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Cold weather is here whether we like it or not, and winter can be especially difficult for older adults. Ice and snow can increase the likelihood of dangerous falls, cold weather makes it harder to take part in the activities they typically enjoy, and driving can become hazardous. We want older adults to feel safe in their homes and their communities throughout the year, but especially in these vulnerable winter months. The Kent County Senior Millage works to eliminate these winter obstacles, funding specific services such as home chores, transportation, and healthy aging classes. In this Millage Minder, we will take a look at three (KCSM) partners, Building Bridges, Senior Neighbors, and Steepletown. Each shares the vital support they provide to older adults through the winter months and beyond.
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If you are looking for ways to increase your physical activity from the comfort of your own home, Eaglecrest Healthy Aging is a great option! Our motto is “Start where you are, Use what you have, Do what you can." We have expanded our suite of programming to include more specialized classes designed for older adults. Our SISU Seated class will give folks just beginning to exercise, or those recovering from illness or injury, a place to start. Yoga, EnhanceFitness, Tai Chi, Muscle Boom, and Silver Sneakers Circuit are other classes that will help you build strength, balance, and flexibility. As an Eaglecrest Healthy Aging member, you’ll also gain access to our wide library of videos. The revamped virtual class schedule will be available on January 3, so kick off 2022 with Eaglecrest Healthy Aging!
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Cyber Safety Tips
Many people find convenience in online shopping, whether it's gift-giving, restocking on household items, or using a delivery service. It’s important to know how to stay safe and spot online scams to prevent becoming a victim of a scam or identity theft. Here are some tips to remember:
- Check the website for “HTTPS”. “S” means it’s a secure and trusted website.
- Use a secure payment method such as a credit card or third-party payer (IE: PayPal) when shopping online.
- Do your research and lookup reviews or complaints before making a payment.
- Go to the secure website or app to log in to your account and check for updates.
- Use the original tracking number instead of clicking on a reminder text or email.
Even with taking precautions you may still encounter a scam. If you think you’ve been a victim of a scam, report it!
- Report a business scam to the Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org
- Report online scams to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov
- Call 2-1-1 for assistance in reporting cybercrime scams
- File a complaint with the Michigan Attorney General Consumer Protection team at Michigan.gov or call 877-765-8388
- If you suspect Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation, call Adult Protective Services 24/7 hotline at 1-855-444-3911
For more information on scam alerts and resources available visit ProtectKentSeniors.org or call the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan at 616-456-5664. |
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You've likely heard of the Kent County Senior Millage (KCSM), but what resources does it provide for older adults? Why should someone care about the millage if they aren't a senior? Kendrick Heinlein, Director of Contract Services at the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan, answers these questions! In the interviews below, he emphasizes the importance of the millage for seniors and caregivers alike and how the KCSM partner network works together to look out for the county's older adults. You can catch the interviews via the links below to learn more about the KCSM funding renewal for 2022:
WZZM: My West Michigan Interview
WGVU: The Morning Show with Shelley Irwin
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'Tis the season! We are so thankful for the amazing results of the 2021 AAAWM Giving Tree! An outstanding 163 gifts will be delivered to participants by our Supports Coordinators this holiday season. A huge thank you to Meijer, Health Care Associates & Community Care Givers, Air-Caire Home Medical Equipment & Supplies Grand Rapids, Interim HealthCare of Grand Rapids MI, St. John Vianney, Elders' Helpers, and all of our individual donors for helping make the holidays brighter for the participants that we serve.
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Save the Date: Upcoming Events
Upcoming Dementia Friends Sessions
Thursday, January 20, 2022 | 10:30 am - 12:00 pm via Zoom
Thursday, February 17, 2022 | 10:30 am - 12:00 pm via Zoom
Learn more and register!
Advocates for Senior Issues
Friday, January 21 | 10:00 - 12:00 pm
Location: The Salvation Army Kroc Center
Visit the website here!
Virtual Family Caregiver Support Group
Tuesdays | 10:00 - 11:00 am via Zoom
See the flyer here!
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