story. Deadline for signups and

payment will be February 14. Please contact

Marcy Jerome, Activity Program Coordinator, to

sign up or with questions at (989) 772-0748 or

[email protected].

State Employee Retiree Assn On Tuesday, January 21, 2020, our

presenter will be Jake Borton from the Isabella

County Recycling Facility. He will give an

update on any recycling issues and how we can

participate in the process. The meeting will start

at 1:00 p.m. in Room A at the Commission on

Aging. At the November meeting, there were no

nominations from the floor for new officers.

Therefore, the current officers will continue their

positions until November 2020. Currently the

Chairman is Jim Schafer, Vice-chair Jenny

Cooper as well as membership coordinator,

Treasurer Freida Augustine, Sunshine reports will

be by Irene Chapman, and Jackie Curtis will be

Recording Secretary as well as Program

Coordinator. The members at Large: Donna

Collins, Barbara Wells, Carol Metcalf, and

Shirley Stambaugh. Following the presentation

will be our business meeting, door prize and the

50/50 drawing. If there are any questions, please

feel free to contact Jackie Curtis at (989)772-0597

or [email protected].

FREE Movie & Popcorn The movie, Secondhand Lions, will be shown on Tuesday, January

28 at 12:45 p.m. at COA in Rooms A & B. The movie and popcorn are FREE

but donations are always welcome.

In this comedy-drama coming-of-age story a shy, young boy is sent by

his irresponsible mother to spend the summer with his wealthy, eccentric uncles

in Texas. (Rated PG, 1 hour 51minutes) Call Katie 989-772-0748 at ext. 223

24 HOURS IN ADVANCE to register for the movie.

Winter Schedule Changes Anyone Can Paint meets again in February. MARSP will not meet

January thru April. No Water Aerobics or Aqua Zumba until Monday,

January 13 at CMU. The next open meeting for the Mt. Pleasant Garden

Club is Monday, March 16 with a presentation on Shade Gardening.

Genealogical Society of Isabella County will meet in March. The group is

open to the public --- Hope you can join them. More information may be

obtained from their group website: http://isabellagenealogy.org

Central Michigan District Health Department branch offices in

Standish, Harrison, Gladwin, Mt. Pleasant, Reed City, Marion and Prudenville

will be closed from December 24, 2019 through January 1, 2020 as a cost-

savings measure. If you have a life threatening emergency during this time,

please call 911. Your local health department looks forward to serving you on

January 2, 2020 when it resumes normal operations.

Weather Closings for Food with Friends Please watch the following television stations on those days that the

weather looks questionable for meal delivery: TV 9 & 10; ABC 12; NBC

25;WNEM—TV 5; Radio Station WCZY-FM 104.3. Closing decisions are

generally made prior to 7:00 a.m. and are displayed on television by 8:00 a.m.

mailto:[email protected]

http://isabellagenealogy.org/


Tai Chi for

Health and Balance

Tai Chi for Health and Balance is a

research-based tai chi form created by Dr.

Paul Lam, retired family physician, and his

team of health care professionals. It is a

gentle, slow-moving exercise designed to

improve balance, flexibility, muscle

strength, and a sense of well-being.

Regular practice may also reduce the

incidence and fear of falling in the elderly.

Beginner Tai Chi (Tai Chi for Health and Balance)

Tuesdays & Thursdays

Session starts January 7

10:00a.m. -11:00 a.m.

COA Fitness Room

No experience necessary.

New participants welcome!

Intermediate Tai Chi

(Yang 24)

Tuesdays & Thursdays

Session starts January 7

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

COA Fitness Room

New participants welcome!

Both classes require purchase of non-

expiring Fitness Punch Card:

12 classes for $36

24 classes for $72

Loose Clothing and Supportive Shoes

Recommended

Jim VanderMey

Board Certified Instructor

Tai Chi for Health Programs

Peer Led Low-Impact

Exercise Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays

10:15 a.m. COA Fitness Room

No Charge

This page is sponsored by: Your Family or Organization - Call COA for details.

Aqua Zumba Splash your way into shape with an

invigorating, low-impact aquatic workout.

Integrating the Zumba philosophy with

traditional aquatic fitness disciplines, Aqua

Zumba® blends it all together into a

workout that's cardio-conditioning, toning

and exhilarating!

Tuesdays and Thursdays

7:15 a.m. - 8:15 a.m.

CMU SAC Pool closed until Jan. 10

Requires purchase of Non-expiring

Fitness Punch Card: 12 classes for $36

MUST have a liability form on file with

COA to attend the class. Forms and punch

card available for purchase at COA

Instructor: Angela McGuirk

Fitness Classes For more information or to register contact Marcy Jerome at COA (989) 772-0748

Hula Class Come learn the hula as well as other

Polynesian dances. The music and

movements are fun to do. All ages and

levels of ability are welcome. Wear

comfortable clothing (barefoot optional).

