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VIAL OF LIFE

Durham County Emergency Medical Services, 201 E Main St, Suite 660, 919-560-8285

Durham County EMS offers free Vials of LIFE (Lifesaving Information for Emergencies) to anyone who wants to make sure that vital information can easily be found during emergencies. It’s a great way to help ensure that you and your loved ones are protected in times of medical emergencies.

Each Vial of Life kit is made up of one labeled bottle (approximately 3 inches tall with a screw-on cap—it looks like an oversized prescription bottle), an instruction sheet, a special business-card-sized magnet and a form to fill out with the following information: Name, address, phone number, date of birth, Social Security number, hospital preference, medical history (there’s a list of conditions including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, depression, plus a blank space), other medical history/assistive devices, allergies (to medications or otherwise), doctor’s name and phone, advanced directives (like DNR (Do Not Resuscitate), etc), space for listing medications and dosages, health insurance policy info, emergency contacts (names and phone numbers), and a space for additional information.

After filling out the form, you should fold or roll it up, put it in the bottle, and screw the cap on. Then place the bottle somewhere on the top or condiment shelf of your refrigerator so it can be found easily and stick the magnet on the refrigerator door. If EMS is called to your home, they’ll know to check your refrigerator for a Vial of Life magnet, which will then lead them to the Vial of Life bottle inside. Emotions can run high, people can get confused, and it’s so important to have one place where vital information can be accessed quickly.

You can get a set for yourself and even get an extra set so you can place a bottle in your vehicle‘s glove compartment. And if you have a family or live with someone, consider getting a Vial of Life set for each person (especially for elderly members of your family).

You can pick up your free Vials of Life at the Durham County EMS office; call first to make sure they have them in stock. If you can’t stop by, you can order kits by calling Durham One Call (919-560-1200) or via the Durham One Call app, and your order will be mailed to you.

DURHAM COUNTY—DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES (DSS)

414 E Main St, 919-560-8000, website

DSS now has a centralized intake line for Aging & Adult Services. You can call 919-560-8588 or visit epass.nc.gov for information and referrals for programs that include Adult Protective Services Reports (to report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of older or disabled adults), Guardianship Referrals, Home-Delivered Meal Referrals, Adult Care Facilities and Family Care Homes, In-Home Care and Special Assistance, Adult Care Home Complaints, Adult Placement Services, Crisis Services, Nonemergency Medicaid Transportation, Rental Assistance, Low-Income Homeowner Relief Program, and Community Resources. When the DSS offices are closed (after 5pm weekdays, weekends, holidays), call 984-243-1280 to get in contact with an after-hours social worker.

If you or a senior you know are being abused, neglected, or exploited, DSS’s Adult Protective Services wants to help. Older (age 60+) and disabled adults can get help with medical or health care, placement (moving to live somewhere else), in-home aide services, and legal help. Signs of abuse/neglect/exploitation can include evidence of harm (bruises, burns, cuts, scratches, sprains, fractures, dislocations, malnutrition); untreated medical conditions or mental anguish/distress; unsafe or unsanitary housing; unpaid utility and other bills; mismanaged property or savings; lack of needed medications, hearing aids, glasses, or dentures; and sudden changes to wills or powers of attorney. Call and ask for Adult Protective Services; describe everything you know about what’s happening. They’ll work with the adult, secure the necessary essential services and report evidence of mistreatment to the district attorney and related agencies. Your name will be kept confidential (unless the court of law orders that your name be revealed).

SENIOR PHARMASSIST

406 Rigsbee Ave, 2nd floor, 919-688-4772, seniorpharmassist.org

Senior PharmAssist helps Durham County residents age 60+ manage and get access to the medications they need. They’re able to find resources that make medicines available at low cost, and they help teach how to use medications safely and effectively. A staff pharmacist can take a good look at all of the medications being taken by a resident and can recommend which ones are inadvertently working against each other. (This sometimes happens when someone has multiple doctors who aren’t aware of what the others are prescribing.) Call to set an appointment.

Senior PharmAssist will host a series of Medicare Basics seminars for those who are about to turn 65 and need to learn more. In-person workshops will be held at the Durham Center for Senior Life (406 Rigsbee Ave) on Tuesday, September 22; Tuesday, October 13; Tuesday, November 10; and Tuesday, December 8, from 6 to 7pm. Click here or call 919-688-4772 to register for one of these free seminars.

