August-Aging Awareness Programs

August is Aging Awareness Month at Whitman County Library. WCL is hosting a series of informational programs address the aging process and improve health thanks to funding from Empire Health Foundation and in partnership with Rural Resources and The Alzheimer’s Association.  Upcoming classes and activities include, What You Need to Know about Alzheimer’s, Maintaining Brain Health, Independence for Aging Adults, Caregiver Coffee Hours, and gentle Yoga classes.

 

The first class is “Y-Balance Yoga with Suzy McNeilly.” Free for adults 65 and over, the class meets each Monday starting August 10 from 8:30-9:15 a.m. in the Colfax Library. The goals are improve balance, strength and flexibility for mature adults. Modifications are made for those with health conditions, injuries or mobility issues. For a nominal fee for anyone under 65 can participate in this class.

 

On Tuesday, August 11 from 10:30-11:30 the Colfax Library hosts a “Maintain Your Brain Workshop.” This fun, informative and free workshop teaches the common causes of memory loss, strategies for staying sharp and advises the best time to seek help for memory loss. This workshop is provided by Rural Resources in partnership with The Alzheimer's Association, Community Living Connections and the University of Washington. For more information call Rural Resources at 509-332-0365.

 

On Friday, August 14 from 1-3 p.m., The Alzheimer’s Association provides an informational program on detection, causes, risk factors, and stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Participants will explore treatment options and other resources available to patients and loved ones. This class is sponsored by Rural Resources at 509-332-0365.

 

The final class is called “Supporting Independence as We Age,” and is set for Tuesday, August 18 from 10:30-11:30 at the Colfax Library. Community Living Connections and Rural Resources present this informative session answering questions about community resources, long-term care options, locating qualified caregivers, support groups, and more. Contact Rural Resources for more information at 509-332-0365.

 

Also starting August 10 and continuing each Monday thereafter is “Care Giver Coffee Connection Support Group.” Running from 3:30-4:30, this weekly meeting in The Center provides caregivers with coffee, snacks, conversation, information, resources, and strategies.  On the 1^st and 3^rd Mondays, caregivers are invited to bring their “loved ones” for a simultaneous program lead by Sara Garza with fun activities and conversation. This support group is ideal for both paid and unpaid caregivers and for family and friends dealing with the care of a loved one.

 

The programs are part of the project, “Making Connections for Mature Adults,” these services are available to groups, facilities and communities that are served by Whitman County Library District. Contact Sara Garza at Whitman County Library 509-397-4366 or sara@whitco.lib.wa.us for more information.