Thursdays, 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

COA Fitness Room - No Charge

Instructor: Sue Courington

Yoga Zen Yoga, with gentle range of motion

movements, includes gentle holding

positions for hips, lower back and

shoulders.

Thursdays

3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Starting January 9

COA Fitness Room


Fitness Punch Card:

12 classes for $36

Drop-in Fee $5

Please bring your own mat

Punch card available for purchase at COA

Instructor: Catherine Tobin

Water Aerobics Whether you want low or high

intensity, this class is easy on your joints.

Can’t jump? OK, kick instead. Can’t raise

arms high? OK, work them in the water.

Want social time? Yes, we have a chatty

group. Class is held based on CMU

schedule and routine closings.

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays

9:05 a.m. to 10:05 a.m.

CMU SAC Pool closed until Jan. 10


Fitness Punch Card:

12 classes for $36

MUST have a liability form on file

with COA to attend the class. Forms and

punch cards available at COA.

Instructor: Mary Alsager

Chair Yoga Chair Yoga replaces our Silver Sneakers

Yoga Stretch class. Chair Yoga is a

version of yoga designed for older adults

and those with physical challenges. It is

for adults who wish to stay physically

active and improve their fitness levels.

Wednesdays

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

In COA Fitness Room


Fitness Punch Card: 12 classes for $36

Drop-in Fee $5

Punch card available for purchase at COA

Instructor: Carol Clute


This page is sponsored by: Pat & Marty Siuda family in support of Isabella County Seniors

Tuesday, January 21

5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

at COA in Room C

Live music by: Kick’n Kountry

Cover charge: $5 and 50/50 Raffle and

Table Games will be available

Bring your dancing shoes, or just come enjoy the live music!

Snacks and Refreshments are available

for purchase

Questions: Contact Marcy Jerome at

989-772-0748

Events at COA

Movement with Music Matters at COA in the Fitness Room

Wednesdays 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

• This is an exercise class that utilizes MUSIC and

DANCE to work on balance, coordination, aerobic

intensity, and speed, using whole body movements

and cognitive challenges.

• Excellent for people with Parkinson’s disease and

anyone who wants to improve physical health and

have FUN!

• Please wear comfortable clothes and tennis shoes

and bring a water bottle if possible.

• All skill levels are welcome! These Activities can

be adapted to any individual’s skill level.

For more information please contact:

Heather Trommer Beardslee or Dr. Jamie Haines

at

Email: [email protected] (989) 774-4305

Email: [email protected] (989) 774-2533

Join us for a

Super Bowl Party

on Friday,

January 31

at 11:00 a.m. in

Room C Featuring Super Bowl

trivia, best Super Bowl

commercials, and Super

Bowl themed snacks!

Make your lunch reservations with Katie at

least 24 hours in advance by calling 989-772-

0748.


This page is sponsored by: Clark family Funeral Chapel and Cremation Service

Events at COA

Create a Basic Roadside Emergency Kit • Quality Multi-Tool, such as a Leatherman or Rescue

Knife with glass breaker

• Basic First Aid Kit (add spare medication)

• Jumper Cables

• Bright Flashlight (w/ extra batteries)

• Cell phone charger

• Blanket, hat, gloves, boots & coat

• Tow strap, tire pressure gauge & “Fix a Flat” type product

• Bright, high visibility vest or rain poncho

• Snacks & water

• Paper copy of contacts & emergency numbers

• Duct tape & paracord

• Additional seasonal items (snow brush, shovel, etc.)

• Something to store your kit in (i.e. backpack)

Caregiver Support Books in COA Library There are now two shelves above the encyclopedias in the

Library that hold various books on the topics of Caregiving, Memory

Loss, Dementia, Caregiver Support and other topics related to

caregiving and memory loss. Please feel free to borrow these books

and return them for others to borrow when you have finished. These

books are there for you and will be lent out on the honor system.

Thank You, Gold Key Volunteers! We celebrated our Annual

Gold Key Winter Appreciation

Breakfast in December. We had a

wonderful time and are so

grateful for these events so our

staff can show gratitude to all of

our fabulous COA volunteers.

Thank you Gold Key

volunteers for attending and

letting our staff serve you. We

appreciate all of the time and

talents that you selflessly give,

and wish you all a great winter!

You truly are our “Gold Key” to

serving our county!

Pictured at right are Gold Key

Volunteers Ruth and Bob

Barnes.