AGING WELL DURHAM

website

Aging Well Durham is an independent community-based nonprofit that works with area nonprofits, faith-based organizations, individuals, community groups, and City and County departments to implement the Durham Comprehensive Aging Plan. The goal is to make Durham more age-friendly and livable for all, including seniors. Visit the website and get in contact if you’d like to work in solidarity with older adults intent on engaging community decision-makers to build a safe, affordable, and connected community that includes seniors.

Click on the R to see The North Carolina Registry for Brain Health’s resource list for families that need information and ways to get help for their loved-ones.

DURHAM PARKS AND RECREATION: MATURE ADULTS

Durham Parks and Recreation has programming for the entire community including seniors (DPR uses the term “mature adults”).

Click on the DPR logo to view the

September–December issue

of Play More.

DURHAM CENTER FOR SENIOR LIFE

406 Rigsbee Ave, 919-688-8247, website

Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 8:30am–5pm; Tuesdays and Thursdays 8:30am–7:30pm

Here are a few programs and activities offered by the Center; click here to read Our Times, DCSL’s monthly schedule.

The Center is hosting an Essentials Supply Drive all month to help seniors in need gain access to things that can make their everyday lives a little easier. If you can afford to, please make your donation(s) of any type of cleaning , hygiene, and self-care supplies and/or nonperishable food donations at the front desk. This winter, items like blankets, socks, and gloves are also needed. Please keep in mind that many struggling seniors are caring for their grandkids and/or elderly partners
DCSL has a new PEAS/Weekend Frozen Meals program, where participants can get two meals per week (picked up on Fridays at 12:30pm). To be eligible, participants need to be Durham residents, age 60+, and have to have problems with three of these ADLs (Activities of Daily Living): bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring meals, walking, and three of these IADLs (Instrumental Activities of Daily Living): managing finances, transportation, medication, communication, meal prep, housekeeping. Contact the Support Services specialist at ext 141 or zpowell-jones@dcslnc.org for more info
The DCSL EATS (Ease Access To food for Seniors) program is designed to help those age 55 and up stay healthy with affordable and nutritious foods:
- Food Pantry—If you’re in need, you can get one bag of food per month
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program—When you’re approved (based of age and income), you can pick up food at a certain time and place
- Shop & Grab—You can “go shopping” by choosing food out in the lobby to take home (this month on Monday, September 14, 12:30–2:30pm); call and register at ext 104
- Kitchenless Seniors EATS—Homeless seniors can get free bags of food.

