Some of Winnemucca’s Age-Friendly, Dementia-Friendly Committee members recently posed with quotes about aging and dementia. The quotes are indicative of the education effort the committee has undertaken to help more people understand and accept older community members, including those who may suffer symptoms of dementia. The aging road is one all will travel and, as the population in the US ages, making a community work well for all ages will be more important than ever.
Among the quotes:
— “If there ever comes a day where we can’t be together, keep me in your heart; I’ll stay forever.” Winnie the Pooh
— We remember their love when they can no longer remember.
— Memories last a lifetime and beyond...
— “To make a difference in someone’s life, you don’t have to be brilliant, rich, beautiful, or perfect. You just have to care.” Mandy Hale
— No form of dementia is contagious
— Dementia does not rob someone of their dignity; it’s our reaction to them that does that.
— “Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.” Dr. Seuss
— Today you are helping to find a cure for Alzheimers.
Committee Chairman Gini Cunningham has continually documented the path from planning to setting goals, to accomplishment. She recently distributed a written record of another year’s worth of accomplishments.
The list of goals already accomplished includes:
• A senior bus stop for downtown businesses — at Fourth and Bridge Streets
• Driver’s Education Training from a certified senior instructor in Wmca.
• Concierge Service to help clients onto and off of the Pleasant Senior Center bus.
• Benches and game tables placed at strategic locations around town.
• Wider advertisement of available transportation
• Create a Home Fit flyer to distribute at education and awareness events
• Increase community awareness of Age-Friendly, Dementia-Friendly goals
Goals in progress include:
• Walking, biking, and jogging trails marked and in good condition
• Making public restrooms and family restrooms available downtown
• Wider advertisement for leaf and snow removal
• A list of desired home features for seniors is nearly ready for contractors
• Expanding social activities available to seniors including a walking club, bridge club, book club, etc.
• Develop a Neighborhood Watch program
• Placement of additional flag crossings
A Respite Education program is coming in January, offered in several different sessions to help work around the schedules of those who want to be involved. Additional education and awareness efforts will start beginning in March.