Iridology with Amanda Pardee Come learn what your eyes have to reveal! Join

Amanda Pardee, student at NITE (Naturopathic Institute

of Therapies & Education), on Wednesday, January 15

from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in Room A, as she looks

into the windows of our health and explains how iridology

can be a non-invasive way to predict health concerns. The

definition of iridology is, “the study of the iris of the eye

to determine tissue weakness and the body’s predisposi-

tion to weakness.” We’re going to discuss what the color

and other features in our eyes mean, how they effect us,

and how to analyze what we find to improve our overall

health. This practice has been used for centuries and

Amanda wants to share what she’s learning on her path to

becoming a Naturopathic Educator and eventually a Na-

turopathic Doctor. She’s taking a holistic approach to

helping rid that what ails you.


This page is sponsored by: Central Michigan Affordable Cremation ~ Compassion Without the Cost

Monday Tuesday Wednesday

Closed 1

6

9:00 Tax Training (B)

10:00 Dulcimer (Craft)

10:15 Peer Led Low-Impact Exercise (F)

12:00 Community Service Council (A)

1:00 Dominos & Pinochle (C)

1:00 Mahjong (Craft)

7

9:00 ISAC Meeting (B)

10:00 Beginning Tai Chi $⧫(F)

11:00 The Music Makers (C)

11:30 Intermediate Tai Chi $⧫(F)

7:00 Evening Bloomers Garden Club (B)

8

9:00 Chair Yoga $ (A)

9:00 Second Sight Artists (Craft)


11:00 DIY Argyle Pattern (C)


1:00 Between the Covers Book Club (Library)

1:00 Pepper (C)

1:00 Happy Ripper Quilters (Craft)

13


10:00 Dulcimer (Craft)



1:00 Mahjong (Craft)

14

10:00 Needle Crafters (Craft)


11:00 Coffee & Conversation (C)


12:30 Treats (C)

7:00 Mid Michigan Wood Crafters (Craft)

15


9:00 Chair Yoga $ (A)


11:00 Iridology Presentation (A)

11:00 Hat Contest (C)

1:00 Pepper (C)


1:00 Second Hand Book Club (Library)

Closed 20

8:30 Friends of Isabella Seniors (Craft) 21


11:00 Coffee and Conversation (C)


12:30 Caregiver Support Group (Craft)

1:00 State Retiree Mtg (A)

1:00 CMU Fall Prevention (F)

2:00 iPad /iPhone Class (Craft)

5:00 Senior Dance (C)

22


9:00 Chair Yoga $ (F)

9:00 Second Sight Artists (Craft)


1:00 Pepper (C)


9:00 Tax Training (B) 27

10:00 Dulcimers (Craft)


11:00 Chocolate Cake (C)

1:00 Medicare Seminar (Craft)


1:00 Mahjong (C)

5:30 Foster Parent Support Group (A)

7:00 Friends of the Dog Park (B)

28


11:30 “Pop” Corn Quiz Game (C)


12:45 Movie - Second Hand Lions (A&B)

1:00 CMU Fall Prevention (F)

29

9:00 Chair Yoga $ (F)


11:00 Timed Puzzle Game (C)


1:00 Pepper (C)

COA Room Guide The room or location for each activity is listed on the calendar for reference.

Codes for rooms and locations are as follows:

A - Activity Room A Craft - Arts & Crafts Room CF - Conference Room

B - Activity Room B F - Fitness Room BR1 - Board Room

C - Activity Room C Lab - Computer Lab Library - Library

Activity Center - January Activities Active LIVING Page 9

This page is sponsored by: Cain & Sisung CPAs PC

Thursday Friday Saturday

2

10:00 Learn to Knit (Craft)

11:00 Word Games (C)

1:00 Euchre (C)

5:30 Hula Class (F)

3

9:00 Isabella County Collaborative (B)

10:00 Jam Session (C)


12:00 Fun Straws (C)

12:30 Ukulele (Craft)

12:45 Bingo w/ The Laurels (C)

2:30 Pepper (C)

4

9




1:00 Cribbage (C)

3:30 Yoga $ (F)

5:00 ICRH (A)

5:00 Hula (F)

6:00 Community Cancer Services (A)

10

10:00 Jam Session (Craft)




12:45 Bingo (C)

2:00 Sue Germain Retirement Open House (A)

2:30 Pepper (C)

11

16



11:00 Adaptive Equipment w/ Laurels (A)

11:00 Window Cling Craft (C)


1:00 Euchre (C)

3:30 Yoga $ (F)

5:00 Hula Class (F)

17





12:45 Bingo (C)

2:30 Pepper (C)

18

9:00 Central Michigan Daylily (A)

9:00 Charlene’s Quilt Group (Craft)

23

9:00 State of Michigan (B)




1:00 Euchre (C)

3:30 Yoga $ (F)

5:00 Hula Class (F)

24




11:00 Greg Merwin (C)

12:30 State Rep Roger Hauck Monthly Mtg (Library)


12:45 Bingo (C)

2:30 Pepper (C)

25

30




11:15 Jeopardy (C)


1:00 Euchre (C)

3:30 Yoga $ (F)

5:00 Hula Class (F)

31

8:00 Happy Rippers (A/B)



11:00 Super Bowl Party (C)


12:45 Bingo (C)

2:30 Pepper (C)

Food with Friends Lunch Monday thru Friday at 12:00 p.m.

in Activity Room C.