REPEATING EVENTS

MONDAYS
- Fitness Center/Computer Room/Recreation Room, 8:30am–4:45pm, open for drop-ins
- Muscle Pump, 8:40–9:45am, in the Exercise Room (no class 9/28) FB*
- Conversational French Club, 9:30–10:30am, in the Classroom
- Learn & Play Blackjack, 9:30–10:30am
- Total Body Workout, 10–11am, in the Exercise Room FB
- Ping-Pong, 10am–noon, in the Activity Room
- Meeting Health & Wellness Goals, 10:30am–noon, in the Volunteer Room
- Sewing, 11am–1pm, in the Art Studio; call for info at ext 110
- Bible Study, 12:45–2:30pm, in the Café
- Advanced Watercolor, 1:15–3:15pm, in the Art Studio; call for info at ext 110
- Life Line Dancers, 3:30–4:30pm, in the Exercise Room
TUESDAYS
- Fitness Center/Computer Room/Recreation Room, 8:30am–4:45pm, open for drop-ins
- Seniors on the Move Line Dancing, 8:35–9:30am, in the Exercise Room
- Talk Tuesdays, 9am–2pm; counseling students from North Carolina Central University can meet one-on-one and can connect members to mental health resources
- French 1, 9:30–10:15am; call and register for this introductory class at x110
- Spanish 1, 9:30–10:30am; call and register for this introductory class at x110
- Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 9:30–10:55am, in the Classroom
- Yoga Your Way, 10–11am, in the Exercise Room FB
- Keep It Moving Gentle Exercise, 10–11am, in the Activity Room
- Belly Dance for Fitness, 11:30am–12:05pm, in the Exercise Room
- Crocheting Club, noon–2:30pm, in the Volunteer Room
- Golden Genie Dance Troupe Class, 12:10–12:55pm, in the Exercise Room
- Pinochle, 12:15–6:45pm, in the Activity Room
- BINGO, 1–1:45pm, in the Lower Commons
- Quilt Making, 1–3pm, in the Art Studio
- DCSL Band Practice, 2–4pm, in the Theater
- Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program, 2:15–3:15pm, in the Exercise Room
- Kings in the Corner, 2:30–6:45pm, in the Classroom
- Fitness Center and Tech Lab open for drop-ins 5–7:15pm
- Zumba with Kendra, 5:30–6:30pm, in the Exercise Room
WEDNESDAYS
- Fitness Center/Computer Room/Recreation Room, 8:30am–4:45pm, open for drop-ins
- Muscle Pump, 8:40–9:35am, in the Exercise Room (no class 9/30) FB
- Sweat & Salsa, 9–10am, in the Activity Room
- Total Body Workout, 10–11am, in the Exercise Room FB
- Ping-Pong, 10am–noon, in the Activity Room
- Hispanic Heritage Group, 10am–2pm, in the Classroom
- Learn & Play Pinochle, 12:30–4pm
- Learn & Play Kings in the Corner, 12:30–4pm, in the Classroom
- Spanish 2, 1–2pm, in the Volunteer Room; call and register for this advanced class at x110
- Chair Flow & Flex, 1–2pm, in the Exercise Room FB
- Life Line Dancers, 3:30–4:30pm, in the Exercise Room
THURSDAYS
- Fitness Center/Computer Room/Recreation Room, 8:30am–4:45pm, open for drop-ins
- Seniors on the Move Line Dancing, 8:35–9:30am, in the Exercise Room
- Just Ask George (tech questions), 9–11am, in the Computer Lab; bring your device for one-on-one support
- Breakfast BINGO, 9:30–10am, in the Café
- French 2, 9:30–10:15am, in the Volunteer Room; call and register for this advanced class at x110
- Yoga Your Way, 10–11am, in the Exercise Room FB
- Keep It Moving Gentle Exercise, 10–11am, in the Activity Room
- Conversational French Club, 11am–noon, in the Boardroom
- Cardio & More, 11:15am–noon, in the Activity Room
- African Dance & Drumming, 11:30am–1:30pm, in the Exercise Room
- Kings in the Corner, noon–6:45pm, in the Class Room
- Pinochle, 12:15–6:45pm, in the Activity Room
- Thursday Bible Study, 12:30–1:30pm, in the Volunteer Room
- BINGO, 1–1:45pm, in the Lower Commons
- Open Painting Studio 1–3pm, in the Art Studio
- Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program, 2:15–3:15pm, in the Exercise Room (no class 9/24)
- Acrylic Painting, 3–4:45pm, in the Art Studio (call for info)
- Drums Alive: Cardio Drumming, 5:30–6:15pm, in the Exercise Room (drums provided)
FRIDAYS
- Fitness Center/Computer Room/Recreation Room, 8:30am–4:45pm, open for drop-ins
- Fitness with Keta, 8:40–9:30am, in the Exercise Room
- Total Body Workout, 10–11am, in the Exercise Room FB
- Ping-Pong, 10am–noon, in the Activities Room
- Ladies in Fitness Training, 11:30am–1pm, in the Fitness Center
- Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention, noon–1pm, in the Activity Room
- Crochet Club, noon–2pm, in the Volunteer Room
- Friday Matinees, 12:30pm; with free popcorn
  - September 4—Terry McMillan Presents: Forever
  - September 11—Always Be My Maybe
  - September 18—Tortilla Soup
  - September 25—Mr Malcolm’s List
- Afternoon BINGO, 1–2pm, in the Lower Commons
- Chair Flow & Flex, 1–2pm, in the Exercise Room (no class 9/25) FB.

