Older Americans celebrated at O’Neill Center
May is Older Americans Month and the O’Neill Center has plenty of events on tap to help celebrate the theme of “Age My Way”. The Administration for Community Living leads the national observance and the O’Neill Center is always happy to take part. From a visit with Elvis to a walk in the park, we look forward to welcoming everyone in the month of May. Be sure to follow our social media and our website or give us a call for more information.
We try to encourage and help our community’s seniors to age their way, staying in their homes and living independently for as long as possible. Sometimes our bodies and our minds have a different plan.
Did you know that dementia is not a normal part of aging? In fact, dementia can sometimes affect people in their 40s and 50s. Also, people with dementia can go on to lead normal, fulfilling lives. Dementia Friends is a program that can be geared toward any group – clergy, first responders, business owners, teachers & students, and others. Learn to recognize the signs, how to communicate, what questions to ask, and more. This free program is offered by our trained social services staff and we can even come to you to present the program. We are very proud to offer this because we all, as a community, should learn what it means to be dementia-friendly. If you would like to sign up to complete this program, please reach out to outreach@oneillcenter.com.
Anyone who has had a loved one diagnosed with dementia or has had the diagnosis themselves knows what an initial shock it can be. You might feel like your whole life has been turned upside down. But there is help and it is not necessary to go it alone. Along with Dementia Friends, the O’Neill Center also offers a one-on-one program aimed at connecting you with resources. Care Consultation is our telephone- or email-based program intended to directly help the clients and their caregivers in Washington County, as well as Wood and Pleasants counties. Sometimes you may feel overwhelmed with all the questions you have for your next doctor appointment. Perhaps you need help compiling a grocery list or a meal plan for the week. Maybe you just need someone to talk to when it gets too overwhelming. We’ve got you. A dementia diagnosis can be scary, can knock the wind out of your sails. But we can help you navigate those rocky waters. Give us a call at 740-373-3914 to get started.
We continue to be excited about our growth, the programs we offer and the people we can reach. If you have not experienced the O’Neill Senior Center, make it a priority this May. Come and visit us, take a trip with us, enjoy a Friday afternoon movie or try your luck at bingo. The O’Neill Center is YOUR senior center and we are committed to helping you age your way!
Erin O’Neill is Development Coordinator for The O’Neill Center, located at 333 Fourth St. in Marietta. She can be reached at eoneill@oneillcenter.com or 740-373-3914.