See our Menu on pg. 12

Calendar Key: ⧫ = Reservation Required

$ = Fee for Activity

Never underestimate the

power of a kind person.

Kindness is a choice that

comes from incredible

strength. A Simple Peaceful Life

Choosing kindness is the

ultimate expression of

evolved consciousness.

Grow by being kind. Amy Leigh Mercree

Sharing your kindness

sparks understanding all

around. Then like

fireflies in the night,

twinkling love

surrounds you. Amy Leigh Mercree


This page is sponsored by: The Laurels and Maplewood of Mt. Pleasant

Free Balance Screenings This 20 minute screening may be helpful for anyone

wanting to check their balance or for those with loss of

balance, weakness or decreased coordination. Our licensed

Physical or Occupational Therapist performs the screening and

provides a consult. You will also receive a copy of your

screening results and results will be sent to your physician, if

requested.

McLaren Central MI Rehabilitation Services

2600 Three Leaves Drive, Mt. Pleasant

Call (989) 779-5604 to schedule an appointment.

Community Cholesterol Screening Cholesterol plays a key role in your heart health. A

screening test is available with information about your:

-Total cholesterol -HDL cholesterol - LDL cholesterol

- Glucose - Triglycerides - Blood Pressure

Fasting for 10-12 hours before the test is required.

Walk-in cholesterol screenings will be offered

on Wednesday, January 15 from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Cost is $25. No appointment is necessary; however

registration is needed the day of your screening. The

registration desk is located inside the East entrance of the

hospital (the old Emergency Department entrance).

McLaren Central Michigan, 1221 South Drive, Mt.

Pleasant.

Joint Replacement: The next step. McLaren Central Michigan offers an all-inclusive joint

replacement program for individuals planning a total joint

replacement. If you would like to learn more about the joint

replacement process, join us at one of our educational seminars

on:

Monday, January 6 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Monday, January 20 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

McLaren Central Michigan Hospital

1221 South Drive Mt. Pleasant

Call our Joint Replacement Coordinator at (989) 779-5651

to register.

Free Tax Preparation Available The Isabella County Commission on Aging is working again

with the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program to assist area citizens

by providing free income tax preparation with free e-filing available.

This service is provided to low and middle income seniors.

Appointments for all sites except Andahwod Senior Care,

Winchester Towers and Riverview must be made by calling the

Commission on Aging. Andahwod Senior Care, Winchester

Towers and Riverview residents should call their building office. The volunteers at these tax clinics will be handling Federal

and Michigan tax returns that are within the scope of their training,

as well as Homestead Property Tax and Home Heating credits.

Volunteers are required to pass an IRS test before they can

prepare returns. Individuals who are self-employed, have rental

property, large numbers of stock transactions or have sold property

(other than their main home) should consult a paid professional tax

preparer.

The following are the dates, places and times for the free tax

preparation by appointment only.

2020 Tax Preparation Schedule

*Commission on Aging - Activity Center

Thursdays, February 6 thru April 9

9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Some additional dates on Tuesdays and Wednesdays will

be available in February and March. Call to check

schedule.

*Blanchard Library / Rolland Township Hall

Tuesdays, February 11 and March 17

February 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

*Weidman Food with Friends Site / Weidman Library

Tuesdays, February 4, 18 and March 10

10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

*Coe Township Library, Shepherd

Tuesday, February 4 and March 17

12:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

*Above sites, call for an appointment (989) 772-0748.

Residents of Riverview, Winchester Towers and Andahwod Senior

Care please call your building office for dates and times. Those

appointments are limited to residents of those facilities.

Tax payers MUST bring Picture ID, Social Security cards (NOT

Medicare cards) and a paper listing bank routing number and

bank account number if direct deposit is desired.

Parkinson’s Support Group

Stroke Support Group

Information on next page.


This page is sponsored by: Medilodge of Mt. Pleasant . . . a Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

Adult Grief Group

3rd Thursday of the month - 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Woodland Hospice, 2597 S. Meridian Rd., Mt. Pleasant

(989) 633-1437

Alcoholics Anonymous / Alanon Groups

For area meetings call (989) 772-4955

Alzheimer’s Support Group

1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month - 1:00 p.m.

First Presbyterian Church, 495 Charles Ave., Alma

Scott Hicks (989) 875-5269

If the individual with Alzheimer’s/Dementia is planning to attend,

please call the contact listed prior to attendance.