* FB = also broadcast live on DCSL’s Facebook page

SPECIAL EVENTS

Here are some special events for September; see more by exploring the Our Times online newsletter:

Just Ask George (tech questions)—Tuesday, September 1, 9–11am, in the Computer Lab; bring your device for one-on-one support
Free Notary Services—Wednesday, September 2, 9:30–11am, in Office 216; get your important documents notarized; call and register at ext 104
EATS: Nutrition Today Cooking Demonstration/Durham Cooperative Extension Master Food Volunteers—Friday, September 4, 9:30–10:30am, in the 406 Café; led by Leslie McClellan
Alzheimer’s and Memory Health Presentation—Friday, September 4, 10–11am, in the Volunteer Room, led by Duke Professor Eric Stallard and Gloria Xie
Chinese Workshop—Friday, September 4, 11am–noon, in the Volunteer Room; learn about Chinese language and culture

Grief Support Group—Tuesday, September 8, 1:10–2:30pm, in the Classroom; process your sadness in a supportive environment; call and register at x110
Finance with SECU—Wednesday, September 9, 9:30–10:30am, in the Boardroom; talk about money, finance, and investing
Sewing Class—Wednesday, September 9, 11am–12:30pm, in the Art Studio
Labor Day Lunch—Wednesday, September 9, 11:30am–1pm, in the Lower Commons; enjoy a community meal; call and register at x110
Free Notary Services—Wednesday, September 9, 1–2pm, in Office 216; get your important documents notarized; call and register at ext 104
Caregiver Support Group—Thursday, September 10, 12:30pm, in the Boardroom; anyone caring for someone over age 55 can get resources and support; no need to register
Exploring Virtual Reality—Friday, September 11, 9:30–10:30am, in the Volunteer Room; try a VR (virtual reality) headset and experience travel, 3D painting, and other fun activities
Button Making—Friday, August 14, noon–1pm, in the Lower Commons; design your own button and watch it being made right before your eyes
Aging with Pride Social Club—Friday, September 11, 2:15–3:15pm, in the Classroom; senior members of the LGBT+ community can meet and share resources

Card Stamping Class—Monday, September 14, 9–11:30am, in the Art Studio
Durham County Veteran Services—Monday, September 14, 9am–noon; military veterans and their families are encouraged to find out what benefits they’re eligible to sign up for; call and register at ext 103
Selling or Buying a Home in THIS Market—Monday, September 14, noon–1pm, in the Classroom; this information session will be led by certified senior housing professional Tracy Drakeford-Pierce
Veteran Support Group—Monday, September 14, noon–1pm; Tiffany Chavis, Raleigh Veteran Center Director, will run this welcoming, confidential space where military veterans can connect, find support, and learn about valuable resources
Vito Dito: Grandparents’ Day Concert—Monday, September 14, noon, in the Lower Commons; enjoy a concert by Battle of the Bands winner Vito Dito and Living Earth
EATS: Shop & Grab—Monday, September 14, 12:30–2:30pm; choose groceries to take home; call and register at ext 104
Digital Bridge: Technology Series—Monday, September 14, 1:30–2:30pm, in the Computer Room; get tips for exploring and staying safe online (part 1 of 4)
Just Ask George (tech questions)—Tuesday, September 15, 9–11am, in the Computer Lab; bring your device for one-on-one support
Flu Shot Clinic—Tuesday, September 15, 11am–1:30pm, in the Classroom; don’t forget your insurance card
Free Notary Services—Wednesday, September 16, 9:30–11am, in Office 216; get your important documents notarized; call and register at ext 104
Jewish High Holidays: Learn and Celebrate—Wednesday, September 16, 10:30–11am, in the Volunteer Room; folks from Jewish For Good will give a presentation about Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur
Estate Planning Is for Everyone—Wednesday, September 16, noon–1pm, in the Boardroom; folks from the Devasthali Law Firm will discuss how to plan what happens to your money and property when it’s time
Painting with Police—Wednesday, September 16, 12:30–3pm, in the Art Studio; socialize and paint with police officers; call and register at ext 110
DCSL Growing Garden Club Meeting—Thursday, September 17, 11am–12:30pm, in the Volunteer Room and the Lucas Legacy Garden; join plans to set up the community garden for this fall
Pride Evening Matinee—Thursday, September 17, 5pm, in the Theater; watch To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar (1995)
EATS: Nutrition Today Cooking Demonstration/Durham Cooperative Extension Master Food Volunteers—Friday, September 18, 9:30–10:30am, in the 406 Café; led by Leslie McClellan
Chinese Workshop—Friday, September 18, 11am–noon, in the Volunteer Room; learn about Chinese language and culture
Duke SciTalks: Bacteria and Telehealth in South America—Friday, September 18, noon–1pm, in the Classroom; hear about the latest in science and health with postdoctoral Duke University researchers

