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Winter Time Blahs!
Here we are in January. The flurry of the holidays has past. The snow and cold continue to make it more difficult to stay in contact with friends and neighbors. What can we do to increase our contacts and fill our time with joyful events?
Growing concern about isolation of seniors has given birth to new thoughts on how to replace loneliness with excitement. There are several programs in Orleans/ Essex Counties that provide everything from companionship to care giving in a senior’s home. Some of these programs are free; some can be paid for through grants or Medicaid, if a person is unable to pay privately. Northeastern Vermont Area Agency on Aging (334-2190) can help explain these resources.
Northeast Kingdom Home Care, located at 100 Second Street in Newport (334-7604) can provide caregivers in a senior’s home through several different programs or on a private pay basis. These caregivers can do everything from shopping, cooking, cleaning, and personal care to companionship.
Meeting places for seniors is another resource that has evolved to relieve isolation. These are places where seniors can converse, dine, dance, exercise, and otherwise enjoy each other’s company. These places can be senior meal sites, senior centers, or adult day centers.
Several areas towns have senior centers and meal sites. Newport, North Troy, Westfield, Orleans, Barton, Island Pond, and Irasburg are a few such centers. You can call Northeastern Vermont Area Agency on Aging (334-2190) for more information on these resources.
Adult Day Centers are another option for socialization. The Meeting Place at 100 Second Street, Newport (334-7604) is located in an old Baptist Church, which has been renovated to provide very cozy surroundings. The center offers well rounded services to seniors. Those who attend receive nutritious meals, medical oversight, exciting activities, and stimulating interaction with other seniors. They can select from opportunities to exercise, take part in field trips, go shopping, make crafts, use a computer, or relax and watch television.