Bariatric Support Group

1st Wednesday of the month - 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Mid-Michigan Medical Center

4851 E. Pickard St., Suite 1200, Mt. Pleasant

(989) 463-6699

Bipolar Support Group

1st Wednesday of the month - 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

McLaren CM Hospital, 1221 South Dr., Mt. Pleasant

LAJ Conference Room

Marsha MacNiell (989) 772-6232

Breathing Easy Support Group (Chronic Lung Disease)

Mid-Michigan Medical Center

300 E. Warwick Dr., Alma

Dates and registration: www.midmichigan.org/breathingeasy

Brain Injury Support Group

1st Thursday of the month - 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Coe Township Hall, 309 Wright Ave, Shepherd

Trudi Clark (989) 463-6669

Caregiver Support Group

3rd Tuesday of the month - 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Isabella County Commission on Aging Craft Room

2200 S. Lincoln Rd., Mt. Pleasant

Mary Ellen Walsh, 989-772-0748

Compassionate Friends (Grief Support after death of a child)

1st Tuesday of the month - 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

St. John’s Episcopal Church 206 W. Maple, Mt. Pleasant

Donna Mayes (989) 330-2255

Dementia Caregiver Support Group

Wednesdays - 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Alma United Methodist Church

508 Gratiot Ave., Alma

Dementia Support Group Meeting

3rd Monday of the month - 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Medilodge of Mt. Pleasant

1524 Portabella Trail, Mt. Pleasant,

989-772-2967

Gamblers Anonymous Meetings

Mondays - 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

First United Methodist Church, 400 S. Main, Mt. Pleasant

Open Meeting

Tracy B. (517) 975-4270

Head Strong/Head Injury Support*

*DOES NOT MEET JANUARY TO APRIL

3rd Tuesday of the month - 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Gratiot Medical Center, 300 E Warwick Dr., Rm 1161 A/B, Alma

Earline Artecki (989) 506-4498

Huntington’s Disease Support Group

2nd Tuesday of the month - 7:00 p.m.

Coldwell Banker - Mt. Pleasant Realty

304 E. Broadway, Mt. Pleasant

Ann Voss (989) 561-5023 Galen Voss (989) 245-5725

Nancy Carey Cancer Support Group for Women

4th Wednesday of the month - 7:00 p.m.

Canterbury East Apts. Community Room

1517 Canterbury Trail, Mt. Pleasant

Gisela Moffit (989) 772-1602


3rd Tuesday of each month from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

McLaren Central Michigan Rehabilitation Services

2600 Three Leaves Drive, Mt. Pleasant

Call (989) 779-5604 to register.


4th Wednesday of the month - 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Masonic Pathways Conference Room, 1200 Wright Ave, Alma

Scott Hicks (989) 875-5269

Stroke Support Group

2nd Monday of the month - 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

McLaren CM Hospital, LAJ Conference Room

1221 South Dr., Mt. Pleasant

Registration call (989) 779-5604

Vet-to-Vet Support Group

1st Thursday of the month - 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Gratiot County Commission on Aging

515 S. Pine River St., Ithaca

Bill (989) 620-6586

Area Support Groups

This page is sponsored by: Pasquali Law Offices, PLLC, Elder Law, Trust & Estate Services


Rosebush January Calendar

3 Music by the Fabulous Heftones

6 Winter craft-Snowmen

8 Penny Bingo

10 Music by Mark Baumann / Ice Cream Social

13 Bingo with Prizes

15 Penny Bingo / Nutrition Ed

17 Music by Dale Hafer

20 Closed

22 Penny Bingo / Birthday Treats

24 Music by Jim Gilmore

27 Manicures

29 Penny Bingo

31 Appreciation Auction

Rosebush Village of Rosebush Manor

4210 E. Rosebush Rd., Rosebush

Meals M, W, F, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Jeanette Brussow, Site Mgr., (989) 433-0151

Happy New Year! That being said…why not start the New

Year off by trying something new? Meet some new friends? The

Rosebush Food with Friends site has just what you’re looking for.

Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday we offer Sit and Get Fit at

11:15. Lunch is served at noon, so why not stay for a warm,

delicious meal? Hang around after lunch and play a couple of

games of bingo, listen to some fantastic music, or do a craft. There

is something for everyone at the Rosebush Food with Friends

site. Don't forget about our ice cream social...what a great way to

spend an afternoon? We look forward to seeing you…

All activities are provided in conjunction with Rosebush Manor *


The holidays are over…another year down! I hope that

2020 is a great year for everyone, full of happiness and good

health! Please come join us for a hot meal, good music or Sit and

Get Fit (to help us burn off some of those holiday calories). We

would love to see new faces. We look forward to seeing you!