Durham County Veteran Services—Monday, September 21, 9am–noon; military veterans and their families are encouraged to find out what benefits they’re eligible to sign up for; call and register at ext 103
Falls Prevention BINGO—Monday, September 21, noon–1pm, in the Theater; get useful info while winning prizes; this is a Falls Prevention Awareness Week event
Veteran Support Group—Monday, September 21, noon–1pm; Tiffany Chavis, Raleigh Veteran Center Director, will run this welcoming, confidential space where military veterans can connect, find support, and learn about valuable resources
Rosenwald Schools—Monday, September 21, 12:30–1:30pm, in the Classroom; folks from the Museum of Durham History will give a presentation about schools for black children were built across the southern USA
Balance Screenings—Monday, September 21, 1–2pm, in the Exercise Room; this is a Falls Prevention Awareness Week event
Digital Bridge: Technology Series—Monday, September 21, 1:30–2:30pm, in the Computer Room; get tips for exploring and staying safe online (part 2 of 4)
Risk Calculator Tabling—Tuesday, September 22, 10am–noon, in the Lower Commons; identify your risk factors for falls and fractures and get free resources to help reduce your risk; this is a Falls Prevention Awareness Week event
Grief Support Group—Tuesday, September 22, 1:10–2;30pm, in the Classroom; process your sadness in a supportive environment; call and register at x110
Free Notary Services—Wednesday, September 23, 9:30–11am, in Office 216; get your important documents notarized; call and register at ext 104
Diabetes Self-Management Workshop Series—Wednesdays, September 23–October 14, 10–11am, in the Volunteer Room; develop tools for managing diabetes during this 4-week program; call and register at x114
Risk Calculator Tabling—Wednesday, September 23, 10am–noon, in the Lower Commons; identify your risk factors for falls and fractures and get free resources to help reduce your risk; this is a Falls Prevention Awareness Week event
Sewing Class—Wednesday, September 23, 11am–12:30pm, in the Art Studio
Monthly Birthday Celebration—Wednesday, September 23, 12:30pm, in the Lower Commons; celebrate your September birthday with treats and fun
Polypharmacy Info Talk—Thursday, September 24, 9:30–10:30am, in the Classroom; a clinician from Senior PharmAssist will discuss how taking multiple different medications can increase your risk of falling and will suggest questions you can ask your doctor at your next visit; this is a Falls Prevention Awareness Week event
Risk Calculator Tabling—Thursday, September 24, 10am–noon, in the Lower Commons; identify your risk factors for falls and fractures and get free resources to help reduce your risk; this is a Falls Prevention Awareness Week event
Balance Screenings—Friday, September 25, 1–2pm, in the Exercise Room; this is a Falls Prevention Awareness Week event
Aging with Pride Social Club—Friday, September 25, 2:15–3:15pm, in the Classroom; senior members of the LGBT+ community can meet and share resources

Card Stamping Class—Monday, September 28, 9–11:30am, in the Art Studio
Senior Legal Advisor—Monday, September 28, 12:30–1:30pm, in the Classroom; discussion about legal issues of great importance to seniors; led by Rick Messemer
Pickleball 101: Learn, Play, & Rally—Monday, September 28, 1–2:30pm, in the Exercise Room; learn how to play this fun relatively new sport; call and register at x110
Digital Bridge: Technology Series—Monday, September 28, 1:30–2:30pm, in the Computer Room; get tips for exploring and staying safe online (part 3 of 4)
Diabetes Self-Management Workshop Series—Wednesday, September 30, 10–11am, in the Volunteer Room; develop tools for managing diabetes during this 4-week program; call and register at x114 (this is part 2 of a 4-week series)
Monthly Member Check-in—Thursday, September 29, 12:15pm, in the Lower Commons; share your ideas and thoughts on the Center’s events and activities; feel free to bring your lunch
Outsmart the Scammers—Wednesday, September 30, 9:30–10:30am, in the Volunteer Room; learn about the most common online scams used to fool and defraud seniors
Free Notary Services—Wednesday, September 30, 9:30–11am, in Office 216; get your important documents notarized; call and register at ext 104.

JFK TOWERS (DCSL SATELLITE)

4900 N Roxboro Rd, 919-688-8247, ext 113

JFK Towers, a senior-residential building that’s now a satellite of the Durham Center for Senior Life, offers fun activities and lunch for participants age 55+. Call to register and to get more information.

