Webinars, well checks and yoga at Elder Forum

Fri, 02/14/2020 - 8:45am

Boothbay Region’s Elder Forum met as a slightly smaller group than usual at the Rotary clubhouse on Wednesday, Feb. 12, but that didn’t stop participants from tackling a variety of subjects.

The morning began with a demonstration of adaptive yoga offered by Janis Sheldon, who is new to the area and currently providing classes at the Community Center. Sheldon took Elder Forum members through stretches and breathing exercises, explaining that her form of yoga differs from the traditional because it blends yoga with aspects of physical therapy. She was invited to the meeting so Forum members could learn about her services for their organizations and clients.

Sheldon’s examples led to a brief discussion of other opportunities for meditation. Chip Griffin told members about the mindfulness group at the Congregational Church on Sundays at 8:45 a.m. and Joy Ward mentioned Feldenkrais.

Mary Hanley of New Hope for Women distributed a list of free webinars presented by Justice Clearinghouse. This internet tool for training and educating members of the justice community began in 2014. The list included a June 9 webinar on elder fraud prevention and an Aug. 26 one on elder abuse.

Kathy Bean of LincolnHealth spoke about another “Changing Aging” event which may take place in Damariscotta this spring. Details will become available.

There was a brief discussion about the benefits of seniors moving into assisted living facilities. Although most seniors are opting to remain in their homes as long as possible, Bean said it can be isolating and most people “blossom” after moving to shared quarters.

Former community navigator Kathleen Arabasz represented her new consulting business, AKA Navigation, which she described as a collaborative for community navigation.

Diane Joyal of Boothbay Harbor Police Department spoke briefly about the new well-check program RUOK. She explained it is a free program run by Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office using county communications. Each day, automated phone calls are placed to make sure those who live alone are safe and well. Joyal suggested those who would like more information should contact the Sheriff’s Office for an application.

The Elder Forum meets next at 9:30 a.m. April 8 at the Boothbay Harbor Rotary clubhouse.