Weidman January Calendar

3 The Music Makers / Sit & Get Fit

6 Sit & Get Fit


10 Sit & Get Fit / cards

13 Sit & Get Fit



20 Closed

22 The Music Makers / Sit & Get Fit / Nutrition Ed


27 Sit & Get Fit



Shepherd United Methodist Church

107 W. Wright, Shepherd

Meals M, W, F, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Cindy Bromell, Site Mgr., (989) 828-5106

COA Activity Center 2200 S. Lincoln Rd, Mt. Pleasant, in Room C

Meals: M - F, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Katie Showers, Site Mgr., (989) 772-0748

Activity Center January Calendar 1 CLOSED

2 11:00 Word Games / 1:00 Euchre

3 12:00 Fun Straws

12:45 Bingo (The Laurels)

6 1:00 Dominoes & Pinochle

7 11:00 The Music Makers

8 11:00 DIY Argyle Pattern / 1:00 Pepper

9 1:00 Cribbage

10 12:45 Bingo (TBA)

13 1:00 Dominoes & Pinochle

14 11:00 Coffee & Conversation

12:30 Treats w/ Marcy

15 11:00 Hat Contest / 1:00 Pepper

16 11:00 Window Cling Craft / 1:00 Euchre

17 12:45 Bingo (TBA)

20 CLOSED

21 11:00 Coffee & Conversation

22 1:00 Pepper

23 1:00 Euchre

24 11:00 Greg Merwin / 12:45 Bingo (TBA)

27 11:15 Chocolate Cake

1:00 Dominoes & Pinochle

28 11:30 “Pop” Corn Quiz Game

12:45 Movie Day @ COA

29 11:30 Timed Puzzle Game / 1:00 Pepper

30 11:15 Jeopardy / 1:00 Euchre

31 11:00 Super Bowl Party

12:45 Bingo (TBA)

Winn Community Building

2583 W. Blanchard Road, Winn

Meals M, W, F, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ingrid Salomov, Site Mgr. (989) 866-2520

It’s a brand new year! It’s a brand new

decade! Come and celebrate with us in

Winn. I’ll turn the heat up and we’ll have

some fun!

Winn January Calendar

3 Sit & Get Fit

6 Write your story

8 Music by Strictly Country /

Birthdays

10 Sit & Get Fit

13 Cards and CDs

15 Music by Greg Merwin

17 Sit & Get Fit

20 Closed

22 Music by Country Kin

24 Sit & Get Fit

27 Euchre

29 Cards and CDs

31 Sit & Get Fit

Happy New Year! Let’s make this

the year to come out and meet new friends

at the Shepherd Food with Friends site.

We are a fun, friendly group. Why not

join us for a game of bingo or cards, listen

to music, or just share a few laughs over a

cup of coffee? We hope you can join us,

we look forward to seeing you!

Shepherd January Calendar

3 National Skating month /

Reminisce about your times skating

6 Music by Greg Merwin /

Birthday Celebrations

8 Triominos/Nutrition Ed


13 National Tea Day - Join us for tea

15 National Hat Day -

craziest hat wins a prize!

17 Popeye the Sailor Man -

Share a memory of him

20 Closed

22 Music by guitarist Dan Kirchner


27 Games of your choice

29 National Puzzle Day -

Do a jigsaw or crossword puzzle

31 Triominos

This page is sponsored by: COA Retirees In Honor or Memory of Those We Served

WEIDMAN Senior Center

3453 N. School Rd, Weidman

Meals M, W, F, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Michelle Orwig, Site Mgr. (989) 644-2538

Reminder: COA Holiday Closings

~No Meals Served~

Wednesday, January 1 &

Monday, January 20


Ruth Cotter

Betty Hauck

Choice R. Faling-Foster

Louis & Justine Fiorillo

Don & Dorothy, Jim Gould

Fred & Delores Gould

Doris Hawkins

Joe & Barb Barberi

Pam Bunting

Jo Anne Cole

Sue Coon

Jim & Anne Drolet

Mark & Linda Eggers

Brad & Deb Fahr

Tracy & Jane House

Carole Kennett

Jenness Linsday

Wal-Mart #1428

Mark & Kathleen Mumford

Craig & Suzanne Peffer

Rick & Kay Pieratt

Judy Welsh

Janice McKenna

Alisa & Kim Ellertson

Earl & Rose Neff

Shirley Neff

Howard Pohl

Bernie & Marci Baldwin

Donald & Kaye Bouck

Mary Bowers

Tom Carney

Bob & Peg Darling

Dave & Rosie Ebbinghaus

Don & Brenda Epple

Jim & Delores Epple

Kurt Feight & Keith Feight

Clayton & Carol Garrett

Mary Beth Hauck

Mr. & Mrs. Donald Hire

Greg House

Carole Kennett

Doug & Melissa &

Bart & Sarah LaBelle

Robert & Marie Lippert

Chris & Jacqueline Loomis

Gary, Glen, & Michael Mellor

In MEMORY of

This page is sponsored by: Green Acres Assisted Living, “It’s the Place to Be…”