Here are some of the activities being offered right now:

MONDAYS
- Coffee & Community, 8:30–9:30am
- Bible and Spiritual Studies, 9:30–10:15am
- Virtual Fitness, 10:30–11:15am
- Congregate Meal, 11:30am–12:30pm
- Music Circle or Group Game, 12:30–1:30pm
TUESDAYS
- Coffee & Community, 8:30–9:30am
- Travel Tuesday, 9:30–10:15am
- Cardio & More, 10:30–11:15am
- Congregate Meal, 11:30am–12:30pm
- BINGO, 12:30–1:30pm
WEDNESDAYS
- Coffee & Community, 8:30–9:30am
- Waffles & Trivia, 9:30–10:15am
- Mindfulness & Stretch, 10:30–11:15am
- Congregate Meal, 11:30am–12:30pm
- Club Meetings, 12:30–1:30pm
THURSDAYS
- Coffee & Community, 8:30–9:30am
- Health and Wellness Activity, 9:30–10:15am
- Cardio & More, 10:30–11:15am
- Congregate Meal, 11:30am–12:30pm
- BINGO, 12:30–1:30pm
FRIDAYS
- Coffee & Community, 8:30–9:30am
- Nature & Discovery Activity, 9:30–10:15am
- Walking Group, 10:30–11:15am
- Congregate Meal, 11:30am–12:30pm
- Movie Time or Arts & Crafts, 12:30–1:30pm.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Here are some special events for September; see more by exploring the Our Times online newsletter:

Arts & Crafts—Friday, September 4, 12:30pm; Marie Crock will lead a class where everyone will make a Stars & Stripes design in acrylic

Organizing Workshop—Friday, September 11, 12:30pm; Kendra will give tips on how to declutter and organize a small space, decide what to keep, and make your space more comfortable (enter the free raffle where you might win a personal organizing session)

Tai Chi—Monday, September 14, 10:30am; Cynthia will lead a low-impact session of mindful movement that encourages good balance, flexibility, and relaxation
Financial Workshop—Friday, September 18, 9:30am; Evan from Edward Jones Investments will lead a workshop on budgeting on a fixed budget

DINE Cooking Demo—Friday, September 18, 12:30pm; get tips on preparing simple but healthy meals and snacks with someone from the Durham Innovative Nutrition Education program

Field Trip to the Durham Center for Senior Life—Monday, September 21; sign up with Stephanie from JFK for a field trip to the downtown center for fun activities
Cookout and Birthday Celebration—Wednesday, September 23, 12:30pm; enjoy a hotdog cookout, with outdoor games, music, and a celebration of September birthdays
Adult Story Time—Thursday, September 24, 12:30pm; led by Bob from the North Regional Library
Piedmont Wildlife Center: Live Animal Encounter—Friday, September 25, 12:30pm; learn about North Carolina wildlife and learn about some of the simple ways we can protect wildlife in our local neighborhoods.

Here’s a nice Spanish/English message from the Durham Center for Senior Life.

LITTLE RIVER SENIOR CENTER

8305 N Roxboro Rd, in Bahama, 919-381-6464

The Little River Senior Center, part of the Little River Community Complex, is an independent venue that serves older adults in northern Durham County and surrounding communities, including Bahama and Rougemont:

REPEATING EVENTS

Coffee Talk—Monday–Friday 8:30–9am
Walking Club—Monday–Friday 8:30–10am
Free Play Gym—Monday–Friday 8:30am–1pm
Games and Quilting—Monday–Friday 9:30am–1:30pm
Group Exercise—Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 10–10:30am
Bible Study—Tuesdays 10–11am
Guitar Lessons—Tuesdays and Thursdays 10–11am
Cards—Thursdays 10–11:30am
BINGOcize—Mondays and Wednesdays 10:30am
BINGO—Tuesdays 11–11:30am, Thursdays 10–11am, Fridays 10:30–11am
Lunch (congregate meal)—Monday–Friday, 11:30am
Bass Guitar Lessons—Tuesdays and Thursdays noon–1pm
Crocheting—Monday–Friday 12:30–1:30pm.

