Welcome to Older Americans Month

This winter, case manager Pam Halme visited one of her clients, Marjorie (not her real name), who was turning 99 soon. Marjorie has polio and is unable to move herself in any way but has been able to stay in her own home now for many years. Pam provides care coordination services through Choices for Care, a long-term care program, and ensures that home health aides come twice a day every day assist her. Years ago, when Marjorie was in the hospital, her family was told that she could not live at home, but because of her fierce determination, the consistency of Pam’s care coordination, and her home care services, Marjorie remains at home, closely connected to her family. 

For Marjorie, and for many other older citizens throughout southeastern Vermont, services by staff like Pam are literally lifesaving. It’s easy to believe that had Marjorie been moved to a nursing home, she would have become isolated from what is most important to her and wouldn’t have seen her 99th birthday.

Established in 1963, Older Americans Month is celebrated every May as a time to recognize older Americans' contributions and reaffirm commitments to serving the older adults in our communities. This month we are celebrating older Vermonters who have persevered and continue to thrive in their communities.

We are fortunate to live in an area that is rich with the wide array of services that have enabled the likes of Marjorie to live in the place of her choice and connected to her community. And yet, I know that there are many others who still suffer the effects of isolation and loneliness. At Senior Solutions, we continually seek out new opportunities with our community partners to create networks of services and events to bring folks together to share a meal, a story, or just a smile and a handshake. 

We can't wait to work with you. Our HelpLine is ready to answer any questions you have - 802-885-2669.

Age Successfully Fair in Ludlow - June 14

Join us for this Free and Fun event. Over 30 exhibitors will be in attendance to have a fun and engaging day providing opportunities for our fellow older Vermonters to learn about all of the benefits and services available to them and their family members. This event is free and open to everyone. There will be food and a variety of activities to participate in. Sponsored by Senior Solutions and Black River Good Neighbor Services.

For information: call or email Suzanne Burge at 802-822-0498 or sburge@seniorsolutionsvt.org.

New Tai Chi Class in Springfield

Free Fall Prevention Tai Chi Class at the Unitarian Universalist Meetinghouse in Springfield.

Tuesdays

11:00am

May 7-June 25

Studies show that Tai Chi is one of the best forms of exercise for improving balance and reducing falls We'll explore deliberate weight transference healthy posture relaxed breathing body awareness steps that improve balance and agility. Classes will be in person and via Zoom.

June 20: Save the Date for Mark S. King

On June 20, Senior Solutions will be presenting an evening with Mark S. King, an internationally known speaker and writer on the subject of HIV. Mr. King’s multi-media presentation on “Coming of Age with Grace and Grit” will take place at the Bellows Falls Opera House, with a reception following at Popolo’s on the Square. This event launches the beginning of addressing a new phenomenon in the senior community here in Vermont: the long-term HIV survivor.

The HIV pandemic first appeared in the 1980s, meaning that those who were in their 20s then are in their sixties now. According to the CDC, the majority of Americans who are HIV+ are now seniors or approaching age 60. Come take part in this humorous and serious look at the lives of long-term HIV survivors who are now a growing demographic in our senior community.

This event is sponsored by Senior Solutions and Bellows Falls Pride, with significant funding from the Vermont Community Foundation. Additional details will be available on our website in the coming days. Admission is free, but tickets are required due to the limited size of the venue.

Memory Cafes

An opportunity for caregivers and their loved ones to socialize, connect, listen to music, play games, share nutritious snacks, and enjoy other activities.

Upcoming Memory Café Places, Dates, and Times:

• Chester: May 2, 11:00 – 1:00 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church on the Village Green
• Ludlow: May 9, 11:00 – 1:00, Ludlow United Church
• Wilmington: May 16, 11:00 -1:00. at The Old Firehouse, 18 Beaver Street
• Brattleboro: May 20, 11:00 -1:00 at the American Legion

New Memory Cafe coming in June!

Bugbee Senior Center in White River Junction is our newest location for a Memory Cafe! Starting June 17, 2024 from 11:00-1:00, this cafe will be held on the 3rd Monday of the month.

Become a Walk With Ease Leader!

Walking is one of the most important and gentlest forms of exercise that a senior can engage in for maximum health benefits. Last year, Senior Solutions pioneered the first “Walk With Ease” programs in Vermont, and to expand them this year - we want you! On Thursday, May 17, from 1:00 to 4:00pm, Certified Instructor Thom Simmons will “walk you through the steps” of becoming a group leader in the “Self-Directed/Enhanced” version of this Arthritis Foundation Program, enabling you to start your own walking group this summer for your senior center, community group, or housing site.

This training is free, and will cover the program basics, warm-up exercises, and encouraging goal-setting. The training will be held at the Senior Solutions offices at 38 Pleasant Street, Springfield. Questions about the program and required pre-registration should be directed through our HelpLine at 802-885-2669 or email tsimmons@seniorsolutionsvt.org.

Looking for a meaningful career? We are growing!

Are you a dedicated and caring individual with a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of older adults and/or people with disabilities? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you to join our growing and compassionate team!

We are seeking Case Managers with a commitment to a person-centered planning approach to work in all of our regions - Brattleboro, Windsor, and Springfield. Strong organizational, communication, an understanding of state and federal benefits, and computer skills are required. We are hiring an Office Manager and Information Assistant and Referral Specialist for our Springfield Office.

Trualta: A Free Online Caregiver Resource

Understanding the complexities of caregiving can be overwhelming. That’s why Senior Solutions is thrilled to introduce Trualta, a comprehensive online education and community platform tailored for families managing care at home.



Googling answers can be frustrating, anxiety-inducing, and unreliable. Trualta has a whole content library that’s been clinically-validated and designed to get you what you need as quickly as possible. Trualta can personally recommend content based on our discussions, ensuring you receive information that’s pertinent to you.

Our mission is to empower caregivers like you.