Active living donors

Howard Pohl

Margaret Peters

Rick & Kay Pieratt

Ernestine Pohl

Eileen Rau

Kim & Marcia Tillotson

Alma & Sherry Wentworth

Bill & Diane Wilson

Stan Pridgeon

Charles & Betty Campbell

Marjorie Schafer


Gordon Schultz

Basil & Theresa Zimmer

David Sharrar

Barbara McDonald

Doug & Diane Sharrar

Bill Sowle


Mr. & Mrs. Martin Trombley

Dean Stalter

Rosewood North 1 Condo Assn.

Donald & Scherry Brown

Dave & Linda Coyne

Marie Green

Nina House

Robert & Marie Lippert

Rose O'Brien

Larry & Yulon Recker

Vicky Schafer

Pamela Travis

Bill Theunissen

Walter Schneider

Anna Trussell

Joel Brattin & Elizabeth Westie

Frank Whitehead

Mrs. Donald Hauck

Jeffrey Wilson


For Active Living

Lenny Cashen

Anonymous

For Activity Center

Grandpa Duane Chapman

Michael, Samantha, Gabe,

Jerry & Bev Baumann

Terry L. Bellinger

John & Sue Bradac

Roy & Alice Burlington

Karen Clark

Arlene Cotter

Bill & Pat Daniels

Sharron Dodge


Louis & Justine Fiorillo

Erma Fitzgerald

Alice E. Gardner

James L. & Carolyn G. Hill

Char Hubbell

Connie Leasher

Vera Lonergan

Mike McCrackin

Donald & Marcia Mink

Karlene Moomey

Bernyce Moran

Shirley Neff

Marilyn Palmer

Sharon Pickett

Bonnie Ranck

Elizabeth Richardson

Joyce Riley

Gary & Maureen Rondy

Carol Santini

Bethel Schafer

Rick & Linda Schudiske

Jan Strickler

Marlene Taylor

Richard & Rosemary Thelen

Helen Thrush

Bolton B. Welch

Judy Welsh

Ron & Marilyn Western

Wendell & Mary Jo White

Sandy Wilson

Richard & Sharlene Wilson

COA Donors

Activity Center

Pool Room Donation Box

Robert Folkert to

Movement with Music

Matters Class

Food with Friends

Anonymous

Daniel Jacob

Rick & Sara Watts

In-Home Services

Ted Jones

Debra Licht – DME Room

COA


Jim & Charlotte Ison

Michael & Maxine Kent

Linda Pifer

John & Kay Riley

Dorothy A. Steele

Rick & Sara Watts

Mildred Weber

Madison & Grace Horton

For Food with Friends

Duane Chapman

Rhonda Chapman Horton

Doris Hawkins

Eileen Rankin

Dean Stalter

Tom & Janet Cashen

Craig & Kathy House

For In-Home Services

Dean Stalter

June Stalter

Active LIVING Deadline Each issue of Active LIVING is

printed and mailed to our readers before

the first day of each month. In order to

complete the entire process we need to

receive information for submission by the

tenth day of the prior month. Please

understand all articles submitted are

subject to editing for content and space

restrictions.

Isabella County

Commission on Aging

Jennifer A. Crawford, M.S.A.,

Executive Director

Mission Statement The mission of the Isabella County

Commission on Aging (COA) is to promote

the health, independence and fulfillment of

Older Adults through the coordination and

provision of diverse services and

opportunities. COA is a leading multi-

service agency that provides a community

focal point for the needs of our Older Adult

population.

The following programs focus on

assisting individuals who are sixty (60)

years of age and older and live within our

geographical service areas:

In Home Services Program

• Case Management

• Caregiver Training

• Information and Referral

• Homemaking

• Medicare / Medicaid Assistance

• Personal Care

• Respite Care

Food with Friends Program

• Congregate Meals

• Home Delivered Meals

Foster Grandparent Program

Senior Companion Program

Activity Center Program

• Activities

• Travel Opportunities

• Fitness

Gold Key Volunteer Program

• Volunteer Opportunities

• Transportation

Donations or fees for all programs

and services are requested. If we can assist

you or someone you know, please call COA

at (989) 772-0748 Monday thru Friday,

8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Funding sources include Client

Donations, Memorials, Planned Estate

Gifts, Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe,

Michigan Office of Services to the Aging,

Isabella County Senior Millage and Federal,

State and Isabella County appropriations.