AGING FORWARD OF DURHAM

2121 Umstead Rd, 919-489-2217, agingforwarddurham@gmail.com, website

Folks from three north Durham churches got together to discuss the need to help area seniors who were living independently but were unable to get to their medical appointments. They decided to create a local chapter of Aging Forward, a nationwide nonprofit, to find ways to solve this problem. Nearly two dozen neighbors stepped forward to drive seniors (age 65+) to their doctor, dental, eye, and physical therapy appointments. More are needed. Ideally, this program will expand to cover more of Durham and will include trips to and from banks, houses of worship, hair salons/barbers, grocery stores, etc. Because most of the volunteer drivers’ vehicles can’t accommodate wheelchairs, they can only serve seniors who are able to walk. The drivers walk them to and from their vehicles, making sure that they return home safely. This service is provided free of charge and the volunteer drivers are background-checked. Contact Aging Forward of Durham if you’d like to be a driver or if you live north of I-85 and need this service.

DEMENTIA ALLIANCE OF NORTH CAROLINA

9131 Anson Way, Suite 206, Raleigh, 919-832-3732, website

DANC provides personal, individualized support to families across the state that need to learn about dementia and how to deal with it as thoughtful caregivers. One of their programs is My Music NC, where your loved-one with dementia can get, with your help, a personalized playlist of familiar songs that can help keep them calm and and can smooth out stressful moments. If your loved-one is living at home, they qualify for a free creative engagement session and an at-home mp3 music player kit. Call or write for more info. Click here to go directly to the My Music NC page. Two additional services that DANC offers are the Caregiver Resource referral and information program and the Caregiver Assistance Fund; call for more info.

Here are some handy tips for traveling with a loved-one with dementia:

Have a bag of essentials with you at all times that includes medications, travel itinerary, a comfortable change of clothes, water, snacks, and activities
Pack necessary medications, up-to-date medical information, a list of emergency contacts, and photocopies of important legal documents
Create an itinerary that includes details about each destination. Give copies to emergency contacts at home. Keep a copy of your itinerary with you at all times
If you will be staying at a hotel, inform the staff ahead of time of your specific needs so they can be prepared to assist you
Bring along familiar items, especially things that are soothing: soft comfort items, special activities, books, pictures or favorite scented lotions. Be sure clothing is comfortable
Take a photograph of your loved-one so you’ll know what clothes he/she is wearing … just in case. In fact, take pictures along the way so you can document your trip and enjoy looking at them later
Travel during the time of day that is best for the person with dementia *
Make sure the person is carrying or wearing some form of identification that includes your cell phone number. Look into getting a safe-return bracelet. **

* Personal note: DANC is probably referring to “sundowning,” which refers to a distinct change of mood (fear, apprehension, nervousness) at the end of the day when it gets dark.

** Like MedicAlert; click here for more info.

ECU DEMENTIA CAREGIVER/PATIENT SURVEY

Dr Rashmita Basu, 252-744-2785, basur19@ecu.edu

Dr Rashmita Basu from Eastern Carolina University is looking for people with dementia and caregivers of individuals with dementia who can fill out surveys for research purposes. The caregivers will be asked questions describing the tasks they take on to help their loved-ones, and the people with dementia will be asked if they need help throughout the day. It should take around a half-hour to complete the survey, and each person with receive a $15 gift card for their participation.

NORTH CAROLINA REGISTRY FOR BRAIN HEALTH

919-613-8633, ncbrainhealth.org

The NC Registry for Brain Health connects people to current research studies, tips for maintaining brain health, and resources for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. After joining, registrants will receive regular updates, quarterly newsletters, free educational materials, and no-pressure invitations to research studies. The registry was made possible thanks to a partnership of Duke University, the UNC School of Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, North Carolina A&T State University, and Eastern Carolina University. Visit the website to learn more and to register. Click here to read the Fall 2025 newsletter.

ADD-ME

DukeUNC-ADDME@duke.edu, website

The Alzheimer’s Disease Discoveries in Medicine (ADD-ME) is for those who want to keep up with the latest information and research and who are willing to participate in upcoming clinical trials. This endeavor is a partnership between Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Visit the website for more info and to sign up.

