We’re all thankful to have made it this far, during this terribly cold winter. New Englanders have been through this before and no doubt we’ll be among those first to welcome spring. In the meantime, before we catch cabin fever, let’s review a list of what is available to seniors in Cumberland and York counties. As our kids used to say, “What can we do now?”
Most of our towns have some kind of activities (trips, for example) planned for seniors. Call your local town hall and ask about these. They can direct you to the appropriate person to call for information on senior meals and other programs.
Many public libraries have programs of interest, like book clubs, speakers and other activities. Local historical societies generally provide opportunities to get out and get together with others.
Try to get together with friends for lunch or just visiting with each other over a cup of tea. The key is to keep active, mentally and physically – or at least one of those. Walking outside doesn’t sound like such a good idea, but a cup of tea or coffee and some conversation appeals to most of us.
Southern Maine Agency on Aging is a good place to start for particular needs. Do you know someone who is laid up, either temporarily or permanently, living at home and cannot get meals? Meals on Wheels would be a good answer to this issue. Call (800) 400-6325 for more information.
Worrying about falling? Find out how to help prevent falls, in special classes focused on self-help, and also how to live with chronic illness (diabetes, heart disease, for example) by attending a Healthy Aging and Living Well class. Contact Anne Murray at 396-6529 for more information.
You can get a free Senior Citizen News newspaper, which is published by Southern Maine Agency on Aging, and comes in the mail every two months. This newspaper highlights many sources of information and assistance. To get on the mailing list, call Bonnie at 396-6526 or e-mail bcraig@smaaa.org.
Do you have time available and are able to help others? Volunteer opportunities to help seniors with bill paying, grocery shopping and home repairs are available. Volunteers are needed to visit isolated older adults. Contact Ken Murray at 396-6520
Don’t know what to do? Have problems you cannot solve? Call (800) 427-7411 and ask for an elder advocate who can advise you on the following:
• Locating housing.
• What benefits are available and applying for benefits.
• Health insurance information.
• Health care information.
If you would like to know what programs you may be eligible for, such as the Low Cost Drug Program through the state, food stamps, fuel assistance, MaineCare or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), call SMAA at (800) 427-7411 and ask for a Benefit Checklist for Maine. This handy information sheet covers all these programs and more.
You worked hard all your life and pay taxes to support programs such as these. Don’t hesitate to call Southern Maine Agency on Aging to find out more on how to make the senior years more comfortable.
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