View as Webpage Issue 48

Years ago, I participated in a supervisor training program. At the start of one session, the course instructor pulled a brand new $100 bill from her wallet and asked who wanted the money. Everyone raised their hand. But what she did next surprised us!

She let the Benjamin fall to the floor then stepped on it, twisting her foot back and forth as if snuffing out a cigarette. After picking it up, the facilitator wadded the paper bill in a tight fist before smoothing it out to reveal a tear.

“How many of you still want this $100 bill?” she asked. Again, every hand shot up. She told us to keep our hands raised.

“What if I poured mud on it? Lower your hand if you’ve changed your mind.” No one did.

She had made her point – the intrinsic value of the $100 bill hadn’t changed. It is the same whether it is brand new, or dog-eared and dirty. And there was not a question in anyone’s mind about the money’s worth.

The demonstration was an apt metaphor for what happens to us as we age.

Are We Minding Our Brain Health?

A Discussion Spotlighting Alzheimer's and Dementia Care in the Black and African American Community

Join this comprehensive webinar that spotlights Alzheimer's and dementia care in the Black and African American community. We will engage in discussion following an awareness presentation, and a testimonial from a member of our African American Advisory council in the metro Detroit.

Virtual - Offered two times

Tuesday, Feb. 6

12-1:30 p.m. Register

& 6-7:30 p.m. Register

Brought to you by the Alzheimer's Association Michigan Chapter

Active Connections Detroit Public Library Group

Wednesday, Feb 21 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

An in-person group for older adults. This month, we will cover creative coping skills, resources, and more! Light refreshments will be served.

For more information email sprobert@hannan.org

Read the latest book by Dr. Paula Duren, founder and director of Universal Dementia Caregivers.

ONLINE DEMENTIA TRAINING

4 (1.5hr) consecutive sessions. New topics each session

February 7, 2024 | February 14, 2024

February 21, 2024 | February 28, 2024

4:00 - 5:30 pm

Online ZOOM

To register - FACEBOOK: THE DETROIT AREA AGENCY ON AGING or call 313.942.7103

4750 Woodward Ave

Detroit, MI 48201

LGBT Older Adults Coffee & Chat | Tuesday, Feb 13

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Each month we take the oppurtunity to discuss and address issues specific to the LGBT Elder community, designed to educate and inform LGBT Older Adults and Allies on topics ranging from behavioral health to physical health issues. We welcome ALL who want to participate, ages 18+. For questions, or more

information, call 313.942.2803.

Elders Project | Thursday, Feb 15

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Join us for coffee and conversation regarding programming you'd like to see for older adults in the LGBTQIA community. We will discuss the needs of the community and how we as community organizations can best address this.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Free, secure parking in rear of building

For info on all Hannan exhibits and events, call 313-833-1300 or

https://www.hannan.org

Area Agency is changing their name to AgeWays. To promote the new name and their respite care program, AgeWays wanted to showcase a local caregiver. Our friend and Art of Aging committee member, Kanu Mehta, stepped up for the interview. Kanu has been caring for his wife who was diagnosed with younger onset Alzheimer's several years ago.

Kanu was interviewed by Keenan Smith of WXYZ Channel 7. He used the following talking points to encourage caregivers to take care of themselves. A break from caring can provide an opportunity for:

1) LEARNING (and educating myself about the disease)

2) PROCESSING (and channeling my emotions, feelings and thoughts)

3) CRAFTING (finding solution for his wife's safety and well-being)

4) CONNECTING (Giving back to society)

The final broadcast was quite impactful and focused on additional areas.

Click here for how to apply for AgeWays respite care voucher.

Jan - June 2024

Third Thursday of each month

10 - 11:30 am

Building Your Caregiver Support Team

Experts, from peers to professionals, can help you build your caregiving muscle to ensure strength for difficult days. Read On . . .