LEGAL AID OF NORTH CAROLINA

Senior Legal Helpline, 877-579-7562, website

Legal Aid NC has a Senior Legal Helpline, where older adults can get free legal help with housing issues, including landlord/tenant disagreements and mortgage foreclosure; elder abuse, including exploitation and physical abuse; consumer affairs, like collections and repossessions; benefits (Medicaid, Medicare, food stamps (SNAP/EBT), Social Security and SSI, and military veterans’ benefits); and documents, including wills and living wills, and healthcare and legal powers of attorney. Call between the hours of 9 to 11am or 1 to 3pm on weekdays.

NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON AGING

NIA Information Center 800-222-2225 • Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center 800-438-4380

Keep up with useful information and resources on healthy aging and dementia in English and Spanish:

Healthy Aging—Access health information, videos, and infographics on exercise, caregiving, and more; click here
Envejecimiento Saludable—Acceda a información de salud, videos e infografías sobre ejercicio, cuidados de familiares y más; clic aquí

Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias—Find tips, resources, and clinical trials for people living with dementia, caregivers, and families; click here
Enfermedad de Alzheimer y Demencias Relacionadas—Encuentre sugerencias, recursos y estudios clínicos para personas que tienen demencia, y sus cuidadores y familias; clic aquí

Free Print Publications—Order easy-to-read materials on topics related to healthy aging and dementia; click here
Publicaciones Impresas Gratuitas—Solicite materiales fáciles de leer sobre temas relacionados con el envejecimiento saludable y la demencia; clic aquí.

CHECK FOR SAFETY

Click on the brochure for a detailed checklist on staying safe and avoiding falls as an older person living at home.

DUKE HEALTH—PACT STUDY

919-668-3154, PACTStudy@duke.edu, website

Researchers at Duke Health are conducting a study to see if Alzheimer’s disease can be prevented with cognitive training. The PACT* Study is looking for people age 65+ who would like to volunteer to participate in the study and undergo computerized training exercises that are designed to reduce that risk.

To qualify, participants should be age 65 and older, with no neurological disorders or cognitive impairments and no history of stroke or brain injury. The potential benefits of taking the computerized training exercises can include enhanced mental quickness, improved gait and balance, and protection against depression. The length of the study will be approximately 3 years, with three study visits of up to 2 hours each. The 45 1-hour computer training sessions will be done in your own home.

* PACT = Preventing Alzheimer’s with Cognitive Training

BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

Raleigh office, 919-277-4201, website

The BBB wants to point out three of the most-used scams out there that are targeting seniors. Make sure that your families and friends are aware that tricksters like to prey on older adults when they’re not up with the latest scams:

Lottery and sweepstakes scams—Criminals will send you a check with a cover letter congratulating you for winning a huge amount of money. They’ll tell you to deposit the check and then wire funds to cover the cost of fees, insurance, taxes, or whatever. Even if the check looks real and has the name of an actual bank on it, it’s a fake. If you went ahead and sent funds from your account, you have lost that money. Remember, you’re not likely to win a contest you didn’t enter, and you should never pay anyone to accept a prize.
Medical alert scams—You’ll get a phone call from someone claiming to be from Medicare or another government office. They’ll ask for all kinds of personal information, like bank account/credit card numbers, claiming that they’re trying to verify or update something or to fix an error. Medicare never calls and asks for information—if you’re on Medicare (or Medicaid), the government already has all the information they need.
Grandparent scams—A stranger will call you on the phone claiming to be your grandchild (sometimes saying that they have a bad connection if you don’t recognize their voice). They’ll claim that they’re in trouble or ran out of money and will beg you to wire they some money to help them out. Stay calm and ask questions you know only your grandchild would know the answer to. You can also call their number or their parents’ number after hanging up. Sometimes criminals go so far as to call, claiming to have people’s grandkids in custody and demanding a ransom. Frantic family members can lose thousands with these sick scams.

If you’d like to have someone from the local Better Business Bureau to speak to your group about senior issues, call the Raleigh office at the number listed above.

OLLI (the OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE)

Duke Continuing Studies, Box 90700, Durham NC 27708; 919-684-6259, OLLI@duke.edu

OLLI (the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute) is a Duke University–affiliated organization that offers a wide variety of classes and activities for older folks. In-person courses will be held at Judea Reform Congregation (1933 W Cornwallis Rd, in the Education Bldg). Annual membership is $60; click here to start an account and become a member. If you’d like to participate but need a scholarship, write to Kathy.Parrish@duke.edu and ask about “Community Membership.”

Click on the image below to view the Summer 2025 catalog.