Commission on Aging

Advisory board

District 1 Jacqueline Curtis

District 2 Ruth Anne Maniteau

District 3 Shirley Decker

District 4 John Dinse

District 5 Alicia Haley

District 6 Larry Fussman

District 7 OPEN

At-Large OPEN

At-Large Jessica Lapp

Friends of

Isabella Seniors

Board of Directors

President Ray Johnson

Vice President Dave Coyne

Finance Officer Jerry Morey

Secretary Ex Officio Jennifer Crawford

Member Roy Burlington

Member Stephanie Hope

Member David Karmon

Member Barry Trombley

Member Ralph Pitts

Member Eileen Jennings

Member Connie Lynch

Member Kathy House

Temporarily Away

Active LIVING is not “forwarded.”

If newspapers are returned, we remove

the individual from our mailing list. To get

back on the mailing list, you must

contact our office with your current

address. If you are planning a vacation or

will be away or are moving, call (989)

772-0748 or use the form on the back page.

This page is sponsored by: Your Family or Organization - Call COA for details.

2020 Isabella County

Parks Information

989--317-4083

ICTC Gold Pass If you are 80 or older, you are

eligible to receive an ICTC Gold Pass,

compliments of the Isabella County

Transportation Commission. This

enables you to ride the I-Ride bus for

free. This card is made at the COA

Activity Center, 2200 S. Lincoln Rd. in

Mt. Pleasant. You will need to show

verification of your age. and be an

Isabella County resident to obtain a pass.

Legal Services

Lakeshore Legal Aid provides legal

advice to people over the age of 60.

Legal Services offers appointments at

COA Activity Center.

For an appointment call :

1-866-552-2889

New to the 2020 season are the

limited sites for new 30 day to seasonal

reservations at Coldwater Lake Family

Park. New 30 day to seasonal campers

may call our office from now until

Friday, January 3, 2020 to be placed on

our lottery list. A lottery drawing will

only take place if there are any available

seasonal/30 day campsites remaining.

Also new in 2020, the non-

resident rate for seasonal campers is now

$2,160, a reflection of the ~20% increase

for non-resident vs. resident rates

currently utilized at the County Parks.

January 10, 2020: "Opening

Day" for any camper wanting to make

reservations (2 days or more) for the

2020 season. 8:00 a.m. walk-ins at the

Parks Office; Noon-4:30p.m. phone lines

open and mail-in reservations are

opened.

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage

PAID Perm

it No. 52

Mt. Pleasant, M

I 48858 F

riends o

f Isabella S

enio

rs

2200 S

outh

Lin

coln

Road

, Mount P

leasant, M

I 48

858

Save The Dates:

Senior Dance Tuesday, January 21

Movie and

Popcorn See Page 4

Super Bowl

Party Friday, January 31

For Delivery of

Please check: ☐ New Subscriber ☐ Renewal Contribution: $ ___________

☐ Change of Address (Please attach a label with old address)

☐ Temporarily Away Stop Date________ Restart Date_________

Temporarily Away - Address New Subscriber or Change of Address

________________________________ ________________________________ Full Name Full Name ___________________________________ __________________________________ Address Apt. No. Address Apt. No.

______________________________________ ______________________________________

City Zip City Zip

Phone__________________ Phone____________________

E-mail________________________________________________________________

Send to: Friends of Isabella Seniors (COA) Please make checks payable to:

2200 S. Lincoln Rd. Friends of Isabella Seniors

Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858

The Friends of Isabella Seniors

organization is operated exclusively for

charitable purposes, within the meaning

of Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal

Revenue Code to encourage and assist

with the provision of programs and

services for older adults in Isabella

County operated in cooperation with the

Isabella County Commission on Aging.

Suggested contribution to Active

LIVING: $20.00 per year helps to cover

the costs of producing and mailing the

paper. A great way to remember when to

send your donation is to send it on your

birthday each year.

Address Changes: Active LIVING is

mailed under a nonprofit automated mail

rate and will not be forwarded with a

notice to the post office. Please notify

COA office using the delivery form at

left each time you request a change to

assure we record changes correctly.

INSIDE January 2020 Issue

Please Have a Heart 1

Directors Comments 2

Ask a COA Specialist 2

Gold Key Volunteer Opportunities 2

Mission Moments 3

Open House for Sue Germain 3

Events, Classes 4,5

January Events 6, 7

Basic Roadside Emergency Kit 7

Thank You Gold Key Volunteers 7

Activity Calendar 8, 9

Health Screenings 10

FREE Tax Preparation Available 10

Area Support Groups 11

FWF Menu & Site Activities 12, 13

Memorials & Donations 14

2020 County Parks Info 15

JANUARY 2020

Documents

Please Have Heart YES, I Want To Help ... - Isabella County€¦ · alternative options such as Adult Day Programming, Private Duty Home Care, or other in-home help. A case manager